Students in the cyber range.

Cyber Bootcamp

The Cyber Bootcamp is an intensive summer training program that immerses you in hands-on cybersecurity and AI learning on campus in Ottawa, Ontario. Through technical instruction, applied project work, and access to the University of Ottawa’s world-class cyber facilities and expert instructors, you’ll gain practical, industry-relevant skills in just a few weeks.  

You can choose between a two-week module or six-week full program that combines multiple modules and a capstone project. Program dates vary by option, allowing you to select the format that best fits your goals and availability.

All program options are designed to help you develop a global perspective on cybersecurity and prepare industry professionals and students alike for real-world challenges. 

Program options

Individual modules

  • Two-week network module: Focused on foundational network security and preparing participants for the Fortinet Certified Professional Secure Networking certification.
  • Two-week AI module: Explore how artificial intelligence is applied to detect and prevent cybersecurity threats.
  • Two-week cybersecurity module: Develop a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles and hands-on defence topics, including system security, network analysis, incident response, and threat hunting.

Full program

  • Six-week Program: A full 30-day (training days) program combining both modules plus a final capstone project for an integrated experience.

Upcoming key dates

Program dates

Two-week program: June 6 to June 20

Six-week program: June 20 to August 1 

Next cohort starts

Summer 2026 

Our National Capital advantage

Located in Canada’s capital, the University of Ottawa ranks among the top universities worldwide and is the largest bilingual (English-French) university in the world.  

You train in the uOttawa–IBM Cyber Range, Canada’s first immersive cybersecurity training and simulation facility, learning directly from leading cybersecurity and AI researchers whose expertise drives policy, innovation, and industry partnerships. Living and learning on campus, you’ll enjoy a convenient, connected, and fully immersive university experience. 

Parliament of Canada.

Study close to Canada’s decision-makers

Choosing Ottawa, Canada’s capital, means being at the intersection of government, policy and technology. This provides you with a unique environment to learn how cybersecurity decisions play out in real-world settings.

Outside of program hours, Ottawa offers a safe, lively summer experience with the arts, cultural and historical landmarks, summer festivals and easy access to nature along the Rideau Canal and nearby trails.
Students sitting at a table with monitors in the cyber range.

Experience uOttawa’s cybersecurity community

This bootcamp connects you to a global community of learners, researchers and industry professionals working at the forefront of cybersecurity and applied AI.

Throughout the program, you work on hands-on projects, strengthen your communication and problem-solving skills, and learn from uOttawa’s cybersecurity and AI experts.
Group of students walking on the sidewalk past Tabaret Hall on the uOttawa campus.

Live and learn on campus

You’ll stay at the 90 University residence, located steps away from classrooms, libraries and dining facilities. Each suite includes two private bedrooms with a shared kitchenette and access to high-speed Wi-Fi for studying and downtime.

Meals are provided in the campus Dining Hall, and you also have the flexibility to cook or explore Ottawa’s nearby restaurants and cafés.

Eligibility and program requirements

Eligibility and program requirements 

  • International students, Canadian citizens and permanent residents
  • Students and professionals interested in cybersecurity, AI or IT
  • uOttawa students in computer science, cybersecurity or engineering programs
  • Participants from partner institutions, independent students (students whose universities don’t have partnerships with us), and working professionals worldwide

Program highlights

A certificate icon.

Fortinet Certification preparation

Take the first step toward Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP) certification. You receive a voucher on completion of the bootcamp. No academic credits are awarded.

Cybersecurity icon.

AI cybersecurity projects

Work on hands-on neural network projects detecting cyberthreats, malware and fraud.

The uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range.

Cyber Range experience

Train at the uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range, a state-of-the-art facility that offers a fully immersive, hands-on environment for cybersecurity learning and simulation. Experience realistic simulations that strengthen you skills in managing and responding to cyberthreats, applying knowledge gained from the Fortinet and AI modules. This hands-on experience prepares you for both professional and research roles in cybersecurity.

Learning modules

Module 1 - Fortinet certification preparation

You build foundational knowledge in network security and gain hands-on experience configuring and managing FortiGate devices. The curriculum covers TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, firewalls, VPNs, SD-WAN, logging, monitoring and high-availability configurations. By the end, you’re ready to take the Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP) exam. 

Topics covered

  • Networking Basics: TCP/IP
  • Firewalls and NAT
  • Routing and SDWAN
  • Network Security Systems Overview, Security Fabric
  • Virtual Domains and Layer 2 Switching
  • SSO & High Availability
  • Web Filtering and Application Control 

Other program details

The University of Ottawa reserves the right to cancel a program if minimum enrolment is not met. In such cases, participants receive a full refund. 

Insurance

The University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) (for international students) is included in the cost of the bootcamp. 

Equipment and preparation

You must bring a personal laptop for labs and projects. Average summer temperature highs in Ottawa are  26 or 27°C. Power outlets in Canada require Type A/B plugs (110–120 V). Bring an adapter if needed.

Certification and credits

Participants receive a Certificate of Completion from uOttawa’s Faculty of Engineering. Those completing the Fortinet module also receive a Fortinet Certified Professional (FCP) voucher, valid for 12 months. Academic credit depends on your home institution’s policies.

Aerial view of a keyboard with a 3D key featuring an icon of a lock.

Take your cybersecurity skills to the next level

Learn more about our summer Cyber Bootcamp and discover how this immersive program can help you build practical skills, gain international experience, and connect with experts in the field.

Contact us

International Affairs office

To learn more about the Cyber Bootcamp, email the Faculty’s International Affairs office at [email protected].