In today’s digitally driven world, application security is not just a priority—it’s a necessity. Why is Application Security Training Essential? With cyber threats evolving at a breakneck pace, professionals with the latest application security knowledge stand at the frontlines of defense, protecting sensitive data from malicious actors.
Whether you’re an aspiring cybersecurity enthusiast, a seasoned developer looking to expand your skill set, or a C-suite executive understanding the crux of security in your operations, there’s a course for you. And the good news? You don’t always have to spend to enrich your knowledge. There’s a wealth of free resources that provide immense value.
However, paid courses offer a structured learning journey for those ready to invest in their future, with more specialized, in-depth training often completed with certifications recognized across the industry.
This post will guide you through the top 6 free and 6 paid application security courses. Each is designed to bolster your understanding and proficiency in application security, paving the way for a safer cyber world—one application at a time.
Factors to Consider When Selecting an Application Security Course:
Embarking on the journey to enhance your application security skills comes with many options. To navigate through this sea of information and ensure that the course you select is not only authoritative but also the right fit for your needs, here are several factors to consider:
1. Cost – Aligning Budget and Value:
When selecting an application security course, consider the financial investment against the potential returns. Free courses are an excellent starting point and can provide substantial foundational knowledge without a financial commitment. For a deeper dive, paid courses may offer more advanced training, certifications, and dedicated support. They could be worth the investment if they align with your career goals or organizational requirements.
2. Usability – Learning with Ease:
A course designed with a user-friendly interface and a well-structured curriculum can significantly enhance your learning experience. The course should facilitate a smooth learning curve regardless of your prior experience level, whether through engaging multimedia content, interactive labs, or real-world scenarios.
3. Content Versatility – Broader Applicability:
Seeking courses that cover diverse topics within application security ensures a comprehensive understanding. Look for programs that delve into current trends, tools, threat modeling, and risk assessment, including practical exercises. Versatility in content prepares you for the multifaceted challenges of securing applications.
4. Certification and Accreditation – Validating Expertise:
Courses that offer certifications or are accredited by reputable institutions can add legitimate credentials to your portfolio. These can signal to employers a verified level of expertise and commitment to the security profession.
5. Time Requirement – Balancing Time and Progress:
When choosing an application security course, one of the most critical factors is the time investment required. Your learning schedule should align with your personal and professional commitments, so you must be realistic about how much time you can devote. Many courses offer flexibility through self-paced modules, allowing you to progress at your speed without pressure. On the other hand, some structured programs with set timelines may provide a more rigorous learning experience but require a more significant time commitment.
If you’re balancing a full-time job or other responsibilities, starting with shorter, foundational courses may be ideal to ease into the learning process. This approach can prevent burnout and help you maintain motivation.
Conversely, advanced courses with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios may be a better fit if you’re looking for a more immersive experience and can allocate more time upfront. Remember, the key is to choose a course with a time requirement that matches your ability to stay committed and ensures you finish what you start—building meaningful skills along the way.
Learning Outcomes – Real Skills Acquisition:
Transparency about what you will realistically learn and be able to do after completing the course is critical. The best courses clearly define the skills and knowledge you’ll acquire, ensuring they align with your learning objectives and the demands of the cybersecurity industry.
To give you a head start, we’ve researched and selected courses that not only rank favorably in search engines, suggesting their popularity and recognition in the field but also come with strong reputations for the quality of instruction and comprehensive curriculum.
This ensures that our recommendations are best suited for a range of learners, from novice to experienced professionals. With these factors to steer by, the next sections will delve deep into individual courses—six free and six paid—that stand out in the application security education landscape.
Top 6 Free Application Security Courses
Free application security courses are an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to start or advance their knowledge without financial commitment. These courses, recognized for their quality and search engine discoverability, cater to a wide range of learners.
Here’s an in-depth look at each course, along with introductory paragraphs to frame what they offer:
1. Cybrary’s Introduction to IT & Cybersecurity
Cybrary’s course is an ideal on-ramp into IT and cybersecurity, offering insights covering the spectrum from fundamentals to key industry concepts. With its focused approach, learners gain initial exposure that lays the groundwork for security specialization.
| Cost: | Completely free access to foundational cybersecurity content. |
| Usability: | User-friendly interface suitable for beginners with no prerequisites. |
| Content Versatility: | Covers the basics across four main areas of cybersecurity, including application security. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | None specified, but offers a solid base for pursuing certifications in the future. |
| Time Requirement | Flexible, self-paced structure allows learners to complete the course based on their available time, making it ideal for those with busy schedules. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Understand the roles and responsibilities within cybersecurity, with an introduction to key concepts in the application security domain. |
2. edX’s Secure Software Development Fundamentals
Provided by the esteemed Harvard University, this series of courses delivers a robust understanding of secure software development. It’s a fantastic resource for those aiming to learn the discipline behind building secure applications from the bottom up.
| Cost: | Free to audit with an optional paid certificate. |
| Usability: | Education is provided by reputable universities with a straightforward learning path. |
| Content Versatility: | Three-part series covering how to build secure software from the ground up. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | A verified certificate is offered for a fee; Harvard University provides it. |
| Time Requirement | The course is self-paced, allowing learners to progress based on their schedule, making it ideal for individuals balancing other commitments. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Skills in secure software development that apply directly to real-world application security challenges. |
3. Coursera’s Application Security
Coursera’s Application Security course dives into the nuances of securing applications against modern cyber threats as part of a broader cybersecurity specialization. It’s designed for those looking to understand the intricate mechanics of application vulnerabilities and the measures necessary for defense.
| Cost: | Free to enroll with an optional paid certificate. |
| Usability: | Structured content is ideal for learners with some previous IT experience. |
| Content Versatility: | In-depth analysis of application vulnerabilities and defenses as part of a larger cybersecurity specialization. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | A certificate of completion is offered for a fee; the course originates from the University of California, Davis. |
| Time Requirement | The course is designed to be completed in approximately 15 hours over 4 weeks, allowing for flexible pacing to accommodate different schedules. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Ability to apply security measures to ensure application robustness and reliability. |
4. Open Security Training’s Introduction to Application Security
Open Security Training provides a treasure trove of knowledge for those seriously vested in deepening their technical prowess in application security. With a focus on the practical and technical aspects, Open Security Training is for learners craving a more intense dive.
| Cost: | No cost for accessing in-depth and technical content. |
| Usability: | Rich content is better suited for learners with some security or IT background. |
| Content Versatility: | Extensive technical coverage from foundational principles to advanced application security techniques. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | No formal certification, but recognized by industry practitioners. |
| Time Requirement | As a self-paced resource, learners can progress through the course materials at their own speed, allowing flexibility based on their technical experience and schedule. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Enhanced technical knowledge of application security, suitable for those pursuing a deep dive into the field. |
5. OWASP Application Security Verification Standard Project
The OWASP ASVS Project delivers an in-depth guide to application security standards, providing a clear pathway for developers and security professionals to follow best practices for secure coding and application development.
| Cost: | Open-source manual entirely free of charge. |
| Usability: | Best for those with a basic understanding of security concepts. Content Versatility: Focuses on the OWASP standards for application security, providing guidelines for secure coding and development. |
| Content Versatility: | Focuses on the OWASP standards for application security, providing guidelines for secure coding and development. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | None, but it follows globally recognized security standards. |
| Time Requirement | Being an open-source resource, it allows learners to proceed at their own pace, making it adaptable to various schedules and levels of commitment. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Practical knowledge of implementing security verification standards. |
6. Khan Academy’s Computer Programming
Khan Academy’s comprehensive suite of computing courses offers an extensive grounding in programming, with the benefit of application security insights weaved throughout. A flexible and user-friendly platform makes it an invaluable free educational resource.
| Cost: | Entirely free for all content across various topics in computing. |
| Usability: | The intuitive platform is suitable for complete beginners. |
| Content Versatility: | A broader curriculum encompassing more than just security is ideal for foundational knowledge. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | No specific focus on application security certifications. |
| Time Requirement | Self-paced learning allows users to work through lessons on their own time, making it flexible for varying schedules, whether you’re a full-time student or a professional with limited hours. |
| Learning Outcomes: | General understanding of computing fundamentals, with insights relevant to application security. |
After analyzing the top free application security courses, we will explore the multifaceted world of paid courses that promise to enhance your cybersecurity expertise.
Top 6 Paid Application Security Courses
For those seeking a more structured educational experience with additional resources and recognized certifications, paid application security courses are an investment that can provide more in-depth training and potentially a greater return on investment.
One significant advantage of paid courses is their scalability for teams. Many paid platforms offer group discounts and tailored packages, making it easy for organizations to provide training to multiple employees simultaneously. This option ensures that entire teams can upskill together, fostering a cohesive approach to application security within the organization.
Here’s a handpicked selection of six paid courses that rank highly in search engines, have strong industry recognition, and offer substantive content.
1. Security Compass’s Application Security Courses
Security Compass delivers a comprehensive suite of application security training that culminates in an ISC2 co-branded Software Security Practitioner (SSP) Certification.
Designed for a variety of roles in the tech landscape, these courses empower professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to defend against real-world cyber threats.
| Cost: | Tiered pricing options for different group sizes ensure scalability and access to all courses via Security Compass’s Learning Management System (LMS). Security Compass’s pricing offers flexibility to accommodate diverse team requirements, with cost-effective group options ranging from $2,070 for up to 5 virtual lab users to $22,060 for teams up to 50 users. These options provide economical access to the full suite of application security training across the board. |
| Usability: | Intuitive LMS access accommodates individuals and teams with a structured, role-based learning path tailored to various tech roles. |
| Content Versatility: | Over 50 courses and role-based learning paths offer extensive coverage of the most critical application security topics. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | Learners can earn an industry-recognized ISC2 Software Security Practitioner (SSP) Certification, signifying a professional level of competence in application security. |
| Time Requirement | Courses are designed to be flexible, allowing learners to complete modules at their own pace, making it ideal for professionals with varying schedules. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Practical secure coding knowledge acquired through Kontra Hands-On Labs and accreditation considerably elevates a professional’s application security skill set. |
2. ISC2’s Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)
The CSSLP by ISC2 is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s expertise in incorporating security into each phase of the software development lifecycle (SDLC). This advanced course is for those aiming to rise to the top echelons of cybersecurity leadership.
| Cost: | Higher priced as it includes comprehensive study resources, examination fees, and continuing education costs. |
| Usability: | Tailored for experienced professionals with a deep understanding of the SDLC and application security. |
| Content Versatility: | Comprehensive content that addresses all aspects of software security in the SDLC. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | An ISC2 certification is among the most prestigious in the cybersecurity field. |
| Time Requirement | The CSSLP typically requires 40 to 50 hours of focused study to prepare for the exam, depending on the candidate’s prior experience and pace, offering flexibility for working professionals. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Preparedness to design, implement and manage secure software from inception to retirement. |
3. SANS Institute’s SEC542: Web App Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking
SANS Institute’s SEC542 is a hands-on course crafted to instruct individuals on the intricacies of penetration testing and ethical hacking, specifically focused on web applications. This course is ideal for those who prefer active, experiential learning and are interested in offensive security measures.
| Cost: | Reflects the intensive, practical nature of the course and the prestige of the SANS brand. |
| Usability: | Geared towards professionals with a strong background in information security. |
| Content Versatility: | Practical labs and detailed course material for real-world application attacks and defenses. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | Opportunities for GIAC certifications recognized within the industry. |
| Time Requirement | The course spans six intensive days, focusing on hands-on labs and practical exercises. It requires approximately 36 hours of dedicated learning time, offering flexibility for professionals who can commit to a short but immersive training period. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Expertise in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications. |
4. Offensive Security’s Offensive Security Web Expert (OSWE)
Offensive Security’s OSWE course imparts deep technical knowledge and hands-on skills in advanced web application penetration testing. Aimed at professionals who aspire to specialize in the offensive aspects of cybersecurity, this expert-level certification is highly regarded in the industry.
| Cost: | High-end, reflecting its expert-level designation and significant practical components. |
| Usability: | Intense, with a steep learning curve intended for seasoned security professionals. |
| Content Versatility: | Focuses on real-world applications, enabling learners to conduct thorough penetration testing and security assessments. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | OSWE is a sought-after certification that testifies to the holder’s advanced skill set. |
| Time Requirement | The Offensive Security Web Expert (OSWE) course requires 80-150 hours of study, with 30, 60, or 90 days of lab access. The certification exam is a 48-hour practical assessment. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Advanced capabilities in ethical hacking and penetration testing specific to web applications. |
5. EC-Council’s Certified Application Security Engineer (CASE)
The CASE certification from the EC-Council is engineered to certify application security competence beyond the basics. It’s formulated for software professionals focused on the importance of application security and integrating security measures into application development.
| Cost: | Mid-range cost to accommodate the extensive course content and certification process. |
| Usability: | Designed for software developers and testers, the course is practical and aligned with industry standards. |
| Content Versatility: | Addresses secure coding practices, ensuring security is included in every software development process. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | EC-Council is an established body in cybersecurity credentials, making the CASE certification highly marketable. |
| Time Requirement | The EC-Council’s Certified Application Security Engineer (CASE) course typically requires 24 hours of training, often over 3 full days. After completing the training, candidates take a 2-hour exam featuring 50 multiple-choice questions to earn the CASE certification. |
| Learning Outcomes: | A thorough understanding of developing, testing, and maintaining secure applications effectively. |
6. Pluralsight’s Application Security
Pluralsight presents an extensive array of courses within application security, providing a tailored learning experience to match the learner’s career and knowledge requirements. It’s a platform that caters to continuous learning and upskilling in the ever-evolving domain of cybersecurity.
| Cost: | The subscription-based model offers access to various courses on application security and more. |
| Usability: | It is highly versatile for beginners to advanced learners, with the option to select courses based on skill level. |
| Content Versatility: | A library of courses ranging from foundational knowledge to specific skills in application security. |
| Certification and Accreditation: | While not directly offering certifications, courses often prepare learners for industry-recognized certification exams. |
| Time Requirement | Pluralsight’s Application Security courses typically range from a few hours to over 20 hours, allowing learners to complete them at their own pace. |
| Learning Outcomes: | Depending on the course selection, skills acquired can range widely, providing a tailored education in application security. |
This list represents the most respected and comprehensive paid application security courses available. By evaluating each course in terms of cost, usability, content versatility, certification, and learning outcomes, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals and professional development.
With the right course, you can enhance your skills, increase your value as a security professional, and contribute significantly to protecting applications from cyber threats.
Choosing the Right Course for Your Career in Application Security
Deciding on the right application security course is pivotal in any cybersecurity professional’s journey. The selection can significantly impact your skillset, career trajectory, and effectiveness in securing applications. Here are key considerations to guide you through the process of choosing the course that aligns with your personal and professional aspirations:
- Assess Your Current Skills and Knowledge: Gauge your existing competency level in application security to choose a course that challenges you without being overwhelming.
- Consider Your Career Objectives: Align the course with your career goals, such as becoming a specialist in a particular area or gaining a broad understanding of various job roles.
- Determine the Time and Resources You Can Commit: Evaluate how much time you have to dedicate to learning and whether the course schedule is flexible enough to fit with your current commitments.
- Look for Practical, Hands-On Learning Opportunities: Practical experience is invaluable. Seek out courses with labs or projects that provide real-world application.
- Review Course Outcomes and Alumni Success Stories: Investigate the tangible outcomes the course has produced and the success stories of past participants, which can be indicators of the course’s effectiveness.
- Understand the Level of Support and Networking Opportunities: Courses that offer mentorship, post-course support, or networking opportunities can be beneficial long after the class concludes.
Wrapping up the Best Application Security Courses
Embarking on an application security course is a step towards protecting digital assets and advancing your career. Whether you explore the domain through free resources or invest in comprehensive paid training, each step you take enriches your expertise and equips you to face modern cybersecurity challenges confidently.
As you consider the courses discussed, remember to weigh them against your personal goals, professional aspirations, and practical realities such as time and resources. The importance of selecting the right training cannot be overstated—it can transform your understanding of security, hone your technical skills, and enhance your credentials in a competitive field.
We invite you to explore these educational pathways, evaluate their alignment with your needs, and select a course that catalyzes your growth as a cybersecurity professional. Continuous education in the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats is critical, and there is no better time than now to take that next step in your learning journey.
Ready to elevate your cybersecurity expertise? Contact us today to learn more and schedule a free demo. Let’s work together to secure your future and protect your applications from the latest threats.