Sealing a partnership under the Industry-Academia Network of the Cybersecurity Skills Academy, ISC2 and University of Girona will enable ISC2 to provide free access to its self-paced Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) course and ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity certification exam for 60 learners from the University of Girona. This initiative is part of ISC2’s global One Million Certified in Cybersecurity programme.
This partnership will further support the implementation of the pledge made by ISC2 to boost Europe’s cybersecurity workforce by offering free training, certification exams, and scholarships—especially for women—to expand access to cybersecurity education and support career growth in the field.
On 18 June 2025, ISC2 and the University of Girona have signed a partnership under the Industry-Academia Network of the Cybersecurity Skills Academy, joining efforts to narrow the cybersecurity skills and talent gap in Europe.
Cybersecurity skills are the backbone of Europe’s digital economy. By building our connections with academic partners, we’re committed to strengthening the region’s cyber resilience by growing the pool of certified talent. Recent ISC2 research shows that 89% of cybersecurity hiring managers value entry-level cybersecurity certifications when recruiting for entry-level roles. By expanding access to cybersecurity education, we’re removing barriers for individuals from all backgrounds to showcase their skills and contribute to a safer digital future for Europe.
Debra Taylor, ISC2 Acting CEO and CFO
The partnership
Partners:
Academia: University of Girona
Industry: ISC2
Description:
With this partnership, ISC2 will be providing free access to self-paced course and ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity certification exams to 60 learners of the University of Girona, as part of ISC2’s One Million Certified in Cybersecurity programme.
Target audience: 60 university students and recent graduates, professionals seeking employment or career changers, anyone looking to expand their digital skills and cybersecurity knowledge.
Level: entry, reskilling, upskilling.
European Cybersecurity Skills Framework role profiles: Cyber Incident Responder., Cybersecurity Architect, Cybersecurity Auditor, Cybersecurity Implementer, Digital Forensics Investigator, Penetration Tester.
Sector: No specific sector targeted
Location: Online, Self-paced
Languages: English, German, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese
Cost: Free
Link to the initiative: Candidate Application Form_ISC2
Contact person: EUpartnerships@isc2.org
Source: European Digital Skills & Jobs Platform
