Certification Program in IT Security

Fast-track your career in IT security
Application now open
South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia

The time is now

Now’s a great time to launch your career in IT Security. Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, yet by 2022 the global shortfall of cybersecurity workers will reach 1.8 million. There are plenty of opportunities for talented, passionate individuals in this field – from software development to sales, support, and professional services.

Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS) reflects our commitment to closing the cybersecurity skills gap and increasing diversity in the industry. Trainees undergo a free 10-week program focusing on the soft and hard skills required to start out in the field. Those who complete the CPITS receive a bursary and certification, with the potential for full-time employment for a number of program graduates. Over the past 5 years, nearly 300 young engineers have progressed through the CPITS in Brazil, India, the US, and Middle East.

The next CPITS round in the Middle East and Africa will be conducted remotely, starting in October 2021. This edition of the program is open to candidates from South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ethiopia. Applications are now open. Further information about the course, along with application forms and instructions can be found at the bottom of this page. The application deadline is August 29th.

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“The CPITS has given me a great opportunity. It’s allowed me to fill a knowledge gap regarding cybersecurity, helped me to understand the business needs of this industry, the best ways to improve myself and my skills, and shown me how to enjoy the journey!”

Mohamed Khaled
Cloud Security Sales Engineer
CPITS graduate, 2016

Program overview

The CPITS is led by instructors from Trend Micro’s global network of experts and educators. Course modules explore cybersecurity threats, trends, and solutions, with hands-on learning in areas such as cloud computing, virtualization, and networks. Oral and written tests, as well as group exercises, encourage students to develop both the technical and the soft skills required for success in the field.

During the remote program, training blends collaborative, independent, and virtual classroom learning. Students can expect to gain a solid understanding of the cybersecurity industry and its various career pathways. They will also learn about Trend Micro’s industry-leading solutions, and the company’s unique culture and history.

Is the CPITS for you?

If you are passionate about technology and eager to develop your skills, then Trend Micro’s CPITS could be for you!

The program is designed for recent university graduates with degrees (or equivalent qualifications) in information technology or related engineering fields. Application requirements may vary between programs addressing different countries or regions. When the next round of applications opens, detailed criteria, along with forms and procedures will be published here.

Trend Micro is committed to improving diversity and inclusivity in our industry, so we particularly encourage talented female engineers to apply for the program.

"Joining a robust, condensed, and impactful training strategy like CPITS has opened many doors for me, allowing me to explore and break into top industries with job opportunities in cybersecurity and cloud computing. The CPITS has been a sort of investment in myself: my character as well as my soft & technical skills. Overall, it’s a great way for engineers like me to gain a wide variety of experiences, make good friends, and enjoy their journey!"

Mohamed Ashour, Systems Engineer,
CPITS graduate, 2017

"CPITS was really a turning point in my whole life! During the program, I learned the true meaning of ‘exploring yourself’. I discovered my passion while learning cybersecurity fundamentals and identified my potential to explore further and further in a cybersecurity career."

Asmaa Elsawy, Systems Engineer,
CPITS graduate, 2018

"The program helped put me on the right track after graduation - being well-trained by top experts in cybersecurity, and then getting really good experience in specialist security and cloud technologies. At the same time, I benefitted from chances to learn more about myself in the context of business."

Shereen Lotfy, Sales Operations Specialist,
CPITS graduate, 2017

"The CPITS gave me a great chance. It helped enrich my knowledge of the cybersecurity field. But it wasn’t only about the technical skills, but also about expanding my understanding of the market and the business needs of this crucial Industry. The program helped me improve my knowledge and skills, making me more confident, while pushing me to do my best and showing me how to continue growing and learning throughout my journey!"

Aisha Badr, Systems Engineer,
CPITS graduate, 2018

Apply Now

Applications are now open for the next CPITS. This edition of the program will take place from October to December 2021, and is open to candidates in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ethiopia.The application deadline is August 29th 2021.

To apply :

1. Download and carefully read the CPITS information brochure to make sure you are eligible and the program is right for you.

2. Then download and complete the application form in full, making sure to include your personal statement on this second page.

Submit the completed application form, along with a copy of your CV/resumé to: MMEA_CPITS@trendmicro.com no later than 6pm (GMT+2) on Sunday August 29^th. Please note, we are unable to consider incomplete or late applications.

Successful applicants will be contacted for first-round interviews during August and September 2021.

For all other inquiries about the CPITS in the Middle East and Africa, please email MMEA_CPITS@trendmicro.com