ABOUT MICROSOFT CONNECT
Learn Practical Cybersecurity Skills & Accelerate Your Cybersecurity Career
Microsoft CONNECT is a cybersecurity career pathway program for undergraduate students that aims to foster the future leaders of cybersecurity by skilling undergraduate students with a keen interest in security and providing them with networking opportunities to connect with the top cybersecurity organizations in Canada.
What will YOU gain with Microsoft CONNECT?
1. Accelerated upskilling on cybersecurity
2. Gain practical experience and build a tangible skill set in cybersecurity
3. Opportunity to connect and network with leading employers in cybersecurity
Unfortunately, registration for the Microsoft CONNECT program is now closed.
RESOURCES
KEEP UP WITH YOUR PROGRESS
Students of Microsoft CONNECT! Fill out the following form every time you complete a milestone, and we’ll keep track of your progress throughout the summer. ☞
HOW TO REGISTER FOR AN EXAM
MAIN LEARNING PATHS
Below are the two main learning paths that students must complete as part of the Microsoft CONNECT program.
AZURE FUNDAMENTALS (AZ-900)
SECURITY FUNDAMENTALS (SC-900)
OPTIONAL LEARNING PATHS
The following links are optional learning paths that you can complete, to further enhance your knowledge of cybersecurity and Microsoft Azure services.
LEARNING SESSION RECORDINGS AND SLIDES
| Date | Topic | Slides | Recordings |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 7, 2022 | Microsoft CONNECT Kickoff | Link to Slides | Link to Recording |
| July 11, 2022 | Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) Overview | Link to Slides | Link to Recording |
STUDY SESSION SLIDES
| Date | Topic | Slides |
|---|---|---|
| July 14-17, 2022 | AZ-900 Study Session – Part 1 and 2 | Link to Slides |
| July 21-24, 2022 | AZ-900 Study Session – Parts 3, 4, 5, and 6 | Link to Slides |
FAQ
How much does this program cost?
This program is completely free! CSSA has teamed up with Microsoft to bring you this specialized cybersecurity program at no cost at all!
When does the program start? How long is the program?
The program starts in the first week of July and lasts for 6 weeks. Students are expected to have completed the learning path by the beginning of September in preparation for all the networking events and opportunities.
How much time do I need to dedicate to this program?
Learning sessions are both synchronous and asynchronous. You are welcome to go through the learning path at your own pace. We recommend 5-7 hours per week in order to be fully prepared for the certification exams.
When will we get the opportunity to connect with cybersecurity organizations?
Following the completion of the curriculum, which is slated to come to a close in August 2022.
Do I need to have any background knowledge about cybersecurity?
No, Microsoft CONNECT is a beginner-friendly program. No previous knowledge required.
I am not in engineering or computer science, can I still join?
The program is open to UofT undergraduate students from all majors and all campuses.
I am not sure if I want a career in cybersecurity, should I still register?
This program is a great opportunity for you to gain exposure to the cybersecurity field to see if this is something you want to do! Even if you decide not to pursue a career in cybersecurity, you will have built fundamental knowledge about cybersecurity.
What are Microsoft Industry Certifications?
Microsoft provides many certifications for technical job roles. They showcase to employers your marketable tech skills and your competency in the field. They are a great way to boost your tech career (and they look great on your resume)!