A paid, year-long cybersecurity work-and-learn experience at Arizona State University's Enterprise Security Operations Center. Defend a major university in real time while building the skills, certifications, and portfolio that launch your cybersecurity career.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
This is not a simulation. You will work in ASU's live Security Operations Center alongside professional analysts, using the same enterprise tools that protect a major research university.
MONTHS
PER HOUR
HRS/WEEK
PHASES
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
A structured progression from security fundamentals to advanced incident response, with each phase building on the last.
1
Weeks 1–11
Security fundamentals and onboarding
Cybersecurity basics, SOC processes and escalation workflows
Deliverable: Certification (Security+ / Google Cybersecurity Certificate) + Alert Triage Case Study + Risk Register Entry + UDM Query Exercise
2
Weeks 12–22
Monitoring and basic investigations
Deliverable: 5–10 Investigation Reports/Week + Peer-Reviewed Escalation Docs + CCFR Certification + Week 21 Cyber Range IR Baseline & CTF
3
Weeks 23–33
Automating SOC workflows
Deliverable: Complete SOAR Playbook + Phase 3 Project + Mentor-Panel Presentation
4
Weeks 34–44
Advanced projects and career preparation
Deliverable: Capstone Presentation + Career Portfolio + Final Evaluation
INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS
Earn industry-recognized certifications fully funded by the program and our partners. Graduate with credentials employers actively seek.
ENTERPRISE TOOLS
Work with the same enterprise security platforms used by professional SOC analysts worldwide.
Google SecOps SIEM
CrowdStrike Falcon
Cyberbit
LEADERSHIP
The people behind the program — dedicated to building the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Our program is developed in partnership with leading cybersecurity and technology companies who provide mentorship, training, certifications and career guidance.
JOIN US
Take the first step toward a cybersecurity career. Apply to join the inaugural cohort of ASU's Junior Student SOC Analyst Program.
Quick requirements
Application materials: Cover Letter + Resume/CV. Your cover letter should name one specific thing from this posting that made you want to apply and describe one hands-on thing you have done in security or tech.
Applications for our inaugural cohort are now closed. Thank you to everyone who applied - we're excited to review the applications we received. Check back next year for the next cohort, or reach out below with any questions.
Applications closed Aug 20 — see you next year!
| Position | Student SOC Analyst (Junior) |
| Department | Enterprise Technology SOC |
| Compensation | $18.97/hr |
| Term | 12 months |
| Location | Tempe Campus |
FAQ
You get hands-on time defending a real organization, a clear progression from foundations to advanced work and funded certifications that map directly to what employers are hiring for — all while staying enrolled at ASU for a full year.
No prior SOC experience is required. You should have foundational knowledge of networking and security concepts (DNS, TCP/IP, basic security) and show zeal for learning new cybersecurity concepts through labs, home projects, CTFs, or other industry activities.
Yes. The program funds your first attempt at CompTIA Security+ and the CCFR certification. If you already hold Security+, the Google Cybersecurity Certificate is funded as an alternate. Retakes, if needed, are at your own expense.
Yes, and it is required. The program runs continuously across 44 weeks (with approximately 4 weeks of scheduled breaks). You must be available during academic breaks and summer semester.
The inaugural cohort will consist of six students. This allows for personalized mentorship and meaningful hands-on access to enterprise tools and live SOC operations.
You graduate with certifications, a professional portfolio of SOC work, mock interview experience with industry leaders and direct introductions to hiring managers at partner organizations.
