What you’ll learn
An instructor-led curriculum that builds core cyber security fundamentals and practical skills through labs and projects in 12 weeks (full-time) or 24 weeks (part-time).
Workflow/Stack
Linux security, Windows security, and core networking models
Programming, Scripting and Tools
Python, Bash, proxies & Tor, Netcat, Nmap, and Wireshark
Red Team
Web security, binary exploitation, cryptography, pentesting, enumeration, and privilege escalation
Blue Team
Threat modelling (SIEM, IDS/IPS, DLP), incident response, risk management, and code auditing
Chapter 0: Pre-Work
Prior to the official start of our bootcamp and live classes, you will be given access to our online platform and our prework content. This content is meant for you to look at some basics of computer science and programming concepts. Even though the bootcamp will not have started officially, we will be available for you during this time to work together with you on how to lay out a plan for you to master these basics. If you are already interested in learning more cyber security specific concepts, do not worry. During the prework, you learn about the basics of cryptography and historical ciphers.
Fundamentals
- Introduction to Algorithms
- Installing Kali Linux With Virtualbox
Basics in Computer Science
- Introduction to The Command Line
- Version Control With Git And GitHub
Python Fundamentals
- Python Fundamentals
Introduction to Cryptography
- History
- Substitution Cipher
- Vigenre Cipher
- Enigma
Project: An Enigma
- In this project, you will be presented with a cipher text. Using the theoretical knowledge you gained about cryptography and the programming language of your choice, your task is to crack the code and discover the secret message.
Learning schedule (Lisbon time)
Monday to Friday, 09:30–15:30
Live class
09:30–11:00
Live class
11:30–13:00
Guided practice
14:00–15:30
How you’ll learn
Live online classes
- Join interactive live sessions led by expert instructors. You can ask questions in real time, collaborate with peers, and get feedback as you practise, with timetables that work well for Portugal (Lisbon time).
Structured self-study
- Part-time: 9 hours live classes + ~11 hours self-study (20 hours/week)
- Full-time: 22.5 hours live classes + ~17.5 hours self-study (40 hours/week)
Flipped classroom
- Review key concepts before class, then use live time for problem-solving, hands-on practice, and instructor feedback, so you learn by doing.
Guided practice & portfolio work
- Apply what you learn through labs and projects. You’ll build a portfolio of work and develop the confidence to use your new skills in real scenarios.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need a computer science degree to join. We start with the fundamentals and support you step by step in the first weeks, so you can build confidence from the ground up. Whether you’re learning for the first time or upskilling for work in Portugal, the bootcamp is designed to help you progress quickly and consistently.
- Laptop or Computer: A device capable of running necessary security tools, virtual machines, or other software. Minimum requirements: 16GB RAM, 512GB storage (SSD is preferred), Core i5 CPU or above
- Stable Internet Connection: Reliable internet access for live learning sessions, hands-on labs, and assignments.
- Basic Computing Knowledge: Understanding of how computers and operating systems function.
- Basic Web Knowledge: Familiarity with how the web works, including HTTP, HTTPS, and web browsers.
- English Proficiency: B1 level with the ability to understand technical materials and communicate effectively, as the bootcamp is conducted in English.
- Commitment to Learning: Willingness to dedicate several hours per week for live learning sessions, assignments, and self-study.
Career Services Center
Career Development Workshops
Open sessions for CLA learners and the wider community. Get practical guidance on topics like job-search strategy, portfolio storytelling, and last-minute CV improvements, with space for questions and real examples.
Personalised 1:1 Career Coaching
Structured sessions to clarify your goals and build a realistic plan, whether you’re upskilling for your current role, targeting junior tech roles, or aiming for more responsibility within your team. We’ll help you define your next steps and stay accountable.
Mock Interviews
Practise behavioural and technical interview questions in a supportive setting. Learn how to communicate your strengths, present projects clearly, handle common curveballs, and navigate salary expectations in a way that makes sense for Portugal and international roles.
CV & Cover Letter Reviews
Get tailored feedback on your CV and cover letters, including how to position projects, highlight transferable skills, and optimise for applicant tracking systems. We can also advise on common expectations for Portugal-based hiring versus international applications.
Job & Internship Round-Up
A curated selection of opportunities shared by our career specialists, focused on realistic entry-level and junior-friendly roles, plus internships and project-based opportunities where available.
Career Resources Platform Access
Access templates, exercises, job-search checklists, and tech industry resources on our learning platform, so you can keep building momentum throughout the bootcamp and after graduation.
Professional Guidance & Networking Events
Join sessions with people working in tech to learn what teams look for and how roles work in practice. Take part in Career Chats and networking events designed to help you connect with others, including learners and professionals linked to Portugal’s tech ecosystem.
Alumni Networking
Stay connected after graduation. Share resources, ask questions, exchange feedback, and keep an eye on opportunities with classmates and CLA alumni, a community that’s valuable whether you’re in Portugal or working remotely across borders.
Why Choose Code Labs Academy?
1-to-1 Career Coaching
Personalised support from career specialists: CV and LinkedIn refresh, mock interviews, and a tech-focused job-search strategy.
Portfolio-Ready Projects
Graduate with a GitHub-ready portfolio of real-world projects—built in class and polished with mentor feedback.
Industry-Driven Curriculum
Curriculum refreshed every quarter to match current hiring needs in AI, cybersecurity, and web development.
Recognised Certificate
Showcase your AZAV-accredited Code Labs Academy certificate on LinkedIn, your CV, and visa applications.