Executive summary
The University of the Sunshine Coast’s (UniSC) School of Science, Technology and Engineering has partnered with Risepoint to design and deliver career-aligned online graduate certificates in cyber forensics and cybersecurity. In collaboration with Fortinet, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions and network security technologies, the curriculum reflects evolving workforce needs to produce exceptionally strong demand and near-full employment rates in the cybersecurity workforce.
Key results
The “triple threat”: Flexible, focused, and career-connected education
Fortinet is widely recognised in Australia and worldwide for its cybersecurity leadership, with cybersecurity leadership, with certifications trusted by employers to signal practical skills, industry knowledge, and real-world capability. Risepoint has embedded Fortinet’s Certified Fundamentals Cybersecurity and Certified Professional Secure Networking certifications directly into the University of Sunshine Coast’s courses, giving its students access to the full suite of Fortinet learning materials, hands-on labs, and integrated assessments – all at no additional cost.
By embedding these certifications into the curriculum, Risepoint and UniSC are creating “triple-threat” graduates who combine a quality university qualification, hands-on lab experience, and globally recognised industry credentials – an unbeatable combination of employers seeking job-ready talent.
For UniSC, this integration differentiates the program by embedding industry-leading certifications within the postgraduate curriculum, supporting student employability, and providing equity of access to professional credentials that would normally carry significant cost. For students, the approach delivers practical skills, confidence, and a structured pathway that scaffolds both cognate and non-cognate learners, ensuring they are ready for real-world cybersecurity roles from day one.
Outcomes for modern learners
These programs have attracted hundreds of modern learners – predominately at the graduate certificate level – with outcomes that align with exceptionally strong demand and near-full employment rates in the cybersecurity workforce. Although formal certification data is still emerging, many students have already completed both the Certified Fundamentals and Certified Professional certifications. The foundation is set for expanded uptake, future completions, and strengthened employment pathways.
Even in the first year of integration, early adoption signals strong engagement. Students have started using the Fortinet learning materials and labs, building network security and secure networking expertise aligned with employer expectations. One student said, “Very easy to pick up and learn the material – Fortinet structure is fantastic,” while another highlighted the professional impact: “It is a fantastic platform, and it also allows me to showcase the certificates on LinkedIn to show potential employers I am pursuing further study.”
Student feedback affirms the programs’ efficacy, highlighting satisfaction with course design, support, and career impact. Graduates consistently report promotions, salary growth, and successful career pivots.
This initiative aligns with the Risepoint mission to deliver applied, industry-aligned learning experiences that build workforce capability. By embedding globally recognised certifications, Risepoint is helping universities deliver future-focused curriculum enhancements, produce graduates with tangible career-ready skills, and bridge gaps in knowledge, confidence, and access across diverse student cohorts.
“I am currently midway through my Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity at the University of the Sunshine Coast. The content has been topical, engaging, and industry-relevant. I’ve especially valued the assessments, which reflect real-world cybersecurity scenarios and have helped me build practical, day-to-day skills I could confidently bring to a future role in the field.”
Current student
