Information Security
Career Development

Turn Your Graduate Degree into a Strategic Asset

The Fields Institute Quantitative Information Security Specialist Program

An intensive training program perfect for recent or upcoming PhD and MSc graduates in mathematics or related disciplines who want to start a career in information security.

For more information:

Consult the Program Brochure
Contact: Aaron Crighton at cyber@fieldsinstitute.ca
Join an information session

Program Structure

A phased approach let's you choose how far you want to go.

Phase One: Fundamentals

Linux Operating System
Python Programming
Computer Networks
Mathematics for Cryptography
Cloud Fundamentals

Learn at your own pace

Apply now
through the Fields Institute Personal Portal

Phase Two: Core

Cryptography
Machine Learning Methods
Penetration Testing
Defensive Security
Network Security
Risk Management

Registration to Phase Two

is now open

Phase Three: Specialization

Work with industry partners on research projects in:

Applied Cryptography

Machine Learning and AI

Offensive Security

Phase Four: Get Hired

Receive post-program support as you begin your career in information security.

Program Timeline

Fundamentals

Now - April 30 2026

Self-paced program (~ 2 months part-time)

Apply now
through the Fields Institute Personal Portal

Core Program

May 2026 - June 2026

9-week intensive program

Specialization

July 2026 - August 2026

Industry partner research project

Alumni Success Stories

"The program provided me with a solid background to understand the security needs and risks faced in any technology project..."

Hubert Dube, PhD (Math)

Solutions Architecture Advisor in Cryptography at Desjardins

"The cybersecurity program was very useful as I learned about a variety of attacks and an overview of how they work..."

Roger Bai, PhD (Math)

Blockchain Security Engineer, Certik

Information Security Training Team

Michael McCarthy
Adjunct Professor of Computer Science, University of Toronto
Expert-in-Residence, Business Strategy, DMZ Incubator at Toronto Metropolitan University

Aaron Crighton
PhD in Mathematics, McMaster University
Fields Security Curriculum Lead

Information Security Career Development