HackerOne course curriculum

While some learners may choose to familiarize themselves with the platform through a specialized HackerOne tutorial, skills related to hacking may be taught within a broader cybersecurity course or program. Some of the topics that can be covered in those courses include how to:

• Identify top web security vulnerabilities.

• Exploit and remediate insecurities.

• Handle cryptography.

• Apply hacking tools and security testing software.

• Conduct penetration testing.

• Impersonate users via insecure logins.

• Exploit insecure password changes.

• Apply a security mindset to application design and review.

• Work as a security consultant or bug hunter.

In order to complete some of these tasks, you may be required to be able to run Java applications or have computer language knowledge, like Python. Courses that offer modules in web application security, programming languages, network security, and ethical hacking techniques can help you succeed in this field. 

Jobs that use HackerOne

With HackerOne skills, you can sign up to become a HackerOne bug bounty hunter through the platform.^{Footnote 3} You can also apply hacking skills in information technology roles that benefit from cybersecurity knowledge, including: 

• Software quality assurance analyst or tester: tests applications and programs to identify problems and report defects.^{Footnote 4}

• Network and computer systems administrator: maintains computer systems and network security.^{Footnote 5}

• Computer programmer: tests scripts, programs, and code, and fixes errors to enable computer applications and software to work properly.^{Footnote 6}

• Information security analyst: checks network and computer systems for vulnerabilities, using software to protect networks and sensitive information.^{Footnote 7}

• Cybersecurity consultant: provides risk assessments to companies and advises organizations on how to protect their systems from hackers by using cybersecurity best practices.  

While each of these roles has different requirements, employers may seek candidates with a bachelor’s degree, or even a master’s degree for job applicants seeking more senior positions. For entry-level or freelance HackerOne jobs, you may be able to build the hacking and web development skills you need in a specialized boot camp. Explore the range of learning opportunities offered through edX. 

Become a cybersecurity analyst who uses HackerOne

Becoming a cybersecurity specialist requires a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, technologies, and best practices. You should have a strong foundation in programming languages, familiarity with ethical hacking techniques and tools, and experience with web application security. You should also be comfortable working with the tools used for penetration testing and have an understanding of the bug bounty industry. Additionally, excellent communication skills and the ability to analyze, synthesize, and communicate findings clearly will be important, whether you are the professional using the HackerOne platform or the researcher doing the hacking. 

You can apply skills in cybersecurity or information technology to HackerOne careers that involve penetration testing and web security. Join the community of hackers and participate in HackerOne’s capture the flag challenges, which can lead to invitations to private HackerOne bug bounty programs that can help you advance your career. 

Build the knowledge you need to pursue cybersecurity roles. edX offers a variety of learning pathways ranging from programs that can enable you to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, to focused boot camps designed to teach important skills, such as cybersecurity boot camps and even coding boot camps. Start your learning journey today.