Our Mission
To Bridge the Gap Between "Certified" and "Qualified." Most IT certification training teaches you how to pass a test. We teach you how to run the network. CertStudent was built to replace boring slide decks with high-stakes, active learning. We don’t just help you pass the exam—we empower you to command the room on day one of your new job.
Our Vision
To become the gold standard for modern IT talent.
We are building a future where a CertStudent graduate is the most sought-after candidate in the industry. By combining technical muscle memory with hands-on challenges, and real-world ethical foundations, our graduates don't just troubleshoot infrastructure—they build, operate, and secure the world’s most critical systems.
Our Story
Built in "Cyber City" by those who have been in the trenches.
Based in the heart of San Antonio, TX, CertStudent was born from a frustrating observation: traditional education moves at the speed of a textbook, while technology moves at the speed of light.
Our founder, Professor Matthew Burch—a 2x CCIE, CISSP, and senior AWS cloud architect—saw a massive gap between what students were learning and what top employers actually required.
Why we’re different:
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Tactical Immersion: No more "passive listening." You’ll work within an EVE-NG backed cyber range, simulating enterprise-level environments.
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8-Week Live Cohorts: Forget lonely pre-recorded videos. You’ll be part of a high-intensity, live team guided by mentors who have been in the trenches.
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Muscle Memory: We focus on the "Doing." By the time you finish, the technology is second nature.
Stop being a "candidate." Become a "competent professional."
Join us and plug into the future of IT.
Meet The Founder
The Bridge Between Theory and the Trenches:
Education in the IT world is often stuck in two extremes: dry, academic theory that lacks real-world application, or "exam dumps" that help you pass a test without teaching you the job. CertStudent was founded by Matthew Burch to bridge that gap. As a collegiate instructor and experienced IT manager in San Antonio—"Cyber City, USA"—and a CISSP-certified industry veteran, Matthew has spent over a decade mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity defenders. He realized that the best way to learn isn't by watching a slideshow; it’s by getting your hands dirty in a live environment.
01
Academic Foundation
8 weeks of live, weekly sessions and/or 1 week bootcamp led by an experienced instructor. No pre-recorded fluff—just real-time mentorship.
02
Tactical Simulation
Deploy into the CertStudent Cyber Range. We use EVE-NG to simulate real-world enterprise networks.
03
Pass The Exam
We don't just make you exam ready; we build the confidence you need on exam day and beyond.