Diploma in Cyber Security

Admission Requirements

• Typical Age: 18+
• Entry Point: Learners enrol at Level 4. Completing Level 4 then meets the entry requirement for the Level 5 stage.
• Prior Qualifications: A GCE Advanced level profile with achievement in 2 or more subjects, a Level 3 qualification in IT or a related field, or an Access to Higher Education Certificate from an approved institution.
• International Qualifications: Equivalent qualifications may include:
  • High school diplomas or equivalent secondary qualifications in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
• English Proficiency (for non-native speakers): IELTS 5.5, CEFR level B2, or equivalent.
• Additional Guidance: For assistance with qualification equivalency or language requirements, please contact our admissions office.

Structure of the Qualification

• Total Credits: 240 ECTS (120 ECTS at Level 4 and 120 ECTS at Level 5)
• Modules: At Level 4, learners complete five mandatory units and one elective, each worth 20 credits. At Level 5, learners complete four mandatory units, each worth 30 credits. This gives 120 credits per level.

Level 4 Core Modules

1. Cyber Security Threat and Risk (20 Credits): Examines threat vectors, major data breaches, malware and ransomware, threat intelligence, and business impact analysis.
2. Network Security and Data Communications (20 Credits): Explains how digital devices communicate, how networks and web applications can be exploited, and how to apply security engineering and systems hardening.
3. Database Security and Computer Programming (20 Credits): Explores database security risks and controls, cloud-based storage, and the link between programming and hacking, using Python as a case study.
4. Incident Response, Investigations and Forensics (20 Credits): Covers Computer Emergency Response Teams, Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, Crisis Management, evidence handling, and relevant laws.
5. Security Strategy: Laws, Policies and Implementation (20 Credits): Addresses strategic planning, senior-level buy-in, laws and standards, policy implementation, and security audit design.

Level 4 Elective Modules

Choose one from the following electives:

1. Cyber Security Threats and Risks: Banking and Finance (20 Credits): Investigates threats to traditional and emerging financial services, payment systems, PCI DSS, and cryptocurrencies.
2. Cyber Wars (20 Credits): Analyses nation-state cyber capabilities, geopolitics, attribution, and the risks to businesses and Critical National Infrastructure.

Level 5 Core Modules

1. Cryptography (30 Credits): Explores cryptographic principles, symmetric and asymmetric methods, methods of attack, key escrow and recovery, and relevant standards and laws.
2. Digital Investigations and Forensics (30 Credits): Covers the investigation lifecycle, team formation and tools, evidence recovery from mobile and Internet of Things devices, chain of custody, and legal requirements.
3. Communications and Incident Management (30 Credits): Examines the people, sites, and equipment required for major incidents, along with Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, Crisis Management, crisis communications, and cyber resilience.
4. Strategic Leadership (30 Credits): Addresses senior leadership roles, performance management, risk and governance, cultural complexity, ethics, and data protection compliance.

Guidance on Elective Selection

Learners are encouraged to consult with the Student Advisor Office to choose electives that align with their career goals and maximise both academic and practical performance. The Student Advisor Office provides personalised guidance to ensure optimal elective selections for skill development and professional growth.

Explore the complete curriculum for this course to gain a detailed understanding of the topics covered, learning objectives, and key skills you’ll develop. See the full curriculum below.

View Curriculum

Assessment and Regulations

Assessment Approach

Each module at both levels is assessed through written assignments, case studies, and practical applications:

• Written Assignments: Assess comprehension and application of cyber security principles through reports and plans.
• Exams: Test learners’ understanding of key cyber security concepts.
• Case Studies: Practical tasks that relate to real-world cyber security issues, requiring critical thinking and problem-solving.
• Practical Applications: Assignments that emphasise technical skills, particularly in programming and network management.

Grading System

Grades are awarded based on the successful completion of unit-specific assessment criteria:

• Distinction: 70% and above
• Merit: 60%–69%
• Pass: 40%–59%
• Fail: 0%–39%

Completion Requirements

Learners must achieve a minimum score of 40% in each unit. All assessments are subject to internal and external quality assurance by the Awarding Body.

Professional Development and Progression

Progress to Higher-Level Study:

• Potential entry into a Level 6 university degree top-up, subject to a successful application to a partner institution.

Employment Opportunities:

This programme prepares learners for roles such as:

• Information Security Manager
• Cyber Security Manager
• Incident Response Manager
• IT Risk Manager

Work-Based Learning:

• Case studies and practical assignments within each module support skill development and readiness for the workplace. Where possible, learners are encouraged to draw on workplace opportunities for research and investigation.

When you enrol in our Level 4+5 bundle, you’ll start on the same course pathway for both levels. If you wish to change your Level 5 route after registration, just reach out to Student Services—we’re here to guide you toward the best fit.