Higher Nationals in Digital Technologies

Cyber Security

Program Overview

Cyber Security is an essential field in the modern world. Every organisation depends on secure digital systems to operate safely. This program helps learners understand the full security cycle, from identifying risks to protecting systems and responding to threats. Students begin with core concepts and gradually move into advanced areas including forensics, incident response, threat analysis, and cloud security.

Through hands on projects and guided practice, learners work with real security tools used by professionals across the world. They learn how to analyse logs, secure networks, test systems for vulnerabilities, and evaluate risks. By the end of this program, graduates can support security teams, investigate incidents, and understand how to protect digital environments. The qualification also supports progression into the final year of a university degree.

Level 4 Mandatory Units

  1. Professional Practice in the Digital Economy

  2. Innovation and Digital Transformation

  3. Cyber Security

  4. Programming

  5. Big Data and Insight

  6. Networking in the Cloud

  7. Database Design and Development

  8. Digital Business Solutions

Level 5 Core Units

  1. Computing Research Project

  2. Applied Cryptography in the Cloud

  3. Business Intelligence

  4. Emerging Technologies

Cyber Security Specialist Units

  1. Network Security

  2. Forensics

  3. Risk Analysis and Incident Response

  4. Security Testing

  5. Cloud Information Systems Security

  6. Applied Cryptography and Security

  7. Secure Software Development

Optional Units

  1. Cloud Networking

  2. Penetration Testing

Career Pathways

  1. Cyber Security Analyst

  2. Security Operations Centre Analyst

  3. Network Security Technician

  4. Junior Pen Tester

  5. Digital Forensics Assistant