Learners do not need to pay back any tuition fees on this course. Find out more here.
Flexible delivery – this part-time, flexible course is designed to fit around work, childcare or caring responsibilities
Cyber activities have become an essential part of our daily lives and are a major national and global security threat. Cyber activities have opened the doors for cyber attacks and given rise to new cybercrime tactics we read about daily. Also, there is considerable local and global interest in cyber security sectors, and it is rapidly growing.
Our introduction to professional issues in cyber security and cyber security fundamentals, a 40-credit short course, will give you a comprehensive insight into cybersecurity and digital safety. Anyone interested in gaining knowledge of cyber security fundamentals, whether at work or home, may take this course. This course is designed with beginners in mind, so no prior cyber security knowledge is required. This course will be taught using the hybrid model, with some sessions in person and some remote.
Study modules, not the full course
This course gives learners the opportunity to study individual modules without having to commit to the full course – and there are no tuition fees to pay.
Through the government’s module acceleration programme (MAP), you can choose standalone modules to give you key technical skills that are valuable to employers and build credits towards a full HTQ at your own pace.
Course breakdown
This course will comprise of two 20 credit modules from our existing level 4 Cyber Security Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) which is validated by the University College Birmingham.
Modules
Cyber Security Fundamentals (20 credits)
This module covers the basic cyber security essentials and the challenges faced by industry in the cyber security field. This module develops an understanding of cyber risks and their impact on commercial operations. It investigates the threats and their countermeasures, the strategies employed and the security officer's role, legal obligations and international data processing regulations, as well as an introduction to digital forensics.
Professional Issues in the Cyber Sector (20 credits)
The purpose of this module is to bring together material in the key areas of professionalism and careers, finance, health and safety, environmental concerns, law and intellectual property in the context of the cyber industry within the computing sector. You will apply relevant cyber-related legislation and professional codes of conduct to day-to-day situations that arise in business and evaluate risks associated with those situations. You will also explain your five-year career plan and know what steps must be taken to achieve it.
The modules listed above for this course are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up to date and informed by industry as well as the latest teaching methods. On occasion, we may need to make unexpected changes to modules – if this occurs, we will contact all offer holders as soon as possible.
Our facilities
Our new computing facilities in Camden House contain dedicated teaching labs with high-spec computers and industry-standard technology. Students will have the opportunity to use the new dedicated cyber security laboratory to learn and participate in cyber-related activities in a controlled environment without causing a possible impact on campus networks.
Our Cyber Security Lab provides a controlled environment for students to learn and participate in cyber-related activities
Located in Camden House, the Cyber Security Lab enables students to experiment and experience a range of cyber security scenarios safely using a discrete network
Based in Camden House and Moss House, our computing facilities contain dedicated teaching labs complete with high-spec computers and industry-standard software
Students also have access to the Digital Creative Studio which features state-of-the-art video and audio production facilities
Entry requirements
Cyber Security
As a minimum, applicants should have:
GCSEs: Maths and English GCSE or equivalent
Basic computer literacy and awareness of the internet. You will need access to a windows-based PC/computer or laptop with a stable internet connection if you want to study the material outside the university premises.
Relevant industry experience may also be considered an alternative.
Who can apply:
Anyone looking to retrain in a new career or upskill to enhance their existing career can apply if they:
- are aged between 19 and 60
- live in England
Please note: this course is not open to international students.
Key information
Teaching and assessment
Note: Indicative information only – actual timetables and assessment regimes will be issued at your induction.
Delivery will be a combination of face-to-face and remote, consisting of lectures, practical workshops and lab sessions.
Teaching
Example of a typical teaching week:
- Group teaching – 6 hours (one day per week)
You will also need to commit to self guided hours.
Assessment
Estimated breakdown of assessment for this course:
- Coursework – 100%
Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2021-2024.
Tuition fees
There are no tuition fees for this course as it is funded by the government's module acceleration programme (MAP) but accessing funding reduces future Lifelong Learning Entitlement funds.
You are eligible if you are:
- are aged between 19 and 60
- live in England
Please contact our finance team if you'd like to know more: ucbstudentfinance@ucb.ac.uk
Unibuddy Community - meet other students on your course
Starting university is an exciting time, but we understand that it can sometimes feel a little daunting. To support you, you will be invited to join our Unibuddy Community, where you can meet other students who have applied for the same course at University College Birmingham, before you start studying here.
As soon as you have been made an offer, you will be sent an invitation email to complete your registration and join the Unibuddy Community. For more information, check out our Unibuddy Community page.
Progression Opportunities
Want to take your studies to the next level? After completing this short course you will have the opportunity to complete the full HTQ and also progress further onto the Cyber Security BSc
"Now is the perfect time to start pursuing a career in cyber security. According to recent reports, the UK cyber sector is estimated to face a shortfall of workers in the coming years. This course is intended to provide a general introduction to key concepts and explore the nature, scope, and importance of cyber security."
This course is delivered in partnership with the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology (GBSIoT).
Accreditations, endorsements and partnerships
University College Birmingham works with a wide range of organisations to ensure you receive the best possible training and qualifications recognised by industry.
Meet your tutors
