Cyber Security

What will I do?

Want to make a positive change to the world? You’ve picked the right qualification. We’re on a mission to make the digital world a better place. This Level 4 qualification provides the foundation of your learning by giving a broad introduction to digital technologies and to a range of digital technology specialist functions. The Digital Technologies HNC – Cyber Security is a higher level course, equivalent to the first year of a university degree programme. It concentrates on developing the skills to succeed in industry and prepares you for work in the digital sector. You’ll study units such as Cyber Security, Security, Applied Security in the Cloud, Risk Analysis and Systems Testing. This qualification will be delivered by the exciting South Central Institute of Technology.

During the course of your Higher National Certificate, you’ll develop and strengthen your core skills, while preparing yourself to continue onto a Level 5 Higher National Diploma, or to entering employment. Not only will you have a sound knowledge across a broad range of technical areas, you’ll also leave with the qualities and skills that employers look for. What’s more, we’ll be here to support you at every step, offering a friendly  environment that feels (and looks) like a real employer.

You’ll gain a wide range of knowledge tied to practical skills gained through research, independent study, directed study and workplace scenarios, with live project briefs from our employer partners. You will also have the opportunity to develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, research and analysis, which are highly valued in higher education and the workplace.

Is it for me?

This course is ideal for those looking to scope out a career in Cyber Security, with a passion for digital technologies. There are full time and part time options available to suit your needs.

Not ready to apply yet? Why not give us an email, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. We’ll be able to advise on whether the course is right for you and take it from there.

To ensure you are prepared for entering the industry, learners will join BCS The Chartered Institute for IT as a student member and will have the option to complete the following accreditations:

• Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
• Microsoft Data Fundamentals
• Microsoft AI Fundamentals
• Microsoft Power Apps Fundamentals

What’s next?

After studying a Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Digital Technologies you’ll have sound knowledge of the basic concepts of digital technology. You’ll be able to demonstrate a range of subject-specific skills as well as general skills and qualities relevant to digital employers.

Once you’ve completed your HNC, you can progress your learning by moving on to Digital Technologies Higher National Diploma, progress on to study at university or onto employment.

MK College and the South-Central Institute of Technology (SCIoT) are now partnering with The Open University to produce two new routes to full honours degrees which represent a real cost saving for students.  

You can now study towards your HND (Higher National Diploma), followed by a third top-up year with the open University to achieve a Bachelor or Engineering (Honours) Degree awarded by the University.

What types of jobs could you expect afterwards? 

You could expect roles with titles such as Cyber Security specialist, Risk Analyst, Cyber Security Manager. Don’t feel limited by this list, with the Digital Technologies HNC you’ll be anything ready.

During these jobs you would be responsible for testing consumer, business and enterprise security solutions, reporting and maintaining the test results, and their consistency and accuracy. You would apply coding, mathematical and scientific research skills to the leading edge of security technology.

Cyber security specialists are usually responsible for:

• Granting VPN access to remote workers
• Monitoring for malware
• Diagnosing data vulnerability
• Making recommendations for hardware and software to enhance security
• Regulating use of data, only allowing access of certain files to certain employees
• Designing firewalls
• Running data usage reports
• Training staff on current security issues
• Helping HR train other departments on safely handling data

Did you know?

• The demand for cyber security skills has rocketed by 79.69% 2017-2019 (Tech Nation Jobs and Skills Report 2020)
• UK tech employs 2.93m people, with 40% growth in two years (Tech Nation Jobs and Skills Report 2020)