Computing (Cyber Security) (HTQ Status)

This two-year HND is a higher technical qualification focused on cyber security, with career-oriented study in IT and computing. It is pitched at a level comparable to the second year of an undergraduate degree. Topics span networking, digital technologies, secure information management, cloud cryptography, forensics, and emerging fields such as the Internet of Things. Year one sits at level 4 and year two at level 5, with units such as programming, website design, databases, and a computing research project. Teaching mixes approaches so learners develop theory and practical experience side by side. The qualification readies students for employment in cyber and digital fields, and the course runs full time over two years. Completion leads to Pearson BTEC Higher National qualifications in computing, with the cyber security specialism.