Level 5 Diploma in Computing with Cyber Security

Course Title:

NCC Level 5 Diploma in Computing (with Cyber Security) (L5DC CS)

Mode of Study: Online

Duration:

• Full-time: 1 year
• Part-time: 2-3 years

Start Dates: Registration throughout the year

Awarding Institution:

NCC Education

Language of Study:

English

Programme Overview: The NCC Education Level 5 Diploma in Computing (with Cyber Security) (L5DC CS) makes up the second year of the NCC Education degree journey. This builds upon the knowledge gained during the Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC) or the Level 4 Diploma in Computing (with Business Management) (L4DC BM).

This qualification is designed to develop the specialist skills necessary to protect and secure data systems from ever-increasing threats in today’s evolving digital society.

Entry Requirements:

For entry onto the NCC Education L5DC CS course, students must have at least one of the following:

• NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing (L4DC) or the Level 4 Diploma in Computing (with Business Management) (L4DC BM).
• A local or international qualification deemed to be of a similar level to the NCC Education L4DC or L4DC BM qualifications. This must be agreed with NCC Education in advance.

If a potential student’s first language is not English, they must also meet the English language requirements of either:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) minimum score of 5.5 or above.
• Alternatively, take the free NCC Education Higher English Placement Test, which is administered by our Accredited Partner Centres.

Programme Structure: Students are required to complete six units comprising five core units and one of two elective units.

Core Units:

1. Business IT Project: Provides practical experience in developing system solutions to open-ended problems derived from the real world.
2. Information Systems Analysis: Equips students with tools to analyze the function and requirements of information systems.
3. Network Security Threats and Defence Mechanisms: Provides students with skills to eliminate or reduce risks associated with network vulnerability.
4. Computer Forensics and Incident Investigation: Understanding the investigation requirements of cybercriminals, including acquiring, inspecting, and reporting information across computer networks.
5. Ethical Hacking and Information Security Assessments: Understanding ethical hacking and its essential elements, such as information security, hacking techniques, and risk management.

Elective Units:

1. Analysis, Design and Implementation: In-depth knowledge and experience in the use of object-oriented techniques for software development.
2. Professional Issues in IT: Highlights professional issues in the development, deployment, and maintenance of computer systems.

Assessment Strategy:

Assessment includes:

• Coursework: Assignments and projects make up a significant part of the assessment.
• Examinations: Formal exams assess knowledge and understanding.

Formative assessments provide feedback throughout the course to help students improve, while summative assessments contribute to the final grade.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding:

• Demonstrate an understanding of advanced IT and cybersecurity concepts.
• Apply principles of cybersecurity in various scenarios.
• Understand and apply techniques in network security and information systems analysis.

Cognitive & Intellectual Skills:

• Analyze and solve complex cybersecurity and IT problems.
• Use effective study and research skills to gather and evaluate information.
• Apply critical thinking in cybersecurity-related situations.

Practical & Professional Skills:

• Communicate effectively in both written and verbal forms.
• Use advanced computing and cybersecurity techniques in professional applications.
• Demonstrate competency in designing, developing, and managing IT security projects.

Transferable Skills:

• Develop effective study habits and time management skills.
• Work collaboratively in team settings.
• Utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills in various professional contexts.

Career and Professional Development:

Graduates of the Level 5 Diploma in Computing (with Cyber Security) can progress to:

• The final year of a degree with NCC Education, such as:
  • BSc (Hons) Business Computing and Information Systems Top-up Degree, validated and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
  • BSc (Hons) Computing Top-up Degree, awarded by the University of Greenwich
• Alternatively, they can pursue careers in the IT industry, such as cybersecurity analyst, network security consultant, IT auditor, or digital forensic analyst.

Support for Student Learning:

Students will have access to:

• Personal Tutors: Available for guidance and support.
• Learning Resources: Online libraries, tutorials, and study materials.
• Discussion Forums and Live Sessions: For interaction with peers and instructors.

Total Qualification Time: 1,200 hours (including 438 Guided Learning Hours)