The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security is designed to equip learners with the essential skills, knowledge, and understanding required to protect organisations against the growing threat of cybercrime. In today’s digital world, cyber security has become a critical component of every business strategy, and this course prepares students to meet these challenges with confidence.
This qualification builds on fundamental IT concepts and delves deeper into areas such as risk management, network security, information security governance, ethical hacking, and cyber laws. Learners will gain practical abilities to detect vulnerabilities, respond to security breaches, and implement robust security measures to safeguard data and IT systems.
The course not only develops technical expertise but also sharpens problem-solving, analytical thinking, and decision-making skills, all of which are vital for cyber security professionals working in dynamic and high-stakes environments.
Upon completion, learners will be well-prepared for roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Information Security Officer, Network Security Specialist, or to progress onto higher-level qualifications in cyber security or IT-related fields.
All 11 units are mandatory to receive 240 credits.
- Cyber Security Threat and Risk
- Network Security and Data Communications
- Database Security and Computer Programming
- Incident Response, Investigations and Forensics
- Security Strategy: Laws, Policies and Implementation
- Cyber Security Threats and Risk: Banking and Finance
- Cyber Wars
- Cryptography
- Digital Investigations and Forensics
- Communications and Incident Management
- Strategic Leadership
GLH (Guided Learning Hours) and TQT (Total Qualification Time) are terms commonly used in vocational qualifications to help define the amount of time a learner is expected to spend on their studies.
1. GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
GLH refers to the number of hours a learner spends being directly taught, supervised, or supported during their course. This includes the time spent in activities such as:
- Classroom instruction
- Practical workshops
- One-on-one tutoring or mentoring sessions
- Online learning sessions with tutor support
In other words, GLH represents the time that learners are actively engaged with their instructors or learning activities.
2. TQT (Total Qualification Time)
TQT represents the total amount of time a learner is expected to invest in completing a qualification, including:
- GLH (Guided Learning Hours): Time spent on direct learning, as explained above.
- Self-Directed Learning: This includes time spent on independent study, research, assignment completion, preparation for exams, and any other work the learner does outside of direct teaching hours.
TQT is a broader measure that includes all the time required to achieve the qualification. It helps learners and employers understand the overall commitment required for the qualification.
Key Differences Between GLH and TQT:
- GLH focuses on direct learning with guidance or supervision.
- TQT includes GLH as well as independent study time and other learning-related activities.
Example:
If a qualification has a TQT of 600 hours and a GLH of 250 hours, it means the learner should spend 250 hours in direct learning (classroom, online, or tutor-led sessions) and 350 hours on independent study or research.
Learning Outcomes of Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security:
Cyber Security Threat and Risk
- Understand complex business cyber security threats and risks
- Understand recent mega breaches and explain malware and ransomware attacks
- Understand how threats and malicious hackers are advancing and developing customised intrusion tools
Network Security and Data Communications
- Understand how computers and digital devices communicate with one another over a network
- Understand, at a strategic level, how computer networking, web applications and software can be exploited
- Understand methods of security prevention and systems hardening
- Understand key network security and systems resilience tools, terminology and models
Database Security and Computer Programming
- Understand the broad range of information security controls to protect databases
- Understand types of database categories of control
- Understand the underpinning concepts and models of cloud-based storage solutions
- Understand the relationship between computer programming and computer hacking
- Understand the ‘interpreted’ general-purpose programming language, Python
Incident Response, Investigations and Forensics
- Understand the role and composite parts of Incident Response as a business function and how CERTS operate
- Understand aligned task/task forces for Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery and Crisis Management
- Understand how major computer incidents are formally investigated
- Understand laws and guidance in relation to the conduct of planned and structured major incident investigations
Security Strategy: Laws, Policies and Implementation
- Understand the concept of strategy, strategic management, planning and buy-in in relation to cyber security
- Understand how legislation, formal industry standards, training and accreditations support cyber security
- Understand how to implement Plan, Do, Check and Act security and risk management policies
- Understand the future legal and technical environment and the impact on cyber security planning and digital risk management
- Understand how to plan and design a security audit for a cyber network
Cyber Security Threats and Risks: Banking and Finance
- Understand the threats and risks facing traditional and emerging financial services
- Understand the architectural structures of traditional and emerging financial markets
- Understand how payments systems connect to underpinning financial services architecture
- Understand how cryptocurrencies connect to underpinning financial services architecture
Cyber Wars
- Understand how nation states are potentially engaged in cyber defence and offensive capability strategy
- Understand the motivations and causes behind nationstate-linked cyber-attacks and breaches
- Understand how private sector industry has been targeted by potentially statesanctioned cyber-crime groups and/or armies
- Understand how CNI has been targeted by statebacked cyber-crime groups and/or armies
Cryptography
- Understand key cryptographic principles and modes
- Understand the standards, regulations and laws that apply to business and government organisations in relation to encryption
- Design an encryption plan and courses of action for a given organization
Digital Investigations and Forensics
- Understand the core principles of digital investigations
- Apply the types of tool that support professional digital investigations at a strategic level
- Plan for an investigations and forensics teams
- Understand the importance of safeguarding evidential integrity in digital investigations
Communications and Incident Management
- Understand the physical and human resources required to manage a major suspected cyber security incident
- Apply Business Continuity Management to major incident planning and response
- Understand how Disaster Recovery and Crisis Management are integrated into a suspected major cyber-enabled incident
- Evaluate the potential impact of NOT planning crisis communications and incident response
Strategic Leadership
- Understand the role senior leaders and strategic leadership
- Evaluate the management streams and performance monitoring mechanisms that relate to information security
- Understand how threat and risk identification and management is integrated into C-Suite considerations and governance
- Understand how data protection legislation impacts considerations of strategy-setting and strategic leadership
Course Benefits: Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security
Preparation for Professional Certifications
Build a strong foundation that supports further professional certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH, and others.
Industry-Relevant Qualification
Obtain a globally recognised diploma that enhances your employability and career prospects in the fast-growing field of cyber security.
Comprehensive Skill Development
Gain in-depth knowledge of essential cyber security areas, including risk assessment, ethical hacking, network security, information assurance, and cyber law.
Blend of Theory and Practical Application
Learn to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, ensuring you are prepared to handle current and emerging cyber threats in professional environments.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Open pathways to high-demand roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Information Security Manager, Network Security Engineer, or IT Security Consultant.
Pathway to Further Study
Offers progression to higher-level qualifications such as a Bachelor’s degree or specialised certifications in cyber security.
Flexible Learning Options
Ideal for working professionals and full-time learners alike, with flexible study modes that allow you to balance learning with personal and work commitments.
Up-to-Date Curriculum
Stay informed on the latest trends, technologies, and threats in cyber security, including cloud security, mobile security, and data protection regulations.
Global Career Prospects
Develop skills that are highly valued across industries worldwide, from finance and healthcare to government and technology sectors.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Enhance your ability to analyse complex security issues, develop effective solutions, and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.
This course is ideal for individuals who:
Are Aware of the Importance of Cyber Safety in Modern Business
Suitable for professionals who recognise the increasing importance of data protection, privacy laws, and cyber resilience in organisations of all sizes.
Aspire to a Career in Cyber Security or IT Security
Perfect for those seeking roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Information Security Officer, Network Security Engineer, or IT Risk Consultant.
Have a Passion for Technology and Problem Solving
Suitable for learners who are curious about how systems work, enjoy analysing technical problems, and are motivated to protect digital assets against cyber threats.
Want to Develop Practical and In-Demand Skills
Designed for individuals looking to gain hands-on knowledge of cyber security tools, ethical hacking practices, risk assessment techniques, and security management frameworks.
Seek Career Progression or a Career Change
Ideal for IT professionals wanting to specialise in cyber security, as well as those from other industries who wish to transition into this high-demand field.
Are Interested in Further Study
A great fit for those planning to pursue higher-level qualifications, such as a Bachelor’s degree or professional cyber security certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP).
Value Flexible and Accessible Learning
Suitable for learners who prefer flexible study options that allow them to balance their studies with work or personal commitments.
Possess Basic IT Knowledge or Experience
Designed for individuals with a foundational understanding of IT systems, networks, or digital technologies who want to build expertise in cyber security.
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process for the Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be canceled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignments & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignments and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to Qualifies External Quality Assurance Verifiers (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, Qualifi will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security
