CYBER SECURITY Level 5 (Skills Focus)

Level 5
Courses For Industry
eCampus

Overview

This course is 90% funded under the Skills Focus Programme. To qualify for Skills Focus, your business must have less than 250 employees and you must be based in Northern Ireland. Programmes are available to private sector companies and eligible social enterprises.

The OCN NI Level 5 Certificate in Cyber Security is designed to develop the skills and knowledge required to monitor, maintain and enhance the security of Information Technology systems and networks.

Learners will explore computer and network security, cryptography, security management, penetration testing, security monitoring and vulnerability management. The programme combines theoretical understanding with practical cyber security techniques, enabling learners to apply industry-relevant security practices in real-world environments.

This Level 5 qualification is suitable for individuals seeking to enhance their cyber security knowledge, progress within the IT sector, or prepare for further study in Cyber Security and Information Technology. The qualification consists of two mandatory units worth a total of 14 credits and is regulated by OCN Northern Ireland.

The College will review the qualifications and/or experience held by applicants and will consider whether this profile demonstrates an ability to successfully complete the programme.

Applicants should:

Hold a Level 3 qualification in Information Technology, Computing, Software Development or a related discipline.
Have completed the Level 4 certificate in Cyber Security or be able to demonstrate relevant industry experience
Demonstrate a satisfactory standard of written and spoken English.
Have an interest in Cyber Security.

Demonstrate motivation and commitment during the pre-entry interview process.

Computer System and Software Security

Learners will develop knowledge and practical skills in:

Computer security technologies and management tools
Encryption and authentication
Access control and database security
Malware and intrusion detection systems (IDS)
Denial of Service (DoS) attacks
Software and system security
Trusted security models
Security implementation across different operating systems
Network, application and cloud security
Encryption and data services
Security planning and implementation
Baseline security configurations
Password policies and access controls
Patch management and software restrictions
Vulnerability identification and risk reduction

Network Security and Management

Learners will study:

Network security management principles
Physical and infrastructure security
Surveillance and access control
Protection of people, property and digital assets
Human resource security policies
Email and internet usage policies
Cryptographic algorithms
Public-key cryptography
Secure hash functions
Message authentication techniques
Network penetration testing
Network protocol analysis
TCP/UDP connectivity testing
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)
Brute-force and dictionary attacks
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks
Information gathering tools
Wireless security and WEP cracking
Security logging and monitoring
Audit trail analysis
Security breach detection
Event reconstruction and incident response

Assessment is carried out through internal assessment and the completion of a portfolio of evidence.

Assessment methods may include:

Portfolio of evidence
Practical demonstrations and assignments
Coursework and research projects
Observation records
Written reports and learner logs
Electronic portfolios and e-assessment activities

Learners must provide evidence that they have met all assessment criteria across both units.

The qualification is graded on a Pass/Fail basis and there is no formal examination.

Successful completion may support progression to:

Higher-level qualifications in Cyber Security
Advanced Information Technology qualifications
Specialist training in Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking
Network Security certifications
Information Security and Governance qualifications
Degree programmes in Cyber Security, Computing or Information Technology

The qualification provides a strong foundation for further study and professional development within the cyber security sector.

This qualification is designed for learners who work in, or intend to work in, Information Technology and Cyber Security roles.

Potential career pathways include:

Cyber Security Technician
Cyber Security Analyst
Network Security Administrator
Penetration Testing Technician
IT Infrastructure Support Specialist
Systems Administrator
Cyber Risk and Compliance Officer

The qualification supports occupations requiring the safe and secure use of information technology systems and networks.

eCampus

Apply

P4236SE
Code

Part Time
Mode of Study

Evening
Class Type

8 Weeks
Duration

4.00
Hours Per Week

18/01/2027 17:45
Start Date & Time

Mon
Day/s

£0.00
Total Full Fee Per Year

Full Fee Breakdown

Total Fee

£0.00

Fees Payable Each Year

1 Available Session

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