Intro

The UK cyber security market is regarded as the largest in Europe. There is high demand for cyber security technologists with an understanding of cyber threats, hazards and risks, who can help protect individuals and organisations from cyber attacks. Our Cyber Security Technologist DipHE HTQ is aimed at people wishing to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to begin a career in cyber security. You could be just starting out or maybe thinking about a career change, or want to upskill.

This Cyber Security Technologist course, which can be studied full- or part-time, is a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ). HTQs are approved against occupational standards decided by employers so you can be sure that what you are learning is relevant to industry.

You’ll learn with innovative researchers from our Centre for Secure, Intelligent and Usable Systems. You'll design and develop secure digital systems that meet current and future needs, and have the confidence to apply your knowledge working individually or in a team – particularly through the group project in year 2. You'll graduate with the ability to work on complex challenges selecting and applying appropriate cyber security methods and techniques.

You'll take six modules each year of the course exploring through live briefs, projects, and practical workshops.

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Key facts

Location Brighton: Moulsecoomb

UCAS code GN31

Full-time 2 years

Occupational Standard Cyber Security Technologist L4

New for 2023

Apply now with UCAS for 2023

Course content

Course structure

You'll undertake six core modules each year. Each module is worth 20 credits.

You'll develop essential data and digital communication skills alongside practical programming. The group project means you will also learn to work in a team – and get to know your fellow students really well.

Making sure that what you learn with us is relevant, up to date and what employers are looking for is our priority, so courses are reviewed and enhanced on an ongoing basis. When you have applied to us, you’ll be told about any new developments through Student View.

Learn more about Higher Technical Qualifications.
This Higher Technical Qualification is approved against the Cyber Security Technologist occupational standard.

Syllabus

You'll develop a foundation of knowledge in data analysis, AI, problem-solving techniques and develop a range of software skills. And have an insight into how data processes are used and analysed in real-world business scenarios.

You'll gain skills in advanced secure software engineering, risk management, security operations and incident management skills. And develop an understanding of the scientific methods and its applications to problem-solving in cyber security.

Modules

Year 1

Introduction to Programming
Introduction to Cyber Security
Computing Technologies
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Introduction to Web Development
Working in the Computing Industry

Year 2

Network Security
Security and Dependability
Large Scale Data Processing
Integrated Group Project
Object-oriented Development and Testing
Secure Systems Analysis and Design

How you'll learn

You'll take part in a wide range of activities aimed at the diverse learning styles and needs of our students – making sure that you get the most out of your course.

Important concepts and their application, and key skills will be introduced through:

traditional lectures
problem-solving tutorials
group and individual case study investigations
computer laboratory classes
computer modelling and simulation
formative peer-assessments
individual or group project work.

Student in wheelchair working with three other students at computers

Frequently asked questions

What are HTQs?

Level 4 and 5 qualifications such as CertHE, DipHE, HND or foundation degrees.

HTQs have been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) as meeting occupational standards for each sector. These are the same standards that are the basis for apprenticeships and T-levels.

At the moment, we are offering one-year CertHEs and two-year DipHEs. And along with all HTQs, our courses have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses, so you'll get the training, knowledge and skills to succeed in the workplace.

Who are HTQs for?

Anyone over 18 who wants to study, especially if you are looking for a practical, employer-led programme! They are for students over 18 wishing to study and prepare for skilled jobs in a specific sector, and also for adults who are looking to develop their existing skills or to retrain for a new career.

How will I learn when studying an HTQ?

HTQs are mostly classroom based. This is where they differ from apprenticeships which are training on the job. They don't usually involve work placements but at Brighton you will learn practical skills in workshops, by working on project briefs, and through using our amazing facilities that simulate and replicate the equipment, software and scenarios you will find in the workplace.

Can I progress my education with an HTQ?

HTQs are designed to get you into skilled employment after graduation but if you decide to further your education you may be able to progress to further study or training.

Careers

Preparing for your career

In your career you need a combination of knowledge, skills, personal qualities and relevant experiences – and you’ll get all of this from your HTQ.

HTQs are developed with an industry standard that is approved by employers so you can be sure that you graduate with the skills and knowledge that are relevant to the workplace.

Working in groups with your coursemates prepares you to be confident when collaborating with colleagues in the workplace, and you'll develop skills in data analysis, problem-solving, database design and data processes.

Project briefs are created to be relevant to industry and where possible discussed with the members of our Industrial Advisory Board.

Male student developing software sitting in front of a computer

Facilities for learning

You’ll have access to our specialist facilities for hands-on learning

Facilities include:

usability lab with eye-tracking technology
security lab including secure and dependable software systems
robot dog and humanoid
Igloo immersive learning space
digitisation/VR lab
Oculus Rift
HTC Vive
3D scanning and printing
Reflectance Transformation Imaging acquisition dome
a Simulation Suite with flight simulators and a car simulator that use VR and motion platform technology.

Lecturer with students using eye-tracking in usability lab

Industry links

We are part of the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology. The Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology is also supported by several industry partners, including Roche Diagnostics, Gatwick Airport, Southern Water, NatWest and Gatwick Diamond Business.

With a digital economy worth over £1bn a year, the city of Brighton & Hove offers opportunities for networking, internships and placements on your doorstep.   

Local meet ups and events such as Develop: Brighton are great for networking and exchanging ideas.

As a student you can find internships and a doorway to job opportunities across the city through Wired Sussex, a local membership organisation for companies and individuals working in the digital sector.

Further study

Successfully completing this course means you'll have a qualification that you could put towards an honours degree.

You can progress onto the final year of the Computer Science with Cyber Security BSc(Hons) degree.

Supporting your employability

Outside of your course, our Careers Service is here to support you as you discover (and re-discover) your strengths and what matters to you. We are here for you throughout your university journey as you work towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.

Connect with our careers team

Find part-time work that you can combine with your studies.
Find, or be, a mentor or get involved with our peer-to-peer support scheme.
Develop your business ideas through our entrepreneurial support network.
Get professional advice and support with career planning, CV writing and interview top tips.
Meet potential employers at our careers fairs.
Find rewarding volunteering opportunities to help you discover more about what makes you tick, and build your CV.

Whatever your career needs, we are here to help. And that's not just while you are a student, our support carries on after you've graduated.

Find out more...

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Entry criteria

Entry requirements

A-levels
BBC–CCC (112–96 UCAS Tariff points).

BTEC
Extended Diploma DMM–MMM.

International Baccalaureate
28 points, with three subjects at Higher level.

Access to HE Diploma
Pass with 60 credits overall. Level 3 mathematics, programming or statistics units preferred. At least 45 credits at level 3 with 24 credits at merit or above.

Plus: at least five GCSEs subjects must include English language and maths at minimum grade C or grade 4.

English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. Find out more about the other English qualifications that we accept.

Relevant experience
Relevant workplace or vocational experience may be particularly suitable and will be considered for entry to this course.

Student visa sponsorship
This course is not eligible for student visa sponsorship. If you require a student visa to study in the UK, we will not be able to offer you a place on this course nor issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Study which is required for a student visa application.

Find out more about our computing degree courses which are eligible for student visa sponsorship.

Flexible admissions

When you apply to Brighton we want to hear about who you are. Grades are never the whole picture; we're interested in things like creativity, resourcefulness, persistence and the capacity to think big and find new ways of doing things. And we recognise that not everyone has the same background. That's why we treat everyone who applies as an individual. We recognise many qualifications and we care about all of your achievements and the experiences you've had that set you apart.

Find out more

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Fees and costs

Course fees

UK (full-time) 9,000 GBP

The fees listed here are for full-time courses beginning in the academic year 2023–24.

Further tuition fees are payable for each subsequent year of study and are subject to an annual increase of no more than 5% or RPI (whichever is the greater). The annual increase for UK students, who are subject to regulated fees, will increase no more than the statutory maximum fee.

You can find out more about our fees in the university's student contract and tuition fee policy (pdf).

The tuition fee you have to pay depends on a number of factors including the kind of course you take, and whether you study full-time or part-time. If you are studying part-time you will normally be charged on a pro rata basis depending on the number of modules you take.

Location and student life

Campus where this course is taught

Moulsecoomb campus

Two miles north of Brighton seafront, Moulsecoomb is our largest campus and student village. Moulsecoomb has been transformed by a recent development of our estate. On campus you'll find new Students' Union, events venue, and sports and fitness facilities, alongside the library and student centre.

Over 900 students live here in our halls, Moulsecoomb Place and the new Mithras halls – Brunswick, Goldstone, Hanover, Preston and Regency.

Moulsecoomb has easy access to buses and trains and to all the exciting things happening in our home city.

Accommodation

Brighton: Moulsecoomb

We guarantee an offer of a place in halls of residence to all eligible students.

Halls of residence
We have self-catered halls on all our campuses, within minutes of your classes, and other options that are very nearby.

You can apply for any of our halls, but the options closest to your study location are:

Mithras Halls are stylish new high-rises in the heart of the student village at our revitalised Moulsecoomb campus with ensuite rooms for more than 800 students.
Varley Park is a popular dedicated halls site, offering a mix of rooms and bathroom options at different prices. It is around two miles from Moulsecoomb campus and four miles from the city centre, and is easy to get to by bus.

Want to live independently? We can help – find out more about private renting.

Modern accommodation at Moulsecoomb

Relaxing in halls near the campus

Student Union social space at Moulsecoomb

Local area

About Brighton

The city of Brighton & Hove is a forward-thinking place which leads the way in the arts, technology, sustainability and creativity. You'll find living here plays a key role in your learning experience.

Brighton is a leading centre for creative media technology, recently named the startup capital of the UK.

The city is home to a national 5G testbed and over 1,000 tech businesses. The digital sector is worth over £1bn a year to the local economy - as much as tourism.

All of our full-time undergraduate courses involve work-based learning - this could be through placements, live briefs and guest lectures. Many of these opportunities are provided by local businesses and organisations.

It's only 50 minutes by train from Brighton to central London and less than 40 minutes to Eastbourne. There are also daily direct trains to Bristol, Bedford, Cambridge, Gatwick Airport, Portsmouth and Southampton.

Maps

Moulsecoomb campus map

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Support and wellbeing

Your course team

Your personal academic tutor, course leader and other tutors are all there to help you with your personal and academic progress. You'll also have a student support and guidance tutor (SSGT) who can help with everything from homesickness, managing stress or accommodation issues.

Your academic skills

Our Brighton Student Skills Hub gives you extra support and resources to develop the skills you'll need for university study, whatever your level of experience so far.

Your mental health and wellbeing

As well as being supported to succeed, we want you to feel good too. You'll be part of a community that builds you up, with lots of ways to connect with one another, as well having access to dedicated experts if you need them. Find out more.

Sport at Brighton

Sport Brighton

Sport Brighton brings together our sport and recreation services. As a Brighton student you'll have use of sport and fitness facilities across all our campuses and there are opportunities to play for fun, fitness or take part in serious competition.

Find out more about Sport Brighton.

Sports scholarships

Our sports scholarship scheme is designed to help students develop their full sporting potential to train and compete at the highest level. We offer scholarships for elite athletes, elite disabled athletes and talented sports performers.

Find out more about sport scholarships.

Stay in touch

See our upcoming events

Statistics

Find out more about how the academic year and degree courses are organised, and about learning and assessment activities you might get to grips with at Brighton. More specific information about this course is detailed in the programme specification (linked below). You can find out also about the support we offer to help you adjust to university life.

Course and module descriptions on this page were accurate when first published and are the basis of the course. Detailed information on any changes we make to modules and learning and assessment activities will be sent to all students by email before enrolment, so that you have all the information before you come to Brighton.

Discover Uni

Discover Uni enables you to compare information when choosing a UK university course. All UK universities publish Discover Uni data on their website.

Programme specification

The programme specification is the approved description of each course. They give a detailed breakdown of the content and structure of the course, and are updated following course changes.