Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

25th Aug 2025, 2 years

Location

City Campus

Applications from International Students Welcome

Overview

This HND Cyber Security course is subject to SQA validation.

HND Cyber Security is an SCQF Level 8 course that will teach you how to protect networks, IT systems and individuals against Cyber attacks and Cyber threats, and to understand your legal, ethical and professional responsibilities.

Cyber security is one of the fastest evolving areas within business and government today as online systems make up the foundations of the digitally-enabled economy. Employment in Cyber security is predicted to increase fivefold in the next two years and there is already a shortage of people who able to work in this field.

This course provides in-depth skills and knowledge to prepare for further study or employment in this rapidly developing area.  The course is delivered by lecturers with a wide range of industry experience.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

Year 1 entry:

• Two Highers at Grade C or above including one in a relevant* subject AND two National 5 qualifications at Grade C or above; OR
• National Qualification at SCQF level 6 in a relevant subject such as Digital Media Computing, Computing: Technical Support or Software Development; OR
• Other equivalent qualifications or experience.

*relevant subjects include Business Studies, Chemistry, Computing, English, History, Information Systems, Mathematics or Physics.

Year two entry:

• An HNC with relevant options plus a suitable reference.

Additional selection requirements

You'll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.

ESOL entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

What you study

In studying this award you will cover a range of practical, industry-relevant subjects including: 

• Data Security.
• Scripting for Security.
• Computer Networks.
• Computer Programming.
• Working in Cyber Security.
• Digital Forensics Case Studies.
• Ethical Hacking.
• Penetration Testing.
• Blockchain.
• Computer Architecture.

After the course

Careers

The course prepares you for a career in the fast-growing Cyber Security industry.

Continuing Study

On successful completion of the HND, students can progress to a variety of Cyber Security and Networking related degree programmes at year 2 or year 3 entry level in a number of universities.

Teaching

How the course is taught

Assessment methods

Additional Information

Materials