This degree apprenticeship is designed for talented career entrants and those already working in the industry who are looking to progress.
The programme was developed in close collaboration with major public and private sector cyber security organisations.
Teaching is delivered over three years, with completion resulting in the learner achieving a BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security. Once the degree has been awarded, an ‘end point assessment’ in the fourth year is compulsory.
Areas of study
Year 1
In Year 1, learners begin to engage with academic work and produce academic content to a higher standard than
expected at A-level study. This includes, as a minimum, engagement with quality academic literature, course texts and
online material.
During their first year, apprentices also develop a grounding in computers, systems and networks, particularly in
relation to identifying and preventing security breaches.
An independent work-based project underpins classroom content, so apprentices are applying their learning in the
workplace from day one.
- Introduction to Programming Fundamentals helps learners to develop an understanding of problem solving techniques
for software development.
- Computers and Security introduces core concepts by considering the design and operation of computers and computer
networks, the implications for security and how computers are programmed.
- Principles of Cyber Forensics introduces concepts of computer and cyber forensics at a foundation level.
Year 2
In Year 2, learners further engage with quality academic work by applying theoretical knowledge to demonstrate
understanding and to justify arguments in their writing.
Topics explored include risk, and secure networks and websites. Learners also have the opportunity to enhance their
skills around penetration testing, malware identification and ethical hacking.
Application of learning takes an even stronger focus, with supervised work-based projects providing a mechanism for
learners to put theory into practice.
- Operating Systems investigates the underlying architecture and function of operating systems, including Windows,
Unix and Linux, and Mac OS.
- Ethical Hacking and Security provides learners with both theory and practical skills in this area.
- Managing the Security of Information gives degree apprentices the opportunity to examine how organisations can
ensure that the information they hold remains confidential but is also available as needed for business
functions.
Year 3
In Year 3, learners develop academic skills through opportunities to demonstrate deeper understanding that draws
upon all their studies to date, as well as the practical experience they have gained in the workplace.
The third year has a strategic focus and degree apprentices are required to develop solutions to protect against
cybercrime, before it happens. Learners explore topics such as risk assessment and management, advanced networking and
security, and secure system assurance.
The third year project is an individual research project, where learners are required to examine 'hot' cybercrime
topics, with a particular focus on commercial security risks and how organisations (including their own) can protect
themselves.
- Dissertation Research Methods aims to give leaners the practical and theoretical skills required to read,
understand and undertake academic research in the computing-related disciplines.
- Secure Coding explores a range of recognised software security problems, including vulnerabilities arising at the
programming level and how these relate to evolving threat models.
- Dissertation - learners are supported through the independent research process to produce a self-managed,
practical piece of work.
Study style
This apprenticeship is usually delivered through block learning, so learners attend university for set weeks timetabled throughout the year. The rest of the time they are in the workplace. Where we have large groups of learners all employed by the same organisation, we are able to tailor the location and timing of taught elements to suit employer and learner needs.
On this degree apprenticeship there is an emphasis on real-world problems and assessments focus on the application of learning in the workplace. This means that teaching favours learner engagement in activities and tasks rather than formal lectures.
Assessment methods include report writing, presentations and business planning, along with more traditional examinations and reflective assessments. In your final year you will be required to present a learning portfolio and synoptic project, demonstrating your growth in knowledge and professional development.
Support for apprentices and employers
Learners have a personal tutor who will remain a source of advice and guidance throughout their apprenticeship. They are also be supported by module tutors and our Helpzone staff, who are contactable by telephone, in person and online.
Employers are able to access our dedicated apprenticeship support team, who are here to ensure that businesses get the best from both the learner and the programme.
Entry requirements
This is a Level 6 degree apprenticeship.
Individual employers set the selection criteria, but this is likely to include three ‘A’ levels, including maths, or other relevant qualifications or experience.
Apprentices should be in full-time employment (e.g. at least employed for 30 hours per week) throughout the duration of their apprenticeship, and 20% of their working hours should be spent on off-the-job training.