Upon successful completion of this level 6 apprenticeship, learners will gain a BSc (Hons) degree, as well as professional recognition from the Institute of Information Security Professionals.
Degree Apprenticeship
Cyber Security
About the Cyber Security Technical Professional Degree Apprenticeship
Our Cyber Security Technical Professional Apprenticeship is an exciting programme designed to give learners key knowledge, understanding, skills and experience that are sought after by employers.
Cyber security technical professionals operate in business or technology/engineering functions across a range of sectors.
They normally work with a considerable degree of autonomy and lead teams that research, analyse, model, assess and manage cyber security risks. They also design, develop, justify, manage and operate secure solutions, and detect and respond to incidents. They work in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, standards and ethics.
Upon completion, apprentices will graduate with a BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security, plus they will recognised for Institute of Information Security Professionals entry at Associate level.
Teaching is delivered over 3 years via a mix of block learning and day release. In terms of assessment, the programme is coursework based, meaning there are no exams (as these do not replicate real-world working environments in the computing industry).
This apprenticeship has been developed with support of the Institute of Coding.
Working in partnership with:
What are Degree Apprenticeships?
Degree apprenticeships are a fantastic way to upskill employees and train new staff. They contribute to improved competitiveness and productivity, as well as increased staff retention.
Degree apprentices study for higher level qualifications alongside working. As such, they spend at least 6 working hours each week carrying out ‘off-the-job training’ where they study for their degree and gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours that are required to successfully complete the apprenticeship.
Large employers can use their apprenticeships levy to pay for apprenticeship training. Smaller firms can claim up to 95 per cent of these costs from the Government. This means apprenticeships are a cost-effective choice for both the employer and learner.
Meet the lecturer
Dr Rihab Al Seyab, Academic Course Leader
Dr Rihab Al Seyab is a Senior Lecturer with over 20 years of experience in higher education, teaching and research across Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, Computer Networks, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics, Embedded Systems, and Engineering Management.
Rihab teaches modules in Cyber Security, Programming, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Networks, Engineering, and Research Methods. Her research interests include Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Quantum Computing, Cyber Security applications, the Internet of Things (IoT), Smart Systems, Data Analytics, Photonics for Neuromorphic Computing and Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Transformation.
As the Academic Course Leader, she is committed to delivering a high-quality, industry-focused learning experience that equips apprentices with the technical knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies needed for successful careers in cyber security. She works closely with academic colleagues, employers, and industry partners to ensure the programme meets the evolving needs of the cyber security sector.
In addition to programme leadership, Dr Al Seyab supervises PhD, DBA, EdD, MSc, and undergraduate research students, serves as an External Examiner for UK universities, and actively contributes to curriculum development, research, and knowledge exchange.
Modules
In Year 1, learners 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.
Computers and Security
This module introduces the core concepts of computers and security by considering the design and operation of computers and computer networks, the implications of security and how computers may be programmed.
Principles of Programming
This introduces the principles of programming and develops an understanding of problem solving techniques for software development using a programming language.
Maths for Data Science
The module aims to introduce basic topics in data analysis, probability, statistics and hypothesis testing. This module will provide students with a range of processes and techniques to address data science and its theoretical foundation.
Systems Design
This introduces software engineering principles and practices necessary to developing quality software-intensive systems for business use. Learners will be introduced to working in teams to identify business requirements and turn these into practical, workable solutions.
Web Development
This module covers the business rationale for using the web as a solution to a business problem, together with the core technologies required to create such solutions. Learners will create structured websites using both scripts (eg HTML, CSS; JavaScript, PHP, MySql) and industry-standard software (eg Adobe DreamWeaver).
Independent Work-Based Project
This project applies theories and principles integrated from modules studied already. Learners identify an issue/problem that needs solving and produce a piece of work that demonstrates understanding and application of theories and principles.
Managing the Security of Information
This module looks at the security of information and how it can be managed to ensure confidentiality, integrity and availability. It encompasses the role of the Information Security Officer, security policies, standards and managing user activities.
Supervised Professional Work Experience
For this module learners undertake a supervised work-based activity focussing on the application of learnt theories to their place of work as well as how learning has impacted their employment. They identify a workplace issue/project collaboratively with their employer, in which they will apply theory to the workplace and evaluate this application.
Operating Systems
This module investigates underlying architecture and operation of operating systems, from installation, essentials of system administration, command line, processes, file system concepts and use, to configuration and security of modern systems.
It covers Windows, Unix, Linux, and Mac OS.
Ethical Hacking and Security
This module introduces the technical and non-technical components of ethical hacking. Apprentices will learn:
- how to recognise and analyse the required stages for an ethical hacker to compromise a Target of Evaluation
- how to critically evaluate networks and systems to identify vulnerabilities
- about security standards, policies and legislation
Network Design and Configuration
This module provides an understanding of the principles of networking, network design and network architecture and infrastructures.
A number of core networking topics will be delivered, which include:
- networking principles
- network architecture and design
- network standards
- configuration of network devices
- routers and switches
- network trouble-shooting
- maintenance
- support and the provision of network redundancy
- fault-tolerance
- load balancing.
Cryptography & Security
This module will aim to provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts, theory and application of cryptography. A number of cryptographic techniques and encryption algorithms will be studied and examined. The primary objective for students is to understand and synthesize the practical application of modern cryptography.
IOT Development
This module aims to deliver the knowledge required in understanding the Internet of Things (IoT), developing IoT devices and incorporating programming techniques to facilitate the process of data collection, actuation and communication in IoT devices. In this module you will learn about the types of IoT devices, various communication strategies and protocols. You will also learn how to develop your own IoT device and program it accordingly. Finally,, you will analyse and examine the relation between IoT, Big Data and cloud and how we can get the most from IoT devices.
Advanced Networking & Security
This module builds on the network design and implementation principles from the year 2 module ‘Network Design and Configuration’.
The objective is to defend and protect the network infrastructure, architecture, protocols and applications in order to deliver secured protocols, applications, services and data. The cyber security framework of identifying, protecting, detecting, responding and recovery in relation to network security will be evaluated and critically analysed.
- Learners will become capable of analysing, designing and managing the requirements of a secure network architecture based on risk analysis and operational requirements in accordance with regulations and standards.
Malware Analysis
This module enables apprentices to practice their technical skills on malware detection and attack technologies in both local and remote network environments. They will learn:
- about the creation of modern malware
- the techniques used to exploit system and network weaknesses
- the tools and skills needed to defend and recover from malicious attacks.
Secure Coding
This module explores a range of recognised software security problems using motivational examples. It looks at the fundamental sources of vulnerabilities arising at a programming level including:
- inadequate handling of exceptional situations
- poor understanding of the details of programming language
- incomplete descriptions of the interface between components
- insufficient care in the treatment of concurrency and threading issues
Learners will look at how these relate to evolving threat models.
Dissertation
This module provides the opportunity for students to study in depth a topic of their own choice within the subject area of their course. Students self-manage an academic investigation of an appropriate topic with support from an adviser.
The End Point Assessment (EPA) is an independent assessment that takes place after the final year of the apprenticeship. It is designed to test that the learner is competent in their occupation by assessing the knowledge, skills and behaviour (KSB) outcomes detailed in the approved Apprenticeship Standard.
For this degree apprenticeship, the EPA consists of two components:
- a practical test;
- a technical discussion.
All apprentices must pass their EPA to successfully complete their apprenticeship and academic
degree.
Testimonial
Employer perspective
“We chose to take on apprentices with the University of Gloucestershire to show support locally. You’re supporting someone on their education, you’re developing them along that road map, and you will get benefits as a business from them, from their time, their experience, and their learning.
They’ve got the culture, they’ve got the business acumen, the soft skills, the camaraderie with the team. My advice to other employers considering taking on a degree apprentice would be, do it. You will kick yourself for not having done it sooner.”
Jason – CEO and Founder, Salus Cyber
Park Campus
This apprenticeship will be delivered in our state-of-the-art computing and technology facilities on Park Campus in Cheltenham.
This centre for all things computing includes a dedicated cyber security lab where learners can practice their new skills in a digitally protected, authentic environment with an isolated network.
There are purpose-built computing suites kitted out wit the latest tools and operating systems, such as Android, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Drones, Photoshop, Microsoft, Oracle and Cisco. Plus, there are breakout areas for workshop sessions, games consoles and screens in social areas, and the latest computing technology and software. There is a strong sense of community, with staff and learners sharing both work and relaxation space.
Contact us
If you’re an employer looking for help recruiting apprentices, please register your interest – we’d love to hear from you.
If you’re interested in becoming an apprentice, you can find out more on our information for learners page.
Eligibility and Entry requirements
Apprentices should be in full-time employment (eg employed for at least 30 hours per week) throughout the duration of the apprenticeship.
Apprentices must have GCSE grade C/4 or above in Maths and English before they complete the EPA (or an equivalent Level 2 qualification). In some cases, apprentices are able to complete Functional Skills alongside their apprenticeship in order to have the needed Level 2 qualification ahead of EPA.
Employers may set additional entry requirements suitable for their organisational needs.
A Note for Employers of Apprentices in the School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences
Earlier this year, the Government announced changes to the English and maths requirements for completing an apprenticeship. We’ve taken some time to review what this means for our apprenticeships in the School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences.
To make sure every apprentice has the support they need, we’ll continue to offer access to functional skills programmes through our trusted local subcontractor – this is for anyone who doesn’t already have evidence of English and maths qualifications. If your apprentice decides not to take up this opportunity, we’ll just need a quick confirmation from you, as their employer, to let us know they’re opting out.
If you have any questions or would like to chat through this, we’re here to help – just get in touch.
Contact the client manager
Sophie Burch
Register your interest in this apprenticeship
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