SQA Advanced Certificate/Diploma Cyber Security
SQA Advanced Certificate and SQA Advanced Diploma qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the needs of employers.
The SQA Advanced Certificate in Cyber Security (SCQF 7) develops knowledge and skills in areas such as data security and ethical hacking. It also covers areas such as computer architecture, programming, networking, and professionalism and ethics in cyber security.
The SQA Advanced Diploma in Cyber Security (SCQF 8) builds on and enhances the knowledge and skills of the Advanced Certificate. In addition to the above, learners will have the opportunity to learn about data flow, blockchain, and open-source operating systems.
The qualifications are available through a growing number of colleges, training providers and universities around the world. Typically, an SQA Advanced Certificate takes one year to complete and an SQA Advanced Diploma takes two years.
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Why deliver this qualification
SQA Advanced Certificates and SQA Advanced Diplomas have been developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry, so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.
The unit-based structure supports flexible delivery. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.
There is a wide range of optional units that will enable centres to offer courses tailored to local needs.
The SQA Advanced Certificate and Diploma provide progression routes to further study (see Progression).
Who does this qualification suit
The SQA Advanced Certificate and Diploma in Cyber Security are suitable for a wide range of candidates, including:
- school leavers
- adults returning to education
- individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
- people who wish to start their own business
Entry requirements
As with all SQA qualifications, entry is decided by the college or learning provider. As a guide, the college or learning provider will look for:
- school-leaving qualifications equivalent to Level 3 or SCQF level 6, meaning the learner can study at the higher level
- a centre-devised test which shows the learner’s ability to study at the SQA Advanced Diploma level
- relevant work experience
Progression
The SQA Advanced Certificate in Cyber Security can progress to the SQA Advanced Diploma in Cyber Security.
The SQA Advanced Diploma in Cyber Security can provide advanced entry to degree-level study.
Offer this qualification
General
Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.
Centres without devolved authority must come forward for approval and should contact SQA’s Business Development Team for guidance.
Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA’s general requirements for technical and/or occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide.
How to assess
Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for each unit.
Ongoing course assessment will apply.
Assessment/e-assessment support packs are available for this qualification.
Qualification structure
SQA Advanced Certificate in Cyber Security
Group Award code: GW2N 47 (571 KB) (96 SCQF credit points)
SQA Advanced Certificate in Cyber Security at SCQF level 7 consists of 8 mandatory units, totalling 96 SCQF credit points (12 SQA credits).
SQA Advanced Diploma in Cyber Security
Group Award code: GW2P 48 (696 KB) (240 SCQF credit points)
SQA Advanced Diploma in Cyber Security at SCQF level 8 consists of 14 mandatory units, totalling 240 SCQF credit points (30 SQA credits).
For further information on the structures and units of these qualifications, please refer to the Group Award Specification document
Group award specification
SQA Advanced Certificate in Cyber Security
Group Award code: GW2N 47 (571 KB) (96 SCQF credit points)
SQA Advanced Diploma in Cyber Security
Group Award code: GW2P 48 (696 KB) (240 SCQF credit points)