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Tameside College Access and Higher Education

Beaufort Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, OL6 6NX, UK

Higher National Certificate in Computing (Cyber Security)

Ready to protect the digital world from cyber threats? Want to become a cyber security expert who can detect, defend, and defeat online attacks?

This HND in Computing with a Cyber Security pathway gives you advanced, job-ready skills to thrive in the growing world of digital defense. Learn how to secure networks, identify vulnerabilities, investigate threats, and design robust systems that resist attack — all while mastering the core principles of computing.

You’ll develop a strong foundation in programming, networking, databases, and systems analysis, with a sharp focus on the latest cyber security tools, practices, and ethical frameworks. This two-year qualification combines academic knowledge with practical, hands-on experience and industry-relevant projects.

You will study:

• Unit 1 – Programming: Learn to write, test, and debug software solutions while understanding secure coding principles

• Unit 2 – Networking: Discover how to design, configure, and manage secure computer networks

• Unit 3 – Professional Practice: Develop communication, project management, and ethical decision-making skills for working in IT and cyber roles

• Unit 4 – Database Design & Development: Build and manage secure databases and understand the importance of data protection

• Unit 5 – Security: Dive into core cyber security topics, including threat management, encryption, and defensive strategies

• Unit 6 – Managing a Successful Computing Project: Work on a real-world cyber security or IT systems project, showcasing your skills in a professional context

• Unit 10 – Website Design & Development: Create interactive, secure, and responsive websites using current tools and standards

• Unit 15 – Cyber Security: Focus deeply on cyber security strategies, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and risk management

Assessments are a combination of written assignments, practical projects, presentations, and live briefs — all helping you build a high-quality professional portfolio.

This is a part time study programme delivered 11/09/25 – 22/1/26. on a on a Thursday 9:00 – 16:00 and a Tuesday Evening from 17:00 – 21:00 hours.

Unique Features:

• Access to advanced cyber security labs with penetration testing tools and virtualised environments

• Real-world learning with simulations, network defense labs, and security audits

• Teaching by industry-experienced tutors with cyber and software development backgrounds

Trips and Visit Opportunities:

• Visits to cyber security conferences and industry expos

• Guest lectures from security professionals, ethical hackers, and analysts

• University progression events and employer networking opportunities

Links to Employers and Work Experience:

• Strong industry links with local and national IT security firms

• Opportunities for live projects, case studies, and cyber scenario-based tasks

• Support with CVs, LinkedIn profiles, and mock interviews tailored to cyber roles

Enrichment Activities:

• Cyber challenges and ethical hacking competitions

• Guest workshops in topics like social engineering, ransomware, and digital privacy

• Access to additional certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CyberOps (optional, self-directed)

Other Requirements:

• Independent study, teamwork, and professional conduct expected

• Completion of a major cyber or computing-related project

• Regular engagement with current events and trends in cyber security

• A relevant Level 3 qualification (e.g., BTEC Level 3 in Computing or IT)

• Or a combination of A Levels and/or relevant industry experience

• GCSEs in English and Maths are highly recommended

Assessment methods include:

• Cyber security and penetration testing projects

• Practical demonstrations and technical write-ups

• Secure coding and website development

• Network and database configuration tasks

• Industry-style reports and reflective journals

• A large-scale project with real or simulated client briefs

• Presentations and professional portfolio development

University:

• Top-up to a full BSc (Hons) degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, Ethical Hacking, or Digital Forensics

Industry:

• Enter roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Security Operations Technician, Network Administrator, IT Support Engineer, or SOC (Security Operations Centre) Analyst

Certifications:

• Take advanced industry certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), CompTIA Security+, or CISSP to boost your credentials

Freelance or Contracting:

• Build a portfolio to offer web security, risk assessment, or cyber consultancy services to businesses

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Ready to secure your future in the cyber world?

Contact admissions@tameside.ac.uk for details on how to apply

Fees:
£5,995(Fee is per year)

Financial support could be available through Student Finance England.
For further information regarding finance please refer to the below links:

For Access and Pre-Access Courses:https://he.tameside.ac.uk/about/funding-your-access-course

For Higher Education Courses:https://he.tameside.ac.uk/about/funding-your-he-course

Course Code:
FH0008MQ/1
Duration:
1 Year

Start date:
08/09/2025
Times:
(Thu 9:00am-6:00pm)

Application Deadline:
Please note the deadline for applying to this course is 1 week before the start date stated above.

Is the course accredited? Yes, all Higher Education and Access Courses at Tameside College are fully accredited by an awarding body. Please see the 'What can I achieve and what is next?' section for more details.
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Omar Greco - HTQ in Computing (Cyber Security) - graduated 2024