Qualification

Cambridge Advanced National Level 3 Extended Certificate in Cyber Security and Networks

Course Content

In today’s digital world, understanding how to protect networks and data is more important than ever. The qualification in Cyber Security and Networks gives students an in-depth understanding of how networks operate and the threats they face, putting them at the forefront of a fast-growing and vital industry. Students will gain hands-on experience identifying vulnerabilities, auditing network security measures and implementing improvements to defend against cyberattacks. Along the way, they will develop practical technical skills, problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking, all of which are highly valued by universities and employers.
This dynamic course provides exciting, real-world experiences in a work-related context, preparing students for progression to higher education or careers in cyber security, network engineering and other digital technology fields.

The units studied include:
• Fundamentals of cyber security
• Fundamentals of networks
• Preventing cyberattacks
• Digital forensic investigation
• Penetration testing and incident response
• Implementing secure local area networks (LANs)
• Designing and communicating secure global computing systems

Assessment

This course consists of a combination of external and internal assessment. Students will undertake a written examination and internally assessed assignments which will include several different types of assessment methods such as presentations, reports, posters, information booklets and case studies.

Expectations

Cyber Security and Networks is one of the fastest-growing sectors and offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities. Future pathways could include roles such as cyber security analyst, network technician, IT support specialist, penetration tester, systems administrator or progression to higher education/university courses such as computer science or information security.
As such, we would expect students to be self-motivated, with a keen interest in and enthusiasm for understanding the practical and technical aspects of cyber security, networking and digital systems.

Examination Board: Cambridge OCR