Apprentices on the BSc Applied Cyber Security will gain the skills and knowledge to protect networks, computers and data from attack, damage or unauthorised access. The programme is developed as a three-way learning partnership between the employer, the apprentice, and the academic team.
As a student, you will work full-time with your employer and study at Cardiff Met on a part-time basis, one day per week. Upon completion, you will gain a full BSc qualification from Cardiff Met, developing career-relevant skills and meeting regional skills gaps.
Course Content
Over 3 years apprentices will study 4 modules per year progressing from academic levels 4 to 6.
**The below course content is indicative and there may be slight changes subject to the validation of the programme. This will be updated once validation is agreed*
Year 1 (Level 4):
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Building for the Web
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Principles of Programming
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Fundamentals of Cyber Security
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Attacks and Defences
Year 2 (Level 5):
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Networks and Communication
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Systems Security
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Software and Platform Security
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Physical Computing
Year 3 (Level 6):
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Cyber Security Project
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Ethical Hacking
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Cyber Security Management
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Infrastructure Security and Operations Security
Certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of level 4 modules.
Diploma will be awarded upon successful completion of level 5 modules.
Degree will be awarded upon successful completion of level 6 modules.
Learning & Teaching
Developed as a three-way learning partnership, the programme will enable students to gain the in-demand skills needed to meet regional skills gaps. By utilising the full calendar year and applying core tenets of work-based learning, students will achieve their award within the same period as a standard full-time student, ensuring that the future skills needs of employers are met as effectively and efficiently as possible.
The programme outcomes have been designed by reference to and in compliance with the QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Computing (2016), as well as referencing the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (2014).
Assessment
The assessment strategy for the programme varies to ensure the most appropriate method for each specific module and subject area. Most modules are assessed through a combination of methods such as practical assignments, written assignments, technical reports, presentations, in-class tests, peer assessments and work-based placements. Students are also continuously assessed and given feedback on their progress and development throughout the year.
In addition, apprentices are expected to demonstrate professional competencies and behaviour within the workplace. A three-way learning plan is agreed between employer, apprentice and University, which details the on-the-job training and professional competencies (specific to each employer, such as working practices, company structure and processes, induction, and professional behaviour) the student needs to meet. Progress will be reviewed every two months as part of a joint industrial/academic progress update process.
Career Opportunities
Hardly a week goes by without news of the latest “cyber attack”, and yet there is an acute shortage of people with appropriate skills to deal with the problem. This is directly affecting the ability of organisations to prevent or deal with attacks. A quick search for “cyber security skills shortage” shows how serious the problem is, with the Independent reporting that only 31.6% of the required cyber security jobs are filled. With a growing demand for skilled graduates, Cardiff Met apprentices will be prepared for a challenging and lucrative career in the forefront of the defence of business and national UK infrastructure.
Due to taking the apprenticeship route, apprentices who graduate from the scheme will also have three years of valuable work experience at the point of graduation, providing them with an excellent springboard to future success.
Cost
The Welsh Government is funding places on the programme, meaning that there is no cost for tuition fees to the company or the apprentices (standard tuition fees would be £9,000 per annum). All that will be required is day release to allow the apprentice to attend University, alongside providing the opportunity for learning experiences on the job.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSE passes including English Language and Mathematics at Grade C or above, or grade 4 or above for those studying newly reformed GCSEs in England. Plus, any one of the following:
• 96 points from at least 2 A-Levels to include grades CC, Welsh Bacc to be considered alongside this as a third subject.
• BTEC National Extended Diploma with grades MMM
• 96 points from at least two Scottish advanced highers to include grades DD
• 96 points from the Irish Leaving Certificate at Highers to include 2 x H2 grades. Higher level subjects only considered with a minimum grade H4
• 96 points from the Access to Higher Education Diploma
• A related apprenticeship at level 4.
How to Apply & Vacancies
Apprenticeship vacancies are advertised and handled by employers.
Contact Us
Potential apprentices looking for more information about the BSc Applied Cyber Security Apprenticeship Degree and employers interested to enrol their apprentices or employees into this programme, please contact Liqaa Nawaf, our Degree Apprenticeships Lead:
Email:
apprenticeships@cardiffmet.ac.uk or
prentisiaethau@cardiffmet.ac.uk