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HNC CYBER SECURITY

  • Start date:   August 2025
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 7
  • Course Type:   Full-time

HNC CYBER SECURITY

Explore the fundamentals of cybersecurity, and gain an in-depth understanding of the foundational principles of cybersecurity, including the techniques used by hackers to breach computer systems and, more importantly, how to safeguard against unauthorised access.

Start date – August 2025
End date –  June 2026
SCQF Level -  7
Mode –  Full time
Duration - 1 year

The rapid growth of digital technology has transformed society, creating both opportunities and challenges.

With an increasing reliance on the internet and the surge in connected devices, the digital world has also become a platform for terrorism, crime, and exploitation.

In response, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical priority for governments, organisations, and individuals alike, as they work to defend against the ever-evolving threats of the digital age.

At West Lothian College, we’ve partnered with industry giants like EC-Council, Palo Alto Networks, and Check Point Security to give our students access to cutting-edge materials and state-of-the-art digital labs. These world-class resources ensure you're learning with the tools and technologies that define the future of the IT and cyber security industries. 

 

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    What the course includes

    In this programme, you will explore a wide range of cybersecurity topics designed to prepare you for the challenges of the digital world.

    You will learn the principles and practices of ethical hacking, developing the skills to identify and secure system vulnerabilities while thinking like a hacker to better defend against threats.

    Internet and digital security will equip you with the knowledge to protect online systems and sensitive information from threats such as malware, phishing, and unauthorised access.

    Through digital forensics, you will gain expertise in investigating cybercrimes, recovering data, and analysing digital evidence to support legal processes.

    Advanced training in firewall security, with a focus on Palo Alto Networks Next Generation Firewalls, will teach you how to configure and manage robust security systems.

    Additionally, core concepts of networking, including protocols, design, and troubleshooting, will provide you with a solid foundation for managing and securing modern networks effectively. 

Why choose this course

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the essential skills and concepts in cybersecurity, from ethical hacking to data recovery.

As cybersecurity continues to be a critical priority for organisations of all sizes and across all industries, mastering these skills places you at the forefront of one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields.

By choosing this course, you’ll gain practical, real-world expertise that is vital for protecting businesses and individuals in today’s increasingly digital world. 

Entry requirements

  • One higher grade pass (Grade C or above) in computing, mathematics or a science 
  • National 5 maths or higher 
  • One other national 5 subject, or an appropriate range of SQA units at national 5 and Higher level. 
  • We welcome mature applicants with relevant experience. 
  • Moderate computing competency is essential. 

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course. 

  • Where it leads

    Education: This course will progress to a higher level you can progress to HND Cyber Security.  

    Employment: After successful completion of this course you can apply for a range of jobs within computing and ICT- including cyber security for a large organisation, freelance cyber security and working for a smaller specialist cyber security organisation. 

Interview arrangements

If you're invited for an interview, please plan to spend around 2 hours at the college. 

The process includes a one-on-one interview, with time slots allocated on the day. We kindly ask you to bring evidence of your qualifications and any employment/character references you may have. 

This interview is an opportunity for us to get to know you better, assess your suitability for the course, and observe how you interact with lecturers and in group settings. Please note that meeting the qualification entry requirements alone does not guarantee a place on the course.

Fees, Finance & Funding

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more

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