Introduction
This course gives you the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in areas such as data security and ethical hacking.
This course is equivalent to the first year of degree study and we offer this course as a standalone HNC or as part of a three-year programme which will allow you to graduate with the University of West of Scotland Batchelor of Engineering Cyber Security degree which is also available on campus at Dumfries & Galloway College.
By studying this programme, you will develop suitable competencies and industry knowledge to enhance a career in computing. You will develop other relevant skills that employer’s value such as meeting deadlines, attention to detail, personal target setting, managing your own performance and that of others.
Opportunities exist to enable learners to attend part-time on an individual subject basis.
Course code
HCYB
Location
Dumfries Campus
Duration
Full time: 2 – 2.5 days per week, independent study is also required
Entry Requirements
One of the following:
- One Higher at C or above in a relevant subject AND 2 National 5 qualifications at Grade C or above
- Successful completion of Advanced Certificate in Computing at SCQF Level 6
- In addition, all applicants should have an SQA Numeracy Core Skill profile (or equivalent) at level 5 or above OR, National 5/Int 2 Mathematics at grade C or above.
Entry may be possible for mature students depending on their prior knowledge and experience.
Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum ESOL Intermediate level 2 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher for HNC/D courses.
All applicants may be invited to attend an Interview Session prior to being offered a place on the course.
If you are currently studying at the College, you will also require a positive Progressing Learner Reference.
Information and Interview Session Requirements
As part of the application process for this programme, all prospective students will be invited to attend a Recruitment Day. This event, which will last 2-3 hours, is designed to help you learn more about the course while allowing us to understand your skills, interests, and readiness for study.
Your Recruitment Day will include:
- An individual task – an opportunity to demonstrate your understanding, problem-solving, and written or practical skills.
- A group activity – designed to assess teamwork, communication, and how you work with others.
- A one-to-one discussion with a lecturer – a short, informal conversation about your goals, your experience and why you feel this course is right for you.
Performance across all elements of the Recruitment Day will be used to determine whether an offer of a place can be made.
We aim to make the process supportive and informative, giving you a clear sense of what to expect from the course and helping ensure the programme is the right fit for your future plans.
If you have any questions or need support in preparing for your Recruitment Day, please contact our Admissions Team, who will be happy to help.
Course Content
You will learn about Ethical Hacking, Digital Forensics, Network Security and all aspects of Cyber Security.
Assessments
The year is divided into 3 teaching blocks, so assessment is spread evenly throughout the course. There are opportunities for re-assessment throughout the year.
Assessment methods may include individual and group projects, presentations, written assignments, and practical exercises.
There is an end of year graded exam.
Progression
Successful completion will allow direct entry into HND Cyber Security which is equivalent to second year Degree programme.
Career Prospects
The HNC award will prepare candidates for entry to a wide range of positions including:
Data Protection Officer, Ethical Hacker, Forensics Engineer, Information Security Architect, Information Systems Auditor, Penetration Tester, Security Analyst, Security Incident Response team member, Security Software Developer, Virus Technician, Vulnerability Assessor.
The above positions are just some examples of a wider range of suitable posts.
Additional funding information
Full Time Students: You should apply to the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS). Please visit their website: www.saas.gov.uk for further details.
Part Time Students: Fees will be discussed on an individual basis. Please contact Gillian Rose roseg@dumgal.ac.uk
Selling Points
This exciting HNC meets the needs of the skills gap for employment within the sector and enables you to study through to degree level.