BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics (Validated by The Open University)

As the matrix of the digital world continues to unravel, the demand for skilled IT professionals is skyrocketing. From the mundane to the extraordinary, computer systems permeate every aspect of our lives, shaping our reality.

This course will serve as your digital passport, granting you access to a vast array of IT topics and industries. Explore the depths of the digital abyss, uncover hidden vulnerabilities, and become a master of the machine. Computing is a global language, spoken by innovators and visionaries around the world.

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application.  You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment.

Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements  

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND  

• Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Level 5

• Foundation Degree in a Computing related discipline with a pass mark of 55% or above   
• Pearson Higher National Diploma in a Computing related discipline grade merit or above
• Candidates presenting with Foundation Degrees or Higher Nationals or other Level 5 qualification from other awarding bodies will be considered under APEL procedures.

AND

• Applicants must hold a Level 4 Maths module or higher from a related discipline. Other disciplines will be considered on a case-by-case basis
• Students who have not studied the FD in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics at SERC must undertake the Cisco CyberOps Associate course materials provided by the college as background knowledge for entry prior to the course start date. There is no requirement for students to complete assessment of the learning

Accreditation of Prior Learning   

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).   Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.  

International Students English Language Requirements  

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:  

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)   
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)  
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test  

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk  

Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignments and practical work/observations. Each module is graded individually with an overall single final grade (First class, Upper Second class, Lower Second class, Third class) awarded at the end of the course.

Students are assessed using a range of methods. These may include: 

• Class tests: Work will be completed exam conditions, typically during your timetabled session. 
• Coursework: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report.  
• Presentations: Students will present their findings to peers with some external entities involved where appropriate. 
• Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities. 

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written or online feedback will be provided during the course to help improve and monitor performance.  

Students that successfully complete the Degree traditionally progress to one of the following areas:

Related Masters Programmes

Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a related Level 7 qualification at a university.

Employment

This Degree programme has been designed to equip students with the knowledge required to thrive in the changing world of work. Roles may include, but are not limited to:

• Penetration Tester: Simulate attacks on systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and assess their security posture.
• Computer forensic investigator: Analyse digital evidence to recover, preserve, and present data in legal proceedings.
• Security engineer: Design, implement, and maintain security measures to protect information systems and data from threats.

SERC is committed to delivering learning that is rooted in the real world and to develop work-ready graduates with the professional skills and behaviours that employers need.  The course will help learners develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to:

Technical Skills:

• Programming
• Ethical Hacking
• Forensics

Employability Skills:

• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Reflective Practice
• Decision Making
• Team Working