Cyber Security
The Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to work with a local employer while gaining a BSc (Hons) degree from University of Gloucestershire.
Contact us
Are you an employer interested in offering this apprenticeship to your staff?
Find out more: Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship for employers
The Gloucestershire Cyber Launchpad Scheme
University of Gloucestershire (UoG) has teamed up with local employers to give young computing enthusiasts the opportunity to start a Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship.
Degree apprenticeships enable you to obtain a full undergraduate degree while learning professional skills and earning an income.
The Gloucestershire Cyber Launchpad (GCL) scheme brings together UoG and a collection of forward-thinking cyber employers who recognise hidden talent in those whose skills have up to now been overlooked.
With Cheltenham fast becoming the UK’s cyber hub, there really is no better place to start an exciting career at the cutting edge of digital technology.
You won’t have to pay any student fees as these are covered by the Government and your employer using the Apprenticeship Levy scheme.
Contact us
If you are an individual interested in becoming a Cyber Security Degree Apprentice as part of the Gloucestershire Cyber Launchpad Scheme, please email [email protected].
About the Cyber Security Technical Professional Degree Apprenticeship
The Cyber Security Technical Professional Apprenticeship is an exciting programme designed to give you key knowledge, understanding, skills and experience for a career in cyber security.
Cyber security technical professionals operate in business or technology/engineering functions across a range of sectors.
They normally work with a considerable degree of autonomy and lead teams that research, analyse, model, assess and manage cyber security risks. They also design, develop, justify, manage and operate secure solutions, and detect and respond to incidents. They work in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, standards and ethics.
Upon completion of the programme, you’ll graduate with a BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security, plus you will be recognised for Institute of Information Security Professionals entry at Associate level.
Teaching is delivered over 3 years via a mix of block learning and day release. In terms of assessment, the programme is coursework based, meaning there are no exams (as these do not replicate real-world working environments in the computing industry).
This apprenticeship has been developed with support of the Institute of Coding.
Working in partnership with:
How does it work?
We’re currently partnered with a range of local businesses and organisations to offer apprenticeship places.
You’ll spend at least 6 working hours each week carrying out ‘off-the-job training’ where you’ll study for your degree and gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours that are required to successfully complete the apprenticeship.
Eligibility & entry requirements
The most important thing is that you have a natural talent for computing and are excited about developing your cyber skills. Perhaps you enjoy coding in your spare time, or you get a kick out of teaching yourself new tech skills.
You should have grade C/4 or above in maths and English. But don’t worry if you haven’t – there will be an opportunity to gain these qualifications during your programme of study. It is a requirement that all apprentices gain these qualifications before their ‘end point assessment’.
Employers may set additional entry requirements depending on their organisational needs – if so, you will find this out when applying.
Meet the lecturer
Abu Alam, Academic Course Leader
Abu is passionate about research in programming. He has worked as a software developer, a senior software architect, freelance software engineer, and project consultant. His technical skills include several programming languages, database management systems, development tools and methods.
In 2022, Abu attended the National Cyber Awards, where University of Gloucestershire was highly commended as ‘Cyber University of the Year’, and two of our apprentices were nominated for ‘Cyber Student of the Year’.
Modules
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In Year 1, you’ll develop a grounding in computers, systems and networks, particularly in relation to identifying and preventing security breaches.
An independent work-based project underpins classroom content, so you will be applying your learning in the workplace from day one.
Computers and Security
Gain an understanding of the core concepts of computers and security by considering the design and operation of computers and computer networks, the implications of security and how computers may be programmed.Principles of Programming
This introduces the principles of programming and develops an understanding of problem solving techniques for software development using a programming language.Maths for Data Science
The module aims to introduce basic topics in data analysis, probability, statistics and hypothesis testing. This module will provide you with a range of processes and techniques to address data science and its theoretical foundation.Systems Design
This introduces software engineering principles and practices necessary to developing quality software-intensive systems for business use. You’ll be introduced to working in teams to identify business requirements and turn these into practical, workable solutions.Web Development
This module covers the business rationale for using the web as a solution to a business problem, together with the core technologies required to create such solutions. You will create structured websites using both scripts (eg HTML, CSS; JavaScript, PHP, MySql) and industry-standard software (eg Adobe DreamWeaver).Independent Work-Based Project
This project applies theories and principles integrated from modules studied already. You’ll identify an issue/problem that needs solving and produce a piece of work that demonstrates understanding and application of theories and principles.
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IoT Development
This module aims to deliver the knowledge required in understanding the Internet of Things (IoT), developing IoT devices and incorporating programming techniques to facilitate the process of data collection, actuation and communication in IoT devices. In this module you will learn about the types of IoT devices, various communication strategies and protocols. You will also learn how to develop your own IoT device and program it accordingly. Finally, you will analyse and examine the relation between IoT, Big Data and cloud and how we can get the most from IoT devices.
Supervised Professional Work Experience
For this module you’ll undertake a supervised work-based activity focussing on the application of learnt theories to your place of work, as well as how learning has impacted your employment. You’ll identify a workplace issue/project collaboratively with your employer, in which you’ll apply theory to the workplace and evaluate this application.Operating Systems
This module investigates underlying architecture and operation of operating systems, from installation, essentials of system administration, command line, processes, file system concepts and use, to configuration and security of modern systems. It covers Windows, Unix, Linux, and Mac OS.Ethical Hacking and Security
This module introduces the technical and non-technical components of ethical hacking. You’ll learn:- how to recognise and analyse the required stages for an ethical hacker to compromise a Target of Evaluation
- how to critically evaluate networks and systems to identify vulnerabilities
- about security standards, policies and legislation.
Network Design and Configuration
This module provides an understanding of the principles of networking, network design and network architecture and infrastructures.
You’ll study a number of core networking topics, which include:
- networking principles
- network architecture and design
- network standards
- configuration of network devices
- routers and switches
- network trouble-shooting
- maintenance
- support and the provision of network redundancy
- fault-tolerance
- load balancing.
Cryptography & Security
This module will aim to provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts, theory and application of cryptography. You’ll study and examine a number of cryptographic techniques and encryption algorithms. The primary objective for students is to understand and synthesize the practical application of modern cryptography.
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Cyber Security Management
This module reviews the management of cyber security within an organisation. You will:- develop an information security plan
- evaluate the key concepts around applying an information security management system
- identify and apply appropriate governance
- understand security roles and procedures, risks and threat analysis, and organisational security policies.
Secure Coding
The module explores a range of recognised software security problems using motivational examples. This module looks at the fundamental sources of vulnerabilities arising at the programming level including inadequate handling of exception situations, poor understanding of the details of the programming language in use, incomplete descriptions of the interface between components, and insufficient care in the treatment of concurrency and threading issues, and how these relate to evolving threat models.Advanced Networking & Security
This module builds on the network design and implementation principles from the year 2 module ‘Network Design and Configuration’.The objective is to defend and protect the network infrastructure, architecture, protocols and applications in order to deliver secured protocols, applications, services and data. The cyber security framework of identifying, protecting, detecting, responding and recovery in relation to network security will be evaluated and critically analysed.
- You’ll become capable of analysing, designing and managing the requirements of a secure network architecture based on risk analysis and operational requirements in accordance with regulations and standards.
Malware Analysis
This module will enable you to practise your technical skills on malware detection, and attack technologies in both local and remote network environments. You’ll learn:- about the creation of modern malware
- the techniques used to exploit system and network weaknesses
- the tools and skills needed to defend and recover from malicious attacks.
Secure Coding
The module explores a range of recognised software security problems using motivational examples. This module looks at the fundamental sources of vulnerabilities arising at the programming level including inadequate handling of exception situations, poor understanding of the details of the programming language in use, incomplete descriptions of the interface between components, and insufficient care in the treatment of concurrency and threading issues, and how these relate to evolving threat models.Dissertation
This module provides the opportunity for you to study in depth a topic of your own choice within the subject area of your course. You’ll self-manage an academic investigation of an appropriate topic with support from an adviser.
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The End Point Assessment (EPA) is an independent assessment that takes place after the final year of the apprenticeship. It is designed to test that you are competent in your occupation by assessing the knowledge, skills and behaviour (KSB) outcomes detailed in the approved Apprenticeship Standard.
For this degree apprenticeship, the EPA consists of two components:
- a practical test;
- a technical discussion.
You must pass your EPA to successfully complete your apprenticeship and academic degree.
Hear from a Cyber Security Degree Apprentice
“The Cyber Security Degree apprenticeship acted as a fantastic springboard into the next level of my career. Modules and coursework are devised in-line with industry standards and best practices, ensuring that the qualification you gain remains relevant.
“The course balances the technical, physical, legal and human aspects of cyber security through bespoke practicals, teaching you everything from how to devise security frameworks to fending off a cyber attack in progress.
“By balancing study with industry experience through an apprenticeship, you achieve the best of both worlds; a fantastic education in cyber, while also gaining a business mindset and key work experience, critical in the world we live in today.”
Alexander Cameron, Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship graduate
Park Campus
You’ll study in our state-of-the-art computing and technology facilities on Park Campus in Cheltenham.
This centre for all things computing includes a dedicated cyber security lab where you can practise your new skills in a digitally protected, authentic environment with an isolated network.
There are purpose-built computing suites kitted out with the latest tools and operating systems, such as Android, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Drones, Photoshop, Microsoft, Oracle and Cisco. Plus, there are breakout areas for workshop sessions, games consoles and screens in social areas, and the latest computing technology and software. There is a strong sense of community, with staff and learners sharing both work and relaxation spaces.
How you’ll be supported
You’ll have a personal tutor throughout your apprenticeship, as well as a learner coach who conducts reviews and supports you towards successful completion.
You are also supported by module tutors and UoG’s Student Centre staff, who are contactable by telephone, in person and online.
If you have particular educational needs, UoG will work with you to ensure there are plans in place to address these.
Benefits for you
You’ll have access to:
· experienced professionals who are experts in their field
· state-of-the-art facilities
· all university libraries, IT and facilities
· discounted travel with Stagecoach across the South West network
· an NUS card offering great discounts at restaurants and high street stores
· a vibrant social scene complete with bars, sports clubs, gyms and leisure facilities
Already employed but still interested?
If you’re currently employed and are interested in starting the Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship with the support of your employer, you can find out more about how to do this on our information for learners page.
GCL Recruitment event
Registration for the Cyber Degree Apprenticeship Event in May 2024 is now closed. Please email [email protected] if you would like your details to be kept on file for future events.
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