Cyber Security and Digital Forensics

The Foundation Degree in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics is validated by The Open University.

Why study this course?
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.

About the course
The Foundation Degree (FD) in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics is aimed at meeting the local demand of cyber security experts in Northern Ireland. It will cover a range of computing specialisms allowing successful students to follow different career paths.

The Foundation Degree consists of 60 credits (normally 3 modules) per semester in Year 1 and Year 2. The Foundation Degree provides you with an opportunity to undertake a structured work- based learning placement within the computing industry during the final year of the programme. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain a suitable work placement employer; however, assistance will be provided by the college as required. This programme is based on a hybrid learning model with a focus on face-to-face delivery.

How will it make me more employable?
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 (Language reviewed yearly to meet the needs of industry).
• Networking
• Systems Testing
• Computer Security
• Design Tools and Techniques
• Development Tools

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

Where will it take me?
Students that successfully complete the Foundation Degree traditionally progress to one of the following areas:

Related Degree Programmes- Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a related Level 6 qualification, either at a university or at SERC. SERC offer a 1 year degree top-up for this programme.

Employment- This Foundation 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:
• Network Engineer: Design, build, and maintain networks for individuals or clients.
• Incident Response Analyst: Identify, contain, and resolving security breaches
• Application Developer: Design and develop entertainment software for mobile devices.