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Cyber Security (SP) NPA

(SCQF level 6)

Computing and Digital Technologies, Creative Industries

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Mode of Study

Part-time

Start Date

18th Aug 2026, 38 weeks

Day(s):

Tuesday, Thursday

Time:

13:30 - 16:00

Location

City Campus

Overview

This is a school-college partnership course for school students in S4-S6.  

This Cyber Security course covers data security, digital forensics, and ethical hacking basics.

You'll develop a data security policy for a professional organisation, considering ethical, legal, and professional factors, and justify your decisions based on best practices.

You'll learn digital forensics examination techniques, including securing evidence, analysing data, and creating investigative reports.

You'll explore tools and tactics used by both ethical and malicious hackers, understand potential threats, and practice defending systems from attacks through ethical hacking techniques.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

This course would suit inquisitive and computer-savvy students who are keen to develop their problem-solving skills.  Applicants are expected to have English and Computing Science at National 5 (or National 5 Mathematics or Physics). 

What you study

  • Data Security.
  • Digital Forensics.
  • Ethical Hacking.

After the course

Careers

Cyber security is one of the fastest-evolving areas within business and government, as online systems underpin todayā€™s digitally enabled economy. Employment opportunities in cyber security are predicted to increase significantly over the next two years, and there is already a recognised shortage of skilled professionals in this field.

Continuing Study

Following successful completion of the NPA you can progress through HNC & HND to degree level qualifications at universities across Scotland.

Technical apprenticeships in Information Security are also available.

Explore the Full Course Progression Pathway.

Teaching

How the course is taught

We adopt a student-centred approach to learning where your tutors will facilitate your learning and comprehension through individual and group work. Your theory and knowledge will be backed up with lots of hands-on practical experience gained in our dedicated computing labs. All our teaching materials are available through our virtual learning environment.

Assessment methods

Continuous assessment is employed on the course with a variety of assessments from practical tasks to open book assessments.

  • Mode of Study:
    Part-time
  • Start Date:
    18th Aug 2026, 38 weeks
  • Day(s):
    Tuesday, Thursday
    Time:
    13:30 - 16:00
  • Location:
    City Campus