Computing
Cyber Security HND
Campus
Granton Campus
Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 8
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Choose your study options
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This Cybersecurity course will provide you with essential knowledge in cybersecurity and teach you how to secure your technology infrastructure against cybercrime. During this course, you will learn fundamental skills that underpin the technology we use today, such as computer programs, websites, computer networks and databases. Edinburgh College has strong industry connections with Edinburgh-based digital companies. These companies can provide expert advice, guidance and placement opportunities.
This course will teach you advanced techniques for securing computer systems through forensic analysis, enabling you to identify traces of attacks or infrastructure vulnerabilities that could be exploited. You will explore common ways in which attackers perform hacks through a variety of real case studies and hands-on workshops in Edinburgh College's state-of-the-art computer labs. This course will equip you with the skills and entry requirements necessary to progress to the third year of university-level study or secure employment in the cybersecurity sector.
This course is highly regarded and recognised in the industry, and it is sought after by employers.
The course curriculum is aligned with a variety of industry-recognised vendor qualifications and can help you gain the knowledge to prepare for those certifications. Such as CISCO Cyber Essentials, CompTIA Security+, CCNA Security
What you will learn
- Computer Networking Concepts
- Setting up, Maintaining and Securing Computer Networks
- Basic Computer Programming
- Digital Forensics,
- Ethical Hacking
- Data Security
- Linux
- SQL
- Penetration Testing
- Firewall
How the course is assessed
- Your practical skills are mainly assessed in the course.
- There will be some end-of-unit tests.
- There will be a final, graded exam for Year 1.
- A graded dissertation-style project in Year 2.
Number of days per week
- Approximately 18 hours per week, which we try to timetable into 3 days.
- This is a very demanding course, and a certain amount of self-study is required.
- It is recommended that you dedicate at least 4.5 days per week to studying for this course. Assignments and projects will be set for you to complete at your own pace.
Entry requirements
- For school leavers: Three Highers, including a B Pass in Mathematics, Computing or Science and two other C Passes.
- For college students: A SCQF Level 6 Computing qualification in Cyber or Networking.
For everyone else: All enquiries are welcome regardless of qualifications. Edinburgh College computing staff can assess where you can start or progress in your computing career and find the right course for you.
Suppose you have not studied a CISCO networking course before. In that case, it is recommended that you join the NPA Cyber Security and Networking Essentials class first to gain the underpinning knowledge and skills.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- At an interview, you will be asked to take part in a Skills and Experience screening exercise this will be online.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- 3rd-year entry to Napier University BEng Cyber Security and Forensics
- Other universities and courses at year 1 or 2.
Career options
- With CISCO CCNA and or your HND in Cyber security you can apply for a range of Cyber Security and Networking jobs
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Granton Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
