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Entry Year

28/09/2026

Location

Castlereagh

Duration

2 Years (Part-Time)

Course Code

P00903-AC
Overview
BSc (Hons) Cyber Security with Cloud and Network Infrastructure (Higher Level Apprenticeship)Validated by The Open University
Castlereagh
Part-Time
Higher Education
Start Date: 28/09/2026
End Date: 14/02/2028

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Network Infrastructure (Top-Up) (Q00903)

BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Networking Infrastructure (Top-Up) (Q00903)

Overview

Elevate Your Career with our BSc (Hons) Level 6 Top-Up Programme in Cyber Security, Networking, and Computing (Validated by The Open University)

If you already have a solid foundation in computing with an HND or Foundation Degree, our one and a half year apprenticeship programme is designed to take your career to new heights. Our BSc (Hons) Level 6 Top-Up programme caters specifically to students with prior experience in Cyber Security, Networking, and Computing. This programme offers you the opportunity to further hone your skills, stay ahead of industry trends, and embark on an exciting journey towards career advancement. 

Why Choose Our Programme? 

The demand for skilled IT professionals is on the rise, and the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer has forecasted a potential shortage of up to 6,200 IT workers by 2030. As the world becomes increasingly digital, Cyber Security stands out as one of the fastest-growing sectors within IT. Our programme is strategically crafted to equip you with the expertise required to excel in this exciting and crucial industry. 

What You'll Gain: 

  • Advanced Expertise: Building on your existing knowledge, our programme delves deep into Cyber Security, Networking, and Computing in a way that's both industry-led and practical. You'll acquire the advanced skills needed to excel in your chosen career path. 
  • Real-World Experience: Learn from seasoned experts in our cutting-edge computing labs, fully equipped with industry-standard hardware and software. Our programme ensures you gain hands-on experience in a real-world environment. 
  • Focus on Critical Skills: Our curriculum places significant emphasis on understanding Security Operations Centers (SOCs), threat and vulnerability detection and analysis, and incident response skills. This preparation ensures you're well-equipped for your future career challenges. 
  • Certifications: As part of the programme, you'll have the opportunity to earn a range of vendor certifications, including Cisco CyberOps, and Comptia CySA+. These certifications not only enhance your employability but also contribute to your ongoing learning within the sector. 

Key Areas of Study: 

  • Cyber Security Operations and Response 
  • Advanced Networking 
  • Final Research Project 

We understand that your career progression is a priority. Our programme is designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and certifications needed to stand out in the competitive IT industry. 

Join us today and transform your computing foundation into a thriving career in the world of Cyber Security with Cloud and Networking Infrastructure. Your journey begins here at Belfast Met! 

Ready to take your career to the next level in Cyber Security with Cloud and Networking Infrastructure? Explore the links below to learn more about our validated awards and regulations: 

OU Handbooks and Regulations can be found  under the Higher Education section of our public documents.

Programme Specification

Regulations for validated awards of The Open University

Student's guide to studying on a programme validated by The Open University

 

Advice
Pre-Entry Advice

For more information on this course, please check out our course booklet below.

Click here to download presentation

Requirements

Students must have completed and passed a relevant Computing Foundation Degree or HND or have completed and passed the first two years of a relevant Computing bachelor’s degree.  Applicants must have 240 credits at Level 4 and Level 5.  

Students who do not meet this criteria must complete and pass the bridging qualification, Cisco CCNA 1 (Introduction to Networks).

The student must also have GCSEs at grade C or above in English and Mathematics, or equivalent qualifications, such as Level 2 Essential Skills in Maths and English

To be able to apply at this stage, you must be employed in an IT role or have an arranged an apprenticeship with an employer in IT.

If you are currently not employed in an IT role, you must apply to the IT Apprenticeship through the following link: Belfast Metropolitan College Careers Portal (mindmill.co.uk)

 

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

Applicants cannot use APL to apply directly to Level 6.  

Assessment

Module

Level/Credits

Assessment

Advanced Networks

Level 6/40 credits

CW, CW, Exam

Cyber Security Operations and Response

Level 6/40 credits

CW, CW, Exam

Final Year Project

Level 6/40 credits

CW

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CW = Coursework

Careers
Made for More

Careers

Employment or postgraduate qualification.

Interests

Interests

This is a 1 year course spread over two academic years and the three modules will be Cyber Security Operations, Advanced Networking and a Final Year Project.

Careers
Got a Question

Contact us

To be able to apply at this stage, you must be employed in an IT role or have an arranged an apprenticeship with an employer in IT. To apply, please email us with details of your employer and we will assist you in your application.

 

Tel: 028 9053 3151

Email: creativedigital@belfastmet.ac.uk