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Entry Year

14/09/2026

Location

Castlereagh

Duration

3 Years (Part-Time)

Course Code

P00990-AC
Overview
Foundation DegreeCyber Security with Cloud and Network Infrastructure (Higher Level Apprenticeship)Validated by The Open University
Castlereagh
Part-Time
Higher Education
Start Date: 14/09/2026
End Date: 08/06/2029

Qualifications

Foundation Degree in Cyber Security with Cloud and Networking Infrastructure (Validated by The Open University) (CSI001)

Overview

Welcome to the Cyber Security with Cloud and Network Infrastructure Programme at Belfast Met 

Are you interested in a dynamic career in the fast-growing field of Cyber Security, Cloud, and Network Infrastructure? Look no further! Our two and a half year apprenticeship programme is your gateway to success. Designed for aspiring IT professionals, our comprehensive curriculum not only provides you with in-depth knowledge but also hands-on experience that's essential in today's competitive job market. 

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: 

  • Specialised Knowledge: Our courses focus on developing your Cyber Security and Cloud/Network Infrastructure skills in a practical and vocational manner. You will gain a deep understanding of these critical domains, preparing you for a successful career. 
  • Real-World Experience: Practicality is at the core of our programme. You will acquire not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills and relevant work experience in real-world settings. This hands-on approach opens doors to exciting career opportunities. 
  • Up-to-date Facilities: Learn from experienced faculty in state-of-the-art computing labs equipped with industry-standard hardware and software. You will be immersed in an environment that mirrors the IT industry's standards and practices. 
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including operating system security, scripting, penetration testing, cloud security, infrastructure, and cyber security implementation. You will be well-prepared for the challenges of the IT world. 
  • Certifications: As part of the programme, you will have the opportunity to earn certifications such as Cisco Cyber Security Essentials and Cyber Ops, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA Pentest+, along with other industry-recognised qualifications. 

Key Areas of Study:

  • Cyber Security 
  • Cloud Technologies and Network Infrastructure
  • Scripting 
  • Systems Penetration Testing/Ethical Hacking 
  • Endpoint Management 

Join us today and unlock a world of possibilities in the ever-evolving IT landscape. Your future in Cyber Security with Cloud and Network Infrastructure starts here at Belfast Met! 

Ready to embark on an exciting journey towards a career in Cyber Security with Cloud and Network 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.

Regulations for validated awards of The Open University

Programme Specification

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

Advice
Pre-Entry Advice

For more information, please see our Course Overview presentation and Pre Entry Advice video

Click here to download presentation

Requirements

The entry criteria are 64 tariff points. 

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) for HE Courses

APL allows you to use evidence from prior learning or experience to gain entry onto a course at Belfast Met. Belfast Met will work with you to make sure that relevant learning or work experience is formally recognised through the APL Process. For more information see Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) Process - Guidance for applicants. If you would like more information, or if you decide you would like to use the APL process, please contact the Course Co-ordinator. Contact details are provided at the end of these slides and on the course details page on Belfast Met website.​​

Assessment

 

Module Level/Credits Assessment
Programming and Scripting. Level 4/20 Credits CW, CW
Cloud and Cyber Security Fundamentals. Level 4/20 Credits CW, Exam
Mathematics for Computing. Level 4/20 Credits CW, Exam
Introduction to Networks Level 4/20 Credits CW, Exam
Host Security Level 4/20 Credits. CW, Exam
System Penetration Testing Level 4/20 Credits CW, Exam
Cloud Security Level 5/20 Credits CW, Exam
Cloud Infrastructure Level 5/20 Credits CW, Exam
Incident Management Level 5/20 Credits CW, Exam
Implementation of Cyber Security Level 5/20 Credits CW, Exam
Work Based Learning Level 5/40 Credits CW, Exam

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CW = Coursework

Careers
Made for More

Careers

Students who successfully complete this course are guaranteed a place on the one-year BSc (Hons) Software and Cloud Development and Data Science Top-Up degree offered by Belfast Met or 1 ½ year HLA BSc (Hons) Software and Cloud Development and Data Science after Top-Up Degree.

Successful completion of this course also allows for progression onto university degree courses in computing related disciplines including, but not limited to, computer science (subject to individual course requirements).

There are also employment opportunities upon successful completion of this course such as a Cyber Security/Network Engineer who help to protect an organisation by employing a range of technologies and processes to prevent, detect and manage cyber threats. This can include protection of computers, data, networks and programmes.

Interests

Interests

  • Computing
  • Design
  • Technology
  • Problem solving
  • Scripting
  • Cyber Security
  • IOT
  • Networks
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