CyberShield: Cyber Security and Ethical Hacking (40 Credits) - Module
Currently viewing course to start in 2026/27 Entry.
CyberShield: Cyber Security and Ethical Hacking is a 40-credit modular programme designed to provide a practical introduction to the principles, technologies and techniques used to protect modern digital environments....
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Part Time
- Award Module
- Start date January 2027
- Subject
- Location STEAMhouse
This course is:
Overview
CyberShield: Cyber Security and Ethical Hacking is a 40-credit modular programme designed to provide a practical introduction to the principles, technologies and techniques used to protect modern digital environments.
Combining Cyber Security Fundamentals and Network Fundamentals, this 40-credit programme develops the knowledge and skills needed to understand cyber threats, assess vulnerabilities and implement security measures across networked systems. Through a mixture of theory and hands-on practical activities, you'll explore how networks operate, how attacks occur, and how organisations can defend their systems and data.
Eligible for Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) funding, this flexible modular offer is ideal for those looking to upskill, retrain, or take their first steps into the rapidly growing cyber security sector. Content is aligned with industry-recognised practices and introduces concepts that support progression towards professional certifications and further study.
Applications for this course will open in early October. To register your interest and be notified when applications open, please complete our register of interest form.
What's covered in this course?
- Develop a strong understanding of cyber security principles, threats, vulnerabilities and risk management.
- Learn how computer networks operate using industry-standard OSI and TCP/IP models.
- Explore network protocols, IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, and end-to-end communications.
- Gain hands-on experience using cyber security and networking tools in practical laboratory sessions.
- Learn how to secure systems, home networks and connected devices against common cyber threats.
- Build foundational knowledge that can support future professional certifications and progression into cyber security careers.
Why Choose Us?
- Study a focused 40-credit programme designed to build job-ready cyber security and networking skills.
- Gain practical experience through hands-on laboratory activities using industry-recognised tools.
- Learn both offensive and defensive cyber security concepts, including threats, vulnerability assessment and mitigation strategies.
- Develop an understanding of networking technologies that underpin all modern digital infrastructures.
- Benefit from flexible modular study that can be funded through the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (subject to eligibility).
- Build a foundation for further study, professional certification and careers within cyber security and IT.
Course in Depth
Modules
This module introduces the core concepts, principles and practices of cyber security. You will explore cyber threats, vulnerabilities and risk management approaches while developing practical skills in protecting systems and networks. Topics include information security, internet safety, social media security, cryptography, IoT security, security policies and cyber security careers. Practical laboratory activities allow you to use industry-recognised tools to assess security and investigate mitigation strategies.
This module develops your understanding of how devices communicate across modern networks. You will study industry-standard networking models including OSI and TCP/IP, alongside key protocols, addressing schemes and network architectures. Practical sessions provide experience configuring networking devices, building simple local area networks and troubleshooting connectivity issues. The module aligns with the first stage of the Cisco CCNA curriculum and provides an excellent introduction to networking technologies and infrastructure security.
How you learn
Teaching takes place via lectures, practical laboratory sessions, guided activities and independent study to help you develop both theoretical understanding and technical skills.
You'll investigate cyber security threats, vulnerabilities and protection mechanisms while developing practical networking competencies. Laboratory activities provide opportunities to work with networking devices, simulation software and cyber security tools used within industry.
You'll learn through practical investigation, problem-solving exercises and real-world scenarios that mirror challenges faced by organisations today.
The course places particular emphasis on applied learning, enabling you to develop confidence in identifying risks, implementing protection measures and understanding how secure network infrastructures are designed and managed.
Further studies
On successful completion of these modules, you could progress onto our BSc (Hons) Cyber Security. You would receive Recognition of Prior Learning for these modules meaning that you would not have to study them again.
Entry Requirements
Essential requirements
Our typical academic entry requirement is 48 UCAS tariff points or above. However, we recognise that applicants may have gained skills and knowledge through a range of routes and will also consider applications from those who do not meet this requirement but can demonstrate achievement at Level 2 and/or Level 3, together with relevant experience.
If you are returning to study and have previously completed a degree or other higher education qualification, we will accept a qualification in any discipline.
If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
International students
Sorry, this course is not available to International students.
Employability
Enhancing employability skills
Cyber security remains one of the fastest-growing areas of the digital economy, with organisations across all sectors seeking professionals who can help protect systems, data and infrastructure.
These modules will allow you to develop a range of technical and professional skills valued by employers, including:
- Cyber threat identification and analysis.
- Risk assessment and security awareness.
- Network design and configuration.
- Security monitoring and mitigation techniques.
- Problem-solving and technical troubleshooting.
- Application of industry-standard cyber security and networking tools.
- Independent learning and professional development.
The combination of cyber security and networking knowledge provides a strong foundation for entry-level roles and future professional development within information technology, networking and cyber security disciplines.
Facilities & Staff
Computing facilities
Take a look around the facilities available to you as a Computing student at BCU.
Our staff
Dr Abdul Rahman Alsewari
Associate Professor
Dr. AbdulRahman A. Alsewari received his Ph.D. in Software Engineering from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, Malaysia, in 2012. He earned his Master’s degree in Electronic System Design Engineering (MEng) in 2009 from USM and a Bachelor’s degree (BEng) in Computer Engineering in 2002 from Iraq. With over 14 years of research and teaching...
More about Abdul RahmanDr Yussuf Ahmed
Associate Professor in Cyber Security
Dr Yussuf Ahmed is an Associate Professor of Cyber Security and Director of the BSc and MSci Cyber Security programmes at Birmingham City University. He is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA) and brings over 15 years of industry experience into academia, having held senior roles in the cybersecurity sector before entering higher...
More about Yussuf