Computing for England (Cyber Security) HTQ

Undergraduate
HNC/HND courses
HTQ courses

This Computing for England (Cyber Security) HTQ course has been designed to develop your knowledge and understanding in relation to cyber threats and vulnerabilities, cyber defence techniques and incident response.

Year of entry

2025-26 2026-27 2027-28

Location

CU Scarborough (Scarborough)

Study mode

Full-time

Duration

2 years full-time

Course code

HQ02

Start date

September 2027
November 2027
January 2028
March 2028
May 2028
July 2028

How to apply

Book an Open Event

Download a prospectus

Course overview

Explore the fundamental principles, leading-edge concepts, terminologies, models and hardening methods of computing.

Assess the types of malicious activity, potential targets and the role everyone has in maintaining cyber resilience.
Explore the nature of cybercrime and cyber threat actors
Look into roles and responsibilities in relation to information assurance
Assess the threats to and vulnerabilities in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure
Investigate strategic responses to cybersecurity threats.

The pathways at both Level 4 and Level 5 are mapped to the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education’s Occupational Standards and professional body standards with the aim of providing professional status Level 5 HND and progression to direct employment, upon successful completion of this course. The vendor-accredited certification indicates that the course meets industry standards and prepares students with the necessary knowledge and skills required to enter the workforce. Additionally, obtaining a vendor-accredited certification can demonstrate to employers that a student has achieved a certain level of expertise and competence in a particular area.

Why you should study this course

With the continuing digital revolution, computer systems now involve almost every aspect of our lives. While this connectivity offers significant advantages, it also introduces vulnerabilities regarding personal data, device interference and hijacking. Because devices are complex and interconnected, it can be difficult to predict where these risks may occur.

To navigate this landscape, you will:

engage in laboratory-based practical work to build, test and evaluate complex systems
participate in peer learning by critiquing the work of your colleagues in a supportive, professional environment
analyse case studies and scenarios drawn from real-world issues
have opportunities to use gaming approaches and immersive technologies to help deepen your engagement with the subject
undertake both mini-projects and large-scale work², gaining experience in individual and collaborative settings
join a community of practice² where you are encouraged to experiment and innovate
have the opportunity to develop a critical mindset that encourages reflection and constructive questioning
develop an understanding of legal, social, ethical and professional issues throughout your studies.

Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) status

This course is approved as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) by the UK government as part of its Skills for Careers initiative. This means it meets employer-led standards for technical knowledge and skills and is aligned to specific occupational requirements.

For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the Skills for Careers website.

For SASIG to hold their first national networking event in North Yorkshire at CU Scarborough highlights the strength of our cyber security course, gives our cyber security students who have registered to the event access to industry experts and shows that Scarborough is fast becoming a major player and a centre of excellence within the cyber sector.
Jackie Mathers, Associate Pro Vice Chancellor at CU Scarborough

What you'll study

Modules

Cyber Security and Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence AI & Intelligent Systems - 30 credits

Digital technologies provide an opportunity for malicious hackers and cyberterrorists to exploit individuals, government, institutions and large organisation. Defending against cyber-attacks including insider threats is a priority within the digital technologies sector. Cybercrime techniques and attack vectors are fast-growing taking advantage of the speed, anonymity and convenience of the internet as a facilitator for malicious and criminal activity.

This module has been designed to develop your knowledge and understanding in relation to cyber threats and vulnerabilities, cyber defence techniques and incident response. The module also introduces the science behind machine intelligence and the philosophical debate around the ambitions of simulating human intelligence to solve real-world problems. You will be guided to appreciate AI types and applications and develop a better understanding of aspects related to intelligent agents.

Other topics included in the unit covers Artificial Narrow Intelligence (ANI), Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), Ambient Intelligence, the major differences between top-down and bottom-up approaches to AI, and understanding Machine Learning (ML) algorithms and processes including dataset preparation.

Compulsory

Networking and Security – 30 credits

The aim of this module is to give you a wider background knowledge of computer networking essentials, how they operate, protocols, standards, security considerations and the prototypes associated with a range of networking technologies. You will explore a range of hardware, with related software, and will configure and install these to gain knowledge of networking systems.

A range of networking technologies will be explored to deliver a fundamental knowledge of Local Area Networking (LAN), Wide Area Networking (WAN) and their evolution to form large-scale networks. You will also explore the protocol methodologies related to IP data network.

You will examine security measures involving access authorisation and regulation of use, implement contingency plans and devise security policies and procedures as well as introduction to detection of threats and vulnerabilities in physical and IT security, and how to manage risks relating to organisational security.

Compulsory

Professional Practice and Planning a Computing Project – 30 credits

This module covers the development of communication skills and communication literacy and the use of qualitative and quantitative data to demonstrate analysis, reasoning and critical thinking.

You will carry out tasks that require working with others in a team-based scenario and planning and problem solving. On successful completion of the module, you will be able to demonstrate leadership skills through the dynamics of team working.

Through reflective practice, they will be able to evaluate the contributions they make as an individual and those of others. Part of this module is assessed through a set assignment.

The theme and chosen project within the theme will enable you to explore and examine a relevant and current topical aspect of computing in the context of a business environment. As computing systems and technologies continually develop so do the ways in which businesses utilise technologies to support their operations and remain competitive.

You will undertake independent research, and investigation of a theme, and will also investigate and research an industry sector as outlined in the set project brief. You will use the outcomes of their research to help plan a computer-based project and to support recommendations for how the identified business could utilise the tools and technologies identified as part of your research.

Compulsory

Programming Unit and Database Design & Development – 30 credits

Topics covered in this unit are: examination of different design tools and techniques; examination of different development software options; consideration of the development features of a fully-functional robust solution covering data integrity, data validation, data consistency, data security and advanced database querying facilities across multiple tables; appropriate user interfaces for databases and for other externally linked systems; creating complex reports/dashboards, testing the system against the user and system requirements; and elements of complete system documentation.

You will be able to test the system to ensure that it meets user and system requirements, and fully document the system by providing technical and user documentation. For practical purposes, this unit covers relational databases and related tools and techniques. A brief overview of object-oriented databases will also be covered. As a result, students will develop skills such as communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning and interpretation, which are crucial for gaining employment and developing academic competence.

Compulsory

The Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing – Cyber Security offers you a specialist pathway designed to support progression to relevant occupational areas or degree-level study. You will develop a sound understanding of the principles in this field of study and how to apply these more widely.

Learning to evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems, perform effectively in your chosen field and have the qualities necessary for employment in situations that require the exercise of personal responsibility.

Modules

Systems Analytics and Design Database Management Systems – 30 credits

You will examine how data and information support business processes, the mechanisms to source and utilise data and turn it in to usable, and valuable, and information output. You will explore real-world business problems, the emergence of data science and how the application of data science can be used to support business processes.

Finally, you will demonstrate practical application of data science techniques to support real-world business problems. On successful completion of this module you will have an understanding of information security management in a business context and an understanding of how modern organisations manage the ongoing threats to their sensitive assets.

Compulsory

Internet of Things and Emerging Topics – 30 credits

This unit introduces you to the role, basic concepts and benefits of IoT in the design and development process of computer applications. The aim of the module is to enhance understanding of the methodology, terminology and benefits of IoT in the design and development of software applications.

Among the topics included in this unit are: classification and terminology of IoT, the hardware, software, data, platforms and services used to enable IoT, common architecture, frameworks, tools, hardware and APIs that can be utilised to design IoT-enabled objects, problems and solutions resulting from widespread deployment and adoption of IoT, software application methodology for IoT-specific software application design and development, data models, network complexity, security, privacy, enabling technologies and how to simulate and test an IoT concept.

This unit introduces you to the role, benefits, disadvantages and potential outcomes that emerging technologies have in the development of software applications and business practices. The aim of the unit is to enhance your understanding of the current types, terminology, advantages, disadvantages, potential impact and benefits of emerging technologies.

Among the topics included in this unit are classification and terminology of emerging technologies, review of the most promising and impactful emerging technologies, trends of convergence, the impact of emerging technologies on software development and an understanding of the scale, scope that emerging technologies may have on organisations their employees and the individuals served by them.

Compulsory

Applied Cryptography and Forensics – 30 credits

This module introduces students to the applied principles of cryptography and looks at its practical applications and methods, many of which are fundamental to secure data in the cloud. Students are expected to analyse fundamental symmetric, asymmetric and hashing encryption methods, and investigate examples of these in practice.

You will be expected to demonstrate the use of cryptography and cryptanalysis tools, methods and their applications, and to appraise the inner workings of cryptographic protocols and principles, including transport layer security (TLS) and block chain, and evaluate how they can be used by organisations to enhance security when considering a move to a cloud environment.

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to analyse functions of stream ciphers and block ciphers, produce code implementing ciphers, analyse methods such as KEM, DEM and PKEs to secure data in a cloud environment. Students will design a security case and implement it demonstrating the use of cryptographic and cryptanalysis tools for improving security in a virtual private network, for an organisation considering a move to the cloud.

As a result, you will aim to develop skills such as critical thinking, analysis, and interpretation, which are crucial for gaining employment and developing academic competence. This module introduces you to digital forensics involving the use of specialised techniques to investigate the recovery, authentication and analysis of data on electronic data storage devices, as well as network security breaches and cyber-attacks.

Students will be able to carry out digital forensics in accordance with industry and legal guidelines and procedures using different tools. You will also understand the low-level file structures of several OS and be able to undertake digital forensic investigation of devices.

Compulsory

Business Process Support and Information Security – 30 credits

Upon successful completion of this module, you should be able to demonstrate practical application of data science techniques to support real-world business problems. This module introduces you to the basic principles of an ISMS and how businesses use them to manage the ongoing protection of sensitive information they hold effectively.

There are many reasons for establishing an ISMS for an organisation, but one of the main goals is to enable the organisation to manage information security as a single entity, which can be monitored and continually improved on.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content to keep it relevant and current for our students. Consequently, we may update modules to reflect the latest industry standards.

How you'll learn

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 30-credit module requires 300 hours of study. Study hours are made up of teaching contact hours and guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary, depending on where you are in your studies, but on average, you will have between 10 and 12 teaching and learning hours each week. You will also have the option to attend additional sessions, including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You will be digging deeper into topics, reviewing what you’ve learnt and completing assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress to the end of your studies, you’ll spend more time on independent learning.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods, including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. The assessment methods may include:

formal examinations
phase tests
essays
group work
presentations
reports
projects
coursework
exams
individual assignments.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

What we're looking for
80 UCAS tariff points. GCSE maths and English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification. Overall grade of Pass (C or above on the Core) in the T level qualification in any subject.

At CU Group we are committed to recognising achievements in the context of which they were achieved as we understand that barriers may make it more challenging for some applicants to achieve course entry requirements.

We aim to reduce the barriers that may be preventing access to higher education by looking beyond the grades that applicants have achieved or expect to achieve.

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Offer, you could automatically receive a contextual offer which is 16 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Offer.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK	2027/28 fees TBC 2026/27 fees: £9,790 per year	Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Fees and Funding page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees stated in the table above for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if the Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI), a UK measure of inflation that tracks changes in the cost of living.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above RPI. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations), you may be charged the tuition fees in force at the time you take that additional period of study, and/or in line with any legislative changes that apply at that time.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad) which may include costs of travel, accommodation, equipment or uniform required for the placement and any visa-related costs.

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We assess your fee status using the information in your application. This status determines your tuition fees and the scholarships or financial support you can get. The Department for Education sets the rules for who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees in England.

The regulations list which students can pay the home fee rate. Because these rules are complex, the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides fee status guidance to help you find the right category. If you meet all the criteria for one category, your institution must charge you the home rate.

Facilities

Our purpose-built campus building is arranged around an open central atrium and includes:

Cyber labs, a space designed to give you - computing and cyber course students - a practical learning experience for conducting research, testing and experimentation related to cyber security.
indoor social spaces, including a café
a library that includes loan laptops and a silent study area
open-access computers
student support and careers advice teams.

The campus itself is located next to Scarborough’s Sports Village, a complex that includes an Olympic Legacy swimming pool, a sports hall, a fitness suite, all-weather pitches, and the Scarborough Athletic Football Club ground. The campus is a 10-minute walk from the East Yorkshire seafront. North Bay is Scarborough’s Blue Flag beach, meaning it is one of the best in Europe for cleanliness both on the sand and in the water, facilities, and safety.

Facilities are subject to availability⁴. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Careers and opportunities

Our careers and employability team will help you in searching for work experience while you study and employment on graduation.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The careers and employability team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Further study

The Level 5 Higher National Diploma is recognised by higher education providers as meeting admission requirements to many computing-related courses. Within CU Group you could progress onto Level 6 in:

How to apply

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

UK undergraduate students apply through UCAS from May 2026. Otherwise, you will need to apply to CU Scarborough directly. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 6565

ukadmissions.cu@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Coventry University, Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations, partnerships and memberships

Some of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply. See the relevant body website for more details). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships are subject to successful renewal in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the University maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. If the accreditation, recognition or membership of this course changes, we will notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. Before seeking an overseas placement, read our visa advice page.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first academic year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year.

For UK (home) students, if the Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees annually but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (for example to repeat a year or resit examinations) you may be charged the tuition fees in force at the time you take that additional period of study, and/or in line with any legislative changes that apply at that time.

⁴Facilities

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised. Availability and access may be reduced or restricted when the University is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders or internal health and safety requirements.

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the University. A copy of the current 2025/26 contract is available for information purposes only. The 2027/28 contract will apply to the 2027/28 intakes and may differ from the current version. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the University will owe to you. You should read the applicable Student Contract carefully before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the University.

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Student life

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Fees and funding

Computing for England (Cyber Security) HTQ

Year of entry

Location

Study mode

Duration

Course code

Start date

Course overview

Why you should study this course

Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) status

What you'll study

Modules

Modules

How you'll learn

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours

Guided and independent study

Online learning

Assessment

Entry requirements

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

Fees and funding

*Irish student fees

Facilities

Careers and opportunities

Further study

How to apply

¹Accreditations, partnerships and memberships

²UK and international opportunities

³Tuition fees

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

Your next steps

Useful links

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Computing for England (Cyber Security) HTQ

Course features

Year of entry

Location

Study mode

Duration

Course code

Start date

Course overview

Why you should study this course

Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) status

What you'll study

Modules

Modules

How you'll learn

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours

Guided and independent study

Online learning

Assessment

Entry requirements

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

Fees and funding

*Irish student fees

Facilities

Careers and opportunities

Further study

How to apply

Your next steps