Certificate in Cyber Security Practices – Level 3

Required qualifications

No prior experience is required; however, we recommend a strong IT skillset and to have completed a Level 2 Cyber Security course. Please also look at our English & maths and Essential Digital Skills courses to support your studies.

What skills will I develop?

By studying the NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Cyber Security Practices, you will develop a wide range of skills and knowledge essential for a career in cyber security. Here are the key areas you will focus on:

Skills:

1. Cyber Security Testing: Learn to conduct various types of security tests, including penetration testing and vulnerability assessments.
2. Incident Response: Develop the ability to create and implement incident response plans, and conduct post-mortem analyses of security incidents.
3. Threat Intelligence: Gain skills in gathering and analysing threat intelligence, understanding threat models, and using Open Source Intelligence (OSINT).
4. Vulnerability Management: Learn to identify, assess, and mitigate cyber security vulnerabilities.
5. Professional Skills: Enhance your professional skills, including managing a positive digital identity, understanding security clearance levels, and continuous professional development.

Knowledge:

1. Cyber Security Principles: Understand the fundamental concepts of cyber security, including the importance and implications of adequate security measures.
2. Threat Intelligence: Learn about different types of cyber threats, exploits, vulnerabilities, and the threat intelligence lifecycle.
3. Legislation and Ethics: Gain knowledge of relevant cyber security legislation, international law trends, and ethical conduct within the field.
4. Security Controls: Understand various cyber security controls and frameworks, and learn how to apply them effectively.
5. Social Engineering: Learn about social engineering techniques and how to protect against them.

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that you are well-prepared to tackle real-world cyber security challenges and pursue further studies or career opportunities in this rapidly evolving field.

Careers

Completing the NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Cyber Security Practices can open up several career opportunities in the field of cyber security. Here are three potential career options:

1. Cyber Security Analyst: As a cyber security analyst, you will monitor and protect an organization’s computer networks and systems from cyber threats. Your responsibilities will include analysing security breaches, conducting vulnerability assessments, and implementing security measures to prevent future attacks.
2. Threat Intelligence Analyst: In this role, you will gather and analyze data on emerging cyber threats. You will use this information to develop strategies to protect an organization from potential attacks. This involves staying up-to-date with the latest threat intelligence and understanding the tactics, techniques, and procedures used by cybercriminals.
3. Incident Responder: An incident responder is responsible for managing and responding to cyber security incidents. This includes identifying and mitigating threats, conducting post-incident analyses, and developing incident response plans. Your goal will be to minimize the impact of security breaches and ensure a swift recovery.

These roles are crucial in maintaining the security and integrity of an organisation’s information systems and can lead to further career advancement in the cyber security field.

Other important information

In the UK, the Free Courses for Jobs initiative offers adults the opportunity to gain a Level 3 qualification for free. This program is designed to help individuals improve their job prospects and earning potential by providing access to valuable skills and knowledge.

Eligibility:

• Age: 19 or over.
• Income: Earn below £25,000 or are unemployed.
• Qualifications: Do not already have a Level 3 qualification, or have one but earn less than the National Living Wage.