RQF Level 4 · Ofqual-regulated
Level 4 Diploma in Cyber Security
120 credits · Typically one year · Fully online, on campus or hybrid · English
120 credits · Typically one year · Fully online, on campus or hybrid · English
The Level 4 Diploma in Cyber Security introduces the foundations of cyber security together with the computing knowledge behind it. Six units cover information technology security, mathematics for computer science, the principles of computer systems, algorithms and data structures, computer networks and operating systems.
It is a 120-credit qualification with 1,200 hours of Total Qualification Time, including 600 guided learning hours. Level 4 qualifications are assessed as academically equivalent to a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Year 1 of a three-year UK bachelor's degree. At Brussels College of Business and Technology (BCBT) you can study it fully online, on campus or in hybrid mode; it typically takes one year (two semesters on campus and hybrid).
Awarded by the Ofqual-regulated awarding body (RQF Level 4). Provided at BCBT by Brussels College as an approved NCC Education centre (SCH005).
Learners aged 18 or over with a Level 3 qualification or A levels, and mature learners over 21 with relevant work experience, who want a first year of higher-level study in cyber security and computing before Level 5, a degree or work.
Threats and vulnerabilities, secure design, cryptography and the law around information security.
Mathematics, computer systems, algorithms, networks and operating systems: the technical core of every security role.
Coursework built on practical tasks and case studies, with no written examinations.
Fully online from any country, or on campus or hybrid in Zaventem for Belgian and EU nationals.
On campus and hybrid: February and September intakes, following BCBT’s academic calendar (teaching starts 22 February 2027 and 27 September 2027).
You are typically aged 18 or over, and your entry profile is likely to include at least one of the following:
On campus and hybrid: February and September intakes; teaching starts on 22 February 2027 and 27 September 2027. Fully online: start dates: ask admissions.
No written examinations: every unit is assessed by coursework.
Fees on request — ask admissions.
You complete 6 mandatory units worth 120 credits in total. On campus and hybrid, the units are taught over two 16-week semesters, three units in each.
| Unit | Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CYB401 | Information Technology Security | 20 |
| CYB402 | Mathematics for Computer Science | 20 |
| CYB403 | Principles of Computer Systems | 20 |
| Unit | Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CYB404 | Algorithms and Data Structures | 20 |
| CYB405 | Computer Networks | 20 |
| CYB406 | Operating Systems | 20 |
Every unit is assessed by coursework, with no written examinations. Units are graded Pass or Fail: you pass a unit by meeting all of its assessment criteria, with feedback and support before any reassessment. Assessment is externally verified by the awarding organisation.
| Learning time | Hours |
|---|---|
| Guided learning (live classes, tutorials and supervised study) | 600 |
| Directed self-study, reading and coursework | 600 |
| Total Qualification Time | 1,200 |
Unit titles, credits and hours are set by the awarding organisation and may be updated.
On campus and hybrid: February 2027 intake: apply by 12 February 2027; teaching starts 22 February 2027. September 2027 intake: apply by 17 September 2027; teaching starts 27 September 2027.
Fully online: start dates: ask admissions.
View the calendarFees on request — ask admissions. Our admissions team can also help you check your entry requirements.
Ask admissions