Level 4 & 5 Computing (Cyber Security Pathway) - Specialist Technical College

Level 4 & 5 Computing – Cyber Security Pathway

Our Level 4 and Level 5 Computing programmes provide a university-level pathway, equivalent to the first two years of a UK Bachelor’s degree in a computing discipline. The Cyber Security pathway develops technical and professional skills for roles in cyber defence, security operations and related fields.

ATHE Level 4 – Extended Diploma in Computing

(Cyber Security Route) Level 4 Year 1 University-Level

Level 4 develops core computing knowledge and skills alongside specialist study in cyber security. Learners build a strong foundation in computer systems, networking and software, before focusing on security concepts and controls.

Example Core Units

Computer Systems, Networks and Security – hardware, operating systems, networking principles and risks to systems and data.
Programming and Software Development – fundamental programming constructs and software design techniques.
Database Design and Development – designing and implementing relational databases for realistic scenarios.
Web Technologies – client- and server-side concepts for delivering secure web applications.
Cyber Security Concepts – threats, vulnerabilities, risk assessment and incident response at an introductory level.

Programme Information

Level: 4 – approximately equivalent to the first year of a UK degree.
Mode: Classroom-based with lab work and guided independent study.
Assessment: Assignments, practical projects and case-study work.
Typical Tuition Fee: €1,500

(Cyber Security Route) Level 5 Year 2 University-Level

Level 5 builds on the foundations from Level 4 and focuses on more advanced topics such as network security, cyber defence, penetration testing and secure systems development, preparing learners for direct entry to the final year of a degree or for specialist technical roles.

Example Core Units

Cyber Security – organisational security, industry standards and recommending improvements to secure networks and systems.

Network Security and Cryptography – securing network infrastructures and applying encryption principles.

Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking – concepts, tools and methods used to test system defences in a controlled way.

Secure Software Development – designing and building applications with security in mind from the outset.

Incident Response and Digital Forensics – responding to security incidents and gathering digital evidence appropriately.

Programme Information

Level: 5 – approximately equivalent to the second year of a UK degree.

Mode: Classroom teaching, labs and project-based learning.

Assessment: Larger projects, technical reports and scenario-based tasks.

Typical Tuition Fee: €1,500

Entry Requirements – Level 4 & 5 Computing (Cyber Security)

Entry to Level 4: Normally a Level 3 qualification in a related subject (e.g. IT, Computing, Cyber Security) or relevant experience.

Entry to Level 5: Completion of a suitable Level 4 Computing qualification.

Language: Teaching mainly in English; support is available for local learners who need to strengthen their academic English.

Profile: Interest in Computing and Cyber Security, willingness to engage with practical lab work and independent study.

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