Cyber Security Engineer Level 4 Apprenticeship
QA's Cyber Security Engineer apprenticeship helps to build an understanding of cyber threats, hazards, risks, controls, measures and mitigations to protect your organisation's systems and people.
Coming soon - Cyber L4 Programme Update:
For Learners starting from August 23rd, our programme is getting an upgrade!
We’re streamlining content and enhancing the learning experience, you can expect:
- Improved alignment between learning and on-the-job experience
- Updated content reflecting the latest industry trends
- Streamlined modules from 9 to 8 for a more focused learning journey (combining operating systems and scripting learning)
- Enhanced focus on practical application through engaging activities
Keep an eye on this page for updates.
Why choose our Cyber Security Engineer Level 4 apprenticeship?
The Cyber Security Engineer apprentice can help to design, build and test secure networks, security products or systems to help protect your organisation against cyber threats.
QA is a market leader in cyber security training, with a state-of-the-art immersive cyber gamified learning, giving apprentices a hands-on learning experience in simulating a real cyber threat.
QA's exclusive partnership with Circadence Corporation, the pioneer of the hands-on gamified learning platform Project Ares®, allows us to uniquely incorporate hands-on scenario training into our cyber security apprenticeships. The Project Ares platform offers a totally immersive experience, using automated features to support skills adoption with an in-game advisor, Athena, who advises our players through scenario-based challenges. The platform scenarios replicate the unpredictability and escalating levels of complexity that cyberattacks can present. It drives high levels of engagement through leaderboards and badges, elements used widely in the gaming world.
QA’s Cyber Security Engineer Level 4 apprenticeship programme enables the apprentice to:
- Develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills in a safe, but realistic environment
- Apply all of the acquired skills throughout the programme, with added scoring of players and opponent actions with replay for object assessment
- Take part in hands-on training and active-learning models that increase retention rates by 75% so that cyber apprentices can prepare for real-world challenges
Tools and technologies learned
Apprentices will learn to use Project Ares, Python, Microsoft Azure, Microsoft PowerShell, Linux and AWS.
Why choose QA
With over 100,000 applicants applying to our apprenticeship programmes every year, we have the highest overall pass rate among UK tech training providers
The most trusted name in tech Apprenticeships
We put our apprentices first, partnering with Barnardo's, Stemettes, and Code First Girls to foster a culture of diversity and inclusion in every aspect of our work
Gold Award
Best Use of Blended Learning at the Learning Tech Awards 2020
5 minutes
Response time to learner queries
Under 24 hours
Feedback provided on learner submissions
The Cyber Security Engineer Level 4 programme overview
Learners benefit from a flexible and blended learning journey, using real-life scenarios to gain valuable workplace skills faster.
The typical duration of the Cyber Security Engineer Level 4 programme is 16 months, plus a 4-month end-point assessment. View the modules in order below, including Introduction to Cyber Security, Networking Fundamentals, Operating Systems, Security Foundations, Security Management, Active Defence, Cloud Security, Programming and Scripting, and Threat Analysis.
Entry requirements
The entry requirements for this programme are as follows:
- An A-Level in ICT
- OR an International Baccalaureate at Level 3 in ICT
- OR a Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subject
- OR a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits)
*Please see the programme guide for full entry requirements.
Possible job roles for a Cyber Security Engineer apprentice
This programme is suitable for multiple roles, such as:
Cyber Security Engineer, Cyber Security Consultant, Cyber Security Analyst, Cyber Security Specialist, IT Security Technician and Embedded Engineer.
Skills a Cyber Security Engineer needs:
- Strong analytical skills
- A methodical, step-by-step approach to resolving issues
- Business skills like effective communication, teamwork and task/time management
- The adaptability to do a range of work – sometimes complex and non-routine – in different environments
- The ability to work under direction, use discretion and determine when to escalate issues.
Employer funding
The Cyber Security Engineer programme can be funded using the apprenticeship levy, requiring you to only pay up to 5% of the programme.
What our learners say
"I chose cyber security because it offered a mix of theory and practical knowledge – as well as the opportunity to work in the industry and gain experience. Next I plan to do either a BSc or MSc in cyber security to progress my career as a cyber security analyst."
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