Special Purpose Award in Cybersecurity – QQI level 7

Special Purpose Award in Cybersecurity
Credit Value: 60 ECTS | Level: QQI Level 7 | Duration: 1 Academic Year

Our Special Purpose Award in Cybersecurity is a comprehensive one-year programme designed to equip learners with the technical knowledge, analytical thinking, and practical cybersecurity skills required to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Awarded at QQI Level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), this programme provides learners with a strong foundation in cybersecurity principles, network security, digital forensics, systems security, and security operations management.

Learners will develop industry-relevant skills through practical and applied learning, preparing them for careers in cybersecurity, IT support, network security, and information systems protection.

Learning Mode

On Campus
Delivered through classroom-based lectures and practical sessions at our Dublin city centre campus.

• Full-time daytime delivery
• Interactive classroom learning
• Practical cybersecurity-focused modules
• Direct support from experienced lecturers

Fees

• €4,850 – Irish/European Nationals
• €4,850 – Non-EU Nationals Residing in Ireland (Stamp 2)
• €6,850 – Non-EU Applicants Applying from Outside Ireland

All fees are payable per academic year of study.

Qualifications

Upon successful completion, learners will be awarded a:

• Special Purpose Award in Cybersecurity – QQI Level 7
• 60 ECTS Credits

Course Structure

This programme is delivered full-time over one academic year.

Typically:

• 3 full days per week
• Lectures scheduled between 9am – 5pm
• On-campus delivery in Dublin 2

Learners will participate in practical labs, cybersecurity simulations, and applied technical exercises throughout the programme.

Modules

The following modules are included within the programme:

• Information Technology Fundamentals
• Network Fundamentals
• Security Fundamentals
• Computer Systems Forensics
• Security Operations Management
• Computer & Information Systems Security

Entry Requirements

To enrol on this programme, applicants should have:

• Minimum of 5 Leaving Certificate subjects including Mathematics
• Grade O6/H7 or above in relevant subjects
• OR a QQI Level 5 or Level 6 Major Award in a related discipline
• OR equivalent qualification

Mature applicants aged 23+ are also welcome to apply through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 / CEFRL B2+.

Assessment

Assessment is completed through continuous assessment methods including:

• Practical projects
• Skills demonstrations
• Technical assignments
• Applied cybersecurity tasks

Who Is This Course For?

This programme is suitable for:

• Learners seeking a career in cybersecurity
• IT professionals looking to upskill
• Career changers entering the technology sector
• Graduates seeking specialist cybersecurity knowledge

Career Opportunities

Graduates may progress into roles such as:

• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Network Security Specialist
• Security Operations Analyst
• IT Support Technician
• Information Security Officer

The programme also provides progression opportunities into further Level 8 and postgraduate study in cybersecurity and related technology disciplines.

Why Choose This Course?

✔️ QQI Level 7 accredited qualification
✔️ Practical cybersecurity and digital forensics skills
✔️ Industry-relevant modules aligned to current technologies
✔️ Delivered by experienced cybersecurity professionals
✔️ Strong pathway into the growing cybersecurity industry

Location & Start Date

Location: Dublin 2 – On Campus

Start Date: Monday 7th September 2026

Duration: 1 Academic Year