Undergraduate Diploma (Level 4&5)

Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security

Ofqual-regulated · Awarded by Qualifi · BSc pathway

A 240-credit, Ofqual-regulated cyber security diploma awarded by Qualifi. Study online and progress to a BSc at the University of Lancashire.

Fee£3,120Regionalised Pricing AvailablePay in Instalments
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Awarded by
<em>Level 5 Extended Diploma</em> in Cyber Security
240
Credits
15-18 Months
Duration
100%
Online
About this course

Why This Course

The Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security is a 240-credit, Ofqual-regulated qualification awarded by Qualifi and delivered by LIBT, designed for IT professionals, security managers, and technically minded working adults who are ready to move into senior cyber security roles.

Spanning Levels 4 and 5 of the Regulated Qualifications Framework, this semi-technical programme combines rigorous technical security education with corporate risk management, business continuity, incident response, and digital leadership. You will develop both the hands-on capability and the strategic authority to protect organisations from evolving cyber threats across complex, international environments.

Delivered entirely online and fully self-paced, the programme fits around the demands of a working IT or security career.

On completion, you hold a 240-credit Ofqual-regulated qualification and direct entry to the final year of the BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security and Networking at the University of Lancashire.

Programme Modules

What You'll Study

Study the disciplines that matter most, from finance and marketing to leadership, operations, and sustainability, all connected directly to your working life.

Inside the programme

Your Learning Journey

Key learning outcomes

This qualification positions you for senior cyber security roles in organisations that take digital risk seriously, which today means every organisation.

You will graduate with a 240-credit Ofqual-regulated diploma spanning Levels 4 and 5 of the RQF, awarded by Qualifi. You will have developed advanced capabilities in threat and risk management, network security, digital forensics, cryptography, incident management, and security leadership, grounded in real case studies from business and public sector organisations globally.

The programme also provides an excellent academic foundation for professionals considering advanced industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and the CISSP.

The qualification opens direct entry to the final year of the BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security and Networking at the University of Lancashire, enabling you to earn a full British bachelor's degree with only one year of further study.

Check Your Eligibility

Entry Requirements

This programme is designed for motivated people who are ready to invest in their future. Here is what we look for.

If you have formal qualifications:

  • A Level 3 qualification, two A-levels, a Foundation award, or equivalent, plus a minimum age of 18. Applicants without prior technical experience are strongly advised to complete the Qualifi Level 3 Diploma in Cyber Security Management and Operations before enrolling.
  • If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent is required. A free online English assessment is available if you are unsure of your level.
Or

If you do not have formal qualifications:

  • GCSE Maths and English at Grade C or above, plus at least three years of relevant technical or security work experience, plus a minimum age of 18.
  • The same English language and age requirements apply.
Continue your journey

Where this takes you next.

On successful completion you may progress directly into:

Fees & Payment

Regionalised Pricing and Flexible Payment Plans

We offer regional discounts to keep education accessible worldwide. Select your country of residence below to get your local fee.

Tier 1
£3,120
Standard course fee for residents of United Kingdom
Application feeFree
Pay in full (5% off)£2,964
Instalments£260 × 12
Awarding Body

Why choose Qualifi

Qualifi is a leading UK awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation). This statutory regulation ensures all qualifications meet rigorous quality standards, providing you with globally recognised credentials.

Designed for career advancement and academic progression, Qualifi programmes focus on developing practical skills for the modern workplace. The curriculum helps working professionals build the analytical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities required for effective leadership.

To ensure professional relevance, Qualifi develops its qualifications in close consultation with employers and industry experts. Furthermore, Qualifi is fully committed to accessibility, equality, and diversity, offering inclusive higher education pathways that support lifelong learning and professional growth.

From our community

Reviews from students across programmes we offer.

Hear from the professionals who studied with LIBT, the skills they gained, the goals they reached, and the moments that changed how they work.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this diploma designed for?
This programme is designed for IT professionals, network administrators, security analysts, and managers who want to move into senior cyber security roles. It is also suited to career changers with a technical background who want structured, credible qualifications in cyber security. Because it is online and self-paced, it works particularly well for those already working in IT or information security who cannot commit to full-time study.
What is the difference between this and just the Level 4 or Level 5 diploma separately?
The Extended Diploma combines both the Level 4 (120 credits) and Level 5 (120 credits) qualifications into a single 240-credit programme, giving you a comprehensive progression from operational security knowledge to senior leadership and technical mastery. Learners who complete the 120 Level 4 credits but do not continue may receive the Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Cyber Security as an exit award.
Who awards this qualification and what does Ofqual regulation mean?
This diploma is awarded by Qualifi, a UK awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual, the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation. Ofqual regulation means the qualification meets rigorous national quality standards and is accredited to the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). This is what makes it recognised by the University of Lancashire for direct entry to the final year of its BSc degree.
How does the BSc pathway at the University of Lancashire work?
Completing this 240-credit extended diploma provides direct entry to the final year of the BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security and Networking at the University of Lancashire. You bypass the first two years of the degree and study only the final year, earning a full British bachelor's degree in cyber security at significantly reduced cost and in far less time.
Does this programme prepare me for industry certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+?
Yes. The Level 5 modules in particular cover technical and management content directly relevant to advanced industry certifications including CompTIA Security+ and the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). While this diploma does not itself award those certifications, it provides a strong academic and practical foundation that will support your preparation for them alongside or after your studies.
What support is available once I enrol?
You will have 24-hour access to on-demand tutoring at no additional cost. Tutors are reachable via email, phone, or video call. Your learning platform provides continuous access to recorded lectures, course materials, and optional supplementary resources. If professional or personal circumstances require you to pause your studies, our student support team can arrange a formal deferral with no loss of completed credits.
Take the next step

Ready to lead at the next level?

Submit your application at your convenience. Our admissions team remains available should you wish to discuss the programme in more detail beforehand.