Free Level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma in Digital Technologies for England Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Matthew Boulton College, full-time during the day. This Pearson Edexcel qualification focuses on cyber security and cloud networking, two of the fastest-growing areas in the digital sector. You'll build the technical skills businesses need to protect systems and data from digital threats. The course runs for 35 weeks. Entry requires 32 UCAS Tariff points, including at least one A Level or equivalent Level 3 qualification, plus four GCSEs at grade C/4 or above. Mature applicants are assessed individually.
Who this course is for
Interested in one of the fastest-growing areas in the digital world? This
Cyber Security and Cloud Networking course is designed to equip you with the
skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a high-demand industry. With global
digital threats on the rise, businesses are looking for professionals who can
protect their systems and data.
Entry requirements
32 UCAS Tariff points, including at least one A Level or equivalent Level 3
qualification (preferably in a digital or IT-related subject), and four GCSEs at
grade C/4 or above. Mature applicants are welcome and assessed individually. All
applicants must attend an interview with course tutors.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills in cyber security, including identifying and responding to digital threats.
You'll learn how to design and manage cloud networking systems.
You'll understand how businesses protect their data and IT infrastructure.
You'll apply technical knowledge to real security and networking scenarios.
You'll build skills in network configuration and cloud-based technologies.
You'll explore the principles behind secure system design and data protection.
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom at Matthew Boulton College, with full-time daytime attendance across 35 weeks. Assessment is through a combination of assignments, projects, and practical tasks. All applicants attend an interview with course tutors before starting. Assessment methods follow the Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National framework, which uses coursework-based assessment rather than traditional exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Matthew Boulton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Cyber security analyst: monitoring and protecting business systems from threats.
Cloud network engineer: designing and managing cloud-based infrastructure.
IT security technician: maintaining secure networks and systems.
Network administrator: configuring and supporting organisational networks.
Information security officer: overseeing data protection policies and compliance.
Cloud support specialist: providing technical support for cloud platforms.
Systems administrator: managing servers, networks, and IT environments.
What you could study next
Level 6 BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security or Digital Technologies: a full honours degree, often available as a top-up from HND level at many universities.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or CompTIA Security+: industry certifications that strengthen your cyber security credentials for employers.
Apprenticeship at degree level: some employers offer Level 6 or 7 degree apprenticeships in cyber security or network engineering for those already working in the sector.
