About this qualification 

This qualification is designed to give learners the knowledge and associated skills and behaviours required to work in a variety of roles in secure network infrastructure. It will also prepare learners to progress to further study in this area.  

This qualification is designed for learners who want to upskill or retrain within the digital sector. It is also suitable for learners who want to further their studies in the digital sector. This higher technical qualification (HTQ) will give learners the skills, knowledge and behaviours to meet specific employer needs and industry requirements. 

Who is it suitable for? 

This qualification is designed for learners who want to advance their career in secure network infrastructure. It is also suitable for learners who wish to progress to further study in this specialised area. 

What are the entry requirements? 

There are no specific prior skills/knowledge a learner must have for this qualification. However, learners may find it helpful if they have already achieved a relevant level 4 qualification. Learners must be at least 18 years old.  

How is this qualification structured? 

This qualification is made up of 6 mandatory units and is graded pass, merit or distinction. 

How is it assessed? 

This qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured via a portfolio of evidence, including task-based assessments.  

How many credits are required to complete it? 

To be awarded this qualification, learners are required to successfully achieve 120 credits overall, which is a minimum of a pass in each of the 6 graded mandatory units. 

How long will it take to complete this qualification? 

This qualification can be completed in 1 year, if taken full time. 

Do you need to be working to take this qualification? 

Work/industry placement experience is not required. 

What related qualifications can you progress to? 

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to the following: 

• further education:  
  • related apprenticeships  

• higher education: 

• • cloud computing degree 

• • networking degree 

• • cyber security degree 

• • degree apprenticeship. 

Career opportunities 

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to the following: 

• cloud engineer 
• cloud solutions architect 

• cyber security analyst 

• network engineer 

• security architect. 

Funding for our qualifications 

Find out more about funding for this and other qualifications on our funding page.

Useful links

Mandatory policies and fees

Assessment regulations and guides

For more information about HTQs, please refer to the Skills England website.