Extended Diploma in Cyber Security
Develop Advanced Cyber Security Skills with a Globally Recognised Level 5 Extended Diploma
Ofqual Regulated Qualification
Assignment Based Assessment
Flexible Online Learning
UK & International Recognition
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The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security is a UK-regulated higher-level qualification designed to develop advanced knowledge and applied capability across cyber security, information security, digital risk management and organisational resilience. The Extended Diploma combines the Level 4 and Level 5 stages, giving learners a structured programme that progresses from core cyber security principles to more advanced technical, management and leadership-focused study.
Awarded by Qualifi, an Ofqual-recognised Awarding Organisation, the qualification is accredited on England’s Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and carries qualification number 610/3296/7. This regulatory status provides clear recognition of its level and quality assurance within the UK qualifications system, while Qualifi makes the programme available to learners in the UK and internationally.
The curriculum develops knowledge across cyber security threats and risk, network and database security, computer programming, incident response, digital investigations and forensics, security strategy, cryptography, communications and incident management, and strategic leadership. Learners also engage with areas such as project management, business continuity, crisis management, disaster recovery, ethical practice and global cyber risk. This combination of technical, analytical and managerial learning provides a broad understanding of how organisations can identify, assess, manage and respond to evolving cyber security risk
The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security is an Ofqual-regulated qualification accredited on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). The qualification has a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 2,400 hours and 1,320 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), with 240 credits.
Assessment for the Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security is assignment-based. Learner work is assessed in accordance with Qualifi assessment and quality assurance requirements to ensure that learners demonstrate the required knowledge, understanding and practical application of cyber security concepts and practices.
To achieve the qualification, learners must successfully complete nine mandatory units and one optional unit.
Core Study Units
Level 4 Mandatory Units
Level 4 Optional Units
Learners choose one of the following:
Level 5 Mandatory Units
The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security is designed for learners who want to develop advanced knowledge of cyber security while building a broader understanding of information security, digital risk, incident management and strategic security practices. It is suitable for UK and international learners seeking a structured higher-level qualification that combines technical and strategic aspects of cyber security.
This qualification may be particularly relevant to:
The programme is particularly suited to learners who want to understand both the technical and strategic dimensions of cyber security rather than focusing exclusively on a single technical specialism. Its coverage of cyber security threats and risk, network and database security, programming, incident response, digital forensics, cryptography, communications, incident management and strategic leadership provides a broad academic foundation for further study and professional development.
The qualification can also provide a progression route for learners intending to continue their education at a higher level, subject to the admission and recognition requirements of the receiving institution. It should not, however, be presented as an automatic route to employment or a guaranteed career outcome.

Entry Requirements
Career Opportunities
The specification also identifies direct progression into employment in an associated profession as a possible route following completion of the Level 5 Extended Diploma. This should be understood as a potential pathway rather than a guarantee of employment, as actual career opportunities depend on the learner's experience, skills, employer requirements and relevant professional or industry certifications.
Cyber Security Analyst
Monitors systems, analyses threats, investigates vulnerabilities and supports organisations in identifying and responding to cyber security incidents.
Information Security Analyst
Helps protect organisational information by assessing security risks, reviewing controls and supporting information security policies and procedures.
Security Operations Centre Analyst
Monitors security events, investigates suspicious activity and assists with incident detection and response within security operations environments.
Incident Response Analyst
Investigates cyber security incidents, assesses their impact and supports containment, recovery and organisational response activities following security breaches.
Digital Forensics Analyst
Examines digital devices and evidence to identify, preserve and analyse information relevant to cyber security investigations and incidents.
Cyber Security Consultant
Advises organisations on cyber security risks, security controls, incident management and strategies for strengthening their overall security posture.
Network Security Analyst
Supports network protection by analysing security threats, monitoring network activity and helping implement appropriate network security measures.
Cyber Security Risk Analyst
Identifies and evaluates cyber security risks, helping organisations develop appropriate controls, policies and strategies to reduce potential exposure.
Future Progression
The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security provides learners with a strong foundation for further academic study and professional development in cyber security and related technology fields. The qualification develops knowledge across cyber security threats and risk, network and database security, programming, incident response, digital investigations and forensics, cryptography, incident management, and strategic leadership.
Academically, learners may progress to relevant Level 6 university degree top-up programmes or other higher-level qualifications in cyber security, information security, computing and related disciplines, subject to the entry and recognition requirements of the receiving institution.
Professionally, the qualification can support progression towards roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Information Security Analyst, Security Operations Centre Analyst, Incident Response Analyst, Digital Forensics Analyst, Cyber Security Consultant, Network Security Analyst, Cyber Security Risk Analyst, and Information Security Officer, depending on the learner’s experience, practical skills and employer requirements. The knowledge developed through the qualification provides a foundation for analysing cyber threats, managing security risks, investigating incidents, applying security controls, and supporting organisational cyber security strategies.
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