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HND in Digital Technologies (Cyber Security)

Want to be at the forefront of protecting the digital world?

The Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) in Digital Technologies (Cyber Security) at GBS Dubai gives you the skills and expertise to secure networks, servers, protect data and combat cyber attacks in today’s technology-driven world.

This internationally recognised qualification consists of 240 credits, combining both Level 4 (Higher National Certificate) and Level 5 (Higher National Diploma) units. You will explore the principles of cyber security, threat detection, incident response and secure systems design, cloud security, networking concepts including cloud networking. Applied cryptographic techniques with CSPs that prepares you for high-demand roles or further study in cyber security and related fields.

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Intake

January, March, June, September

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Duration

Two years

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Awarding Institution

Pearson

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Delivery

On-campus (weekdays/weekends/evenings)

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Campus

Dubai Knowledge Park

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Language

English

Course Overview

The HND in Digital Technologies (Cyber Security) at GBS Dubai is designed for those passionate about defending systems and data against evolving cyber threats. Over two years, you will learn core IT and networking concepts alongside specialised cyber security modules covering fundamental concepts of ethical hacking, penetration testing, risk management and incident response methodology.

Through applied learning, simulated security breaches and case studies, you will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and techniques used by cyber security professionals. This course blends technical skills with problem-solving abilities, preparing you for an impactful career in a rapidly expanding sector.

Whether you aim to step straight into the workforce or progress to university-level study, this HND equips you with the professional capabilities to succeed.

Study Plan

Curriculum
Year 1: Total Credits:120
  1. Unit 1: Professional Practice in the Digital Economy
  2. Unit 2: Innovation and Digital Transformation
  3. Unit 3: Cyber Security
  4. Unit 4: Programming
  5. Unit 5: Big Data & Visualisation
  6. Unit 6: Networking in the Cloud
  7. Unit 7: Security
  8. Unit 8: Networking
Year 2: 120 credits
  1. Unit 9: Business Intelligence
  2. Unit 10: Internet of Things
  3. Unit 11: Emerging Technologies
  4. Unit 12: Applied Security in the Cloud
  5. Unit 13: Applied Cryptography in the Cloud
  6. Unit 14: Information Security Management in the Cloud
  7. Unit 15: Digital Sustainability
  8. Unit 16: Pitching and Negotiating Skills

Course highlights

  1. Learn to identify, assess and mitigate cyber threats.
  2. Gain hands-on experience with real-world cyber security tools and techniques.
  3. Develop specialist skills in areas such as cryptography, ethical hacking, and digital forensics.
  4. Build transferable skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  5. Progress directly to the final year of a bachelor’s degree in cyber security or related fields.

Assessment

There are no formal examinations for this course. Assessments are undertaken in various ways:

  • Case study
  • Training Delivery Demonstration
  • Business case
  • Python Programming Solution Development
  • PowerBI dashboard development
  • Cloud networking simulation
  • Report
  • Networking CISCO Packet Tracer simulation
  • IoT Prototype development
  • Emerging technology solution development
  • Applied cloud security - CSP solution
  • Security posture assessment / Informaion security management in the cloud
  • Pitching & negotiation presentation
  • Presentation
  • Completing a portfolio of evidence

You will be required to work in a certain timeframe within the semester (scheduled dealines will be communicated for each unit) to complete research, homework tasks or group work. Self-study is vital to your success on this course and lecturers will give you guidance on how best to approach this throughout the study period.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

Academic entry requirements vary from country to country. For academic requirements by country, contact us. 

English requirements

To study at GBS, you must demonstrate that your English level meets the required standard. We accept a variety of English language qualifications and tests for entry to our courses. For full details, see: English Requirements | GBS Dubai.

If you would like to improve your English before joining your course, please contact our colleagues at English Path Dubai. They offer a variety of English courses to meet students’ needs and abilities.

Fees and scholarships

Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Annual Tuition Fee

AED 40,000 per year

We offer flexible payment plans and a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships, including:

  • Academic merit scholarships
  • Early application discounts
  • Referral rewards
  • Flexible instalment plans

We encourage all applicants to discuss scholarship options during their admission process.

Course Overview

The HND in Digital Technologies (Cyber Security) at GBS Dubai is designed for those passionate about defending systems and data against evolving cyber threats. Over two years, you will learn core IT and networking concepts alongside specialised cyber security modules covering fundamental concepts of ethical hacking, penetration testing, risk management and incident response methodology.

Through applied learning, simulated security breaches and case studies, you will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and techniques used by cyber security professionals. This course blends technical skills with problem-solving abilities, preparing you for an impactful career in a rapidly expanding sector.

Whether you aim to step straight into the workforce or progress to university-level study, this HND equips you with the professional capabilities to succeed.

Study Plan
Curriculum
Year 1: Total Credits:120
  1. Unit 1: Professional Practice in the Digital Economy
  2. Unit 2: Innovation and Digital Transformation
  3. Unit 3: Cyber Security
  4. Unit 4: Programming
  5. Unit 5: Big Data & Visualisation
  6. Unit 6: Networking in the Cloud
  7. Unit 7: Security
  8. Unit 8: Networking
Year 2: 120 credits
  1. Unit 9: Business Intelligence
  2. Unit 10: Internet of Things
  3. Unit 11: Emerging Technologies
  4. Unit 12: Applied Security in the Cloud
  5. Unit 13: Applied Cryptography in the Cloud
  6. Unit 14: Information Security Management in the Cloud
  7. Unit 15: Digital Sustainability
  8. Unit 16: Pitching and Negotiating Skills
Course highlights
  1. Learn to identify, assess and mitigate cyber threats.
  2. Gain hands-on experience with real-world cyber security tools and techniques.
  3. Develop specialist skills in areas such as cryptography, ethical hacking, and digital forensics.
  4. Build transferable skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  5. Progress directly to the final year of a bachelor’s degree in cyber security or related fields.
Assessment

There are no formal examinations for this course. Assessments are undertaken in various ways:

  • Case study
  • Training Delivery Demonstration
  • Business case
  • Python Programming Solution Development
  • PowerBI dashboard development
  • Cloud networking simulation
  • Report
  • Networking CISCO Packet Tracer simulation
  • IoT Prototype development
  • Emerging technology solution development
  • Applied cloud security - CSP solution
  • Security posture assessment / Informaion security management in the cloud
  • Pitching & negotiation presentation
  • Presentation
  • Completing a portfolio of evidence

You will be required to work in a certain timeframe within the semester (scheduled dealines will be communicated for each unit) to complete research, homework tasks or group work. Self-study is vital to your success on this course and lecturers will give you guidance on how best to approach this throughout the study period.

Entry requirements
Academic requirements

Academic entry requirements vary from country to country. For academic requirements by country, contact us. 

English requirements

To study at GBS, you must demonstrate that your English level meets the required standard. We accept a variety of English language qualifications and tests for entry to our courses. For full details, see: English Requirements | GBS Dubai.

If you would like to improve your English before joining your course, please contact our colleagues at English Path Dubai. They offer a variety of English courses to meet students’ needs and abilities.

Fees and scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Annual Tuition Fee

AED 40,000 per year

We offer flexible payment plans and a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships, including:

  • Academic merit scholarships
  • Early application discounts
  • Referral rewards
  • Flexible instalment plans

We encourage all applicants to discuss scholarship options during their admission process.

Gain in-depth, practical skills in networking, security and technology, preparing you for IT careers and further study.

Progression Pathway Highlights
  1. Finish the HND in Digital Technologies (Cyber Security) in Dubai.
  2. Continue to Level 6 through a GEDU partner to complete your UK bachelor's degree.

Graduates of this HND can pursue careers in:

  • Cyber security specialist
  • Software developer
  • Data analyst
  • Network technician
  • Software tester
  • Risk analyst
  • Lead developer
  • Network engineer
  • Business analyst
  • Data analytics consultant

Our DUBAI Campus

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Our Partners

Our collaborations with world-renowned awarding bodies and professional organisations ensure that our qualifications are internationally recognised, industry-relevant and future-ready.

What our students say

GBS Dubai offers a wide range of industry-focused education courses, designed to fit around your busy schedule.

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Egor Yantsov

BA (Hons) Business and Management (GBS Malta)

When I arrived here, I had a lot of support from the academic office and staff. I think the best advice I could give would be to enjoy your time because studying here is such an amazing experience.

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Another Student

MBA (Global Business)

This university gave me the opportunity to learn and grow, both academically and personally. I truly recommend it for anyone seeking quality education abroad.

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Another Student

MBA (Global Business)

This university gave me the opportunity to learn and grow, both academically and personally. I truly recommend it for anyone seeking quality education abroad.

FAQs

A Higher National Diploma (HND) is equivalent to the first two years of an undergraduate degree. While the duration of HND courses can vary occasionally, they typically take two years to complete. HNDs are available in a range of specialisms, including cyber security, computing, engineering and more.

Yes, you can progress from a Higher National Diploma (HND) to a full undergraduate degree. Many universities offer direct entry into the third and final year of a bachelor’s degree for HND graduates, meaning you could earn your degree with just one additional year of study.

Both an HND and a bachelor’s degree are valuable qualifications, but the best choice depends on your career goals and study preferences. An HND typically takes two years to complete and is highly practical, making it ideal for fast-tracking your entry into the workforce. A bachelor’s degree usually takes three to four years and provides a more in-depth academic approach.

A Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) in digital technologies are vocational qualifications that provide essential knowledge of computing, networking and technology applications, along with practical skills development. The HNC takes one year to complete, while the HND takes two years.

Cyber security is one of the fastest-growing fields worldwide, with increasing demand for skilled professionals to protect data, systems and networks. Graduates can enjoy strong job prospects, competitive salaries and opportunities to work across multiple industries.