• Access Duration:  2 Years
• Awarded by: Qualifi
• Qualification Level:  Level 3
• Qualification Number: 610/5598/0 
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 1290
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 1800
• Credits: 180
• UCAS Points: 96

• Read and understand relevant literature with confidence and critical awareness.
• Think independently and solve problems using your IT and cybersecurity knowledge.
• Apply your subject knowledge and understanding to both familiar and unfamiliar challenges.
• Recognise ethical and professional issues, appreciating the importance of ethical standards and professional codes of conduct.
• Understand the interdisciplinary nature of IT, cybersecurity, and business environments.
• Communicate clearly and accurately, engaging confidently with both specialists and non‑specialists on technical topics.
• Develop transferable skills and knowledge that help you adapt to changing workplaces and digital environments.

Who is this course ideal for,  

• School Leavers 
• Career Changers 
• Cyber Security Analysts 
• SOC Analysts 
• Information Security Analysts 
• Cyber Security Technicians 
• Incident Response Analysts 
• Junior Software Developers 
• Web Developers 
• Application Support Analysts 

• To apply, you must be aged 18 or over.
• We review each application individually to ensure every learner is well prepared to successfully complete the course.
• If English is not your first language, you will need a suitable level of English to fully engage with the course.
• If you hold international qualifications, these will be reviewed to ensure they meet the required entry standards for the programme.
• Applicants are usually expected to provide two references, with at least one preferably being academic.

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (9 – 12 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option ( 5 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 24 months. This Level 3 Extended Diploma requires approximately 1290 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

• There are no formal exams.

Awarding Classification / Grading

• The grading structure for this qualification is as follows:
  • Fail: 0–39%
  • Pass: 40–59%
  • Merit: 60–69%
  • Distinction: 70% and above

Assessment Strategy & Methods

• Assessments may include work-related information, examples, or case studies. Some tasks may involve practical assignments observed by an assessor. Learners’ work is internally marked by South London College and externally moderated by QUALIFI.

Formative Assessment:

• Formative assessment takes place during the learning process, before the summative assessment, and is designed to help learners reflect on and improve their work. It provides prompt, constructive feedback with clear guidance for improvement, and all records are kept for quality assurance purposes. Formative assessments are not graded and do not contribute to the final unit mark.

Summative Assessment:

• Summative assessment takes place at the end of a unit to evaluate learner competence. Assessors check that all learning outcomes and assessment criteria have been met.

Mentor Guidance and Support

Our experienced mentors will guide and support you throughout the assessment process. You can reach them via email

The Qualifi Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT and Cyber Security helps learners build a strong understanding of core IT and cyber security concepts, tools, and practical applications. This extended diploma covers IT systems, networks, threat identification, and risk management techniques, while developing skills to critically analyse, evaluate, and apply IT and cyber security principles in both practical and theoretical contexts.

Next Steps for a Potential Academic Progression Pathway  

• Step 1 – Higher National Certificate in Computing
• Step 2 – Higher National Diploma in Computing with Cyber Security
• Step 3 – Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics

Alternative Pathways:

• Level 3 Diploma in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Level 3 Diploma in Data Science and Analytics

The Qualifi Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT and Cyber Security is designed for learners who want to gain a solid foundation in IT and cyber security while developing the practical skills that employers value. This hands-on programme builds confidence, problem-solving abilities, and analytical thinking, preparing you to contribute effectively in IT, digital operations, and cybersecurity roles across a variety of industries. 

Career opportunities and potential salaries in the UK (approximate, source: Glassdoor): 

• Junior IT Technicians or Cyber Security Technicians – £38,000 
• Trainee Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analysts – £36,000 
• Junior Network or Security Analysts – £34,000 
• IT Support and Cyber Security Assistants – £32,000 

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. Ofqual ensures that all qualifications offered by recognised awarding organisations meet rigorous national standards, giving you confidence that any Ofqual-regulated certificate is high-quality and widely accepted by employers and universities.