• Access Duration:  2 Years
• Awarded by: Qualifi
• Qualification Level:  Level 5
• Qualification Number: 603/3042/9 
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 1200
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 2400
• Credits: 240

• Analyse complex cyber threats, evaluate vulnerabilities, and understand how attacks occur and evolve to recommend effective mitigation strategies.
• Design secure network architectures, configure and manage network devices, and ensure data and communications are protected.
• Implement security controls, monitor network activity, respond to incidents, and apply risk-based decision-making in professional environments.
• Conduct incident response, digital investigations, and forensics using appropriate techniques and tools to gather evidence and report findings.
• Understand relevant laws, policies, standards, and ethical principles, and apply strategic planning and security management concepts effectively.
• Configure and administer IT systems and infrastructure, including system administration, routing and switching, and maintaining ICT systems to ensure performance and security.
• Communicate complex technical issues clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders and work professionally within teams.

This course is ideal for: 

• Aspiring Cyber Security Professionals
• IT Support Technicians
• Network Engineers
• Career Changers Entering the IT Sector
• Professionals Seeking Career Progression
• Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
• Compliance and Risk Professionals
• Cloud Security Specialists
• Network Administrators

• Every application is reviewed individually to ensure you’re well prepared to successfully complete the programme and meet the qualification requirements.  
• This qualification has been designed to be accessible, without unnecessary barriers to entry. To apply, you’ll need to be 18 years or older. 
• If English is not your first language, you’ll need a suitable level of English to fully engage with the course. Our Learner Support Team can help assess your level and guide you on any next steps or additional support you may need. 
• If you hold international qualifications, we’ll review them carefully to ensure they are suitable for entry. 
• You’ll usually be asked to provide two supporting references, ideally including at least one academic reference. 
• The South London College Learner Support Team is here to guide you at every stage, answer your questions, and help you feel confident about your application. 

Assessment Strategy & Methods 

•  There are no formal exams.  
• QUALIFI provides assessments for each unit, and South London College will conduct the assessments. Learners must demonstrate all learning outcomes and meet all assessment criteria to pass. Evidence can include real organisational information, case studies, or workplace-based research. Assessments are marked internally by South London College. 

Formative Assessment: 

• Formative assessment takes place during the course, before the summative assessment, and is designed to help learners reflect on their learning and improve their performance. It provides constructive feedback with clear guidance for improvement. It is important to note that formative assessment does not contribute to the learner’s final grades. 

Summative Assessment: 

• Summative assessment takes place at the end of a unit or component and is used to evaluate learner competence and progression. 

Mentor Guidance and Support

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

For any questions about assessment methods, processes, or specific qualification requirements, please click ‘Enquire Now’ to connect with our team

The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Networking and Cyber Security is designed for learners who want to build advanced knowledge and hands‑on expertise in both networking and cybersecurity. This programme covers network design and protection, cyber threat analysis, risk management, secure systems, ethical practices, and developing strong problem‑solving, critical thinking, and technical skills for professional IT environments.

Next Steps for a Potential Academic Progression Pathway  

• Step 1 – Level 6 Diploma in Cyber Security
• Step 2 – Top-Up Degree in Cyber Security and Networking
• Step 3 – Master’s Degree in Cyber Security

Alternative Pathways

• Level 5 Data Analyst Higher Technical Qualification
• Level 5 Diploma in Artificial Intelligence

The Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma in Networking and Cyber Security opens the door to a wide range of specialist and senior career opportunities within the fast-growing IT and digital security sector. With this qualification, you can pursue roles in network protection, cyber threat analysis, information security, and security operations across industries such as finance, healthcare, government, retail, and technology. This qualification provides the opportunity to work in corporate IT departments, cybersecurity consultancies, managed service providers (MSPs), and Security Operations Centres (SOCs).  

Here are some job prospects you can pursue along with the average salary scale (Source: UK Glassdoor). 

• IT Security Officer or Consultant – £48,000 
• Network Security Specialist – £46,000 
• Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst – £44,000 
• Cyber Security Analyst – £42,000 
• Information Security Analyst – £41,000 
• Penetration Tester (Junior Level) – £40,000 

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.