Digital Technology (Networking and Cyber Security) – Level 2
Start Date: 1st September 2027
- Length 35 weeks
- Study Full-Time
- Location Carlisle College
Qualification Gained
Level 2 BTEC Technical Diploma in Digital Technology (Networking and Cyber Security)
Levels ExplainedMore about the course
Want to start a career in digital technology?
This qualification is ideal for you if you are intending to progress directly to employment in digital technology or IT, or to an IT apprenticeship.
The qualification has been developed in consultation with employers in the IT sector. It will enable you to develop the skills and behaviours that give you the best opportunity to be successful in applying for work.
You will learn IT network features and functions, common practices in network security, the function and features of the main network appliances, setting up new equipment and upgrading existing systems, IT service solutions and the issues encountered in IT solutions in an organisation, use of ethical hacking techniques to test the security of a network, and creating and maintaining a network.
Entry requirements
- 4 GCSEs at grade 3 (D) or above including English or Maths GCSE, which must be grade 4 (C) or above
- Level 2 Qualification with English and maths grade 3 (D) or Functional Skills Level 2
Scottish equivalent
- 3 National 5s at grade D and above including English and Maths/Applications of Maths
- SCQF Level 5 or equivalent qualification including Level 5 qualification in English and Maths
Please note that entry requirements and course offer can be subject to change at any time.
What will I achieve?
Upon successful completion of this course you will achieve a Level 2 BTEC Technical Diploma in Digital Technology (Networking and Cybersecurity)
What will I learn?
- Set up and Configure Technology Systems
- Exploring Current and Emerging Technologies
- Security Protection and Risk Management
- IT Service Solutions
- Networking Tools and Applications
- Installing and Maintaining Networks
How is the course taught?
- Lab practicals
- Lectures
- Group projects
- Self-study
How am I assessed?
- Exam
- Controlled assessment
Work experience opportunities
You will be encouraged and supported to seek opportunities to develop your skills further through work experience within the digital industry. Students have recently completed placements in IT support as well as utilising virtual work placements with companies such as EA Games and Blackbird.
English and Maths
Maths is essential in IT and will be embedded into your course through written communications and expression, the learning of technical language, the application of maths within coding and using formulae in spreadsheets and databases.
If you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either English or Maths, you will be supported through dedicated lessons to achieve these qualifications.
Where can I progress?
Upon successful completion of this course, you can progress onto one of our Level 3 courses upon achievement of a minimum Merit grade on this course.
There is also the opportunity to enter employment or to undertake an apprenticeship on successful completion of this course.
Course Costs
If you are aged 16-18 when you begin your course you are likely to be eligible for free tuition. Detailed information can be found within the financial support section.
Meet our Tutors and Students
Marc Newrick
HE Computing TutorMarc is a lecturer in Computing, with a focus on Software Development and Cyber Security, teaching from Level 2, all the way up to level 6 (Undergraduate Degree level) at Carlisle College. He has worked at the college for 6 years, having previously worked for a Cumbrian website and web application development agency, working his way up from a Junior to Senior Developer over the course of his career. Having been a student himself at the college, studying a Level 3 in Computing, Marc was once in the position of his students, and can pass on his own experiences and knowledge of breaking into the computing industry, as well using his own industry based experience to support and develop best practice, skills and knowledge in his learners. Marc recently completed his Master of Science (MSc) in Cyber Security at The Open University.
Lucy Newrick
Computing and Business TutorI began working at Carlisle college during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and since then I have taught across level 1 & 2 courses all the way up to our degree courses in both Computing and Business. Before joining the college, I have worked in a range of different industries including retail, hospitality, marketing, and management. Alongside this, I have also continued my own education and gained qualifications which include a BA (Hons) Performing Arts, and an MSc in Business Management and Finance. Working in education is something I love doing, because it allows me to build connections with learners and see them flourish in a subject they are passionate about.
Fionn Mclaughlin
Student Govenor - IT StudentI enjoyed the course and my experience at Carlisle College. I had access to great facilities and knowledgeable tutors with up-to-date insight and experience in the digital industry. Events ran by the college, like the John Stevenson Skills Fair, were particularly useful as speaking to the numerous companies allowed me to see what jobs were available after I completed my studies. Using the skills I have gained from my course, I'll continue with further studies by attending university to study computer science. You don't have to be massively interested in computers or IT to do this course, if you are, then it would still be a great place for you to study. I chose it because I wanted to learn more about computer science and considered it a strong career path to go into. The course and my experience provided me with strong skills, both soft and practical, which I can now apply to many different jobs.
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What's happening?
October Open Event
Carlisle College
Thursday 15th October 2026
4:45pm - 6:30pm
November Open Event
Carlisle College
Thursday 26th November 2026
4:45pm - 6:30pm
January Open Event
Carlisle College
Thursday 14th January 2027
4:45pm - 6:30pm
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