Available courses

Course Title: Cybersecurity Defender (Occupational Skill Course)

Course Code: 900103-000-00-00
SAQA ID: SP-220330
NQF Level: 4
Total Credits: 60

1. Rationale and Purpose

As digital systems, artificial intelligence, and data-driven operations become central to modern economies, cyber threats are increasing in scale, complexity, and impact. Cybercrime now affects governments, healthcare systems, financial institutions, and businesses across all sectors, resulting in severe financial losses, service disruptions, and data breaches.

South Africa, aligned with global digital transformation priorities, requires skilled cybersecurity professionals who can defend systems, monitor threats, and respond effectively to cyber incidents. This Occupational Skill Course is designed to address this urgent skills demand by preparing learners with practical, job-ready cybersecurity defence capabilities applicable in both local and international contexts.

The programme equips learners with foundational and applied cyber defence skills, enabling them to operate as frontline Cybersecurity Defenders within structured organisational environments.

2. Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme, learners will be able to:

  • Identify and analyse common cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and attack methods.
  • Monitor systems and networks to detect cyber incidents in real time.
  • Implement protective measures** to secure systems, networks, and data assets.
  • Perform basic ethical hacking and penetration testing activities.
  • Apply incident response and recovery procedures following security breaches.
  • Support organizational compliance with recognized cybersecurity standards and practices.

 3. Curriculum Structure

The programme consists of Knowledge Modules and Practical Modules, structured to ensure both theoretical understanding and hands-on technical competence. Total notional learning hours: 600 hours.

 4. Assessment and Certification

Assessment is conducted through a combination of applied taskspractical evaluations, and integrated assessments aligned with occupational outcomes. Learners are required to demonstrate both technical knowledge and applied cyber defence skills in simulated and real-world scenarios.

Upon successful completion of all programme requirements, learners are awarded 60 NQF Level 4 credits for this Occupational Skill Course. Certification is issued in line with QCTO assessment and quality assurance requirements, subject to successful completion of the final External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA).

5. Career Pathways and Progression

Graduates of this programme may access entry-level and junior roles within cybersecurity and IT security environments, including:

  • Cybersecurity Defender/ Security Operations Support
  • Junior SOC (Security Operations Centre) Analyst
  • IT Security Support Technician
  • Network and Systems Security Assistant
  • Ethical Hacking/ Penetration Testing Support Roles

The programme also provides recognised occupational learning that may contribute towards Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or further occupational study, subject to the admission criteria and assessment requirements of the relevant qualification or institution.

Articulation: This course is a recognised part-qualification of the Occupational Certificate: Cybersecurity Analyst & AI Software Developer (NQF Level 5) , offering a clear and structured pathway for continued professional development.

6. Institutional Commitment to Quality

Our institution is fully equipped to deliver this qualification. We confirm that:

  • Facilitators are qualified professionals with relevant industry experience in cybersecurity.
  • Physical Resources (hardware, software, and networking labs) are available as per curriculum requirements to support all practical modules.
  • Staff and learners are thoroughly briefed on the qualification structure, assessment criteria, and the requirements of the final External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA).
  • Internal Quality Assurance processes are in place to monitor delivery, assessment, and learner support, ensuring compliance with QCTO standards.

Enrol Today and Become a Frontline Defender in the Digital Age.

This Computer Technician Course is designed to equip learners with the practical skills and foundational knowledge required to troubleshoot, maintain, and repair computer systems. It covers essential areas of computer hardware, software installation, network configuration, and IT support. By the end of this course, learners will have the expertise to handle technical issues efficiently, making them valuable assets in today’s tech-driven job market.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the architecture and components of modern computers.
  • Install, configure, and maintain operating systems and software applications.
  • Diagnose and resolve hardware and software issues.
  • Perform routine maintenance and system upgrades.
  • Implement basic networking setups and resolve network connectivity problems.
  • Provide effective customer support and IT assistance.

Target Audience: This course is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in IT, or those wanting to enhance their technical skills to pursue roles such as Computer Technician, IT Support Specialist, or Systems Administrator.

Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy is recommended but not required

Course Description: Cybersecurity Analyst

Course Overview

This comprehensive cybersecurity analyst course is designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge and skills to protect networks, computer systems, and information assets from cyber threats. The program covers a wide range of cybersecurity concepts, including risk assessment, vulnerability management, incident response, and compliance frameworks.

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Understand fundamental cybersecurity principles and best practices.
  • Assess risks to assets and evaluate existing security measures.
  • Identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in networks and systems.
  • Implement effective detection, protection, and prevention systems.
  • Respond to security incidents and breaches in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Comply with relevant cybersecurity regulations and standards.

Course Content:

  • Introduction to cybersecurity
  • Risk assessment and management
  • Vulnerability assessment and management
  • Incident response and handling
  • Cybersecurity frameworks and standards (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework)
  • Ethical hacking and penetration testing
  • Network security
  • Application security
  • Cloud security
  • Data privacy and protection
  • Cybersecurity governance and compliance

Course Benefits:

  • Gain in-demand skills in the cybersecurity field.
  • Enhance career prospects and earning potential.
  • Contribute to the protection of critical infrastructure and information assets.
  • Develop a strong understanding of cybersecurity best practices and regulations.

Target Audience:

  • IT professionals seeking to specialize in cybersecurity.
  • Students interested in a career in information security.
  • Individuals looking to improve their cybersecurity knowledge and skills.

Conquer Tech Issues with the IT Technical Support NQF Level 4 (SAQA ID 78964) Course!

Are you ready to:

  • Troubleshoot computer problems and solve user issues?
  • Master the fundamentals of hardware and software support?
  • Build a strong foundation for a career in IT?

This IT Technical Support NQF Level 4 course (SAQA ID 78964) equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the dynamic world of technical support.

What you'll learn:

  • Hardware and Software Essentials: Gain a solid understanding of computer components, operating systems, and networking fundamentals.
  • Troubleshooting Techniques: Master the art of problem-solving, user interaction, and effective communication in technical situations.
  • Customer Service Skills: Develop the communication and interpersonal skills needed to provide exceptional customer support.
  • Industry Best Practices: Learn industry-standard procedures for resolving technical issues efficiently.

This course is ideal for:

  • Individuals with an interest in IT support careers
  • Those seeking a career change or upskilling in the IT field
  • Anyone who wants to gain practical troubleshooting skills for personal or professional use

By the end of this course, you'll be:

  • Confident in troubleshooting a wide range of technical problems
  • Equipped to provide effective technical support to users
  • Prepared for further studies or entry-level IT support positions

Take control of your tech future. Enroll today!