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Delivered by Online Business School. Course and third-party fees may apply.

Current controlled listing RQF Level 4

Paid flexible online qualification

Cyber Security Level 4 and Level 5

A flexible online route covering computer systems, networks and security foundations at Level 4, followed by security testing, digital forensics, ethical hacking and malware analysis at Level 5.

Provider
Online Business School
Study format
Online
Assessment
Six online written assignments at each level

Decision clarity

Separate what is confirmed from what still needs checking.

The course, qualification and fee fields shown here have passed the current RSG release checks. Provider decisions and final terms still need confirming before enrolment.

Controlled information

Confirmed on this page

Delivery
Online
Study pace
Flexible and self-paced
Assessment
Six online written assignments at each level
Provider
Online Business School
Qualification level
RQF Level 4
Published course option
Level 4 and Level 5 combined package: £3,500

Before you commit

To be confirmed

  • The provider must confirm current entry eligibility and any evidence required for this exact route.
  • Confirm the final payable total, payment timetable, cancellation terms and any mandatory third-party charges before payment.
  • Confirm the current start arrangement and platform access period, including whether up to five years under current provider terms still applies.
  • A receiving university, employer, professional body or other organisation makes its own recognition and progression decisions.

Fees and payment

Compare the current published options.

These totals follow the controlled provider record used for this page. Confirm the final written terms before paying.

Level 4 and Level 5 combined package

£3,500

Published price before VAT

£20 deposit, then 24 monthly payments of £145 at 0% interest. The deposit is included in the displayed total.

Level 4 only or Level 5 only

£2,900

Published price before VAT

£20 deposit, then 24 monthly payments of £120 at 0% interest. The deposit is included in the displayed total.

The current Online Business School Limited public listing states £2,900 excluding VAT for one level and £3,500 excluding VAT for the combined route. The listed plans use a £20 deposit followed by 24 monthly payments of £120 for one level or £145 for the combined route. Confirm the VAT-inclusive payable total before enrolment.

Course decision guide

Is this the right route for you?

Use these fit questions alongside the qualification facts. Final entry and recognition decisions remain with the relevant provider or receiving organisation.

This route may suit you if

  • Learners ready for Level 4 who want security foundations followed by testing, forensics, ethical hacking and malware analysis.
  • People who want regulated cyber-security diplomas rather than a short vendor-exam preparation course.
  • Learners comfortable combining written academic assessment with separate practical skill development.

Compare another route first if

  • You want a broad computing route covering systems analysis, software, databases and IT project management rather than a security specialism.
  • Your immediate goal is a named vendor certification or a role that requires hands-on experience or security clearance.

Compare the closest alternatives

Alternative route

IT and Computing Level 4 and Level 5

Choose IT and Computing for broader programming, systems, database, network and project study across both levels. Compare course details

Alternative route

IT and Networking Level 4 and Level 5

Choose IT and Networking if routing, switching, administration and network design matter more than forensics and malware analysis. Compare course details

Qualification facts

What qualification will you receive?

Review the provider and awarding organisation separately so you can understand exactly what the route leads to.

RQF Level 4

OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Cyber Security

Awarding organisation
OTHM
Qualification number
610/5103/2
Credits
120
Check qualification source

RQF Level 5

OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Cyber Security

Awarding organisation
OTHM
Qualification number
610/5104/4
Credits
120
Check qualification source

Curriculum

What you will study

01

Level 4 units

  1. Information Technology Security
  2. Principles of Computer Science
  3. Algorithms and Data Structures
  4. Computer Networks
  5. Mathematics for Computer Science
  6. Operating Systems
02

Level 5 units

  1. Security Testing
  2. Artificial Intelligence
  3. Databases
  4. Digital Forensics
  5. Ethical Hacking
  6. Malware Analysis

Practical requirements

What you need and how the course is assessed.

Entry requirements

  • For Level 4, applicants are normally aged 18 or above and hold a relevant Level 3 qualification, A levels or an equivalent qualification suitable for cyber security or computing study.
  • Mature applicants may be considered using relevant experience, subject to the provider’s assessment.
  • Entry to Level 5 normally requires the relevant Level 4 diploma or an accepted equivalent.
  • Learners studying in English must demonstrate sufficient English-language competence.
  • Online Business School makes the final enrolment decision.

Assessment in practice

  • The current provider listing states six online written assignments at Level 4 and six at Level 5.
  • Assignments are currently described as approximately 2,000 to 3,000 words each.
  • The qualifications are assignment-based and do not replace vendor certification examinations.
  • Confirm whether a combined enrolment issues two diplomas or the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Cyber Security.

Further study and careers

Further study and progression

Successful learners may apply for suitable Level 6, final-year or top-up routes in cyber security, computing or a related subject. Admission and credit recognition depend on the receiving institution and the exact award held.

Cyber-security or computing study

You may apply for a suitable Level 6 or university route. The receiving institution decides whether the exact award meets entry and credit rules.

Technical certification pathway

You can pursue separate vendor certifications and practical labs alongside or after the diploma, under the relevant certification requirements.

Included support

Current benefits shown for this route

Benefits can change and may depend on the course and payment method. Confirm the current terms before enrolment.

Online course materials

The current provider listing includes online modules, learning resources and assignment guidance under the provider’s current terms.

Tutor and learner support

The current provider listing describes one-to-one tutor support, webinars and a social learning forum. The precise contact schedule can vary.

Conditions apply

Questions before enrolment

Frequently asked questions

Open each question to review the controlled answer. Ask RSG to confirm provider terms that may have changed.

Is the combined route one Extended Diploma?

OTHM has an Extended Diploma in Cyber Security, but the current OBS listing must confirm whether combined enrolment produces that single award or two separate Level 4 and Level 5 diplomas.

Does the course guarantee a cyber security job?

No. It develops relevant academic and technical knowledge, but employers decide their own requirements and may expect practical experience, vendor certifications, portfolios or security clearance.

Can I pay in instalments?

OBS currently displays a £20 deposit followed by 24 monthly payments of £120 for one level or £145 for the combined route. Confirm the final payable total and terms before payment.

What happens if I cancel, withdraw or request a refund?

Online Business School's current cancellation, withdrawal and refund terms apply. Ready Study Global does not set or administer the provider's refund decisions. Ask us for the current OBS terms before enrolment or payment.

How is Cyber Security different from IT and Networking?

Cyber Security moves into testing, forensics, ethical hacking and malware analysis. IT and Networking focuses more on routing, switching, system administration, network design and general IT foundations.

Free human guidance

Check whether this course fits your next step.

Tell us where you are now and what you want the route to lead to. We will explain what is available and what still needs confirmation.

Request free RSG guidance

Course fees apply. Providers, awarding organisations, institutions and funding bodies make their own final decisions.