NQF Level: 4, Credits: 60, Duration: 6–8 Months (Part-time), Delivery Mode: Online
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.
Standard Entry Requirements
Certified copy of South African ID or valid passport (for international learners)
Certified copy of Grade 11 or NQF Level 3 qualification
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Access Pathway
Applicants who do not meet the formal academic entry requirements may apply through the RPL process.
RPL Eligibility
Applicants without Grade 11 / NQF Level 3 (may be required to complete a bridging module)
Applicants with relevant workplace experience in IT-related tasks, coding, programming, or technical support
Required Documentation for RPL
(All documents must be certified within the last 3 months)
Certified copy of ID or Passport
Detailed CV outlining relevant experience (minimum 3 years)
Employer reference or experience letter(s)
Proof of informal or non-formal training (short courses, bootcamps, workshops)
Proof of payment: Application Fee + RPL Fee (R250 + R2,500 = R2,750)
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 organisational compliance with recognised cybersecurity standards and practices
The programme consists of knowledge modules and application modules, structured to ensure both theoretical understanding and practical competence.
Knowledge Modules (26 Credits)
Introduction to Cyber Defence
Understanding Cyber Threats and Attacks
Cybersecurity Foundations
Incident Response and Recovery
Application Modules (34 Credits)
Protect Against Threats, Intrusions, and Attacks
Detect Threats Using Real-Time Monitoring Tools
Perform Penetration Testing to Strengthen System Security
Graduates of this programme may access entry-level and junior roles within cybersecurity and IT security environments, including:
Cybersecurity Defender or Security Operations Support
Junior SOC (Security Operations Centre) Analyst
IT Security Support Technician
Network and Systems Security Assistant
Ethical Hacking or 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: Part-qualification of the Occupational Certificate: Cybersecurity Analyst & AI Software Developer (NQF Level 5)
Assessment is conducted through applied tasks, practical evaluations, and integrated assessments aligned with occupational outcomes. Learners are required to demonstrate both technical knowledge and applied cyber defence skills.
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 summative assessment.
2026 Fee structure
Fee Type
Amount (ZAR)
Notes
Application Fee
R250
Non-refundable
Enrolment Fee
R1,200
Payable on admission
Full Course Fee (Instalment Plan)
R18,750
3 × R6,250 within 6 months
Full Course Fee (Monthly Plan)
R21,000
R1,750 × 12 months
Additional Fees
Fee Type
Amount (ZAR)
Notes
RPL Application Fee
R2,500
Applicable to RPL applicants
Final External Exam Fee
R1,500
Mandatory for certification
Q: Is this course accredited? A: Yes. It's QCTO-registered and part of an occupational certificate.
Q: What if I don't have Grade 11? A: You can apply through RPL based on your experience or informal learning.
Q: What careers can I pursue? A: SOC Analyst, Ethical Hacker, Penetration Tester, Cyber Support.
Q: How is the course delivered? A: Online, with flexible learning and real-world simulations.
Q: Do I need my own PC? A: Yes, with internet access and basic capabilities for simulations.
Q: Will I get a certificate? A: Yes — a recognised certificate and 60 NQF-aligned credits.