The Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec) has launched the UK’s first and only Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in cyber security.

The Level 3 CyberEPQ will give anyone from 14-years-old the best possible opportunity to kickstart their cyber security career and will integrate with CIISec’s broader development programmes to provide a clear pathway to progress.

“I passionately believe in recognising people early in their career. The aim is to promote role models who will encourage people to join the cybersecurity sector at a critical time,” Amanda Finch, CEO of CIISec, told SC Media UK.

The EPQ will effectively extend certification opportunities to children and allow them to consider infosec as a potential apprenticeship earn-and-learn option, or as a degree subject.

Connecting cyber communities 

“STEM subjects are not really that well explained in schools and – without wishing to keep banging the same drum – everyone thinks cybersecurity is just pen testers in hoodies. We want to show students the true breadth of a career in cyber,” said Finch.

“We want to support both employees and employers with supporting cyber career choices from the earliest possible stage,” she added.

Originally introduced by Bletchley Park in 2016 and now under CIISec’s management, the EPQ will become a more integral part of helping people to start and then progress their cyber security careers, from apprenticeship to university to full employment.

It will open access to the full support of a professional body and an extensive community, ranging from students and academics at CIISec’s academic partner institutions through to established security professionals and corporate partners.

Calling pen testers, risk managers, cryptographers, and more

“From cyber digital investigation professionals to system architects and testers to cryptographers to risk management professionals, the variety of roles available in the industry is vast and there are opportunities out there for everyone,” said Finch.

“This qualification will play a key role in attracting a fresh pool of talent, which the industry so desperately needs to keep up with evolving cyber threats.”

Students taking the CyberEPQ study ten core Modules and up to three Specialist Modules, as well as developing time and project management skills.

Students that enrol in the CyberEPQ will also have access to CIISec’s development programme, which supports individuals and their employers at all stages of their career, from apprenticeships to junior-level associates, to full members and people at the peak of their careers.

No formal entry criteria

There are no formal entry requirements to the course. Students must be 14-years-old or above, and it is recommended that they have studied at Level Two (GCSE level or equivalent). The course is 120 Guided Learning Hours, the equivalent of half an A Level, and is worth up to 28 UCAS points.

Sarah Odysseas, parent of an Independent Learner, told SC Media UK her son entered the CyberEPQ because he had passed his GCSEs and wanted to be able to hone his skills to enter the cyber market.

“The CyberEPQ] has helped (my son) enormously in that he has now secured a Level four Cyber Security Apprenticeship with the Foreign Commonwealth Office. What put him on a par and what got him the job was the CyberEPQ I think that was absolutely the thing that put him head and shoulders above the other candidates for the position,” she said.

The CyberEPQ is already accepting new students for 2021-2022. To apply, visit https://cyberepq.org.uk/

Introducing the SC Cybersecurity Newcomer of the Year Award 

Did you know that SC Europe Awards 2022 has introduced a brand-new Cybersecurity Newcomer of the Year category? This award is aimed at students and young people who are influencing and shaping the cybersecurity market.

Do you know someone who should be nominated for his or her achievements? Take a look at the criteria here. The deadline for entries is Wednesday February 23.