What you are signing up for
Only one of the six units has security in its title, and that is the honest thing to say first. Information Technology Security (20 credits) is the dedicated unit; the other five are Principles of Computer Systems, Algorithms and Data Structures, Computer Networks, Mathematics for Computer Science and Operating Systems, each also 20 credits. OTHM has built this as a computer science foundation with security as the lens, on the reasoning that you cannot secure what you do not understand.
We agree with that reasoning, and we say so to applicants who arrive wanting to do penetration testing in week one. This diploma suits people who want to end up in security engineering, systems administration or a computing degree, and who are prepared to do the mathematics and the data structures on the way. The Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Cyber Security is a different animal, built entirely from security-titled units on threats, incident response, law and strategy; if you already have a computing background and want the security content alone, look at that one. Both are 120 credits at Level 4; neither confers a vendor or professional security certification.
The six units
- Information Technology Security20 credits
- Principles of Computer Systems20 credits
- Algorithms and Data Structures20 credits
- Computer Networks20 credits
- Mathematics for Computer Science20 credits
- Operating Systems20 credits
Unit titles and credit values are taken from the OTHM qualification specification. The order in which LSPM teaches them is set by LSPM and confirmed at enrolment.
The dependencies run one way: Mathematics for Computer Science and Principles of Computer Systems first, Algorithms and Data Structures and Operating Systems next, then Computer Networks, with Information Technology Security last so that it can draw on everything else. LSPM confirms its actual order at enrolment.
Entry requirements
OTHM sets the entry requirements for this qualification and LSPM, as the approved centre, applies them when it assesses your application. As published by the awarding body:
- Relevant Level 3 qualification or equivalent qualification
- GCE Advanced level in 3 subjects or equivalent qualification
- Mature learners (over 21) with relevant management experience (learners must check with the delivery centre regarding this experience prior to registering for the programme)
OTHM lists a Level 3 qualification or three A levels, or mature entry; the awarding body's reference to management experience is boilerplate and for this programme comfort with maths and logic matters far more. A Level 3 in IT or a maths A level is ideal; a strong hobbyist with GCSE maths can succeed.
How you are assessed
Written assignments and practical tasks for each unit, including a networks configuration exercise and an algorithms problem set with explanation. There are no closed-book exams. Ask LSPM how feedback works before the final submission.
Where it leads, stated carefully
Level 5 Diploma in Cyber Security or in Information Technology with OTHM, continuing the route.
Advanced entry to the second year of a computer science or cyber security degree, if the receiving university agrees.
Junior security analyst, SOC trainee or systems administration roles, often alongside vendor certifications taken separately.
We do not name partner universities on this page. If and when LSPM shows us a written progression agreement for this diploma, it will be listed here with the date it was signed.
Who it suits
Likely to get a lot from it
- School leavers with a Level 3 in IT or maths who want computing fundamentals with a security direction.
- IT support staff who want to move towards security engineering and need the theory.
- Career changers with strong logic and numeracy who are prepared to learn from the ground up.
Better served by something else
- Anyone who wants a security-only syllabus without maths and programming; the Qualifi Cyber Security diploma is closer.
- People expecting CompTIA, CISSP or similar certifications to be included; they are not.
- Learners uneasy with mathematics, because one unit is entirely mathematical and two more depend on it.
Asked about this programme
How much mathematics is there really?
One full unit, Mathematics for Computer Science, covering discrete maths, logic, sets and basic number theory used in cryptography. Algorithms and Data Structures assumes it. Solid GCSE maths and willingness to work are enough.
Which should I pick, this or the Qualifi Cyber Security diploma?
This one if you want computer science foundations and might go on to a computing degree. The Qualifi one if you are already technical and want threat, incident response and security law content directly.
Will I learn to hack?
You will learn how systems, networks and operating systems work and how they are attacked and defended in principle. Offensive security tooling is not the focus at Level 4.
Read before you decide
Programme brochure
Brochure slot: PDF to be supplied by LSPM, with its fees, dates and tutor profiles for this programme. Ask us for it by email in the meantime and we will obtain the current version from LSPM.
Official specification
OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Cyber Security specification, published by the awarding body. The authoritative source for units, learning outcomes and assessment criteria. Also listed on the Ofqual register under 610/5103/2.