In today’s digital world, staying safe online is more important than ever. Whether you’re browsing the internet, working from home, or shopping online, understanding the basics of cyber security is no longer optional—it’s essential. The LICQual Level 1 Award in Cyber Security is designed to help you build a solid foundation in online safety, without overwhelming you with complicated jargon or tech-heavy details.
This beginner-friendly course is perfect for anyone who wants to learn how to protect their personal information, avoid online scams, and stay safe in the digital space. You don’t need any previous experience—just a curious mind and a willingness to learn. By the end of this course, you’ll feel more confident navigating the internet and recognizing potential threats before they become a problem.
So, whether you’re a student, a professional, a business owner, or simply someone who wants to better understand the digital world, this course is your first step toward becoming cyber smart. It’s simple, approachable, and built for real people—just like you.
The LICQual Level 1 Award in Cyber Security offers a clear and practical introduction to the world of cyber safety. Designed for beginners, this course helps learners understand the fundamental principles of staying safe online, with no prior technical knowledge required. It’s ideal for individuals who want to protect themselves, their families, or their workplaces from common cyber threats in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
Throughout the course, learners will explore the basics of cyber security, starting with what it is, why it matters, and how it affects our everyday lives. From there, the course delves into common online threats such as malware, phishing attacks, identity theft, and other forms of cybercrime. Each topic is broken down in simple, easy-to-understand language, with real-world examples to help make the learning experience engaging and relevant.
One of the key strengths of this course is its focus on practical safety tips that you can apply immediately. You’ll learn how to create strong passwords, protect personal data, spot suspicious activity, and safely use email, social media, and online shopping platforms. The course also covers how to recognize and respond to potential threats, helping you feel more confident and secure when using digital devices.
Whether you’re a student, a job seeker, a small business owner, or simply someone who wants to become more digitally aware, this course gives you a strong foundation in cyber awareness. It’s structured in a way that fits around your schedule and learning style, making it accessible and flexible for all types of learners. By the end of the program, you’ll not only understand the basics of cyber security but also receive a certified qualification that shows you’re taking proactive steps to protect yourself and others online.
This course isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about empowering you to take control of your digital safety. With the LICQual Level 1 Award in Cyber Security, you’re making a smart first step toward becoming more informed, more protected, and more confident in the digital age.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual Level 1 Award in Cyber security
Total Units
6
Total Credits
6
GLH
12
Qualification #
LICQ2200383
Qualification Specification
To enrol in the LICQual Level 1 Award in Cyber security, applicants must meet the following entry requirements:
- Educational Requirements: There are no formal academic qualifications required to enroll in this course. It is open to individuals of all educational backgrounds. However, a basic understanding of how to use a computer, browse the internet, and send emails will be helpful, as the course content is delivered online and includes interactive learning activities.
- Experience: No previous experience in cyber security or IT is necessary. This course is specifically designed for beginners who are looking to build foundational knowledge. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or someone looking to explore a new field, this course will guide you through all the essential concepts at a comfortable pace.
- English Language Proficiency: Since the course is delivered in English, learners should have a basic level of English language proficiency. This includes the ability to read and understand simple instructions, participate in learning activities, and engage with course materials. If English is not your first language, you should be comfortable with reading and writing at an entry-level standard to ensure you get the most out of the course.
- Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment.
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2200383-1 LICQ2200383-2 |
Introduction to Cyber Security Common Cyber Threats and Attacks |
1 1 |
2 2 |
|
LICQ2200383-3 |
Online Safety and Digital Footprint Awareness |
1 |
2 |
|
LICQ2200383-4 |
Safe Use of Internet and Email |
1 |
2 |
|
LICQ2200383-5 |
Creating Strong Passwords and Basic Authentication |
1 |
2 |
|
LICQ2200383-6 |
Basic Data Protection Principles |
1 |
2 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
Introduction to Cyber Security
- Define the concept of cyber security and explain its importance in everyday digital life.
- Identify the main goals of cyber security: confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA triad).
- Recognize the roles individuals and organizations play in protecting digital environments.
- Describe basic cyber security terminology in accessible, user-friendly language.
Common Cyber Threats and Attacks
- Identify and describe common types of cyber threats, including malware, phishing, and social engineering.
- Explain how different types of cyber attacks can affect individuals and organizations.
- Recognize early warning signs of a cyber attack or potential threat.
- Demonstrate basic techniques to avoid falling victim to common cyber threats.
Online Safety and Digital Footprint Awareness
- Define what a digital footprint is and explain how it is created.
- Describe the potential risks of oversharing personal information online.
- Apply best practices for managing online identities and personal data across digital platforms.
- Understand the long-term consequences of unsafe digital behavior.
Safe Use of Internet and Email
- Demonstrate safe browsing practices when accessing websites and downloading files.
- Identify suspicious emails, links, and attachments that may contain malware or phishing attempts.
- Apply basic email security measures, such as checking sender addresses and avoiding unknown links.
- Understand how cookies, trackers, and permissions affect privacy when using websites and applications.
Creating Strong Passwords and Basic Authentication
- Understand the importance of secure authentication in protecting online accounts.
- Create strong, memorable passwords using best-practice guidelines.
- Explain the benefits of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and how it enhances account security.
- Evaluate password managers and their role in maintaining secure login practices.
Basic Data Protection Principles
- Explain the importance of protecting personal and sensitive data in digital environments.
- Identify the principles of data privacy based on global standards (such as GDPR).
- Recognize the rights of individuals regarding the use and storage of their personal data.
- Apply basic data protection techniques, such as encryption, secure storage, and safe sharing practices.
This diploma is ideal for:
- Individuals with little or no prior knowledge of cyber security who want to build a strong foundation
- Students or school leavers looking to explore career opportunities in the digital or IT sector
- Professionals in non-technical roles who want to improve their online safety and digital awareness
- Small business owners and entrepreneurs seeking to protect their digital assets and customer data
- Job seekers aiming to boost their employability with a recognized cyber security qualification
- Parents or guardians who want to better understand online risks to guide and protect their families
- Anyone using the internet regularly for work, communication, or online shopping who wants to stay safe
- Community workers, educators, or support staff looking to promote digital responsibility and cyber safety
- Individuals interested in progressing to higher-level cyber security courses or technical certifications in the future
Assessment and Verification
All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.
To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.
Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.