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Understanding Data Protection and Data Security: Level 2 Certificate

For learners looking to improve their knowledge of data protection and data security.

Course summary

Qualification
NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Data Protection and Data Security
Level
Level 2
Awarding body
NCFE
Qualification number (QAN)
603/3639/0
Guided learning
110 hours
Total time
130 hours, including study and assessment
Cost
Free if you are eligible

Who it's for and what you'll learn

The purpose of this Understanding Data Protection and Data Security NCFE Level 2 qualification is to allow learners to demonstrate understanding of data protection and data security. It will help learners progress to a work role where data protection and data security knowledge is required.

The objectives of this qualification are to enable learners to:

  • understand current data legislation
  • understand steps organisations might take to help protect data
  • understand how to protect their own data
  • understand how to protect ICT systems from common threats
  • understand the consequences of not protecting data and systems

What the course covers

To be awarded the Understanding Data Protection and Data Security level 2 qualification, learners are required to successfully achieve 4 mandatory units:

Unit 1 - Understand current data protection legislation

The aim of this unit is to provide learners with an overview of the key data legislation that organisations are required to comply with.

The learner will:

  • Understand the General Data Protection Regulation
  • Understand the purpose of the Data Protection Act
  • Understand the purpose of the Freedom of Information Act

Unit 2 - Understand organisational procedures concerning data

The aim of this unit is to provide learners with an understanding of organisational procedures concerning data, including steps organisations might take to protect the data they hold and the importance of doing so.

The learner will:

  • Understand organisational procedures concerning data
  • Understand procedures to maintain data confidentiality and security

Unit 3 - Understand threats to ICT systems and data

This unit provides learners with knowledge of common threats to ICT systems and data and ways to protect ICT systems from these threats. Learners will also understand how to protect their own devices and data.

The learner will:

  • Know the common types of threat to ICT systems and data
  • Know how to protect ICT systems
  • Understand how to protect their own personal data and devices

Unit 4 - Understand the consequences of not protecting data

This unit aims to ensure learners understand the consequences of not protecting data.

The learner will:

  • Understand the potential consequences of not protecting data
  • Understand the impact of data breaches on individuals

How these courses usually work

Every provider does things a little differently, so check the details with them before you apply.

Where and how you study

Most of these courses are studied online, from home. You'll usually need internet access and a laptop or desktop computer. A phone or tablet may not be enough. Some providers can send paper workbooks if you ask.

How long it takes

  • This qualification is designed to take about 130 hours in total, including study and assessment.
  • Many learners finish in around 6 weeks by studying 4 to 5 hours a week. You can go faster if you have more time.
  • Providers usually set a deadline, often 10 to 12 weeks after you start.

Support

Providers usually give you a tutor who marks your work and answers your questions by email, phone or message.

Assessment

There are usually no exams. Instead, you answer assessment questions as you work through the course and send them to your tutor to mark. If an answer needs more work, you can usually change it and send it again.

Your certificate

When you pass, your certificate comes from the awarding body, NCFE. It often takes 8 to 12 weeks to arrive after your final assessment.

Things to check before you start

  • Many providers only let you study one funded course at a time.
  • If you leave the course early, or don't finish by the deadline, some providers charge an admin or withdrawal fee, often around £125. Ask about this before you sign up.

Can I do this course for free?

ASF local flexibility: 19+, England resident, unemployed or earning under £26,800 (devolved areas vary).

Some areas of England (devolved areas such as Greater London and Greater Manchester) set their own rules, so a provider may not be able to fund you if you live there. Withdrawal or admin fees can also apply.

Check if you're eligible for this course using the "Am I eligible?" form below. It also shows which providers offer it. The provider makes the final decision.

You can also read who can get a free course.

Where can I study this?

We've found 4 providers offering this course for free to eligible learners.

Answer a few quick questions to check whether you’re likely to get this course for free. We’ll then show you which providers offer it.

Where do you live?
How old are you?
Are you working?
Do you earn less than £26,800 a year?
Your pay before tax. If you’re not working, choose “Yes”.

Your details

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