Diploma in Cybersecurity

Become a Guardian of the Digital World. Your Career in Cybersecurity Starts Here.

Industry Certifications Included

Entrepreneurship and Small Business (ESB)
(ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity
Certiport
Credly Digital Badge

Overview

Tagline: Become a Guardian of the Digital World. Your Career in Cybersecurity Starts Here.

The Diploma in Cybersecurity is KNS College's flagship programme, engineered to build the next generation of digital defenders. With cyber threats growing exponentially, the demand for skilled defenders has never been higher. This programme provides you with the foundational and advanced knowledge to protect networks, data, and systems from attack. You will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and prepare for the globally respected (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification, with the exam voucher included in your fees. Upon completion, you will earn a verifiable Credly digital badge, proving your expertise to employers worldwide.

Key Features

  • Focus on practical, hands-on skills in threat detection, risk management, and incident response
  • Industry-standard tools training with AI-enhanced security solutions
  • Real-world cybersecurity scenarios and case studies
  • Preparation for global certification from day one

Top Information Technology Certifications at No Extra Cost

Credentials matter in the IT field and showcasing both your skills and achievements is essential. At KNS College, we make it easy for you to earn a Diploma alongside valuable industry certifications. Every one of our IT Programmes includes preparation for top certification exams at no additional cost, since exam fees are covered by your tuition. This means you'll graduate with more than just a diploma; you'll also have industry-recognized certifications to enhance your resume, increase your earning potential, and help you stand out to employers even before you finish your program.

(ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

  • Exam Voucher Included: Valued at $199 USD completely covered in your tuition fees
  • Global Recognition: Worldwide recognition by employers and cybersecurity professionals
  • Entry-Level Credential: No prior experience required, perfect for career starters
  • Credly Digital Badge: Verifiable digital credential for LinkedIn and professional networks
  • Career Pathway: Direct pathway to advanced (ISC)² certifications like CISSP

Cost Savings Benefit: The cost of this certification valued at $199 USD is completely included in your tuition fees, helping you save money as you enhance your skills in the cybersecurity field of study. Instead of paying separately for certification exams, study materials, and preparation courses which can cost hundreds of dollars, everything is integrated into your diploma programme at no extra charge. Earning industry recognized certifications before you have even finished your degree gives you the knowledge, skills, and credentials that will immediately boost your resume, increase your earning potential, and make you more competitive in the job market. This means you will graduate with both a diploma and valuable certifications, maximizing your return on investment and positioning you for career success from day one.

Competency-Based Education

Competency: Demonstrated knowledge, skill, or ability required to advance in a diploma program.

At Your Own Pace
At KNS College, you have control over your learning speed. You can devote extra time to topics that challenge you, while moving quickly through material you're already comfortable with. This competency-based approach ensures you master each concept before moving forward, giving you the confidence and skills needed to excel in your career.

Globally Recognized Certifications We Offer

Explore the range of industry-recognized certifications available at KNS College. Each of our IT diploma Programmes features comprehensive exam preparation, rigorous coursework, exam vouchers, and the opportunity to earn top industry certifications all included in your tuition. Certification exams are conveniently administered on-site at our authorized Pearson VUE or Certiport Exam Centers, ensuring a seamless path to achieving your credentials.

Programme Highlights

Global Certification

Includes an exam voucher for the (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) exam.

Job-Ready Skills

Focus on practical, hands-on skills in threat detection, risk management, and incident response.

Flexible Learning

Choose between 100% Online or Hybrid delivery. Access learning materials 24/7.

Rolling Intakes

Start your studies when you're ready with intakes in January, May, and September.

Programme Details

Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
Study Time: 3-5 hours per course per week
Language: English
Delivery Mode: Online / Hybrid
Credential: Diploma + (ISC)² CC Certification
Intake Periods: January, May, September
Assessment: Exams (50%), Projects (30%), Coursework (20%)

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this diploma, you will be able to:

  • Understand and apply fundamental security principles and concepts.
  • Identify, analyze, and mitigate common cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities.
  • Implement network security controls and secure network architecture.
  • Conduct security assessments and manage organizational risk.
  • Understand security operations, incident response, and disaster recovery procedures.
  • Apply principles of data security, access control, and cryptography.

Courses

Year 1 Modules

COMPULSORY FOUNDATION MODULES (All Students):

  • Communication Skills
  • Basic Mathematics
  • English for Academic Purposes
  • Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
  • Study Skills and Personal Development
  • Introduction to Research Methods

SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY FOUNDATION MODULES:

  • Foundation Science (Physics/Chemistry concepts)
  • Advanced Mathematics (Algebra, Calculus basics)

PROGRAMME-SPECIFIC MODULES:

  • Introduction to Computing & IT
  • Networking Fundamentals (CCST Prep)
  • Principles of Information Security
  • Introduction to AI in Cybersecurity

Year 2 Modules

  • Operating Systems & Administration
  • Introduction to Scripting (Python)
  • Network Security & Defense
  • Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing Concepts
  • Security Operations & Incident Response
  • Cloud & Application Security
  • AI-Enhanced Threat Detection and Response
  • Industry Module: (ISC)² CC Certification Prep
  • Capstone Project: Cybersecurity Case Study with AI Integration

Programme Structure:

  • Duration: 2 years (4 semesters, 15 weeks each)
  • Study Time: 3-5 hours per course per week
  • Assessment: Exams (50%), Practical Projects (30%), Continuous Coursework (20%)

Cost & Duration

Programme Duration: 2 Years (Full-time Study)

  • Academic Structure: 4 Semesters
  • Semester Length: 15 Weeks Each
  • Total Credits: 120 Credit Hours

Annual Fees (New Leones):

  • Online Delivery: 5,000 NLe per year
  • Hybrid Delivery: 6,500 NLe per year

What's Included in Fees:

  • (ISC)² CC exam voucher ($199 USD value)
  • Credly digital badge
  • All course materials and resources
  • 24/7 access to learning platform
  • Student support services
  • Access to cybersecurity labs and AI-powered simulations

Flexible Schedule and Rolling Enrollment

A Different Way to Learn: Diploma Programmes Designed to Fit Your Life and All the Demands on Your Time

Flexible Study Options:

100% Online Learning:

  • Study from anywhere with internet access
  • 24/7 access to course materials
  • Self-paced learning modules
  • Virtual cybersecurity labs
  • Online instructor support

Hybrid Learning:

  • Combination of online and in-person sessions
  • Hands-on lab experiences
  • Face-to-face instructor interaction
  • Peer networking opportunities
  • Flexible attendance options

Rolling Enrollment Start When You're Ready:

  • January Intake: New Year, New Career Perfect for fresh starts
  • May Intake: Mid-Year Start Ideal for career transitions
  • September Intake: Traditional Academic Year Classic timing

Mobile-Friendly Platform:

  • Access courses on any device (smartphone, tablet, laptop)
  • Download materials for offline study
  • Mobile app for iOS and Android
  • Sync progress across all devices
  • Push notifications for deadlines and updates

Career Outlook

Job Market: The demand for cybersecurity professionals in Africa is projected to grow significantly by 2030. Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of entry-level and junior roles across all sectors.

Job Titles You Can Achieve in Sierra Leone:

  1. Cybersecurity Analyst
    Role: Monitor and analyze security threats, implement protective measures
  2. Junior Penetration Tester
    Role: Test systems for vulnerabilities and security weaknesses
  3. Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
    Role: Monitor security events and respond to incidents 24/7
  4. IT Security Specialist
    Role: Implement and maintain security policies and procedures
  5. Network Security Administrator
    Role: Secure network infrastructure and manage access controls
  6. Vulnerability Analyst
    Role: Identify and assess security vulnerabilities in systems
  7. IT Auditor
    Role: Evaluate IT systems for compliance and security standards
  8. Security Consultant (Junior)
    Role: Provide security advice and implementation services

Industries for Employment in Sierra Leone:

  • Banking and Financial Services
  • Telecommunications (Africell, Orange SL, Qcell)
  • Government and Public Sector
  • International NGOs and Development Organizations
  • Healthcare Institutions
  • Educational Institutions
  • Mining and Natural Resources Companies
  • IT and Technology Companies

Salary Expectations:

  • Entry Level: 3,000 - 5,500 NLe/month
  • Junior (1-2 years): 5,500 - 8,500 NLe/month
  • Mid-Level (3-5 years): 8,500 - 15,000 NLe/month
  • Senior Level (5+ years): 15,000+ NLe/month

Admission

Entry Requirements:

  • Minimum of four (4) credits in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) including C6 in English Language
  • Strong interest in technology and cybersecurity

Required Documents:

  • WASSCE result slip (scanned copy)
  • Valid form of identification (National ID or Passport)
  • Completed online application form
  • Passport-sized photographs

Application Process:

  1. Choose Your Programme: Select Diploma in Cybersecurity
  2. Apply Online: Visit www.kns.edu.sl/apply (takes about 10 minutes)
  3. Submit Documents: Upload required documents online
  4. Admission & Payment: Receive offer letter and follow payment instructions

Contact Information:

  • Phone/WhatsApp: +232 79 442 442
  • Email: admissions@kns.edu.sl
  • Website: www.kns.edu.sl

Apply Now

Ready to get started? Click the button below to apply for this programme through our online portal.