Career Pathways in Security

Security is an incredibly diverse field, and it can be difficult to know how to progress within it.

However, with our career pathways section, you can find out how best to advance your career in our field.

Read on to find out more.

The Security Career Pathway

Level 2

A Level 2 qualification in the UK is broadly equivalent to GCSE grades 9-4 (or A*-C in the old grading system). It represents a foundational level of knowledge and skills, and serves as a stepping stone to further education or vocational training.

Level 2 Security Courses are the entry level foundation courses which security professionals use as a base to build on.

Types of Security Courses

  • Professional Security Operative Apprenticeship (Level 2)
  • Principles of Cyber Security
  • SIA Security Officer Course
  • SIA CCTV Operator Course
  • SIA Door Supervisor Course

A level 3 qualification is generally considered equivalent to A-Levels, AS Levels, and some vocational qualifications like NVQ Level 3s. It represents a higher level of knowledge and skill than Level 2 qualifications, often achieved in further education and training settings

Level 3 Security Courses build on the foundation level that is often achieved at level 2.

Types of Security Courses

Level 3

Level 4

A Level 4 qualification in the UK is equivalent to the first year of a bachelor’s degree and sits just above A-levels (Level 3) on the Qualifications Framework.

It signifies advanced learning and focuses on specialist knowledge and practical skills. These qualifications are often used for career progression, CV enhancement, and as a pathway to higher-level qualifications.

Types of Security Courses

A Level 5 qualification is typically equivalent to the second year of a full undergraduate degree and is often attained through programs like Foundation Degrees, Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), or Diplomas of Higher Education (DipHE). 

These qualifications demonstrate strong knowledge and practical skills, preparing individuals for specific careers or further studies.

Types of Security Courses

Level 5

Level 6

A Level 6 qualification represents advanced learning, typically equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or a graduate diploma. It demonstrates a high level of knowledge and skills in a specific field and is often a stepping stone for further education or career advancement.

Types of Security Courses

  • BSc – Cyber Security
  • BSc – Security, Intelligence & Cyber
  • BSc – Counter Terrorism, Intelligence & Cyber Crime
  • BSc – Cyber Security
  • BSc – Crime & Security Science

A Level 7 qualification is generally equivalent to a Master’s degree or a postgraduate diploma. It signifies advanced knowledge and skills, often requiring a significant amount of independent study and research, like a dissertation or final project. 

Examples of Level 7 qualifications include master’s degrees (MA, MSc), postgraduate diplomas, and some advanced diplomas and certificates.

Types of Security Courses

Level 7

Level 8

A level 8 qualification is typically a doctorate, such as a PhD or DPhil, and is the highest level of formal academic achievement. It represents the most academically challenging level and signifies expertise in a specific field.

Level 8 qualifications can also include certain Level 8 Awards, Certificates, and Diplomas.

Types of Security Courses

  • PhD in Counter Terrorism
  • PhD in Cyber Security
  • PhD in Global Security
  • DBA In Security, Cyber, Intelligence & Terrorism

A Guide to Qualifications in the UK and Ireland

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I am interested in joining the security profession as a career changer. Where should I start?

Find an apprenticeship using the link here.

Enquire now

The first step in our joining process is to submit your CV. This will be read to determine the appropriate joining route and you will then be sent an email with a link to the relevant application form.

  • Please upload your CV here