Qassim University

What you'll study

The diploma emphasises hands-on technical skills and applied knowledge. Study typically covers the fundamentals of information security alongside practical modules to build workplace-ready capability.

• Introduction to Cybersecurity – principles of confidentiality, integrity and availability; security architecture and common threat types.
• Computer Networks – LAN/WAN fundamentals, TCP/IP, routing and switching basics, network design and network security controls.
• Operating Systems and Administration – administration of Windows and Linux systems, user and permission management, patching and hardening techniques.
• Programming for Security – scripting with Python or similar for automation, basic secure coding concepts and use of security tools.
• Network Security and Firewalls – configuration and management of firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection and prevention systems.
• Ethical Hacking and Vulnerability Assessment – vulnerability scanning, penetration testing methodology, ethical and legal considerations.
• Digital Forensics and Incident Response – evidence handling, basic forensic techniques, incident management and containment.
• Cryptography Essentials – symmetric and asymmetric cryptography basics, secure communications and key management principles.
• Security Policies and Risk Management – security governance, risk assessment, compliance basics and development of organisational security policies.
• Cloud and Web Security – fundamentals of securing cloud services and web applications, common attack vectors and mitigation.
• Practical Labs and Capstone/Work Placement – intensive lab work using current tools, simulations and a final project or workplace practicum to demonstrate applied skills.

Modules are delivered through lectures, supervised lab sessions and project work. The programme can include internships or an industry-focused capstone to strengthen employability.

Entry requirements

• Completed General Secondary Education Certificate (Thanawiya Amma) or an equivalent secondary-school qualification.
• Applicants with a technical or vocational credential in computing, information technology, or related fields may be considered for direct entry.
• Basic numeracy and IT literacy are expected; prior study in mathematics, computer science or information technology is advantageous.
• Selection may include assessment of academic records and an interview or aptitude test to confirm suitability for the practical nature of the programme.
• Non-native Arabic speakers or international applicants may need to demonstrate language proficiency appropriate to the teaching language of the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical competencies that prepare them for entry-level roles in cybersecurity and IT. Typical career paths include:

• Junior Cybersecurity Analyst or SOC (Security Operations Centre) Technician
• Network Administrator or Network Security Technician
• IT Support Specialist with a security focus
• Vulnerability Assessment Assistant or Penetration Testing Support
• Digital Forensics Assistant and Incident Response Technician
• Roles in compliance support, security policy implementation and small-business cybersecurity services

Many graduates also use the diploma as a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications (such as a bachelor’s degree) or vendor certifications (for example, security and networking vendor certificates) to progress into senior technical and managerial positions.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University offers study close to the economic and administrative centre of the Qassim region, combining academic teaching with practical laboratory facilities. The university’s computing and IT departments focus on applied learning, with curriculum shaped to meet local and national workforce needs.

• Practical learning environment with supervised labs and real-world project work to build hands-on skills.
• Opportunities for work placements and collaboration with regional employers to gain workplace experience.
• Support services for students, including academic advising and career guidance to help with progression into employment or further study.
• Alignment with national priorities to develop cybersecurity talent to support organisations across the public and private sectors.