Cybersecurity Defender (NQF3)

About the Course
This QCTO-accredited short skills program equips you with the core knowledge to secure digital systems and defend networks against cyberattacks. Designed for beginners, it’s hands-on, practical, and aligned to real-world industry needs.

What Do Cybersecurity Defenders Do?
Cybersecurity defenders monitor systems, identify vulnerabilities, respond to incidents, and help protect organizations from hacking, malware, and data breaches. They are essential to keeping information safe in an increasingly digital world.

Career Prospects
Step into entry-level roles such as IT Security Technician, SOC Analyst (Junior), or Cybersecurity Support Assistant. This course also sets the foundation for further study in ethical hacking, threat analysis, or cybersecurity engineering.

Where You Can Be Employed
Graduates are in demand across sectors including finance, government, telecoms, education, and tech startups — basically, anywhere data and systems need to be protected.

Program Duration
Complete your training in just 3 to 6 months, depending on your schedule and delivery mode (full-time or part-time).

Entry Requirements
You’ll need a Grade 11 certificate or NQF Level 3 qualification, basic computer skills, and a keen interest in IT and problem-solving. No prior experience needed — just your commitment to start a career in cybersecurity.

About the Course
This QCTO-accredited short skills program teaches you how to build software applications using Java, one of the world’s most in-demand programming languages. You’ll learn coding basics, object-oriented programming, and how to create functional desktop and web-based applications.

What Do Java Developers Do?
Java developers design, build, and maintain applications using Java. They write clean code, test software, fix bugs, and contribute to creating everything from business apps to mobile tools and large-scale systems.

Career Prospects
This course prepares you for entry-level roles such as Junior Java Developer, Application Support Developer, or Software Tester. It also lays the groundwork for further studies in full-stack development, mobile app development, or backend engineering.

Where You Can Be Employed
Java developers are needed in banks, insurance companies, tech startups, software firms, and any company developing or maintaining digital platforms and applications.

Program Duration
Train over 3 to 6 months, with flexible learning options available to suit your pace.

Entry Requirements
You’ll need a Grade 11 or NQF Level 3 qualification, basic computer literacy, and a passion for problem-solving and technology. No previous programming experience is required.

About the Course
This QCTO-accredited short skills program equips you with practical skills in JavaScript, the language of the web. You’ll learn how to create interactive websites, build user interfaces, and understand the basics of front-end web development.

What Do JavaScript Developers Do?
JavaScript developers bring websites to life. They write scripts that handle interactivity, animations, and user input — making web pages responsive and engaging. They often work closely with designers and backend developers to create full web solutions.

Career Prospects
Get started in roles like Junior Front-End Developer, Web Developer, or UI/UX Assistant. This course is also a stepping stone to careers in full-stack development or mobile app development using JavaScript-based frameworks.

Where You Can Be Employed
Web developers are in demand across digital agencies, startups, e-commerce companies, marketing firms, and any business with an online presence.

Program Duration
Complete the program in 3 to 6 months, with flexible study options to match your schedule.

Entry Requirements
You’ll need a Grade 11 or NQF Level 3 qualification, basic computer literacy, and a creative mindset with a passion for tech. No coding experience is required to get started.

About the Course
This QCTO-accredited short skills program introduces you to C++, one of the most powerful and versatile programming languages in the industry. You'll learn how to develop software that runs close to the hardware, ideal for system-level applications, games, and performance-critical programs.

What Do C++ Developers Do?
C++ developers build fast, efficient, and robust applications. They create software for operating systems, embedded systems, game engines, simulations, and real-time applications. Their code often powers the core functions behind the scenes.

Career Prospects
Start your journey in roles such as Junior C++ Developer, Software Developer Intern, or Embedded Systems Assistant. This course also lays the foundation for careers in game development, robotics, or systems programming.

Where You Can Be Employed
C++ developers are in demand in industries such as gaming, fintech, telecommunications, aerospace, automotive, and any environment where performance and speed matter.

Program Duration
The course runs for 3 to 6 months, with flexible options to suit both full-time and part-time learners.

Entry Requirements
A Grade 11 certificate or NQF Level 3 qualification, basic computer literacy, and a strong interest in programming and problem-solving are all you need. No prior coding experience required.