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Higher Diploma in Cybersecurity (Testing and Compliance)

Introduction

Higher Diploma in Cybersecurity (Testing and Compliance) ,This programme is specializing in providing vocational and professional training in Cybersecurity to meet the demand for talents in this profession.

The programme is subsidised by the ESGS

This programme is operated by the HKCT Institute of Higher Education.

The promotion of innovation and the use of smart technology have become a new global norm. In response to this, HKCT has launched a higher diploma programme in cybersecurity. As internet services mature and technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), 5G networks, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices advance, individuals, businesses, and society face increasing risks and threats related to cybersecurity. In light of these challenges, the Hong Kong SAR Government has passed the Protection of Critical Infrastructures (Computer Systems) Bill into law to enhance the cybersecurity of such facilities and protect citizens and society as a whole. The Cybersecurity Higher Diploma programme at HKCT responds to the demand for cybersecurity professionals from the government and the business sector, offering comprehensive training to cultivate talent in this field.

This programme has been included in the Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP).

HKCT also offers the ‘Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science and Cybersecurity’ (Year 1 / Year 3 entry) programme for students.

Click here now to learn more about the development of ‘Cyberspace Technology’ at HKCT.

Programme Enquiry:

Professional Qualification

Students who enrol in the Higher Diploma in Cybersecurity (Testing and Compliance) can apply to become Student Members of 'The Hong Kong Computer Society' (HKCS), and upon graduation, they may consider applying to become Associate Members.

Contents

Programme Aims

The Cybersecurity Higher Diploma programme at HKCT not only teaches professional knowledge related to cybersecurity but also places great emphasis on practical application. With state-of-the-art facilities, renowned cybersecurity institutions, and industry-leading technology companies, the programme provides students with opportunities to apply their learning, enabling them to enter the fields of information technology security and network management upon graduation. Additionally, this cybersecurity programme qualifies graduates to pursue a bachelor's degree, further advancing their academic expertise in cybersecurity-related fields.

Programme Features

Funding support: HKCT successfully sought a subsidy of around HK$20 million from ESGS (Enhancement and Start-up Grant Scheme for Self-financing Post-secondary Education) to develop this programme and equip it with professional hardware and system platforms, in order to provide students with the latest vocational teaching & learning facilities.
State-of-the-art Cyber Labs: Our Cybersecurity Higher Diploma programme has established a 'Security Operations Centre' and a 'Cyber Range & Practice Centre'. These allow for a wide range of teaching and learning activities such as scene simulation, competitions, research, testing, drills and exercises. In these centres, students can interact with virtual and cyber world status in real-time for experiments and training, such as network attack and defence, network invasion and maintenance, and even the embedding and detection of Trojan worms. The professional facilities have supported the Hong Kong and Macau cybersecurity competitions twice.
Cyber Range Interconnection: HKCT cyber range serves as a Hong Kong regional centre of the Peng Cheng Laboratory national-level cyber range. It has achieved platform interconnection with the Yellow Crane Cyber Range of Huazhong University of Science and Technology (located in the national network security base), the Industrial Control Cyber Security Range of Guilin University of Electronic Technology, and the Jiaxing Cyber Range of Zhejiang University. This facilitates the initiation of online simulation tests and competitions.
Comprehensive Training: Our comprehensive curriculum prepares students for both higher education advancement and careers in cybersecurity or information technology. Beyond mastering specialised topics like penetration testing and digital forensics, students build essential foundations in computer programming, database management, and web development (view student works).
Strong Industry Ties: We partner with renowned local and the Chinese Mainland technology companies (e.g., China Unicom Hong Kong, IntegrityTech HK Limited, Topsec, Sangfor Technologies) to provide students with local and Greater Bay Area exchange, training, internship, and career opportunities. IntegrityTech HK Limited notably supports HKCT cybersecurity competitions and provides Capture The Flag (CTF) competition resources for our cybersecurity students.
Renowned Academic Partners: We work closely with Shenzhen Polytechnic University to offer students a platform for exchanging knowledge and experience in different fields, including cybersecurity. We have also co-constructed the 'Zhejiang-Hong Kong Cross-Border Data Security Research Centre' with The School of Cyber Science and Technology (SCST) at Zhejiang University to join hands to develop professional skills, product manufacturing, research, and technology exchange. Moreover, we cooperate with top-notch cybersecurity institutes in the Chinese Mainland including Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Xidian University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University to cultivate cybersecurity talents.
Support by HKSAR Bureaux: Commendation on facilities has been received from Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB), the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) and Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) etc.
Route to Professionalism: This programme prepares students who wish to pursue related certificates such as CISSP, CISA and CISP.

Featured Modules

Wireless and Mobile Security
Penetration Testing
Network Traffic Analysis
Cybersecurity Practice
Digital Forensics
Introduction to IT Audit
Cybersecurity Project

Full Programme Modules

CTF Club

HKCT has established a dedicated CTF Club to provide students with specialised cybersecurity skills training and a platform for academic exchange. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing among students, ultimately enhancing their competitiveness in the cybersecurity field. The CTF Club will also seek external collaboration opportunities with various organisations and industries, offering students a broader learning platform and opportunities for external exchanges.

Students in the CTF Club form teams and regularly participate in online and internal Capture the Flag (CTF) and Attack With Defence Plus (AWDP) competitions. Sharing sessions facilitate technical exchange, competition analysis, and valuable learning insights.

Programme Events and Video

Industry Exchange – Visit to the QI-ANXIN Shenzhen Branch (QI-ANXIN is a leading cybersecurity firm providing national and enterprise-level solutions)

Academic Exchange – Three-Day, Two-Night Practical Workshop at Shenzhen Polytechnic University

HKCT was once again invited to participate in the 'Hong Kong Cybersecurity Attack and Defence Drill 2025' coordinated by the Digital Policy Office (DPO). Acting as members of the 'Red Team', the team conducted simulated real-world cyberattacks

2025 Belt & Road and BRICS Competition of Skills Development and Technology Innovation – The First Artificial Intelligence Large Model Analysis and Application Security Operations Competition

Cyber Attack and Defence Elite Training cum Tournament 2025 - Tertiary Category: Best Attacking Team Award

First Runner-up in the Sub-Degree Category at the PolyU x NuttyShell Cybersecurity CTF Competition 2025

World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit 2025

HKCT has been invited to participate in the Hong Kong's first Cybersecurity Attack and Defence Drill organised by the government, serving as a member of the 'red team'

The 2nd Hong Kong Cybersecurity Skills Competition

National Finals of 2024 Belt & Road and BRICS Competition of Skills Development and Technology Innovation

Preliminary Round of 2024 Belt & Road and BRICS Competition of Skills Development and Technology Innovation

HKCT provided cyber range support during the ‘SHIELDtag 2024’ - Attack and Defense (AWD) Challenge organised by HKtag

5th place in the Tertiary Institution Category at the PolyU x NuttyShell Cybersecurity CTF 2024

Institute of Cyberspace Technology was established

First Hong Kong Cybersecurity Skills Competition Prize Presentation Ceremony

Visit to China Unicom (Hong Kong) Global Centre

Cybersecurity Seminar

MOU Signing with Zhejiang University

Simulated Cyber-attack and Defence Competition

[Advanced Facilities x Professional Systems] Cybersecurity Centre

HKCT participated in the Hong Kong Cybersecurity Attack and Defence Drill 2024

Cybersecurity Programme

DSE Graduates become Cybersecurity Talents

Graduation Path

Articulation Pathways

2+2 Articulation Scheme

【100% Degree Articulation】Students who have completed the 2-year HKCT ‘Higher Diploma in Cybersecurity (Testing and Compliance)’ will be eligible to receive an admission offer^ to the 2-year CTIHE ‘Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science and Cybersecurity' / 'Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science and AI Engineering’ of senior-year entry (i.e. direct entry to the third year of the programme). It only takes 4 years for students to achieve both Higher Diploma and Bachelor's Degree qualifications.

^Subject to admission eligibility and quota availability.

Graduates can also apply for admission to overseas universities and local degree programmes.
Graduates may apply for the following top-up bachelor's degree programmes:

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
- BEng in Computer Engineering
- BEng in Computer Science

The University of Hong Kong
- BEng in Computer Engineering
- BEng in Computer Science

The Chinese University of Hong Kong
- BEng in Information Engineering
- BEng in Computer Engineering
- BSc in Computer Science

City University of Hong Kong
- BSc in Computer Science

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- BSc (Hons) in Information Security

Hong Kong Baptist University
- BSc (Hons) in Computer Science

The Education University of Hong Kong
- BEd (Hons) (Secondary) - Information & Communication Technology

Hong Kong Metropolitan University
- BSc (Hons) in Cyber and Computer Security

Employment Prospects

Graduates can seek employment in roles^# such as Cyber/ Information Security Officer, Junior Cyber/ R&D Engineer, Network Administrator/ Engineer, IT Officer etc.

Current Cybersecurity Job Positions and Career Pathway in Hong Kong:
- Chief Information Security Officer/ Chief Security Officer/ Head of Cyber Security）
- Information Security Executive/ Cyber Security Executive
- Information Security Director/ Cyber Security Lead
- Information Security Manager/ Cyber Security Manager, SOC Manager, Cyber Security Product Manager, Security Operations Center Manager
- Information Security Analyst/ Cyber Security Engineer/ Pentester/ AWS Cloud Architect/ Security Consultant）
- Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer

^#Eligible for local students only

Internship

We are committed to providing internship opportunities that expose students to advanced applications and technologies beyond the programme's curriculum. Through real-world experience in actual work environments, these internships facilitate career planning after graduation. In recent years, students have interned at the following companies:

China Unicom Global (Top 3 Telecommunications Provider in Hong Kong)
Hong Kong Electric (Hong Kong's first electric utility company)
Topsec Technologies Group (Leading Cybersecurity Enterprise in China)
MultiSoft (IT enterprise solutions provider specialising in Cyber Security, Hybrid Cloud, System Infrastructure, Digital Transformation and IT Managed Service)

The programme also provides with Internship positions and working opportunities including:

Assistant R&D Engineer
Junior Cyber Engineer
Cybersecurity Operations Engineer

Programme Advisor and Teaching Team

Programme Advisor

Dr LUO Xiapu Daniel
Professor, Department of Computing, Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Teaching Team

Prof. LAM Sum
Former Head of the Division of Engineering and Technology, HKU SPACE Community College
PhD in Computer Science, with over 20 years of teaching experience at various institutions

Prof. YI Chen
Senior Engineer
Guangdong Classified Protection of Cybersecurity Expert (2021), Computer Information Network Security Association of Guangdong Province
Member (2021), Guangdong New Infrastructure Professional Committee (established jointly by the Human Resources and Social Security Department of Guangdong and the Guangdong Communications Administration)

Prof. DING Yong
Standing Committee Member, Technical Committee on Blockchain, China Computer Federation
Senior Member, China Association for Cryptologic Research
First Prize Winner, Guangxi Science and Technology Progress Award

Prof. QU Bo
Previously worked at Tencent Technology and Peng Cheng Laboratory
Served as a judge for cybersecurity exercises such as ‘Yuedun' and ‘Shenlan’, organised regional competitions for national-level cybersecurity competitions
Shenzhen Peacock Plan Talent

Dr XU Zhiyu
Former Cybersecurity Engineer, HyperLab
Former Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Swinburne University of Technology
Certified Information Security Professional (CISP)
Young Leader - Tech Innovation Youth Award, Intel Greater Bay Area Innovation Center

Dr TANG Yajuan
Former Associate Professor at Shantou University, PhD in Science, with over 15 years of university teaching experience
Designed and delivered many graduate and undergraduate courses, including Modern Communication Technology, Principles of Communication, Information and Coding, etc.
Long-term research work in the areas of machine learning, network performance, and network security

Mr WANG Wei
Over 10 years of experience in cybersecurity operations and practical training
Holder of multiple professional certifications including CISP, CISAW, and CIIP

Programme Details

Mode of Study

Full Time

Teaching Mode

Face to face

Commencement of Study

Sep 2026

Duration

2 Years

Location

HKCT Jockey Club Undergraduate Campus

Entry Requirements

Local Students

Attained Level 2 in 5 HKDSE subjects¹, including Chinese Language² and English Language, and the performance in Applied Learning subjects would be considered on a case-by-case basis; or
Pass in 1 A-Level or 2 AS-Level subjects in HKALE; and 5 passes in HKCEE including Chinese Language and English Language; or
Holder of Diploma of Applied Education / Diploma Yi Jin; or
Holder of Diploma and
- in the relevant discipline at QF Level 3 with a total learning size of normally 150 QF Credits; and
- learning contents covering Chinese and English Languages; or
Aged 21 or above with 1 year working experience; or
Equivalent qualifications;
AND
Pass the admission interview.

¹ With effective from 2024/25, 'Attained' in 'Citizenship and Social Development' (equivalent to 'Level 2' for the HKDSE subject 'Liberal Studies' before 2024/25), or the attainment of 'Level 2' in Mathematics Extended Part (Module 1 or Module 2) is also recognised as meeting the general entry requirements.
² 'Attained' level of Applied Learning Chinese (for non-Chinese speaking students) is accepted as Chinese Language qualification for the admission, but it is not considered as an elective subject.

Mainland Students

Attained satisfactory results in National University Entrance Examination (GaoKao), including English (English Language Public Examinations accepted by HKCT); or equivalent qualifications.

Mainland students meeting the above requirements can apply for the first year admission and need to pass the admission interview.

For mainland students interested in applying for this programme, please visit Mainland Admission.

Teaching Facilities

Security Operations Centre

The Cybersecurity Higher Diploma programme is equipped with professional hardware and system platforms. The 7m x 2m LED wall facilities visualisation and interaction with the virtual cyber world for real-time experiments and training.

Click to view the 360º VR tour of Security Operations Centre

Cyber Range & Practice Centre

The Centre allows cybersecurity programme students to interact with virtual and cyber world status in real-time. Moreover, it allows a wide range of teaching and learning activities such as scene simulation, network attack and defense, network invasion and maintenance, competition, research, testing and practice. HKCT cyber range serves as a Hong Kong regional centre of the national-level cyber range, and it has achieved platform interconnection with multiple cross-border cyber ranges.

Click to view the 360º VR tour of Cyber Range & Practice Centre

Student Sharings

Jonathan A-YOUNG

'HKCT's Cybersecurity programme offers excellent facilities, including a remotely accessible Cyber Range. My Year 1 internship at Multisoft Limited provided valuable real-world experience and helped me identify key areas for future development. I actively participated in competitions like the PolyU x NuttyShell Cybersecurity CTF 2024 (5th place) and 2025 (2nd place), applying and expanding my cybersecurity knowledge. HKCT's CTF Club, with its expert-led problem-solving sessions, has been invaluable in further enhancing my skills.'

Ryan LAW

'During my studies, I actively participated in CTF competitions, which allowed me to apply my knowledge and boosted my confidence. I achieved 5th and 2nd place respectively in the tertiary institution category of the PolyU x NuttyShell Cybersecurity CTF 2024 and 2025. HKCT's CTF Club provided insights into real-world cybersecurity practices, enhancing my understanding of programme content. Furthermore, my internship at Topsec allowed me to successfully apply techniques I had learnt, such as penetration testing and website traffic analysis, to practical work scenarios.'

KAM Piu
‘The Cybersecurity Higher Diploma programme is comprehensive, covering everything from fundamentals to advanced topics. I not only improved my skills but also feel much more confident dealing with cyber threats now. I am grateful to the school and the teachers for giving me a deeper understanding and a broader perspective of cybersecurity.’

ZENG Chuan Jing
‘HKCT provides state-of-the-art facilities and industry connections. The teachers are highly experienced and focus on practical skills and real-world examples. I learned about areas such as penetration testing and defence techniques, and I was able to improve my skills through hands-on projects, which has prepared me well for my career.’

JIANG Fei
‘This programme made me realise how important cybersecurity is in today's digital world. The curriculum covers both theory and practice, from network traffic analysis to penetration testing. I've mastered practical skills like setting up firewalls and intrusion detection. The programme also emphasised the legal and ethical aspects, which has boosted my confidence for my future career.’

LI Hongji
‘I've learned so much from the cybersecurity programme. The content is extensive, ranging from basic theory to advanced practice. The school's resources and the teachers' guidance made complex concepts easier to understand. I've not only improved my skills but also learned how to work well with others.’

HUANG Penglin
‘Studying at HKCT has been both exciting and fulfilling. The programme content is always up-to-date, and the teachers are experienced, giving us a mix of practical and theoretical learning. I'm looking forward to growing in this rapidly evolving field.’

Tuition Fees and Assistance

Tuition Fees

Year 1: $70,768 Year 2: $70,768

The tuition fee above is under 2026/27 Cohort.
This programme is subsidised under Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP). In the 2026/27 academic year, a subsidy of up to $23,390 per academic year will be provided to each eligible local student admitted to this non-laboratory-based programme. The first-year tuition fee after subsidy is $47,378. Please note that only local students* are eligible for the relevant subsidy.
Assistance, Scholarships and Grants are eligible to local students only.
*Including the applicants holding the "dependent visa" or other special visas. For more information, please visit the web page.

Assistance

Financial Assistance Scheme for Post-secondary Students (FASP) (Including Student Travel Subsidy(STS))
The Non-means-tested Loan Scheme for Post-secondary Students (NLSPS)
Student Travel Subsidy
Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors

Scholarships and Grants

CT Entrance Scholarship for Excellent Academic Achievement
Scholarship for Best Talents
Community Services Scholarship
Smart Tech Talent Entrance Scholarship

QF Level

The qualification of this programme is recognised under the Qualifications Framework in Hong Kong.

QF level：4

QR Registration No.：25/000007/L4

Registration Validity Period：1/9/2025 to 31/8/2028

Other Information

Applicants who do not meet the entry requirement may apply for a 1-year Diploma of Applied Education (listed below) and articulate to this Cybersecurity Higher Diploma programme.

FAQs

I do not know how to code and my Maths is average. Is Cybersecurity suitable for me?
Definitely. Many students assume cybersecurity requires advanced mathematics, but that is a misconception.

Logic Over Calculation: Cyber defence and detection rely heavily on logical thinking and meticulous analysis of system architecture, rather than complex mathematical formulas.
Start from Zero: Our curriculum is designed for beginners. You do not need prior coding knowledge before enrolment.
Leverage Analytical Skills: This programme features a specialised "Compliance" module, focusing on understanding and implementing regulations, standards, and processes. If you have strong organisational and analytical skills, you will find this area highly rewarding.

What are the advantages of the HKCT Higher Diploma in Cybersecurity?
We distinguish ourselves through professional facilities and a practical, combat-ready mindset, differing significantly from courses that only focus on theory.

Professional 'Cyber Range': We possess an enterprise-grade Cyber Range, allowing students to simulate real-world hacker attacks and defence strategies in a safe environment. This is a hands-on experience that standard computer labs cannot provide.
Industry Recognition & Insight: HKCT has been invited to participate in the government-led Hong Kong Cybersecurity Attack and Defence Drill for two consecutive years. Through this high-level industry engagement, students gain exposure to the frontline thinking of the sector whilst studying, giving them a competitive edge over those who only learn theory.

Can I progress to a Bachelor's Degree after this Higher Diploma?
Yes. The articulation pathway is very clear. Graduates can apply for priority admission to Year 3 of the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science and Cybersecurity at HKCT. This '2-year HD + 2-year Degree' model allows you to earn a degree equivalent to university graduates.
Additionally, as the programme is QF-recognised, graduates can also apply for relevant IT or Cybersecurity degree programmes at other local or overseas universities.

What are the career options if I don't plan to study for a degree immediately?
You can enter the workforce immediately. Cybersecurity is an industry that values skills, experience, and certifications often more than just academic titles. By completing the Higher Diploma in Cybersecurity (Testing and Compliance), you will have mastered the practical skills the industry urgently needs.

Graduates are qualified for these in-demand roles:

Junior Penetration Tester: Simulating attacks to identify system vulnerabilities.
SOC Analyst (Security Operations Centre): Monitoring network traffic and responding to security threats.
IT Compliance Assistant: Helping enterprises (especially in Banking/Finance) meet legal and security standards.
System & Network Administrator: Maintaining the security of corporate network infrastructure.

Of course, to enhance long-term promotion prospects and salary growth, you are advised to complete the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science and Cybersecurity (Year 3 entry).

Discover In-Demand Cybersecurity Careers & Responsibilities

Disclaimer

Tuition fees and subsidies are to be reviewed and adjusted annually on various factors.
This programme is subsidised under Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP). In the 2026/2027 academic year, a subsidy of up to $23,390 per academic year will be provided to each eligible local student admitted to this non-laboratory-based programme. The first-year tuition fee after subsidy is $47,378. Only local students are eligible for the subsidy under SSSDP.

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