There are currently few things that worry CEOs worldwide as much as geopolitics. Cybersecurity is undoubtedly one of them. But what happens when you combine geopolitical conflicts and cyber threats?
Geopolitical cyber threats, that’s what.
This lethal combination threatens to disrupt economies, destabilize governments, and shatter global stability. That’s why it must be met with an ironclad cybersecurity strategy.
But what does that strategy entail?
That’s for Tom Vazdar and Venicia Solomons to answer. Tom is the chair of the Master’s Degree in Enterprise Cybersecurity program at the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT). Venicia is a seasoned cybersecurity architect and advocate who has rightfully earned the nickname “the Cyber Queen.”
Here’s what these two esteemed cyber professionals have to say about geopolitical cyber threats in their highly informative master class titled “Cyber Threat Landscape 2024: Navigating New Risks.”
What Are Geopolitical Cyber Threats?
Geopolitical threats refer to cyberattacks (or campaigns) driven by political motives. These attacks are often conducted by state-sponsored actors and have a specific strategic goal in mind.
For instance, Iran-backed hackers have recently been targeting U.S. water systems, aiming to disrupt Israeli-made equipment globally. This example also perfectly illustrates the targets of geopolitical cyberattacks – critical infrastructure, government systems, military networks, and other relevant entities.
But don’t jump to conclusions – the private sector isn’t immune to such attacks.
Cybercriminals have also targeted private companies to steal intellectual property, disrupt operations, or extort money. However, what differentiates these attacks from other cyberattacks is the motivation behind them.
Whether it’s through espionage, sabotage, or disinformation, geopolitical cyber threats always aim to achieve a political or strategic advantage for the attacker.
How Do State-Sponsored Cyber Threats Differ From Other Cyberattacks?
In their master class, Tom and Venicia specifically focus on state-sponsored cyber threats, even though they aren’t the only type of geopolitical cyber threats. Why? Because they’re the most advanced and sophisticated cyber threats.
As Venicia puts it, state-sponsored cyberattacks involve “specialist hacking techniques,” “stealthy behavior,” and “stealthy execution.” That’s why the consequences of these attacks are often only seen after significant damage has been done.
This leads us to another distinctive characteristic of state-sponsored cyberattacks – they typically involve long-term execution.
You see, other forms of cyberattacks usually want to reach their goal as soon as possible. For instance, a ransomware attack will infiltrate your system, and the hacker will ask for ransom straight away.
A state-sponsored cyberattack, on the other hand, usually plays the long game. That’s why they’re considered an advanced persistent threat (APT). Remaining undetected for a long time allows these threats to collect lots of critical data and perform long-term espionage.
Tom adds that the goal of these cyberattacks is another important distinction. As mentioned, they usually have a strategic goal in mind. “Regular” cyber threats, in contrast, typically only aim for financial profit.
Why Is Geopolitical Cybersecurity Important?
For the most part, traditional warfare was limited to three battlefields – the land, the air, and the sea. However, as Tom points out, two vital battlefields have joined the fray – space and cyberspace.
Sure, threats in cyberspace aren’t overtly visible like those on land, air, or sea. However, they can be just as devastating, if not more so – especially if they’re geopolitical cyber threats.
Here’s how Tom and Venicia break down the importance of geopolitical cybersecurity.
Protecting Against Espionage
As mentioned, espionage is one of the leading types of geopolitical cyberattacks. Since espionage aims to collect as much valuable information as possible, these attacks are typically highly refined, which allows them to remain undiscovered for months on end.
Venicia points out that the recent geopolitical tensions have led to increased cyber espionage. That’s what makes solid geopolitical cybersecurity more important than ever. Let one intruder into your network, and you’re essentially giving away all your classified information (past, present, and future).
Avoiding Manipulation
2024 is an election year. This means that “influence operations, disinformation operations, [and] deep fake operations” will run more rampant than ever, as Tom warns. Ultimately, these operations aim to shape public opinion and undermine trust in democratic institutions. These outcomes are never desirable, let alone during such a crucial time.
That’s where cybersecurity comes into play.
These measures help secure digital platforms, detect (and remove) false information, and (in this specific scenario) safeguard electoral systems.
Protecting the Economy
As mentioned, geopolitical cyberattacks aren’t typically done for financial gain. However, they can still cause massive financial losses. How? By targeting “public organizations and private entities that make a large contribution to a country’s economy,” as Venicia explains.
And a world that’s still reeling from the effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on the global economy can’t possibly handle another major disruption. That’s why any similar threat should never be taken lightly.
How to Combat Geopolitical Cyber Threats
Now that you know why geopolitical cyber threats must be combatted, let’s discuss how this can be done.
Keep All Aspects in Mind
There are numerous factors that go into protecting against geopolitical cyber threats. But for this protection to actually work, all these factors must be considered when devising a defense strategy.
For starters, this means protecting all critical infrastructure sectors. Tom lists just some of them –financial services, healthcare and public health, and transportation systems. However, one thing applies to all critical infrastructure sectors – they aren’t “independent islands,” as Tom puts it.
They’re all part of a larger ecosystem.
Each sector can only be protected if there’s a holistic approach to cybersecurity, one that considers interdependencies between sectors and the potential cascading effects of cyber disruptions. This way, in case of a cyberattack, every sector can provide support and respond effectively to minimize the impact.
Foster Collaboration
The collaborative approach shouldn’t only apply to critical infrastructure sectors. All stakeholders, including government agencies, cybersecurity experts, and the private sector, must work together to address geopolitical threats effectively.
This collaboration can take many forms.
However, Tom highlights the three most important ones on the global level – sharing intelligence, developing international norms and agreements, and establishing cybersecurity alliances.
Our experts list some of the most useful alliances and resources in this regard:
- The No More Ransom Project helps organizations combat ransomware attacks by providing decryption keys, thus returning their vital information.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) worldwide allow for sharing cyber threat intelligence among industry partners to improve defenses collectively.
- The Budapest Convention on Cybercrime sets out international standards for combating cybercrime, promoting cooperation among countries to tackle cyber threats effectively.
Focus on Critical Infrastructure
By now, one thing’s clear – protecting critical infrastructure against geopolitical cyber threats is paramount.
According to Tom, collaboration plays a key role here as well. In his words, “The only way to protect [critical infrastructure] is that collaborative effort between government and the private sector because they cannot go without each other; they have to work together.”
Implement a Robust Cybersecurity Framework
A comprehensive and collaborative approach to combating geopolitical threats is just the preamble. The implementation of a robust cybersecurity framework is where the actual protection starts. Of course, these systems should be based on the intelligence collected through collaboration and education.
However, the system itself is just as important. After all, protecting critical infrastructure and other elements of similar importance requires more than just traditional anti-virus software!
According to Tom, a comprehensive cybersecurity framework will comprise four elements – threat detection, response tools, regular security assessments, and training. The specifics will vary by organization, and every relevant employee should be familiar with them.
Tom also emphasizes the importance of adopting a multi-layer approach to cybersecurity defenses. This way, even if one layer is breached, others will provide protection and prevent a total collapse of the system.
Stay Vigilant
Organizations should always be on the lookout for an uptick in suspicious activities, especially during times of geopolitical conflicts. This vigilance includes monitoring network traffic for anomalies, conducting regular security audits, and staying on top of the latest cyber threats and—let’s face it—the latest geopolitical conflicts.
Train Your Employees
The importance of thorough cybersecurity education can’t be understated. After all, employees are usually the first line of defense against cyber threats. So, they should be trained to handle the information system properly within the organization. They should know what to do and what not to do before, during, and after a geopolitical cyberattack.
However, there’s another type of employee crucial for the strength of cybersecurity within an organization – cybersecurity professionals themselves.
These individuals must be on top of their game at all times. One way to ensure this is to only hire professionals with ample experience and education. For instance, completing a renowned Master’s program like OPIT’s Enterprise Cybersecurity should be a huge green flag for any employer. It signals a strong commitment to cybersecurity excellence and a deep understanding of the latest trends and techniques in the field.
Invest in the education and professional development of your employees, and you stand a chance against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, geopolitical and beyond.
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From the same author
Read the articleComputer Science is fast becoming one of the most valuable fields of study, with high levels of demand and high-salaried career opportunities for successful graduates. If you’re looking for a flexible and rewarding way to hone your computing skills as part of a supportive global community, the BSc in Computer Science at the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) could be the perfect next step.
Introducing the OPIT BSc in Computer Science
The OPIT BSc in Computer Science is a bachelor’s degree program that provides students with a comprehensive level of both theoretical and practical knowledge of all core areas of computer science. That includes the likes of programming, databases, cloud computing, software development, and artificial intelligence.
Like other programs at OPIT, the Computer Science BSc is delivered exclusively online, with a mixture of recorded and live content for students to engage with. Participants will enjoy the instruction of world-leading lecturers and professors from various fields, including software engineers at major tech brands and esteemed researchers, and will have many paths open to them upon graduation.
Graduates may, for example, seek to push on with their educational journeys, progressing on to a specialized master’s degree at OPIT, like the MSc in Digital Business and Innovation or the MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence. Or they could enter the working world in roles like software engineer, data scientist, web developer, app developer, or cybersecurity consultant.
The bullets below outline the key characteristics of this particular course:
- Duration: Three years in total, spread across six terms.
- Content: Core courses for the first four terms, a student-selected specialization for the fifth term, and a capstone project in the final term.
- Focus: Developing detailed theoretical knowledge and practical skills across all core areas of modern computer science.
- Format: Entirely online, with a mixture of live lessons and asynchronous content you can access 24/7 to learn at your own pace.
- Assessment: Progressive assessments over the course of the program, along with a capstone project and dissertation, but no final exams.
What You’ll Learn
Students enrolled in the BSc in Computer Science course at OPIT will enjoy comprehensive instruction in the increasingly diverse sectors that fall under the umbrella of computer science today. That includes a close look at emerging technologies, like AI and machine learning, as well as introductions to the fundamental skills involved in designing and developing pieces of software.
The first four terms are the same for all students. These will include introductions to software engineering, computer security, and cloud computing infrastructure, as well as courses focusing on the core skills that computer scientists invariably need in their careers, like project management, quality assurance, and technical English.
For the fifth term, students will have a choice. They can select five electives from a pool of 27, or select one field to specialize in from a group of five. You may choose to specialize in all things cybersecurity, for example, and learn about emerging cyber threats. Or you could focus more on specific elements of computer science that appeal to your interests and passions, such as game development.
Who It’s For
The BSc in Computer Science program can suit a whole range of prospective applicants and should appeal to anyone with an interest or passion for computing and a desire to pursue a professional career in this field. Whether you’re seeking to enter the world of software development, user experience design, data science, or another related sector, this is the course to consider.
In addition, thanks to OPIT’s engaging, flexible, and exclusively online teaching and learning systems, this course can appeal to people from all over the globe, of different ages, and from different walks of life. It’s equally suitable for recent high school graduates with dreams of making their own apps to seasoned professionals looking to broaden their knowledge or transition to a different career.
The Value of the BSc in Computer Science Course at OPIT
Plenty of universities and higher education establishments around the world offer degrees in computer science, but OPIT’s program stands out for several distinctive reasons.
Firstly, as previously touched upon, all OPIT courses are delivered online. Students have a schedule of live lessons to attend, but can also access recorded content and digital learning resources as and when they choose. This offers an unparalleled level of freedom and flexibility compared to more conventional educational institutions, putting students in the driving seat and letting them learn at their own pace.
OPIT also aims not merely to impart knowledge through lectures and teaching, but to actually help students gain the practical skills they need to take the next logical steps in their education or career. In other words, studying at OPIT isn’t simply about memorizing facts and paragraphs of text; it’s about learning how to apply the knowledge you gain in real-world settings.
OPIT students also enjoy the unique benefits of a global community of like-minded students and world-leading professors. Here, distance is no barrier, and while students and teachers may come from completely different corners of the globe, all are made to feel welcome and heard. Students can reach out to their lecturers when they feel the need for guidance, answers, and advice.
Other benefits of studying with OPIT include:
- Networking opportunities and events, like career fairs, where you can meet and speak with representatives from some of the world’s biggest tech brands
- Consistent support systems from start to finish of your educational journey in the form of mentorships and more
- Helpful tools to expedite your education, like the OPIT AI Copilot, which provides personalized study support
Entry Requirements and Fees
To enroll in the OPIT BSc in Computer Science and take your next steps towards a thrilling and fulfilling career in this field, you’ll need to meet some simple criteria. Unlike other educational institutions, which can impose strict and seemingly unattainable requirements on their applicants, OPIT aims to make tech education more accessible. As a result, aspiring students will require:
- A higher secondary school leaving certificate at EQF Level 4, or equivalent
- B2-level English proficiency, or higher
Naturally, applicants should also have a passion for computer science and a willingness to study, learn, and make the most of the resources, community, and support systems provided by the institute.
In addition, if you happen to have relevant work experience or educational achievements, you may be able to use these to skip certain modules or even entire terms and obtain your degree sooner. OPIT offers a comprehensive credit transfer program, which you can learn more about during the application process.
Regarding fees, OPIT also stands out from the crowd compared to conventional educational institutions, offering affordable rates to make higher tech education more accessible. There are early bird discounts, scholarship opportunities, and even the option to pay either on a term-by-term basis or a one-off up-front fee.
Read the articleThe Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) provides a curated collection of courses for students at every stage of their learning journey, including those who are just starting. For aspiring tech leaders and those who don’t quite feel ready to dive directly into a bachelor’s degree, there’s the OPIT Foundation Program. It’s the perfect starting point to gain core skills, boost confidence, and build a solid base for success.
Introducing the OPIT Foundation Year Program
As the name implies, OPIT’s Foundation Program is about foundation-level knowledge and skills. It’s the only pre-bachelor program in the OPIT lineup, and successful students on this 60-ECTS credit course will obtain a Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Information Technology upon its completion. From there, they can move on to higher levels of learning, like a Bachelor’s in Digital Business or Modern Computer Science.
In other words, the Foundation Program provides a gentle welcome into the world of higher technological education, while also serving as a springboard to help students achieve their long-term goals. By mixing both guided learning and independent study, it also prepares students for the EQF Level 4 experiences and challenges they’ll face once they enroll in a bachelor’s program in IT or a related field.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what the OPIT Foundation Program course involves:
- Duration: Six months, split into two terms, with each term lasting 13 weeks
- Content: Three courses per term, with each one worth 10 ECTS credits, for a total of 60
- Focus: Core skills, like mathematics, English, and introductory-level computing
- Format: Video lectures, independent learning, live sessions, and digital resources (e-books, etc.)
- Assessment: Two to three assessments over the course of the program
What You’ll Learn
The OPIT Foundation Program doesn’t intensely focus on any one particular topic, nor does it thrust onto you the more advanced, complicated aspects of technological education you would find in a bachelor’s or master’s program. Instead, it largely keeps things simple, focusing on the basic building blocks of knowledge and core skills so that students feel comfortable taking the next steps in their studies.
It includes the following courses, spread out across two terms:
- Academic Skills
- Mathematics Literacy I
- Mathematics Literacy II
- Internet and Digital Technology
- Academic Reading, Writing, and Communication
- Introduction to Computer Hardware and Software
Encompassing foundational-level lessons in digital business, computer science, and computer literacy, the Foundation Program produces graduates with a commanding knowledge of common operating systems. Exploring reading and writing, it also helps students master the art of communicating their ideas and responses in clear, academic English.
Who It’s For
The Foundation Year program is for people who are eager to enter the world of technology and eventually pursue a bachelor’s or higher level of education in this field, but feel they need more preparation. It’s for the people who want to work on their core skills and knowledge before progressing to more advanced topics, so that they don’t feel lost or left behind later on.
It can appeal to anyone with a high school-level education and ambitions of pushing themselves further, and to anyone who wants to work in fields like computer science, digital business, and artificial intelligence (AI). You don’t need extensive experience or qualifications to get started (more on that below); just a passion for tech and the motivation to learn.
The Value of the Foundation Program
With technology playing an increasingly integral role in the world today, millions of students want to develop their tech knowledge and skills. The problem is that technology-oriented degree courses can sometimes feel a little too complex or even inaccessible, especially for those who may not have had the most conventional educational journeys in the past.
While so many colleges and universities around the world simply expect students to show up with the relevant skills and knowledge to dive right into degree programs, OPIT understands that some students need a helping hand. That’s where the Foundation Program comes in – it’s the kind of course you won’t find at a typical university, aimed at bridging the gap between high school and higher education.
By progressing through the Foundation Program, students gain not just knowledge, but confidence. The entire course is aimed at eliminating uncertainty and unease. It imbues students with the skills and understanding they need to push onward, to believe in themselves, and to get more value from wherever their education takes them next.
On its own, this course won’t necessarily provide the qualifications you need to move straight into the job market, but it’s a vital stepping stone towards a degree. It also provides numerous other advantages that are unique to the OPIT community:
- Online Learning: Enjoy the benefits of being able to learn at your own pace, from the comfort of home, without the costs and inconveniences associated with relocation, commuting, and so on.
- Strong Support System: OPIT professors regularly check in with students and are on hand around the clock to answer queries and provide guidance.
- Academic Leaders: The OPIT faculty is made up of some of the world’s sharpest minds, including tech company heads, experienced researchers, and even former education ministers.
Entry Requirements and Fees
Unlike OPIT’s other, more advanced courses, the Foundation Program is aimed at beginners, so it does not have particularly strict or complex entry requirements. It’s designed to be as accessible as possible, so that almost anyone can acquire the skills they need to pursue education and a career in technology. The main thing you’ll need is a desire to learn and improve your skills, but applicants should also possess:
- English proficiency at level B2 or higher
- A Secondary School Leaving Certificate, or equivalent
Regarding the fees, OPIT strives to lower the financial barrier of education that can be such a deterrent in conventional education around the world. The institute’s tuition fees are fairly and competitively priced, all-inclusive (without any hidden charges to worry about), and accessible for those working with different budgets.
Given that all resources and instruction are provided online, you can also save a lot of money on relocation and living costs when you study with OPIT. In addition, applicants have the option to pay either up front, with a 10% discount on the total, or on a per-term basis, allowing you to stretch the cost out over a longer period to ease the financial burden.
-
Go to all authors
Related posts
Computer Science is fast becoming one of the most valuable fields of study, with high levels of demand and high-salaried career opportunities for successful graduates. If you’re looking for a flexible and rewarding way to hone your computing skills as part of a supportive global community, the BSc in Computer Science at the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) could be the perfect next step.
Introducing the OPIT BSc in Computer Science
The OPIT BSc in Computer Science is a bachelor’s degree program that provides students with a comprehensive level of both theoretical and practical knowledge of all core areas of computer science. That includes the likes of programming, databases, cloud computing, software development, and artificial intelligence.
Like other programs at OPIT, the Computer Science BSc is delivered exclusively online, with a mixture of recorded and live content for students to engage with. Participants will enjoy the instruction of world-leading lecturers and professors from various fields, including software engineers at major tech brands and esteemed researchers, and will have many paths open to them upon graduation.
Graduates may, for example, seek to push on with their educational journeys, progressing on to a specialized master’s degree at OPIT, like the MSc in Digital Business and Innovation or the MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence. Or they could enter the working world in roles like software engineer, data scientist, web developer, app developer, or cybersecurity consultant.
The bullets below outline the key characteristics of this particular course:
- Duration: Three years in total, spread across six terms.
- Content: Core courses for the first four terms, a student-selected specialization for the fifth term, and a capstone project in the final term.
- Focus: Developing detailed theoretical knowledge and practical skills across all core areas of modern computer science.
- Format: Entirely online, with a mixture of live lessons and asynchronous content you can access 24/7 to learn at your own pace.
- Assessment: Progressive assessments over the course of the program, along with a capstone project and dissertation, but no final exams.
What You’ll Learn
Students enrolled in the BSc in Computer Science course at OPIT will enjoy comprehensive instruction in the increasingly diverse sectors that fall under the umbrella of computer science today. That includes a close look at emerging technologies, like AI and machine learning, as well as introductions to the fundamental skills involved in designing and developing pieces of software.
The first four terms are the same for all students. These will include introductions to software engineering, computer security, and cloud computing infrastructure, as well as courses focusing on the core skills that computer scientists invariably need in their careers, like project management, quality assurance, and technical English.
For the fifth term, students will have a choice. They can select five electives from a pool of 27, or select one field to specialize in from a group of five. You may choose to specialize in all things cybersecurity, for example, and learn about emerging cyber threats. Or you could focus more on specific elements of computer science that appeal to your interests and passions, such as game development.
Who It’s For
The BSc in Computer Science program can suit a whole range of prospective applicants and should appeal to anyone with an interest or passion for computing and a desire to pursue a professional career in this field. Whether you’re seeking to enter the world of software development, user experience design, data science, or another related sector, this is the course to consider.
In addition, thanks to OPIT’s engaging, flexible, and exclusively online teaching and learning systems, this course can appeal to people from all over the globe, of different ages, and from different walks of life. It’s equally suitable for recent high school graduates with dreams of making their own apps to seasoned professionals looking to broaden their knowledge or transition to a different career.
The Value of the BSc in Computer Science Course at OPIT
Plenty of universities and higher education establishments around the world offer degrees in computer science, but OPIT’s program stands out for several distinctive reasons.
Firstly, as previously touched upon, all OPIT courses are delivered online. Students have a schedule of live lessons to attend, but can also access recorded content and digital learning resources as and when they choose. This offers an unparalleled level of freedom and flexibility compared to more conventional educational institutions, putting students in the driving seat and letting them learn at their own pace.
OPIT also aims not merely to impart knowledge through lectures and teaching, but to actually help students gain the practical skills they need to take the next logical steps in their education or career. In other words, studying at OPIT isn’t simply about memorizing facts and paragraphs of text; it’s about learning how to apply the knowledge you gain in real-world settings.
OPIT students also enjoy the unique benefits of a global community of like-minded students and world-leading professors. Here, distance is no barrier, and while students and teachers may come from completely different corners of the globe, all are made to feel welcome and heard. Students can reach out to their lecturers when they feel the need for guidance, answers, and advice.
Other benefits of studying with OPIT include:
- Networking opportunities and events, like career fairs, where you can meet and speak with representatives from some of the world’s biggest tech brands
- Consistent support systems from start to finish of your educational journey in the form of mentorships and more
- Helpful tools to expedite your education, like the OPIT AI Copilot, which provides personalized study support
Entry Requirements and Fees
To enroll in the OPIT BSc in Computer Science and take your next steps towards a thrilling and fulfilling career in this field, you’ll need to meet some simple criteria. Unlike other educational institutions, which can impose strict and seemingly unattainable requirements on their applicants, OPIT aims to make tech education more accessible. As a result, aspiring students will require:
- A higher secondary school leaving certificate at EQF Level 4, or equivalent
- B2-level English proficiency, or higher
Naturally, applicants should also have a passion for computer science and a willingness to study, learn, and make the most of the resources, community, and support systems provided by the institute.
In addition, if you happen to have relevant work experience or educational achievements, you may be able to use these to skip certain modules or even entire terms and obtain your degree sooner. OPIT offers a comprehensive credit transfer program, which you can learn more about during the application process.
Regarding fees, OPIT also stands out from the crowd compared to conventional educational institutions, offering affordable rates to make higher tech education more accessible. There are early bird discounts, scholarship opportunities, and even the option to pay either on a term-by-term basis or a one-off up-front fee.
The Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) provides a curated collection of courses for students at every stage of their learning journey, including those who are just starting. For aspiring tech leaders and those who don’t quite feel ready to dive directly into a bachelor’s degree, there’s the OPIT Foundation Program. It’s the perfect starting point to gain core skills, boost confidence, and build a solid base for success.
Introducing the OPIT Foundation Year Program
As the name implies, OPIT’s Foundation Program is about foundation-level knowledge and skills. It’s the only pre-bachelor program in the OPIT lineup, and successful students on this 60-ECTS credit course will obtain a Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Information Technology upon its completion. From there, they can move on to higher levels of learning, like a Bachelor’s in Digital Business or Modern Computer Science.
In other words, the Foundation Program provides a gentle welcome into the world of higher technological education, while also serving as a springboard to help students achieve their long-term goals. By mixing both guided learning and independent study, it also prepares students for the EQF Level 4 experiences and challenges they’ll face once they enroll in a bachelor’s program in IT or a related field.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what the OPIT Foundation Program course involves:
- Duration: Six months, split into two terms, with each term lasting 13 weeks
- Content: Three courses per term, with each one worth 10 ECTS credits, for a total of 60
- Focus: Core skills, like mathematics, English, and introductory-level computing
- Format: Video lectures, independent learning, live sessions, and digital resources (e-books, etc.)
- Assessment: Two to three assessments over the course of the program
What You’ll Learn
The OPIT Foundation Program doesn’t intensely focus on any one particular topic, nor does it thrust onto you the more advanced, complicated aspects of technological education you would find in a bachelor’s or master’s program. Instead, it largely keeps things simple, focusing on the basic building blocks of knowledge and core skills so that students feel comfortable taking the next steps in their studies.
It includes the following courses, spread out across two terms:
- Academic Skills
- Mathematics Literacy I
- Mathematics Literacy II
- Internet and Digital Technology
- Academic Reading, Writing, and Communication
- Introduction to Computer Hardware and Software
Encompassing foundational-level lessons in digital business, computer science, and computer literacy, the Foundation Program produces graduates with a commanding knowledge of common operating systems. Exploring reading and writing, it also helps students master the art of communicating their ideas and responses in clear, academic English.
Who It’s For
The Foundation Year program is for people who are eager to enter the world of technology and eventually pursue a bachelor’s or higher level of education in this field, but feel they need more preparation. It’s for the people who want to work on their core skills and knowledge before progressing to more advanced topics, so that they don’t feel lost or left behind later on.
It can appeal to anyone with a high school-level education and ambitions of pushing themselves further, and to anyone who wants to work in fields like computer science, digital business, and artificial intelligence (AI). You don’t need extensive experience or qualifications to get started (more on that below); just a passion for tech and the motivation to learn.
The Value of the Foundation Program
With technology playing an increasingly integral role in the world today, millions of students want to develop their tech knowledge and skills. The problem is that technology-oriented degree courses can sometimes feel a little too complex or even inaccessible, especially for those who may not have had the most conventional educational journeys in the past.
While so many colleges and universities around the world simply expect students to show up with the relevant skills and knowledge to dive right into degree programs, OPIT understands that some students need a helping hand. That’s where the Foundation Program comes in – it’s the kind of course you won’t find at a typical university, aimed at bridging the gap between high school and higher education.
By progressing through the Foundation Program, students gain not just knowledge, but confidence. The entire course is aimed at eliminating uncertainty and unease. It imbues students with the skills and understanding they need to push onward, to believe in themselves, and to get more value from wherever their education takes them next.
On its own, this course won’t necessarily provide the qualifications you need to move straight into the job market, but it’s a vital stepping stone towards a degree. It also provides numerous other advantages that are unique to the OPIT community:
- Online Learning: Enjoy the benefits of being able to learn at your own pace, from the comfort of home, without the costs and inconveniences associated with relocation, commuting, and so on.
- Strong Support System: OPIT professors regularly check in with students and are on hand around the clock to answer queries and provide guidance.
- Academic Leaders: The OPIT faculty is made up of some of the world’s sharpest minds, including tech company heads, experienced researchers, and even former education ministers.
Entry Requirements and Fees
Unlike OPIT’s other, more advanced courses, the Foundation Program is aimed at beginners, so it does not have particularly strict or complex entry requirements. It’s designed to be as accessible as possible, so that almost anyone can acquire the skills they need to pursue education and a career in technology. The main thing you’ll need is a desire to learn and improve your skills, but applicants should also possess:
- English proficiency at level B2 or higher
- A Secondary School Leaving Certificate, or equivalent
Regarding the fees, OPIT strives to lower the financial barrier of education that can be such a deterrent in conventional education around the world. The institute’s tuition fees are fairly and competitively priced, all-inclusive (without any hidden charges to worry about), and accessible for those working with different budgets.
Given that all resources and instruction are provided online, you can also save a lot of money on relocation and living costs when you study with OPIT. In addition, applicants have the option to pay either up front, with a 10% discount on the total, or on a per-term basis, allowing you to stretch the cost out over a longer period to ease the financial burden.
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