The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in Fundamentals of OCTAVE Security Risk Management Framework is an introductory qualification designed to provide Learners with essential knowledge of information security risk management and the fundamental concepts of the OCTAVE framework. It introduces structured approaches for recognising information assets, identifying security threats and understanding risks that may affect organisational systems and operations.

In today’s digital environment, organisations rely on information, technology and digital services to support everyday activities. Security risks can arise from vulnerabilities, threats, poor controls and weaknesses in processes. Understanding the fundamentals of security risk management can help organisations recognise potential risks and support appropriate protective measures.

This qualification introduces Learners to important concepts including information assets, security requirements, threats, vulnerabilities, risk identification, risk assessment, risk analysis and risk treatment. Learners also gain awareness of how organisational information and business processes can be considered when understanding security risks.

The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in Fundamentals of OCTAVE Security Risk Management Framework is suitable for Learners who are new to cybersecurity, IT security and risk management. It can benefit IT support personnel, administrative staff, system support workers, security support personnel and individuals interested in developing foundational information security knowledge.

By completing this diploma, Learners can build an essential understanding of OCTAVE-based security risk management and develop awareness that can support safer information handling and security-focused workplace practices.

All About LICQual Level 1 Diploma in Fundamentals of OCTAVE Security Risk Management Framework

Course Introduction
Eligibility Criteria
Study Modules
Learning Objectives
Intended Learner

Course Overview

The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in Fundamentals of OCTAVE Security Risk Management Framework is an introductory qualification designed to develop Learners’ foundational knowledge of information security risk management and the OCTAVE framework. It provides a structured introduction to identifying information assets, recognising security threats and understanding risks that may affect digital systems and organisational operations.

The qualification consists of 6 units, carries 24 credits and includes 60 Guided Learning Hours (GLH). Its structured format enables Learners to explore essential concepts of security risk management and understand how OCTAVE principles can support the identification and management of information security risks.

Key areas include information assets, security requirements, threat identification, vulnerabilities, risk assessment, risk analysis, risk treatment and security improvement. Learners develop awareness of how organisational processes and information can be considered when identifying and addressing security risks.

Entry Requirement:

The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in Fundamentals of OCTAVE Security Risk Management Framework is designed for Learners seeking introductory knowledge of information security and risk management.

Age: Normally 18 years or above.
Experience: No previous cybersecurity or risk management experience is required.
Educational Background: Basic secondary education or equivalent is recommended.
Language Proficiency: Basic English proficiency is recommended.
Digital Skills: Basic computer and internet skills are beneficial.
Technical Knowledge: No advanced IT or cybersecurity knowledge is required.
Resources: Access to a computer, internet and required learning materials is recommended.

Study Units

This qualification, the LICQual Level 1 Diploma in Fundamentals of OCTAVE Security Risk Management Framework, consists of 6 mandatory units.

Introduction to Risk Management
Basic Risk Identification Methods
Introduction to Security Controls
Fundamentals of the OCTAVE Framework
Risk Assessment Techniques
Risk Treatment and Risk Mitigation

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

Introduction to Risk Management:

Understand the fundamental concepts of risk management and its importance in protecting organizational assets.
Identify different types of risks (e.g., operational, financial, strategic) and their potential impact on an organization.
Demonstrate an awareness of risk management processes and frameworks in the context of security.

Basic Risk Identification Methods:

Apply basic risk identification techniques to recognize and assess potential security risks within an organization.
Use tools and methodologies to identify and document security threats, vulnerabilities, and assets at risk.
Understand the role of risk identification in the overall risk management process.

Introduction to Security Controls:

Gain an understanding of the various types of security controls (preventive, detective, and corrective) and their role in mitigating risk.
Evaluate the effectiveness of security controls in protecting organizational assets.
Understand the relationship between security controls and risk reduction.

Fundamentals of the OCTAVE Framework:

Explain the core principles and structure of the OCTAVE (Operationally Critical Threat, Asset, and Vulnerability Evaluation) security risk management framework.
Understand how the OCTAVE framework can be used to assess and manage security risks in a systematic and structured manner.
Identify key steps in the OCTAVE process, including risk identification, assessment, and mitigation.

Risk Assessment Techniques:

Apply various risk assessment techniques to evaluate security threats and vulnerabilities within an organization.
Use qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the severity and likelihood of identified risks.
Demonstrate the ability to prioritize risks based on their potential impact on business operations and assets.

Risk Treatment and Risk Mitigation:

Understand the various approaches to risk treatment, including risk avoidance, risk reduction, risk sharing, and risk acceptance.
Develop risk mitigation strategies to reduce the impact of identified risks.
Create a risk management plan that addresses both immediate and long-term security risks within an organization.

Ideal Candidate:

The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in Fundamentals of OCTAVE Security Risk Management Framework is suitable for Learners who want to build foundational knowledge of information security, risk assessment and the OCTAVE security risk management approach.

Cybersecurity Beginners: Learners starting to develop knowledge of information security and risk management.
IT Support Staff: Individuals supporting digital systems, applications and information assets.
Information Security Assistants: Learners assisting with basic security and risk management activities.
Risk Management Assistants: Individuals interested in identifying and understanding organisational security risks.
System Support Personnel: Professionals supporting IT systems and technology-enabled operations.
Administrative Staff: Individuals responsible for handling organisational information and digital processes.
Security Support Staff: Learners assisting with security controls and risk awareness activities.
Career Starters: Individuals seeking foundational knowledge of OCTAVE and information security risk management.

FAQs LICQual Level 1 Diploma in Fundamentals of OCTAVE Security Risk Management Framework

The diploma can support entry-level roles such as IT Support Assistant, Information Security Assistant, Cybersecurity Support Assistant, Risk Management Assistant and Security Support Worker, subject to employer requirements.

Learners develop foundational knowledge of information security risks, OCTAVE principles, information assets, threats, vulnerabilities, risk assessment and risk treatment.

It is suitable for cybersecurity beginners, IT support staff, information security assistants, risk management assistants, system support personnel, administrative staff and security support staff.

The course is assessed according to the qualification requirements and may include written assignments, knowledge-based questions, case studies or other approved assessment methods.

Learners can develop foundational skills in identifying information assets, recognising threats, understanding vulnerabilities, assessing risks and supporting appropriate risk treatment.