Major cybersecurity boost for Dundee with launch of 'UK's largest' college partnership

It is hoped the deal - seen as the biggest of its type in the UK - will help tackle a shortage of skilled cybersecurity experts in Scotland.

Experts at leading global security provider - Check Point Software Technologies Ltd - will now work closely developing the college’s courses.

As part of the collaboration, the college will host a brand new cyber lab creating a more immersive learning environment.

Students will study the most up-to-date syllabus, which is especially important in cybersecurity where the threat landscape and the technology are constantly evolving.

The college is hoping to retain talent in Dundee and provide students with the right skills to begin a career in cybersecurity.

Five college lecturers will complete the Check Point Certified Security Administrator training.

This will enable them to teach a range of cybersecurity courses geared towards computing students and add up-to-date industry recognized qualifications.

The partnership will also see the incorporation of professionally led, interactive activities such as hackathons.

At the end of the learning, students will gain globally recognized certification putting them in an advantageous position when they enter the job market.

James Oliver, Head of Curriculum at Dundee & Angus College said: “Our partnership with Check Point is very much aligned with our college-wide mission to become the ‘employability college’.

“We pride ourselves on offering students a stimulating and engaging experience that will thoroughly prepare them for the careers they aspire to have after their time with us ends.

“One of the things we love about SecureAcademy is that courses keep up with the fast-paced changes in the industry.”

Check Point’s Deryck Mitchelson said: “Check Point’s ethos is built on companies deserving the best security.

“What’s significant about this partnership with Dundee and Angus College is that we are not just achieving that through products and services but by investing in the next generation of cybersecurity professionals so that IT and security teams across the UK will have access to the very best talent.”