Cybersecurity Practitioner Apprenticeship

This earn-and-learn apprenticeship trains you to protect computer systems, networks and data from cyber threats. You study topics such as network security, ethical hacking, incident response and risk management while working full-time with a host employer. A typical week splits between on-the-job experience in a real IT or security team and scheduled college days or online learning delivered through FIT's Generation Apprenticeship programme. You gain hands-on practice with industry tools used for vulnerability scanning, threat monitoring and security auditing. The programme is closely aligned with Cyber Ireland's industry cluster, meaning employers are directly involved in shaping what you learn and how you apply it in the workplace.

To enter this apprenticeship you must first secure a position with an approved host employer, as the programme is employer-led and registered through SOLAS. Most employers expect a Leaving Certificate with a minimum of five passes, and subjects such as Maths, Computer Science or Physics at Ordinary or Higher level are considered useful. Some employers accept candidates who hold a relevant QQI Level 5 PLC award in IT or networking in lieu of, or alongside, Leaving Certificate results. Mature applicants aged 23 or over may be considered on the basis of relevant work experience in IT support or related roles. There is no CAO application involved; you apply directly to participating employers listed on apprenticeship.ie and are registered by your employer with SOLAS once hired.

Demand for cybersecurity professionals in Ireland significantly outpaces supply, making this one of the strongest graduate employment markets in the technology sector. Apprentices frequently receive permanent job offers from their host employer on completion of the programme. Entry-level salaries typically range from €35,000 to €45,000 gross per year, rising considerably with experience and additional certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CEH or CISSP. The ongoing growth of cloud computing, remote working and data protection regulation under the GDPR ensures sustained long-term demand.