BCS Practitioner Certificate in Data Protection
For experienced Data Protection professionals, and those candidates that want to build on the BCS Foundation Certificate, you can gain a broader and deeper understanding of current laws, including the EU GDPR, UK GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act 2018, and how they need to be applied in your organisation.
Who is it for?
- Anyone who has some existing responsibility for data protection within their organisation.
- It’s also useful for those who want to broaden their basic understanding in this area and fully understand the practical applications of data protection laws.
- Whilst this certificate is written to the UK Data Protection Act, many other jurisdictions have enacted broadly similar data protection laws, so international candidates may also find this useful.
Entry requirements
- It's ideal if you hold the BCS Foundation Certificate in Data Protection, though this is not mandatory.
- We strongly recommended that candidates attend an accredited training course and are fully familiar with GDPR and the syllabus and any recommended reading outlined in the syllabus.
What will I learn?
Candidates will be able to:
- Gain an understanding of the key changes and the associated implications that the GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act 2018 introduce to data protection.
- Gain an understanding of individual and organisational responsibilities under the GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act, particularly the need for effective record keeping.
- Be able to apply the new rights available to data subjects and understand the implications of those rights.
- Be able to demonstrate an understanding of the designation, position and role / tasks of a data protection officer.
- Be able to prepare organisations to manage and handle personal data in compliance with the GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act.
The syllabus includes training objectives, details of modules and learning hours, plus a recommended reading list:
Download our latest syllabus (PDF)
Download the specimen paper (PDF)
Please note: This certification has been refreshed in line with legislative updates up to 30 April 2023.
Any legislative changes since 1st May 2023 will be reflected at the earliest opportunity following the passing of the DPDI Bill.
What format is the exam?
- A 90 minute closed book digital 40 question multi-choice exam
- Pass mark is 65%
This qualification is not regulated by the following United Kingdom Regulators - Ofqual, Qualifications Wales, CCEA Regulation or SQA.
