Free Micro-Credential Cybersecurity Courses by INSPEM UPM on PutraMOOC
In today's digital world, cybersecurity is no longer just a concern for IT professionals. It affects everyone, from students to working professionals to everyday internet users. Recognising this, the Institute for Mathematical Research (INSPEM) at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has launched a series of free micro-credential courses on cybersecurity, available to everyone through the PutraMOOC platform.
What is PutraMOOC?
PutraMOOC, which stands for Putra Massive Open Online Course, is an initiative by Universiti Putra Malaysia that offers inclusive and flexible access to quality education through free online learning courses. UPM was the first university in Malaysia to launch such a platform, making it open to the global community at no cost. The platform is considered a 21st century learning environment where anyone interested can simply register online and follow courses fully online.
(image taken from official source for awareness purpose only)
You can explore the platform at https://putraex.upm.edu.my/.
About INSPEM UPM
INSPEM, the Institute for Mathematical Research, is a research institute at UPM that specialises in mathematics and related areas, including cryptology and cybersecurity. INSPEM has been actively involved in cybersecurity research and has collaborated with CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM) on various initiatives. The institute has organised international conferences on cryptology and information security, demonstrating its commitment to advancing cybersecurity knowledge in Malaysia.
Visit INSPEM's official website at INSPEM to learn more about their research and activities.
Vision for Cybersecurity in Malaysia
These micro-credential courses were developed in collaboration with researchers from INSPEM, UPM, and utilise the PutraMOOC platform managed by CADE-LeaD, UPM. The initiative aligns with Malaysia's vision of building a resilient and trusted digital nation. By making these courses freely available, the programme aims to strengthen Malaysia's digital frontier by equipping individuals with essential cybersecurity knowledge and skills.
The collaboration between INSPEM and CyberSecurity Malaysia ensures that the course content meets national cybersecurity standards and addresses real-world challenges faced by organisations and individuals in protecting their digital assets.
The Micro-Credential Courses
The cybersecurity micro-credential programme consists of four courses, each focusing on different international standards for information security and privacy. All courses are at the beginner level, taught in English, and are open to students, industry professionals, and the general public. Each course takes approximately three weeks to complete with a total duration of around 5 hours and 40 minutes.
Upon successful completion, participants receive a digital certificate and badge that can be added to their professional profiles.
1. ISO 27001 Information Security Management System (ISMS)
This course covers Information Security Management System awareness and includes information security features such as confidentiality, integrity, availability, and risk management.
Enrol here: ISO 27001 Information Security Management System (ISMS)
Course details:
- Duration: 5 hours 40 minutes over 3 weeks
- Level: Beginner
- Language: English
- Target participants: Students, industry, and society
- Faculty: Institute for Mathematical Research (INSPEM), UPM
- Collaboration partner: CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM)
Learning outcomes: By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the goal of confidentiality features in protecting personal data
- Understand the goal of integrity features in ISMS
- Explore basic risk management procedures
2. ISO 23301 Business Continuity Management System (BCMS)
This course focuses on Business Continuity Management System awareness and covers business continuity management plans, including continuity procedures, impact analysis, emergency response, and disaster recovery.
Enrol here: ISO 23301 Business Continuity Management System (BCMS)
Course details:
- Duration: 5 hours 40 minutes over 3 weeks
- Level: Beginner
- Language: English
- Target participants: Students, industry, and society
- Faculty: Institute for Mathematical Research (INSPEM), UPM
- Collaboration partner: CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM)
Learning outcomes: By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Get familiar with Business Continuity Plans and Procedures
- Understand the Business Impact Analysis (BIA) foundation
- Explore the basics of Information Technology Disaster Recovery Plan (ITDRP)
3. ISO 15408 Evaluation Criteria for IT Security Products
This course covers evaluation criteria for IT security awareness and includes evaluation criteria for IT security products. It is particularly relevant for those involved in ICT product development and assessment.
Enrol here: ISO 15408 Evaluation Criteria for IT Security Products
Course details:
- Duration: 3 weeks
- Level: Beginner
- Language: English
- Course instructor contact: nurraidah@upm.edu.my
Learning outcomes: By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the importance of common criteria certifications in ICT products
- Understand the requirements and features of common criteria for ICT products
- Know the importance of penetration tests
The course includes interactive activities such as word searches, crossword puzzles, and quizzes. All video content is copyrighted by CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM).
4. ISO 27701 Privacy Information Management System
This course is an extension of ISO 27001 and specifically covers the privacy information management system. It is essential for anyone handling personal data and wanting to understand privacy regulations.
Enrol here: ISO 27701 Privacy Information Management System
Course details:
- Duration: 5 hours 40 minutes over 3 weeks
- Level: Beginner
- Language: English
- Target participants: Students, industry, and society
- Faculty: Institute for Mathematical Research (INSPEM), UPM
- Collaboration partner: CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM)
Learning outcomes: By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the difference between ISO 27001 and ISO 27701
- Identify the types of personal data that need to be protected
- Understand the differences between Malaysia's PDPA (Personal Data Protection Act) and the EU's GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)
How to Get Started
Getting started with these free courses is simple:
- Visit the PUTRA-eX platform at https://putraex.upm.edu.my/
- Create a free account or log in if you already have one
- Browse to the course you are interested in using the links provided above
- Click "Enrol now" to start the course
- Complete all activities and assessments to earn your digital certificate and badge
Each course includes a mix of video lectures, interactive content, quizzes, and discussion forums. You will need to score at least 60% on the assessments to receive your certificate.
Why Take These Courses?
These micro-credential courses offer several benefits:
- Free of charge: All courses are completely free, making quality cybersecurity education accessible to everyone
- Recognised certification: Upon completion, you receive a digital certificate and badge from UPM and CyberSecurity Malaysia
- Flexible learning: Study at your own pace over three weeks
- Industry-relevant content: The courses cover international standards that are widely recognised in the cybersecurity industry
- Suitable for all levels: The beginner-level content makes it accessible even if you have no prior cybersecurity knowledge
Whether you are a student looking to enhance your resume, a professional wanting to upskill, or simply someone interested in protecting yourself and your organisation from cyber threats, these courses provide valuable knowledge that you can apply immediately.
Final Words
The collaboration between INSPEM UPM and CyberSecurity Malaysia through the PutraMOOC platform represents a significant step towards building a more cybersecurity-aware society in Malaysia. By offering these courses for free, they are removing barriers to education and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn about information security, privacy, and business continuity.
In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, having a basic understanding of cybersecurity principles is no longer optional. These micro-credential courses provide an excellent starting point for anyone looking to build their cybersecurity knowledge and contribute to a safer digital environment.
Start your learning journey today by enrolling in any of these courses. Your digital safety, and that of your organisation, may depend on it.