Foundation Certificate in Data Protection

Gain a strong, working understanding of UK data protection law and your responsibilities when working with personal information. The BCS Foundation Certificate in Data Protection provides a comprehensive foundation in data protection principles, legal frameworks, and good practice, equipping learners to apply the law confidently and responsibly in any workplace.

Professional Courses

Course features

Entry Criteria: No prior knowledge needed, but IT, GDPR, and data protection law basics are beneficial.

Teaching and Assessment: Assessed via a 60-min online exam with 40 MCQs at set date/time.

Employability Support: Provides networking opportunities for data protection professionals.

18 hours

Online (self-study)

£850

Register

About this Course

This course introduces the essential legal, operational, and governance principles underpinning data protection in the UK. It covers the UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and associated regulations, helping learners understand how to process data lawfully, respect individual rights, and reduce the risk of non-compliance.

Ideal for those who work with data in any capacity, this qualification supports best practice and helps organisations meet their legal obligations. 

Skills Gained

Understand the legal context and evolution of UK data protection law

Apply the principles of data protection in your role or organisation

Identify lawful bases for processing personal data under the UK GDPR

Understand data subject rights and how to uphold them

Recognise the responsibilities of data controllers, processors, and joint controllers

Understand how to manage international data transfers lawfully

Support organisational compliance with the accountability principle

Respond appropriately to data breaches and understand regulatory enforcement

This course is suitable for

This course is suitable for:

Professionals responsible for handling or managing personal data

Staff working in compliance, legal, IT, marketing, HR, or administration

Aspiring or newly appointed Data Protection Officers (DPOs)

Individuals supporting organisational data protection policies and practices

Anyone seeking a recognised qualification in UK data protection law

Course Content

Related Courses

Unlock your business potential with expert-led courses designed for success!

CPD Courses

Online Data Protection

This CPD-certified online course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of data protection principles and the legal framework surrounding the handling of personal data. Designed for professionals across various sectors, the course covers key definitions of data protection and explores the six legal grounds for processing data, including consent, contractual necessity, legal obligations, vital interest, and public interest tasks. Learners will gain insight into the aims of the UK General Data Protection Regulations (UK GDPR), particularly how it empowers individuals to take control of their personal data. The course also highlights the roles and responsibilities of data controllers, data processors, data protection officers, and the supervisory authority, ensuring learners understand how to comply with data protection laws and safeguard personal information.

3 hours

Online (self-paced)

Learn more

CPD Courses

Manual Handling

This CPD-certified online course provides learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills to manage manual handling tasks safely in the workplace. Suitable for employees across all sectors, the course covers the key risks associated with manual handling and how to effectively assess and control these risks. Learners will gain an understanding of relevant legislation and safety guidelines, as well as the proper techniques for safe manual handling, including the use of equipment to reduce injury. With real-life scenarios and reflective tasks, this course equips learners with the confidence and competence to safely perform manual handling tasks in line with UK health and safety regulations.

3 hours

Online (self-paced)

Learn more