The Dark web, also called the Dark net, is part of the internet, but you cannot access it using an ordinary web browser such as Google Chrome: instead, you have to use specifically designed software such as the TOR browser.  Even with the right software, it is a place which is very difficult and dangerous to navigate if you don’t know what you are doing. 

Mention the Dark Web and most people associate it with drug dealers, paedophiles, terrorists, and anything which is illegal, risky and dangerous. It is true that the anonymity of the dark web makes it the ideal breeding ground for criminality and depravity of all kinds. However, it is also used by people in countries where their speech is censored or by whistle blowers who need to reveal what they know but remain anonymous.

Most people would not venture into a strange neighbourhood at 2am on a Friday night; it is too risky, they may get hurt!  However, some people such as law enforcement officers, paramedics, or charity volunteers don’t have a choice, they have to go there to help and rescue people. Similarly, on the Dark web, sometimes you have to go there to help and protect yourself, your family, or your business.  For example, one of our Dark Web experts, is a missing person volunteer who goes into the Dark web to find missing people, another expert, comes from a law enforcement background and has previously used the Dark web to glean intelligence on organised crime. 

Students do not need any prior knowledge of the Dark Web. Students will be given all the tools they require to study our course in the form of a preparatory module which will be distributed before the course commences. The preparatory module contains course specific prerequisite material. Students are expected to understand the prerequisite material to ensure everyone commences learning on an equal standing.

Students enrolled on this course will be required to:

1. Have access to a laptop, computer, or tablet and an Internet connection.
2. Download and install a web browser application
3. Have a firm understanding of how to use a web browser.
4. Be familiar with web search engines
5. Have a basic understanding of how to use a web search engine.
6. Be familiar with popular social networking sites
7. Download and install a VPN

Our e-Tutors monitor student’s progress, facilitate peer discussion on the course discussion boards and host live sessions on Blackboard Collaborate upon request. Our e-Tutors are available to contact each day throughout the duration of the course. Online teaching is comprised of the following elements, with the addition of support resources and recommended and required reading material:

1. Theory– Lecture Documents
2. Practical– Practical Tutorials and Discussion Board Tasks

To achieve the qualification and academic accreditation, students must successfully complete all units within each learning module, including lectures, practicals, and assessments. Students are assessed using a range of practical exercises. . 

The final written assignment is worth 50% of the course marks and involves an essay that should be at least 750 words and must be evidenced and properly-referenced.

All assessments must be completed in English.

This is a pass/fail course and students must attain a 40% pass mark.

Feedback & Credits

All students will receive grades and feedback on their performance. Students are offered more in-depth confidential personal feedback upon request. Although personal feedback is optional, students are encouraged to take up the offer, as the feedback gives an opportunity to talk through the results.

Refunds

Once a student has been registered onto the course with Ulster University, the option for a refund will no longer be available.

All students will receive a level 4 certificate from Ulster University upon completion of the course. Certificates are issued by  Ulster University Exam Board. The Exam Board meets twice annually for Winter and Summer Graduations (February and July). Students should expect to receive their course certificate at the relevant graduation period. For example, if a student completes the course in October, they should expect to receive their certificate during the Winter graduation period in February.