Free Online Security Guard Course
Build an introductory understanding of security operations with this flexible free online security guard course from Oxford Home Study Centre. The 20-hour short course is open to all and delivered online, allowing you to study at your own pace.
The programme examines security within a wider facilities and organisational setting. It covers risk, safety, communication, operations, people management, technology, quality, property and business considerations.
Important: This Is Not an SIA Licence Course
This OHSC short course provides general education only. It is not an SIA licence-linked qualification, does not lead to an SIA licence or badge, and does not authorise anyone to undertake regulated security work in the UK. Learners seeking licensed work must complete the correct accepted qualification and apply separately to the Security Industry Authority.
What You Will Learn
By the end of the course, learners should be able to:
- Explain why security matters within organisations and facilities
- Outline the main stages of a risk-assessment process
- Distinguish between different types of organisational assets
Who Is This Course For?
The course may suit beginners exploring security or facilities-related work, existing staff seeking broader organisational context, and learners interested in risk, safety or operations. It should not be chosen as a substitute for role-specific practical training, workplace induction, emergency instruction or statutory licensing.
Study Security in Context
Security rarely operates in isolation. The syllabus therefore considers how people, buildings, technology, risk, maintenance, leadership and finance can affect organisational security. This broad perspective is useful for introductory learning, but professional duties must always follow an employer’s procedures, current law and role-specific training.
Relevant OHSC Study Options
For general, non-licensing study, explore OHSC’s online security management courses. You can also review the free online security guard short course. These links do not replace official SIA licence-linked training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this course really free?
Yes. Course access and study are free. Optional certificates are paid products.
Will this course get me an SIA licence?
No. It is not an SIA licence-linked qualification and does not lead to an SIA licence or badge.
How long does the course take?
The stated course duration is approximately 20 hours, completed online at your own pace.
Do I need previous security experience?
No. Entry is open to all.
Can this course guarantee a security job?
No. Employment depends on the role, licensing requirements, experience and the employer’s selection process.
By the end of this course the learner will be able to:
- Understand the importance of security
- Discuss the various stages of the risk assessment process
- Identify the differences between the various types of assets
Free Study and Optional Certification
You can sign up for this course, access the learning materials and complete the programme without paying a course fee. Certification is optional and does not come automatically with free study.
Following successful completion of the course, you can choose to purchase one of two certificate options:
- QLS-endorsed certificate — a Certificate of Achievement endorsed by the Quality Licence Scheme.
- CPD-accredited certificate — issued by the CPD Standards Office as a record of your continuing professional development.
Pricing is structured separately for each certificate type. The amount payable may vary according to the certificate selected, course level, format and delivery option. Please check our certificate options and current prices before ordering.
The decision to purchase a certificate is entirely optional. You can access the course materials and complete your studies without purchasing one.
COURSE CONTENT
The syllabus is presented exactly as the current course record:
- Occupancy and human factors
- Operations and maintenance
- Human resource management
- Sustainability
- Facility IT management
- Risk management
- Safety and security
- Communication
- Performance and quality
- Leadership and strategy
- Real estate
- Project management
- Finance and business management
HOW IT WORKS
Enhance your skills with our highly informative courses.
Pass the assignments by getting the required marks.
Get certified and enhance the worth of your CV.
WHY GET CERTIFIED

Earning a certification builds employer confidence in your skills. You can effortlessly add the credential to your portfolio and share it across platforms.
Earning a certification showcases your advanced skills and commitment to professional growth. This significantly increases your chances of getting hired.
Expanding your knowledge and skills is essential for landing a job, advancing to higher positions, and exploring new career paths.
Student Feedback
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Course Info
| Course Level | 1 |
| Awarding Body | OHSC |
| Course Duration | 20 Hours |
| Entry Requirements | Open to All |
| Start Date | Ongoing |
