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.

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.

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

Free Study and Optional Certification

You can enrol on our Security Guard (Short Course), access all online learning materials and complete the course without paying a course fee. Certification is separate and optional.

After successfully completing the course, you may choose:

QLS-endorsed Certificate of Achievement
CPD-accredited certificate issued by the CPD Standards Office as a record of continuing professional development.

You may order either certificate individually or purchase both for the same completed course. Choosing one certificate does not require you to purchase the other.

Each certificate has its own price, and the total payable may vary according to the certificates selected, course level, format and delivery option. See our current certificate options and prices before ordering.

Certification is entirely optional and is not required to access or complete the course.

Course Content

Topics Covered in the Course

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

Build your knowledge through clear and accessible online learning.

Complete the assignments and achieve the required marks.

Choose an optional certificate after completing the course.

Why Choose a Certificate?

An optional certificate provides a clear record of successful course completion. Add it to your learning portfolio and share it where relevant.

Completing the course and its assessments shows your commitment to developing subject knowledge through focused, independent learning.

Use your new knowledge to support further study, workplace development or personal goals. A certificate records completion but does not guarantee employment or professional status.