The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in PCI-DSS Compliance for Business is a foundational qualification aimed at helping organizations understand and implement the essential requirements of the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS). Designed for business professionals, IT staff, and compliance officers, this diploma equips learners with the core knowledge and practical skills needed to protect cardholder data and meet international security standards. In an increasingly digital economy, achieving PCI-DSS compliance is not just a regulatory obligation—it’s a business imperative.
Data breaches and payment fraud continue to pose significant risks to companies that handle credit card transactions. The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in PCI-DSS Compliance for Business introduces learners to the twelve PCI-DSS requirements, helping them build a structured framework to secure cardholder data. The course focuses on the practical application of data protection strategies, such as access control, encryption, vulnerability management, and secure system design, providing businesses with the tools to minimize risk and avoid costly penalties.
Through real-world scenarios, case studies, and compliance checklists, participants will explore how to conduct risk assessments, implement technical safeguards, and foster a culture of security awareness within their organizations. The program ensures that learners understand the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in achieving and maintaining PCI-DSS compliance, from senior management to front-line staff.
This course is particularly valuable for SMEs, online retailers, hospitality providers, and financial service firms that store, process, or transmit cardholder data. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of PCI-DSS controls at Level 1, learners can ensure their businesses are aligned with industry standards and maintain the trust of customers and partners.
The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in PCI-DSS Compliance for Business serves as the starting point for building a robust cybersecurity and compliance culture. Whether you are a business owner, technical staff member, or compliance lead, this diploma provides a strong foundation for achieving PCI-DSS certification and protecting your organization’s digital assets against cyber threats.
The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in PCI-DSS Compliance for Business offers a concise yet impactful training experience tailored for organizations aiming to meet the minimum security standards set by the PCI Security Standards Council. This course is structured around practical learning and step-by-step implementation of PCI-DSS version 4.0 requirements, ensuring learners can immediately apply concepts in a business environment.
This diploma emphasizes the importance of secure system architecture, proper data handling protocols, and continuous monitoring to prevent unauthorized access to cardholder data. Participants will explore how to establish policies, configure systems, and maintain evidence of compliance through documentation and regular internal reviews. The course demystifies technical requirements and presents them in business-friendly language, making it ideal for non-technical professionals.
Designed for flexibility, the course combines theoretical knowledge with actionable guidance, including risk mitigation techniques, security testing, and compliance audits. Participants will also gain insight into how PCI-DSS compliance integrates with broader data protection regulations such as GDPR and ISO/IEC 27001, adding value to any organization’s overall security posture.
Upon completion of the LICQual Level 1 Diploma in PCI-DSS Compliance for Business, learners will be well-prepared to support their organization’s PCI-DSS compliance initiatives, contribute to secure payment environments, and initiate further learning in cybersecurity and compliance management. The diploma adds value across sectors and helps businesses maintain trust, reputation, and regulatory alignment in today’s evolving threat landscape.
The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in PCI-DSS compliance for Bussiness qualification consists of 6 mandatory units required for completion.
Mandatory Units
| Unit# | Unit Title |
| 1 | Overview of PCI-DSS and the Payment Card Industry |
| 2 | Assessing Payment Processing Risks |
| 3 | Building Basic PCI-DSS Compliant Payment Systems |
| 4 | Encryption and Protection of Cardholder Data |
| 5 | Conducting Basic PCI-DSS Audits and Evaluations |
| 6 | Incident Response and Documentation in PCI-DSS Compliance |
The LICQual Level 1 Diploma in PCI-DSS Compliance for Business is designed for individuals and organizations seeking to understand and implement foundational PCI-DSS compliance requirements. This course is suitable for:
- Small and medium business owners handling cardholder data
- E-commerce platform operators and online merchants
- IT support staff responsible for network and payment system security
- Compliance officers and internal auditors in retail and financial services
- Payment processing professionals and service providers
- Cybersecurity and information security professionals new to PCI-DSS
- Risk management personnel working in card data environments
- Hospitality industry staff managing point-of-sale (POS) systems
- Financial institutions and credit unions handling card transactions
- Managers of call centers that process or store cardholder data
- Consultants offering compliance and security advisory services
- Legal and data privacy professionals working on payment compliance
- Marketing and customer service teams managing customer payment information
- Students and graduates looking to enter the cybersecurity or compliance fields
- Start-up founders and entrepreneurs planning digital payment integration
This course is ideal for any individual or team involved in protecting cardholder data and ensuring their business meets the minimum PCI-DSS standards.
Upon completing this Course students will be able to:
Overview of PCI-DSS and the Payment Card Industry:
- Understand the structure and purpose of PCI-DSS within the broader payment card industry.
- Recognize the key requirements of PCI-DSS compliance and its role in securing payment data.
Assessing Payment Processing Risks:
- Identify potential security risks in payment processing systems.
- Evaluate and assess the vulnerabilities in payment transactions and the steps to mitigate those risks.
Building Basic PCI-DSS Compliant Payment Systems:
- Design and implement fundamental PCI-DSS compliant systems for processing payment card data.
- Apply best practices in system architecture to meet compliance requirements and ensure data security.
Encryption and Protection of Cardholder Data:
- Understand and implement encryption protocols to secure cardholder data.
- Apply measures to protect sensitive information in accordance with PCI-DSS guidelines.
Conducting Basic PCI-DSS Audits and Evaluations:
- Conduct a basic audit to assess PCI-DSS compliance within a business.
- Analyze systems, policies, and practices to identify areas of non-compliance and recommend corrective actions.
Incident Response and Documentation in PCI-DSS Compliance:
- Develop an effective incident response plan for handling PCI-DSS breaches or security incidents.
- Understand the importance of documentation and reporting in ensuring ongoing PCI-DSS compliance and security.
