MSc Cyber Security

Security of our systems is one of the most challenging topics of our time. There is an international consensus that in order to respond to the number and sophistication of threats that we face, the level of security skills we have needs to be increased.

This is a forward-looking course, certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)*, will give you the skills and knowledge you need in the core areas of cyber security. You'll learn the theories, principles, practices and technologies of cyber security and gain knowledge and understanding of the principles underpinning effective approaches to cyber defence.

The course emphasises important technical material that will help you make effective cyber security decisions, and addresses issues such as: identity; trust and reputation; cryptography; network security; malware and intrusion detection; risk management; and the development of high-assurance systems.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in industry or government, this course will provide you with a broad education in cyber security, which will allow you to make technically informed principled decisions.

This course will also prepare you if you are seeking a research career in cyber security; a research skills module is a mandatory part of the course.

The first half of the course is taken up by taught modules. Each module comprises a mix of lectures, problem classes and practical classes, plus personal study time. In the second half of the course, you will undertake an individual research project under the supervision of a member of staff.

Accreditation

This is one of the few cyber security Masters degrees in the UK that is fully accredited by the NCSC.

Careers and skills

This course will prepare you for a career in the field of cyber security. It will also equip you with the relevant skills to undertake further research in the area.

Previous graduates have gone on to technical roles, such as malware analysis, security design, penetration testing and broader roles such as risk assessment, security planning, or security consultancy. Some previous students have returned to their home countries to teach security, and others have gone on to study for a PhD.

Some of our part-time students who are already working in defence, technical security, forensics, commerce and system administration have used the course to specialise in a particular area or further their careers.