Cyber Security - MSc

Program Overview

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The MSc Cyber Security program at Keele University equips graduates with the technical skills and knowledge to design, build, and evaluate cyber security countermeasures. Through a balance of theoretical and practical learning, students gain expertise in network security, systems security, cryptography, and security management. The program culminates in either an industrial placement or an MSc dissertation, preparing graduates for successful careers in cyber security fields such as threat management, forensics, and security architecture.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The MSc Cyber Security program equips graduates with the technical skills and practical knowledge necessary to design, build, deploy, and evaluate cyber security countermeasures. Covering crucial topics such as network security, systems security, web technologies, cryptography, and security management, the program helps graduates address the escalating threats to user privacy, data protection, and service vulnerability in today's digital world.

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Objectives:

• Develop essential skills to design, build, deploy, and evaluate cyber security countermeasures.
• Gain specialized knowledge in network security, systems security, web technologies, cryptography, and security management.
• Sharpen professional and technical skills through a project in industry or an MSc dissertation.
• Prepare for a successful career in cyber security fields like threat management, forensics, risk analytics, and security architecture.

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Program Description:

• The program balances theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, utilizing problem-based learning and real-world case studies.
• Students benefit from small-group tutorials, a strong research community, and continuous investment in facilities like a high-performance computing cluster and VR labs.
• The program culminates in either an industrial placement or an MSc dissertation, allowing students to apply their knowledge to actual challenges.

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Outline:

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Course Structure:

• The program spans one year, with a September start date.
• Students complete 180 credits: eight taught modules (120 credits), an industrial placement (optional, 60 credits), or an MSc project (60 credits).
• Taught modules cover key topics like system design and programming, operating system and virtualization security, human factors in cyber security, and database and data analytics.
• Students also learn about advanced topics like web technologies and security, cryptography, and distributed system security.
• The program concludes with either a placement in the cyber security industry or an independent research project.

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Individual Modules:

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Semester 1:

• System Design & Programming (15 credits): Introduces system design and programming principles, covering algorithms, data structures, user interfaces, and object-oriented programming.
• Fundamentals of Computers and Networks (15 credits): Provides an overview of computer systems, networks, and fundamental concepts in the discipline.
• Mathematics for AI and Data Science (15 credits): Introduces mathematical concepts relevant to AI and data science, including quadratic equations, matrices, vectors, functions, and probability.
• Data Analytics and Databases (15 credits): Equips students with knowledge of database operations and data analysis techniques, including clustering, dimensionality reduction, regression, and statistical modeling.
• Cryptography (15 credits): Covers various types of cryptography, cryptographic algorithms, protocols, and major cryptographic analysis techniques.
• Cybersecurity (15 credits): Explores advanced topics in cyber security, including cryptography, encryption, network security, and distributed systems security, with an emphasis on human factors and privacy.

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Semester 3:

• Industrial Placement (60 credits): Optional opportunity to gain practical experience in the cyber security industry, applying skills to solve real-world problems and develop professionalism and communication skills.
• MSc Project (60 credits): Opportunity to evaluate, integrate, and apply theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills to a programming, research, or business problem, guided by an academic supervisor.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Exams/Tests: Assess comprehension of key concepts and theoretical knowledge.
• Coursework: Evaluates understanding of complex topics and application of theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.
• Projects: Assesses ability to apply knowledge and skills to solve problems and conduct research.
• Presentations: Evaluates communication skills and ability to present research findings.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Demonstration of understanding of key concepts and principles.

• Application of knowledge to solve problems and complete tasks.

• Critical analysis of information and ability to draw evidence-based conclusions.

• Effective communication of ideas and findings both orally and in writing.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Interactive lectures: Introduce key concepts and facilitate discussion.
• Hands-on practical sessions: Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and develop practical skills.
• Project work: Encourage independent research, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

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Faculty:

• Experienced and research-active staff with expertise in various areas of cyber security.
• Strong emphasis on faculty-student interaction through small-group tutorials and individual supervision.
• Industry connections provide access to guest speakers and potential internship opportunities.

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Unique Approaches:

• Industrial placement option: Gain valuable work experience and apply skills in a real-world setting.
• MSc project option: Conduct independent research and develop advanced skills in a chosen area of interest.
• Access to cutting-edge facilities: including high-performance computing clusters, VR labs, and dedicated computer laboratories.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• Threat management & forensics
• Risk analytics & operations
• Security management & engineering
• Policy & strategy
• Data science & web development
• Further PhD study

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Potential Job Roles:

• Cyber Security Analyst
• Security Engineer
• Security Architect
• Security Consultant
• Security Manager
• Data Analyst

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Employability Skills Developed:

• Technical skills in cyber security tools and technologies.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Communication and teamwork skills.
• Research and project management skills.

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Other:

• The program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds with a strong interest in cyber security.
• Students benefit from a strong alumni network and support from the Keele Postgraduate Association.
• The program curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest advancements in the cyber security field.

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UK - Full time £11,000 per year. International - £20,700 per year.