MSc Cyber Security

Program Overview

The MSc Cyber Security program at the University of York equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in the field of cyber security. It covers essential technical skills, theories, principles, and practices, preparing graduates for careers in both industry and government. The program emphasizes ethical decision-making, research skills, and collaboration with external organizations. Graduates acquire valuable transferable skills and are fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

Program Outline

MSc Cyber Security at the University of York: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Degree Overview:

This program equips students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the field of cyber security. It covers the theories, principles, practices, and technologies involved, while emphasizing essential technical skills for effective decision-making. The curriculum addresses crucial topics like identity management, trust, cryptography, network security, malware detection, risk management, and secure system development. It prepares graduates for careers in both industry and government, offering a comprehensive foundation in cyber security for informed and principled decision-making. Additionally, the program serves as a steppingstone for further research pursuits in the field, with a mandatory research skills module included.

Outline:

The program consists of two main phases: taught modules and an individual research project.

Taught Modules:

• These modules combine lectures, problem classes, practical sessions, and personal study time.
• Key areas covered include:
• Research Methods in Computer Science
• Ethical Hacking, Analysis and Investigation
• Cryptography Theory and Practice
• Network Security
• Professional and Academic Development
• Human Factors: Technology in Context
• Modules are subject to change based on evolving academic perspectives and staff expertise.

Individual Research Project:

• This project takes place over the summer and is supervised by a member of the academic staff.
• Collaboration with external organizations is encouraged.
• Students have substantial flexibility in choosing project topics, ensuring academic alignment.
• Early project assessment ensures suitability for the program level.
• Final project deliverables include a comprehensive dissertation.

Assessment:

• All taught modules are assessed through open assessments, promoting engagement with research literature and practical skills demonstration.
• The individual research project culminates in a detailed report.
• Assessments occur throughout the year, with practical exercises, reports, and other open assessments due during or shortly after module completion.

Teaching:

• The program is led by world-renowned academics who foster independent thinking and excellence.
• The teaching approach emphasizes knowledge acquisition, opportunity provision, and support for global workplace success.
• The program utilizes a blended format of taught modules and an independent research project.
• During the project phase, students receive regular one-on-one supervision and participate in research group discussions.
• Due to the program's intensive nature, students are required to be present in York throughout both semesters and the summer project period.

Careers:

• This program equips graduates for diverse careers in the cyber security field, including:
• Security Analyst
• Security Architect
• Cryptographer/Cryptologist
• Security Consultant
• Software Developer
• Security Engineer
• Graduates also acquire valuable transferable skills, such as:
• Data and argument analysis and synthesis from research literature, technical manuals, and standards specifications.
• Communication of complex technical ideas and arguments to both専門家 and general audiences through oral presentations and written reports.
• Planning, execution, and management of complex technical projects.
• Assessment of legal, social, and professional issues in technical system development and operation.
• Analysis of the work of others to achieve defined goals.

Other:

• The program is fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
• Students have access to cutting-edge facilities, including software and hardware labs, interaction labs, a real-time systems lab, a computer vision lab, and a robotics laboratory.
• The program boasts a vibrant and supportive learning environment, with dedicated staff and resources available to support student success.
If you require further details or have any specific questions, please feel free to ask.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Annual tuition fees for 2024/25 Study modeUK (home)International and EU Full-time (1 year) £12,480£29,400