MSc Cybersecurity

Program Overview

The MSc Cybersecurity program at the University of Sunderland equips students with the technical and organizational skills to excel in the cybersecurity field. Through a combination of core modules and a Masters project, students gain expertise in network security, digital forensics, cryptography, and incident response. The program's practical focus and industry collaborations prepare graduates for high-demand careers in cybersecurity, including roles such as information security manager and security analyst.

Program Outline

MSc Cybersecurity - University of Sunderland

Degree Overview:

This program is designed to equip students with the technical and organizational skills necessary to make a difference in the field of cybersecurity. It covers a range of relevant topics, including network security, cybersecurity in organizations, and the processes, procedures, and protocols required to implement effective secure and dependable systems. Students will also gain expertise in digital forensics, data and system interrogation, application of cryptography, secure programming, and defensive programming.

Outline:

The program consists of seven core modules, each worth 30 credits, and a 60-credit Masters project.

Core Modules:

• Fundamentals of Cybersecurity
• Covers governance, management, and risk assessment.
• Focuses on secure systems technologies and privacy issues.
• Analyzes the trade-offs between security and usability.
• Introduces tools and techniques for managing vulnerabilities and attacks.
• Explores concepts of trust and trustworthiness in cybersecurity.
• Technology Management for Organisations
• Applies the principles, policies, and procedures of cybersecurity and data science to organizational solutions.
• Develops technical skills and tools for critical analysis of cybersecurity challenges and opportunities.
• Critical understanding of governance, standards, audit, assurance, and review in the context of technology management.
• Cyber Resilience and Incident Response
• Focuses on cybersecurity in design and development.
• Covers applied cryptography, secure programming, and defensive programming.
• Equips students with knowledge and skills for first-response in cyber breaches.
• Provides understanding of securing evidence, technical breach issues, mitigating risks, and legal implications.
• Cybersecurity and User Experience Design
• Explores the relationship between cybersecurity and usability in software design.
• Analyzes the challenges and trade-offs presented by both themes.
• Provides research and evaluation techniques for user-centered security.
• Computing Masters Project
• Students develop a practical deliverable and investigate an area of academic research.
• Possible project types include:
• IT strategy
• Investigative study
• Technically challenging artefact (e.g., feasibility study, design, implementation, re-engineered solution)
• Theoretical review based on a novel research question
• Underpin the project with a literature review and synthesize concepts, assumptions, expectations, beliefs, and theories supporting the research.
• Additional Modules:
• The program may also offer additional modules, depending on availability and student interest.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include:

• Written reports and research papers
• Practical assignments
• Masters project
• Continuous assessment through coursework

Teaching:

The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, group work, research, discussion groups, and seminars. Students are expected to engage in independent study and critical analysis. The program is taught by passionate academics who are actively engaged in research and hold international recognition for their work.

Careers:

Graduates of this program can pursue careers in a variety of cybersecurity fields, including:

• Information security manager
• Security analyst
• Security architect
• Security administrator
• Incident responder
• Security engineer
• Security auditor
• Security software developer
• Vulnerability assessor
There is a high demand for cybersecurity professionals, and the UK government is investing heavily in this field. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this growing and exciting career path.

Other:

• The course is 100% coursework-based with no exams.
• The program is ideal for students who want to pursue a career in cybersecurity.
• The program is taught at the David Goldman Technology Centre, which is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
• The program is designed to be highly practical and relevant to the needs of industry.
• The program has strong industry links and collaboration with employers.
• Graduates of the program have gone on to secure employment with a range of companies and organizations.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• Current fee: £8,500
• International fee: £16,500