Cyber Security MSc

Program Overview

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The Cyber Security MSc program at the University of Gloucestershire equips graduates with advanced skills in cyber security, preparing them for leadership roles in the field. The program covers network, computer, and information security, with a focus on the business context. It offers a range of optional modules, allowing students to specialize in specific areas of cyber security. The program is provisionally certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and provides strong industry links, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the ever-evolving cyber security landscape.

Program Outline

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Detailed Extraction of the Cyber Security MSc Program at the University of Gloucestershire:

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Cyber Security MSc program, provisionally certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), offers a comprehensive understanding of cyber security, covering network, computer, and information security. It focuses on the business context, aiming to prepare graduates for swift career progression and management roles.

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Objectives:

• To develop advanced skills in cyber security.
• To equip graduates to become cyber security professionals or take leading technical/managerial roles.
• To prepare graduates for a career in the cyber security industry, with a focus on management positions.
• To provide graduates with the skills and knowledge to protect organizations against cyberattacks.

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Program Description:

The Cyber Security MSc program is designed for individuals seeking a career as a cyber security professional or aspiring to take on a leading technical or managerial role in the field. It is suitable for individuals with a background in computer science or information technology, as well as those with significant interest in cyber security without formal studies in computer science. This program is particularly relevant in light of the increasing need for information security managers, driven by the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

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Outline:

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Content and Structure:

• The program consists of four modules per semester, delivered on weekly basis through lectures, tutorials, and seminars.
• Students have the option to study two consecutive days per week, allowing them to study at home or on-campus during the remaining time.
• Semester two follows the same structure, with three out of four modules being optional, offering flexibility to specialize in specific areas of cyber security.

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Modules:

• Dissertation (CT7004): This is the largest individual project in the program, requiring the student to draw upon acquired knowledge and skills throughout the course to synthesize a research project on a specific chosen area.
• Information Security Management (CT7075): This module covers the operation and improvement of information security, focusing on roles such as Security and Information Risk Advisor, Security Architect, and Security Officer.
It incorporates domains like Access Control, Security Operations, and Physical and Environmental Security.
• Network Security (CT7076): This module focuses on secure storage and transmission of information at network endpoints.
It aligns with roles like Communications Security Officer, Auditor, and Accreditor, and includes domains such as Cryptography and Security Architecture and Design.
• Research Methods for Computing (CT7094): This module equips students with practical and theoretical skills for research in computing-related disciplines, including planning and preparing research proposals for Master's dissertations.
It covers qualitative and quantitative methods, data collection, and research ethics.
• Human Factors in Cyber Security (CT7098): This module focuses on managing and mitigating the human factor in cyber security.
It explores challenges related to human behavior and vulnerabilities in cyber risks.
• Cyber Security Principles (CT7099): This module equips students with fundamental principles of cyber security, analyzing and evaluating critical aspects of the field, including risk management and security posture assessment.

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Optional Modules:

• Secure System Architecture (CT7031)
• Advanced Malware Analysis (CT7073)
• Adversarial Behaviour (CT7074)
• Artificial Intelligence (CT7080)
• Network Security Administration (CT7081)
• Blockchain Technology (CT7100)

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Assessment:

The program utilizes coursework, essays, and case studies as assessment methods. Modules may have individual assessment components specific to the module content. For instance, the Network Security module involves an individual assignment worth 100% of the module grade.

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Teaching:

The teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, seminars, and workshops. Students also benefit from dedicated cyber labs, including a virtualised infrastructure for launching simulated cyber attacks in a secure environment, and a Cisco Network Lab for real-world network security testing using Cisco equipment. They have access to industry-standard equipment like Kali Linux and Cisco Network Packet Tracer. The faculty includes experts in the field, such as Dr. Hassan Chizari, Associate Professor and Academic Course Leader, who specializes in randomness, number theory, and time series analysis, with current focus on advanced cryptographic methods for medical devices.

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Careers:

The Cyber Security MSc program prepares graduates for various career paths in cyber security, such as:

• Security Analyst
• Cyber Security Consultant
• Chief Technical Officer
• Cyber Security Researcher
Graduates are well-equipped to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of cyber security and contribute to the development of innovative solutions. The program also provides strong industry links, offering graduates valuable real-world insights and opportunities for career advancement.

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Other:

• The program is available in full-time (1 year) and part-time (2 years) options.
• The program is provisionally certified by the NCSC.
• The program offers an AWS accreditation, providing access to AWS-based resources and industry-recognized certifications.
• The program offers a Cisco accreditation in networking, programming, IoT, and operating systems, with access to free academy courses and certification discounts.
• The program has strong industry links, providing students with opportunities to network and gain valuable insights.
• The program takes place in Cheltenham, a hub of cyber technology businesses.

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Conclusion:

The extracted information provides a detailed overview of the Cyber Security MSc program at the University of Gloucestershire, highlighting its curriculum, teaching methods, career prospects, and other relevant aspects. This information should assist prospective students in understanding the program's strengths and suitability for their academic and professional goals.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• UK: £8,075
• International: £17,100