Cybersecurity and Machine Learning

Program Overview

This MSc program in Cybersecurity and Machine Learning focuses on securing AI systems and using AI to enhance cybersecurity methods. It combines fundamental cybersecurity practices with advanced AI and machine learning concepts, equipping graduates with a distinctive skill set in both fields. The program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills development, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in cybersecurity, AI, and related industries.

Program Outline

Cybersecurity and Machine Learning, MSc

Degree Overview

This program focuses on two key areas: securing AI systems to ensure they are robust, responsible, and regulatory-compliant, and using AI to enhance cybersecurity methods against complex threats. The program embodies the idea of “AI for Security, and Security for AI,” offering training in fundamental cybersecurity practices like secure software development, digital forensics, and ethical hacking, combined with advanced AI and machine learning concepts. The increasing use of AI across different industry sectors and the rise in cyber attacks threatening individuals, organizations, and countries are driving demand for professionals proficient in both cybersecurity and AI. Studying this program will equip you with a distinctive set of skills in both of these interconnected fields and open up a wide range of career opportunities.

Outline

The program consists of two semesters, with each semester having two compulsory and three optional courses.

Semester 1

• Optional Courses:
• Security in Emerging Networks (CS502B):
This course dives into the role of emerging technologies like SDN, IoT, and blockchain in cybersecurity and the challenges they pose.
• Security Analytics with Artificial Intelligence (CS502M): Learn how data science and machine learning tools can be used to analyze and improve cybersecurity.
• Enterprise Security Architecture (CS502C): This course equips you with the knowledge to design and implement robust cybersecurity architectures for organizations.
• Evaluation of AI Systems (CS5063): Grasp the core concepts and techniques for evaluating the effectiveness and capabilities of AI systems.
• Applied Artificial Intelligence (CS5079): Use cutting-edge AI technologies to gain hands-on experience in creating and manipulating AI systems.

Semester 2

• Compulsory Courses:
• Machine Learning (CS5062):
This course reiterates the previously learned skills and concepts while adding further complexity and real-world application.
• Optional Courses:
• Digital Forensics and Incident Management (CS552E):
This course delves into investigative techniques, response strategies, and legal considerations relevant to data breaches and cyber incidents.
• Knowledge Representation and Reasoning (CS551J): Learn how knowledge is acquired, represented, and reasoned with, focusing on advanced AI applications.
• Software Agents and Multi-Agent Systems (CS551K): Discover how autonomous systems are developed and utilize them effectively as part of broader products.
• Ethical Hacking and Web Security (CS552G): This course equips you with the ability to design secure systems and defend against intrusion by learning penetration testing methodologies.
• Secure Software Design and Development (CS552H): Acquire the necessary skills to build secure and sustainable software applications, minimizing vulnerability to threats.
• Data Mining with Deep Learning (CS552G): Apply deep learning techniques for analyzing complex datasets and extracting novel patterns across various domains.
• Natural Language Generation (CS551H): Investigate various methods and systems for generating coherent and grammatically correct text, employing some programming experience.
# Project in Cybersecurity (CS592A) This capstone project allows students to delve into a practical or theoretical problem within the cybersecurity domain, further honing their theoretical and practical skills under the guidance of a faculty member.

Assessment

Assessments will vary depending on the specific course chosen, but may include a combination of

• written assignments,
• presentations,
• individual and group projects,
• and examinations.
Some courses may also involve practical assessments such as lab work, field-based activities, and real-world problem-solving scenarios.

Teaching

Classes are delivered through a blend of lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, and laboratory sessions. This dynamic approach ensures students have ample opportunities to engage with the material, participate in discussions, and deepen their understanding through practical application. The program boasts a team of experienced and passionate faculty members actively engaged in cutting-edge research within various fields of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

Careers

Graduates of this program possess the skills and knowledge to pursue a diverse range of careers in prominent industries, including:

• Cybersecurity
• AI and Machine Learning
• Software Development
• IT Consultancy
• Financial Institutions
• Telecommunications
• Public Sector
Graduates are well-equipped to take on various roles like Cybersecurity Analyst, AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Security Architect, and IT Manager. Additionally, the program prepares graduates for higher-level positions such as Chief Information Officer, Penetration Tester, and Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst.

Other

The program curriculum emphasizes tailoring the degree to your specific career aspirations by offering a wide range of optional courses.

EU / International students: £27,000 UK: £12,200