Program Overview
The MSc Applied Cyber Security at Queen's University Belfast is a one-year, intensive program designed to equip individuals with advanced skills and knowledge in cyber security. The program covers a wide range of topics, including network security, cryptography, malware analysis, and digital forensics. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in various cyber security roles, such as security analyst, network security engineer, and incident responder. The program is recognized by GCQ (Graduate Certificate in Qualifications) and offers a limited number of fully funded places for eligible applicants resident in Northern Ireland.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The MSc Applied Cyber Security is a The program aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in this area, as threats and vulnerabilities become increasingly sophisticated. It is offered by Queen's University Belfast, a renowned institution with a strong reputation in computer science and engineering.
Objectives:
The program's key objectives are to:
- cyber security principles, practices, and technologies
- practical skills and knowledge
- Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to address complex cyber security challenges.
- successful careers in a wide range of cyber security roles
Description:
The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Network security and firewalls
- Cryptography and system security
- Malware analysis and incident response
- Cloud security and mobile security
- Law and ethics in cyber security
- Digital forensics and investigation
- Students will gain hands-on experience through practical labs, simulations, and case studies.
- They will also have the opportunity to participate in industry-sponsored projects and network with leading professionals in the field.
Outline:
Program Content:
- 8 taught modules
- Each module is worth
- 20 CATS credits , totaling
- 160 CATS credits for the entire program.
- Students are required to complete a
- dissertation project worth
- 60 CATS credits .
Module Descriptions:
- Cyber Security Fundamentals (20 CATS): Introduces core concepts and principles of cyber security, including risk management, cryptography, access control, and network security.
- Network Security and Firewalls (20 CATS): Explores the workings of network security, firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and network security protocols.
- Cryptography and System Security (20 CATS): Delves into cryptographic algorithms, key management, secure coding practices, and system security vulnerabilities.
- Malware Analysis and Incident Response (20 CATS): Covers malware analysis techniques, incident response procedures, and forensics investigation methods.
- Cloud Security and Mobile Security (20 CATS): Examines security considerations for cloud computing environments and mobile devices, including data security, access control, and application security.
- Law and Ethics in Cyber Security (20 CATS): Investigates legal and ethical aspects of cyber security, including data privacy, intellectual property, and cybercrime.
- Digital Forensics and Investigation (20 CATS): Teaches students how to collect, preserve, analyze, and present digital evidence in cybercrime investigations.
- Cyber Security Project (60 CATS): Provides an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to a real-world cyber security project, demonstrating research, analysis, and problem-solving skills.
Course Schedule:
- part-time over one year
- one evening per week
- The dissertation project is completed independently outside of scheduled classes.
Assessment:
- written exams, coursework assignments, practical exercises, presentations, and the dissertation project
- Each module has specific assessment criteria linked to its learning outcomes.
- dissertation project is assessed based on its research, analysis, evaluation, and presentation
Teaching:
- experienced academics and industry professionals
- lectures, seminars, workshops, and online learning activities
- extensive online resources and support
Careers:
- Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in various cyber security roles, such as:
- Security analyst
- Network security engineer
- Cyber security consultant
- Incident responder
- Digital forensics investigator
- Security architect
- CISO (Chief Information Security Officer)
- The program also provides a strong foundation for further studies in cyber security, such as pursuing a PhD.
Other:
- limited number of fully funded places
- GCQ (Graduate Certificate in Qualifications)
- excellent facilities
- Queen's University Belfast is located in Belfast, a vibrant city with a thriving technology sector and numerous opportunities for networking and career development.
Additional Notes:
- Modules offered may be subject to change.
- The program is regularly updated to reflect developments in the dynamic field of cyber security.
- For detailed information on fees and funding, please refer to the official program website.
Disclaimer:
This information is based on the provided context and may not be completely up-to-date. Always refer to the official program website for the most accurate and current information.
Tuition Fees and Payment Information:
Northern Ireland (NI) 1 Free for DfE Funded students (see below) Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 N/A England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 N/A EU Other 3 N/A International N/A
Entry Requirements
EU home students and international overseas students outside the EU:
- Academic Qualifications:
- Normally a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in:
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Electrical and/or Electronic Engineering
- Mathematics with Computer Science
- Physics with Computer Science
- Or a related discipline.
- Applicants should typically achieve at least a 2:1 standard in relevant modules.
- A 2.2 Honours degree and a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in one of the above disciplines may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Mathematical Ability and Programming Experience:
- All applicants are expected to possess strong mathematical ability and substantial programming experience.
- The degree or qualifications should demonstrate this, or evidence of an appropriate formal qualification may be provided.
- Experience programming in C and working in a Linux environment are advantageous.
- Experience in lieu of Formal Qualifications:
- For those lacking the formal academic prerequisites, significant recent relevant technical experience in industry (e.g., programming) may be considered.
- Such experience must be demonstrated by at least five years of hands-on technical experience within relevant industries.
- Management roles are not deemed as equivalent experience.
Additional Notes:
- The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy offers guidance on experiential learning assessment (RPEL). Please refer to https://go.qub.ac.uk/RPLpolicy for more details.
- AICC funding: This program provides a limited number of fully funded places (sponsored by the Department for the Economy) for eligible Northern Ireland residents. For complete details and the application deadline, please visit https://www.qub.ac.uk/about/Leadership-and-structure/Faculties-and-Schools/Engineering-and-Physical-Sciences/AICC/.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
International Students (non-native English speakers):
- Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with no less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).
Additional notes:
- For detailed information on English Language requirements for all student types, please refer to www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.
- INTO Queen's University Belfast offers various English language courses designed to improve proficiency and meet degree program entry requirements. Please find more information at:
- Academic English: https://www.intoqueen.com/en/university-pathways/academic-english
- Pre-sessional English: https://www.intoqueen.com/en/university-pathways/pre-sessional-english