MSc Cyber Security

Program Overview

The MSc Cyber Security is a 1-year full-time or 2-year part-time program providing in-depth knowledge in cyber security. It aims to equip students with technical skills in network security, penetration testing, computer forensics, and software development. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as security analysts, architects, or software developers.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Cyber Security is a 1-year full-time or 2-year part-time program designed to provide in-depth knowledge of cyber security.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Equip students with a systematic approach to information security management, encompassing both technical and broader perspectives.
• Enhance understanding of specialist technical disciplines like secure software platforms and protection against complex attack processes.
• Integrate professional skills related to audit, management, and risk in the context of cyber security and data protection regulations.

Outline:

Course Content:

• Core Modules:
• Postgraduate Study & Research Methods (20 credits)
• Advanced Ethical Hacking (20 credits)
• Security and Risk Management (20 credits)
• Developing Secure Software (20 credits)
• Applied Cryptography (20 credits)
• Technological Horizon-Scanning (20 credits)
Students will learn about various research approaches, data collection and analysis methods, and writing academic papers.
• Advanced Ethical Hacking: This module delves into advanced ethical hacking techniques, focusing on penetration testing methodologies, vulnerability assessment, and ethical hacking tools.
Students will gain practical skills in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in systems.
• Security and Risk Management: This module explores the principles and practices of information security management, including risk assessment, risk mitigation strategies, incident response, and security governance.
• Developing Secure Software: This module focuses on secure software development practices, covering secure coding principles, vulnerability analysis, and software security testing methods.
• Applied Cryptography: This module provides a practical understanding of cryptography concepts and their application in securing data and communications.
Students will learn about various cryptographic algorithms, key management, and digital signatures.
• Technological Horizon-Scanning: This module explores emerging technologies and their implications for cyber security.
Students will learn about the latest threats, trends, and innovations in the field, and how to adapt to evolving security landscapes.
• Dissertation: Students will conduct an independent research project on a chosen cyber security topic, culminating in a written dissertation that demonstrates their critical thinking, research skills, and in-depth understanding of the chosen subject.

Assessment:

• Postgraduate Study & Research Methods:
• Coursework: 40% (1500 words)
• Coursework: 60% (2000 words)
• Advanced Ethical Hacking:
• Coursework: 60% (3000 words)
• Practical: 40%
• Security and Risk Management:
• Case Study: 70% (4000 words)
• In-class test: 30%
• Developing Secure Software:
• Portfolio: 70% (4000 words)
• In-class test: 30%
• Applied Cryptography:
• Examination: 50%
• Practical: 50% (3000 words)
• Technological Horizon-Scanning:
• Coursework: 70% (3000 words)
• Presentation: 30%
• Dissertation:
• Research Proposal: 10% (2,000 words)
• Dissertation: 90% (15,000 to 20,000 words)

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, and online resources.
• Faculty: The course is taught by a team of active experts leading research within various areas of cyber security.
Students benefit from the latest knowledge and insights.
• Support: The university offers workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-taking, and assignment preparation.
Students have access to academic skills tutors for assistance with university work. Inclusion Services are available for students requiring reasonable adjustments.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Security Analyst
• Security Engineer
• Security Architect
• Security Administrator
• Security Software Developer
• Cryptographer
• Cryptanalyst
• Security Consultant
• Outcomes: Successful completion of the course allows graduates to:
• Advance their career in the field of cyber security.
• Gain the knowledge and confidence needed for professional development in the workplace.
• The program is designed to help students develop skills in information assurance methodologies, testing operational security management, incident management, audit, assurance and review, and business continuity management.
• The program incorporates industry-level practical experience.