BSc (Hons) Cyber Security with Digital Forensics

Program Overview

Bournemouth University's BSc (Hons) Cyber Security with Digital Forensics equips students with the skills and knowledge to become versatile IT security professionals. The program emphasizes practical, industry-focused tasks and provides opportunities for research collaboration and an optional placement year. Accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), graduates are prepared for diverse roles in cyber security, digital forensics, and related fields within the tech, ICT, and forensic computing industries.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This BSc (Hons) Cyber Security with Digital Forensics program at Bournemouth University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become versatile and skilled IT security professionals. The program aims to:

• Develop the versatility and personal qualities to manage, implement, and assess the security of business activities in a global context.
• Build and improve applied technical skills to weaponize technology to prevent or respond to security incidents in any organization.
• Engage students in practical, industry-focused tasks and co-participation in research projects with BU staff, experts from other institutions, and industries in the UK and globally.
• Provide valuable work experience through an optional placement year.
• Prepare graduates for roles such as police digital forensics investigator, digital forensics consultant, pen tester, information security analyst, or cyber security analyst.

Outline:

The program is structured over four years full-time, including an optional 30-week placement year. Students can opt out of the placement year and complete the program in three years. The program is divided into three main phases:

Foundation Year (Optional):

This year is designed for students who do not meet the entry requirements for the degree course. It provides a grounding in technical skills, building confidence, knowledge, and skills for further study.

• Core Units:
• Introduction to Computers
• Introduction to Programming
• Foundation Year Engineering and Technology Project

Year 1:

• Core Units:
• Computer Fundamentals
• Mathematics for Computing
• Programming
• Network Essentials
• Introduction to Cyber Security
• Elective Unit:
• Computing and Society

Year 2:

• Core Units:
• Ethical Hacking
• Software Engineering
• Security Operations (SecOps)
• Network and Cyber Management
• Technological Innovations in Cyber Security
• Elective Unit:
• Software Business

Placement Year (Optional):

Students can choose to complete a minimum 30-week industrial work placement anywhere in the world.

Final Year:

• Core Units:
• Digital Forensics
• Human Computer Interaction
• Individual Project
• Optional Units:
• Digital Innovation and Transformation
• Systems Development
• Data Visualisation and Storytelling
• Software Quality Assurance
• Elective Unit:
• Digital Futures

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Exams: Assesses theoretical knowledge and understanding.
• Coursework: Includes assignments, projects, and presentations, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in practical settings.
• Practical Assessments: Evaluates students' ability to perform tasks using industry-standard tools and techniques.
• Individual Project: A significant piece of work that allows students to delve deeper into a specific area of interest within cyber security and digital forensics.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a diverse team of staff with relevant expertise and knowledge, including:

• Senior academic staff
• Qualified professional practitioners
• Demonstrators
• Technicians
• Research students
Students also benefit from regular guest lectures from industry professionals.

Careers:

The program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in cyber security and digital forensics, including:

• Police Digital Forensics Investigator
• Digital Forensics Consultant
• Security Adviser for Business Continuity
• Security Systems Analyst
Graduates can find employment in various industries, including:
• Cyber security
• Technology
• ICT
• Forensic computing

Other:

• The program is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS).
• The program offers a virtual tour of the Talbot Campus facilities.
• The program has a dedicated Placement Co-ordinator and Placement Development Advisors to support students throughout their placement year.
• The program has a dedicated CareersBU service to assist students with career planning and job searching.
• The program has a dedicated AccessBU initiative to support students from underrepresented backgrounds.
• The program welcomes applications from mature applicants and those with prior experience in the field.

Tuition fees per year UK, ROI & CI: £9,250 Int'l: £18,800 Placement year: £1,850 Foundation year: £9,250 (UK, ROI & CI) £18,800 (Int'l)