MSc Applied Cyber Security

Program Overview

The MSc Applied Cyber Security program equips non-computing degree holders and professionals with comprehensive cyber security knowledge. It covers industry-standard CyBOK skills, emphasizing the human element through Social Engineering studies. The program fosters critical thinking through a dissertation and progressive research skills, preparing graduates for diverse roles in technology-driven industries.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Applied Cyber Security degree is a conversion course program designed to train graduates in a new subject and prepare them for a specific profession in the cyber security field. It equips students with the tools and knowledge needed for a successful career in cyber security. The program is suitable for recent graduates with non-computing degrees or individuals with industry experience seeking to retrain. The MSc Applied Cyber Security covers a range of cyber security topics essential to any organization in the 21st century. It is one of a few programs that consists entirely of Cyber Security modules and uniquely provides explicit training in the human side of cyber security through the study of Social Engineering. The program provides a generalist background in cyber security, addressing a gap in industry and preparing graduates to contribute to organizations at various levels and roles. Early modules build foundational computing and cyber security skills, leading to advanced topics like network security, penetration testing, and more. Case studies are utilized to illustrate concepts. Organizations have objectives and strategies that require security governance, policies, and controls that align with those objectives.

• Social Engineering, OSINT, and Penetration Testing: Humans are often considered the weakest link in any system.
Penetration testing is the ethical side of 'hacking' - the same techniques are used to test defenses and recommend mitigations, and students gain practical experience of doing this.
• Introduction to Forensics and Malware: This module covers the essentials of the forensic analysis of computer systems, including legal and procedural requirements, practical investigation of sample machine images, and essential malware analysis techniques such as static, dynamic, and more advanced topics.
• Dissertation (Extended Project and Research Skills): Running throughout the course, this module provides instruction on the essentials of Research Skills needed to propose and develop an Extended Project, resulting in an in-depth dissertation study.
DigiTech provides state-of-the-art technical facilities in a dedicated Cyber Suite, allowing students to hone their practical cyber security skills in a completely safe environment. The course also offers a range of webinars and live sessions, providing valuable opportunities for students to enhance their learning experience.

Careers:

Every industry sector that makes use of technology for their business will need cyber security expertise. The content of this course will provide students with the necessary skills to join a dedicated cyber security team or alternatively to be part of a software development team where they could be the local security expert, guiding the development and maintenance of systems and software with a strong focus on security requirements. Local potential employment opportunities include BT, MSC, Gallagher Insurance, and Willis Towers Watson, and there are many opportunities in the wider sectors based in London, which is a short commute. The skills acquired on this degree are truly international in nature, and graduates will be well equipped to work anywhere across the globe.

Other:

The course is not designed for those with previous qualifications in computing. Students with a computing undergraduate degree are advised to consider the MSc in Computer Science.

UK Full-time Tuition Fee £9,870 per year UK Part-time Tuition Fee £1,097 per 20 credit module International Full-time Tuition Fee £15,300 per year