Cyber Security Masters/MSc

Program Overview

This one-year Cyber Security Masters/MSc program imparts knowledge in evaluating, designing, and building secure computer systems. It covers both theory and practice, including cryptography, network security, and secure programming, with optional modules like hardware security and forensics. The program prepares graduates for high-demand careers in the software, cyber security consulting, government, law enforcement, and research sectors. It boasts full certification from GCHQ and recognition as an 'Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research' by the UK government.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This Cyber Security Masters/MSc program is a one-year full-time degree program designed for graduates in computing-related disciplines. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and expertise to evaluate, design, and build secure computer systems, processes, and people involved in cyber security. The program covers both the theory and practice of designing and building secure systems, providing a strong foundation in cryptography, network security, and secure programming. It also includes optional modules in topics such as hardware and embedded system security, operating systems, incident management, and forensics. The program's objectives are to:

• Equip students with appropriate theory, practices, and tools for the design, implementation, and evaluation of secure computer systems.
• Teach students appropriate theory, practices, and processes for the management and governance of cyber security in industry.

Outline:

The MSc program consists of 180 credits, divided as follows:

• 80 credits of 20-credit taught modules
• 60 credits for the project
• 40 credits from the optional modules

Core Modules:

• Designing and Managing Secure Systems (20 credits): This module covers the principles and practices of designing and managing secure systems, including risk assessment, security policies, and incident response.
• Forensics, Malware, and Penetration Testing (20 credits): This module explores the techniques used to investigate cyber security incidents, analyze malware, and conduct penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
• Network Security + Cryptography (20 credits): This module focuses on the security of computer networks, including network protocols, cryptography, and intrusion detection systems.
• Project (60 credits): Students undertake a large, personally supervised project in the final months of the course, applying their knowledge and skills to a real-world cyber security challenge.
• Secure Software and Hardware Systems (20 credits): This module examines the security of software and hardware systems, including secure coding practices, hardware security vulnerabilities, and secure system design.

Optional Modules:

Students select two modules (40 credits) from a range of options, including:

• Dependable and Distributed Systems (Extended) (20 credits): This module explores the design and implementation of dependable and distributed systems, focusing on fault tolerance, reliability, and security.
• Machine Learning (20 credits): This module introduces the principles and techniques of machine learning, with applications to cyber security, such as intrusion detection and malware analysis.
• Mobile & Ubiquitous Computing (Extended) (20 credits): This module examines the security challenges and solutions for mobile and ubiquitous computing environments, including mobile device security, wireless network security, and privacy issues.
• Computer-Aided Verification (Extended) (20 credits): This module explores the use of formal methods and computer-aided verification techniques to analyze and verify the security of software and hardware systems.
• Programming Language Principles, Design, and Implementation (Extended) (20 credits): This module delves into the principles, design, and implementation of programming languages, with a focus on security considerations.
• Intelligent Data Analysis (20 credits): This module covers the techniques and applications of intelligent data analysis, including data mining, knowledge discovery, and security analytics.

Assessment:

The program's assessment methods include:

• Exams: Written exams are used to assess students' understanding of core concepts and theories.
• Coursework: Assignments, projects, and presentations are used to evaluate students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills to practical problems.
• Project: The final project is a significant component of the assessment, requiring students to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research, design and implement a secure system, and present their findings.

Teaching:

The program's teaching methods include:

• Lectures: Lectures provide a structured overview of key concepts and theories.
• Tutorials: Tutorials offer opportunities for students to engage with the material in a more interactive setting, ask questions, and receive feedback.
• Exercise Classes: Exercise classes provide hands-on experience with practical tools and techniques.
• Practical Work: Practical work is an integral part of the program, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios.
• Projects: Projects provide students with the opportunity to work independently or in groups on a substantial software project, developing their problem-solving, design, and implementation skills.
• Independent Study: Independent study allows students to explore specific areas of interest in more depth.
The program's faculty includes experienced academics and industry professionals with expertise in cyber security. They bring their real-world experience to the classroom, providing students with valuable insights and guidance.

Careers:

Graduates of the Cyber Security Masters/MSc program are highly sought after by employers in a variety of sectors, including:

• Software and IT Industry: Graduates can work on secure software development, security testing, and incident response.
• Cyber Security Consulting: Graduates can become cyber security consultants, providing expert advice and services to organizations.
• Government and Law Enforcement: Graduates can work for government agencies and law enforcement organizations, protecting critical infrastructure and investigating cybercrime.
• Research: Graduates can pursue PhD research in cyber security, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the development of new technologies.

Other:

The program has received full certification by GCHQ and the University has been officially recognized by NCSC-EPSRC as an ‘Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research’ (ACE-CSR) by the UK government. This recognition is a testament to the School's first-rate research and work in cyber security. The program's curriculum has been developed with the involvement of key individuals in the cyber security industry. These individuals advise on the skills they seek when recruiting graduates and contribute directly to the MSc program through guest lectures and project supervision.

Annual tuition fees for 2024/25 UK students: £11,340 International students: £31,410 Are you an international applicant? All international applicants to this course will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of £2,000 on receipt of an offer, to secure their place. Find out more about the deposit >>. Postgraduate Loans (PGL) for Masters students UK and EU students (with settled or pre-settled status) looking to pursue a Masters programme in the UK can apply for a non-means-tested loan from the British government via the Student Loans Company (SLC). The loan will be paid directly to you, into a UK bank account. It is intended to provide a contribution towards the costs of Masters study and whether the loan is used towards fees, maintenance or other costs is at your own discretion. Scholarships We offer a range University scholarships Birmingham Masters Scholarship