Study MSc Cyber Security

Course Highlights

This course seeks to address the global cyber skills gap, providing you with the advanced knowledge and understanding of cyber security issues you need to succeed in this industry.

Technology is transforming our society in all sorts of ways. From how we do business to how we socialise, how we travel to how we communicate, we are dependent on computer systems that drive these processes. This dependency means we're vulnerable to cyber-attacks. If successful, our personal data can be stolen, and our national institutions, critical infrastructure and the technology that drives our society could be compromised.

We need skilled, confident cyber security professionals who understand the technology, and the challenges, so they're able to secure and protect our digital society.

Course Modules

• Year 1

Learning Structure

Learn through practical labs, lectures, seminars, group work, workshops and guest lectures. Our academics have a range of connections with industry experts. In the past, the department has hosted speakers from CGI, Avon and Somerset High Tech Crime Unit, Ministry of Defence, Ernst and Young, and the NCSC.

Gain knowledge and understanding of the concepts and technologies used to establish and maintain computer and network security. Practical exercises will consolidate your knowledge through hands-on experience.

Discover how current methodological approaches and legal frameworks influence risk management and explore emerging threats and countermeasures. Case studies will bring these methodologies to life in an industry-relevant way.

Develop your ability to evaluate issues and design and implement robust security solutions. Build your communication and creative skills so you can respond in a clear, effective way to challenges.

You'll have opportunities to participate in UK and global security challenges that the department has a track-record of success in.

This course is available for both full and part-time study. The part-time option will be delivered one day a week over a two-year period, making it suitable for those who wish to continue working alongside their studies.

Outside of formal lectures, you'll complete practical tasks, including solving practical problems in information security. You'll prepare for them by reading academic papers, professional/technical publications, and other material available online.

Your assessments will include practical problem-solving coursework, exams, presentations and reports.

Entry Requirements

• A second class Bacheor degree in a computing-based degree or a similar technical discipline.
• If you do not meet the above grade requirements but have at least 12 months relevant professional experience and/ or equivalent qualifications, we will consider you on an individual basis.

English Language Requirements

Documentary Evidence List

• Academic Transcripts
• Degree Certificate
• English Test (IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE/ Duolingo - UKVI accepted)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• 2 Recommendation Letters (LORs)
• Updated CV/ Resume
• Research Proposal (for Research/ PhD)
• Work Experience Certificates (if study gap)
• Passport Copy

Study Gaps

For applicants with an academic or professional gap of up to 5 years, admission is generally considered acceptable. If the gap exceeds this period, applications may still be successful but will typically be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

To strengthen your profile, it is important to:

• Provide a clear explanation of how you spent the gap period (e.g., employment, further learning, personal responsibilities).
• Emphasize the skills and experiences you developed during this time that are relevant to the program.
• Demonstrate that your academic qualifications continue to meet the course entry requirements.