Cyber Security (top-up)

In December 2024, the University of Bolton was granted permission by the Office for Students (OfS) to change its name to the University of Greater Manchester with immediate effect. While we work to update our systems, you may see both names used in the information we provide.

The University of Greater Manchester's BSc (Hons) Cyber Security (top-up) course is an ideal next step from a foundation degree, HND or equivalent diploma in Computing or Computer Science. If you've already studied some security modules, enjoy problem-solving and want a fast-paced, challenging job, our expert team offer you the knowledge and skills needed to anticipate and combat computer software and data threats, including hacking, theft, viruses, and other forms of cyber attack.

A recent report estimates that the cyber security industry requires approximately 4 million additional professionals worldwide (1). Qualified cyber security professionals have access to excellent career opportunities and competitive salaries. The University of Greater Manchester's BSc (Hons) Cyber Security (top-up) course is an ideal route into this dynamic and evolving industry. By studying with us, you can build on your previous studies and enhance your knowledge and understanding of how to protect data and information systems from cyber breaches while experiencing life at our supportive, student-focused, multicultural campus.

Covering how to design secure computer systems, this forward-thinking degree emphasises secure management of computer systems and promotes a deep understanding of the structure of computing systems. Throughout the course, you'll develop technical knowledge and applied skills in security defence techniques and counter-measures, ready to protect computer systems and electronic infrastructures from attack. In particular, we'll focus on helping you learn to design and develop your own security tools for probing, analysing and defending computer systems against attack.

Our expert and dedicated team will cover how to analyse and evaluate security threats and vulnerabilities to information systems, perform security risk assessments and develop security controls, processes and software. We'll support you as you learn how to respond to security incidents and implement resolution activities. The department's strong links with business mean you'll have the chance to work on ‘live briefs’ in your coursework assignments, so you'll have the opportunity to enjoy real-world context and application for the skills and knowledge we'll help you develop.

With class sizes no greater than 30, we can offer you meaningful, personalised learning plans. Our dedicated and enthusiastic lecturers, many of whom are active researchers with extensive industry insights and experience, will help you develop both the theoretical knowledge and the practical, hands-on skills required by the security sector that will put you one step ahead of attackers from day one. Meanwhile, guest speakers and lecturers give you access to highly relevant and up-to-date input from industry settings.

All of this is backed by our well-equipped IT suites, where you'll get to apply and develop your learning individually and in groups with expert guidance and support.

(1) https://www.isc2.org/Research/Workforce-Study accessed on 18 July 2024