Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics (Taught)

The MSc Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics at UWTSD is a highly specialised course designed to develop your skills and knowledge in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity. This programme focuses on equipping you with the ability to protect an organisation’s IT systems from various cyber-attacks, while also preparing you to investigate and respond to incidents of cybercrime. You will learn essential techniques like penetration testing, helping you to assess vulnerabilities in systems and safeguard against potential threats.

As part of this course, you will gain practical experience in both cybersecurity and digital forensics by analysing and responding to cyber incidents in real time. The hands-on approach ensures that you not only understand theoretical concepts but also have the confidence and technical ability to apply them in real-world situations. The course will teach you how to collect and analyse digital evidence, providing a strong foundation for investigating security breaches or other digital crimes.

What sets UWTSD apart is its partnerships with top cybersecurity vendors. As a Cisco Academy since 1999, an EC Council Academy partner since 2018, and part of the Palo Alto Cybersecurity Academy and Checkpoint Secure Academy, we offer a unique blend of curriculums from these leading organisations. This means that alongside your degree, you’ll also be prepared for valuable industry certifications such as CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), CHFI (Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator), CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate), and CCSA (Checkpoint Certified Security Administrator). These certifications can give you a competitive advantage in the job market.

Throughout the programme, you will have access to advanced network security tools and the best networking and cybersecurity lab in Wales. You will also develop skills in areas such as incident response, malware analysis, and digital forensics. Whether you are managing a security breach, collecting evidence for a forensic investigation, or conducting in-depth research for your dissertation, the course ensures you are well-prepared for the complex challenges of the digital world.

This programme is ideal for those looking to combine technical expertise with practical skills, providing a strong foundation for careers in cybersecurity and digital forensics.

At the heart of the MSc Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics programme is an interactive, hands-
on approach to learning. Our philosophy emphasises practical experience and research, ensuring students engage deeply with both the academic and industrial elements of these fields.
This blend of theoretical knowledge and applied skills prepares graduates for the real-world
challenges they will face in cybersecurity and digital forensics.

Modules

Throughout the year, students will develop their expertise in core areas like network security, penetration testing, digital forensics, and incident response. The programme is structured around cutting-edge topics, including malware analysis, cyber-attacks, and digital evidence collection. The course also emphasises practical work, culminating in a research-based dissertation.

Research Methods and Professional Development (20 credits)
Cloud Engineering Principles and Practice (20 credits)
Data Security, Governance and Compliance (20 credits)
Master's Project (60 credits)
Digital Forensics Analysis (on campus) (20 credits)
Enterprise Network Security (20 credits)
Ethical Hacking (20 credits)

Assessment for this course is reflective of practices within the sector ranging from the production of technical reports to the delivery of key ideas through presentation.

Assessment types have been carefully selected to support the abilities of all learners and provide practice of real-world tasks required within industrial roles.

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS