Cyber Security

Why choose this course?
Our BSc (Hons) Cyber Security course provides you with a comprehensive foundation in cybersecurity, equipping you with the technical expertise, practical experience, and professional skills needed for a successful career in this dynamic field.

You will:
Gain expertise and hands-on experience to defend digital systems against evolving threats
Study in state-of-the-art facilities such as our Cyber Innovation Academy, where you’ll gain the knowledge to tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges and develop skills in threat detection, risk analysis, secure system development, and incident response
Learn cutting-edge cybersecurity practices aligned with industry demands and emerging trends
Apply theoretical concepts through lab work, real-world projects, and cybersecurity simulations to develop practical problem-solving skills
Learn from experienced professionals and experts in the field

Key Course Features:
The course will reflect the latest advancements in cyber security ensuring exposure to cutting-edge technology and industry-relevant skills
In your final year, you’ll undertake a project module, offering an opportunity to specialise in an area aligned with your personal interests
Gain a deep understanding of networking, network security, information security governance, and computer systems architecture
Build proficiency in key programming languages and secure software development methodologies
Explore formal languages, computability, and complexity theory to enhance analytical and problem-solving abilities
Understand the ethical, legal, and social implications of cybersecurity, including privacy, security, and intellectual property
Develop professional skills such as teamwork, communication, and adherence to industry standards
Master the art of technical writing and presentation, enabling you to communicate cybersecurity concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
Cultivate a mindset of continuous learning to stay ahead in the fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape

What you will study

YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)
Year one provides a strong foundation in cybersecurity, computing, and software development. You will gain hands-on experience in network defence, governance, risk management, and programming, applying computational thinking to real-world challenges. You’ll also explore ethical, legal, and social aspects of cybersecurity while developing teamwork, communication, and project management skills through agile methodologies.

MODULES
• Programming Fundamentals
• Computer Systems and Architecture
• Information Security and Governance
• Applied Computational Methods
• Network Defence
• Network Fundamentals

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)
In year two, you will deepen your knowledge of cybersecurity theories, including distributed architecture, security by design, and secure programming. You will tackle real-world challenges, exploring ethical, legal, and sustainability issues and gain hands-on experience in system defence, detection, mitigation, and ethical hacking using industry tools. Through agile methodologies and collaborative projects, you'll refine your teamwork, communication, and organisational skills, preparing you to address industry challenges and protect digital infrastructure.

MODULES
• Group Project
• Systems Engineering and Project Management
• Cloud and Distributed Architecture and Security
• Cyber Operations
• Ethical Hacking
• Secure Software Development

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6)
In your final year, you will apply advanced theories to real-world challenges, integrating practical experience to develop solutions for complex cybersecurity issues. You will tackle social, ethical, and sustainability concerns while refining your skills in system defence, detection, and mitigation. Through your final-year project, you'll demonstrate independence and critical thinking, applying development tools to solve industry-relevant problems. Graduate-level competencies in research, self-management, and communication will prepare you to lead in the fast-paced cybersecurity industry.

MODULES
• Project: The project module is designed to prepare you for the tasks and challenges that you may encounter in the workplace after your graduation. Its objectives are to equip you with the skills to independently plan, manage, and report on a substantial, long-term project, apply theoretical knowledge from taught modules to practical, real-world problems, and critically evaluate diverse and often conflicting information from manuals, books, and research journals. Additionally, the project offers an opportunity to specialise in an area aligned with your personal interests, enhancing your expertise and career readiness.
• Cryptography and Defensive Systems:
• Threat Detection and Incident Response
• Digital Forensics
• Security Optimisation and Automation

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Teaching & Assessment
Teaching
The computing program suite employs a diverse range of cutting-edge industry tools and software, complemented by innovative teaching methods. This dynamic approach not only imparts industry-relevant skills but also empowers you to elevate your work to new heights when possible. The entire staff enthusiastically embraces the active learning framework (ALF), resulting in numerous enhancements to the teaching and learning experience.

Assessment
Assessments in cyber security at university level are designed to evaluate your understanding, application, and proficiency in various aspects of the discipline. These assessments encompass a diverse range of methods, including:

Coursework and Projects: Assignments and projects provide hands-on experience, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. This may include software development projects, research papers, or problem-solving tasks.
Coding Assignments: Practical coding assignments assess your programming skills, logical reasoning, and ability to develop efficient and effective code.
Group Projects: Collaborative projects evaluate teamwork, communication, and the ability to work in diverse teams, reflecting the collaborative nature of the tech industry.
Presentations: You may be required to present your findings, solutions, or project outcomes, enhancing your communication and presentation skills.
Laboratory Work: Practical sessions in computer labs assess your ability to apply concepts, troubleshoot issues, and work with various tools and technologies.
Problem-solving Exercises: These exercises challenge you to solve complex problems, encouraging critical thinking and analytical skills.
Reports and Documentation: Writing reports or documenting project processes assesses your ability to communicate technical information clearly and concisely.