Cyber Security

Our Cyber Security degree is industry-focused, ensuring you have the tools and techniques needed to meet the growing national skills gap in this sector. You will acquire the practical skillsets to counter emerging threats, and to maintain the overall security of a system whilst learning through immersive and gamified environments.

You will:

• Benefit from an inclusive and friendly environment

• Have the opportunity to undertake placements.

• Benefit from guest speakers due to strong industrial links that support the degree.

• Be studying a degree that is mapped to the CyBok Framework (Cyber Security Body of Knowledge) to ensure that you cover the variety of topics that underpin the Cyber Security profession aligned with best practice and industry needs.

• obtain the skills and knowledge across a range of security domains and skills including but not limited to design, policy, compliance and risk. All these aspects underpin the knowledge and skills to help protect us all from cyber threats.

• gain experience by working with a variety of teams both within cyber security and across the wider computing subject area, all whilst having an opportunity to network with peers and following your chosen Learning pathway

Key Course Features:

• Hands-on teaching of a range of cybersecurity skills, techniques and tools, such as cryptography, authentication, access control, viruses and malware, penetration testing, risk management and forensic investigation.

• Extensive PC and networked computer facilities with internet access.

• The course team have strong links to the North Wales Cyber Security Cluster, an industry-led forum for cybersecurity practitioners and employers, and students on the programme have opportunities to attend and be involved with their meetings and events.

• We offer a wide range of services to help you find the right placement, including work-based learning support and career advice and fairs. But it’s also up to you – the more proactive you are about applying for placements, the better.

• This degree will provide an opportunity to participate in the CISCO Academy Programmes and qualify for CISCO accreditation.

Course Modules

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

• Cryptography and Defensive Systems

• Threat Detection and Incident Response

• Digital Forensics

• Security Optimisation and Automation

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.

Teaching and Learning

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments.

Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.