Computer Science (Cyber Security)

Computer Science (Cyber Security)
Connected systems power so many crucial areas of our lives, from banks to hospitals and even our own workplaces. So it’s never been more vital to have skilled professionals to identify threats, and guard our data.

Our BSc in Computer Science (Cyber Security) combines the broad teaching of our Computer Science BSc with a strong focus in cyber security.

Kent is a Gold Award recipient from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which makes us an exceptional place to train as a cyber security expert. You’ll become familiar with security principles and risk management - and delve into the worlds of ciphers, cryptography, blockchain technology and cyber insurance.

You’ll also be able to expand your horizons in your final year, with modules covering entrepreneurship, quantum computing, Natural Language Processing, Creative AI and more.

We ensure you apply everything you learn as you learn it. Get hands-on with lab sessions, group projects, and industry-led challenges. Several of our students also opt to undertake a year in industry, working with companies in many different sectors.

Every second counts in cyber security. We get you ready to act with confidence.

Year in Industry

Take a year in industry and gain paid practical experience and a real advantage in the graduate job market. Our dedicated placement team supports you through the process.

Accreditation
We're accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), The Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council.

Your Future
You'll be on course for a big future. Our graduates have gone on to work in:

• software engineering

• mobile applications development

• systems analysis

• networking

• finance and insurance

• education

• healthcare

Recent graduates have gone on to develop successful careers at leading companies such as:

• Cisco

• IBM

• The Walt Disney Company

• Citigroup

• BT

Year 1

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Year 1 compulsory modules currently include the following:

• Programming I - The module is a blend of theoretical instruction and hands-on exercises with the Python programming language. The skills you acquire will help you learn other programming languages such as Java and C++, to name a few.

• Programming II - In this module, you’ll learn how an object-oriented approach to software development allows us to think in a particular way about solving problems. This approach increases the likelihood that our code will be well-written and reliable.

• Internet Technologies - In this module you’ll examine the fundamental technologies that make modern web applications work.  You’ll learn to use operating and cloud systems to deploy, configure, and monitor software. You’ll dive into networking, from the basic principles of network latency and bandwidth to addressing and transmitting at different layers, from the datalink to the HTTP application layer. You’ll also develop a foundational frontend web development skill set, learning how to structure web pages using HTML, style them using CSS, and develop interactive web pages using JavaScript.

• Human Computer Interaction - Throughout this module, you will learn about design quality and the need for a professional, integrated, and user-centred approach to interface design and development.

• Foundations of Computing - This module demonstrates the role of mathematics in Computer Science with relevant examples. Starting with algebra, reasoning and proof, set theory, functions, statistics and computer arithmetic, you’ll progress to the more abstract topics of matrices, vectors, differential calculus and probability.

• Computer Systems - You’ll learn about the fundamental hardware and software components of a computer system, and how these components cooperate to execute software programs. You’ll deepen your knowledge of computer systems from the lowest level of abstractions in hardware to the highest level of abstractions of modern programming languages. For example, you’ll explore how logic circuits, machine language, programming language implementations, and high-level languages build on one another to enable useful software applications.

For more detailed information about these modules, please visit our website.

Year 2

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Year 2 compulsory modules currently include the following:

• Algorithms - Throughout the module you will develop the skills to read and interpret problem descriptions, and the knowledge you need to solve these problems. Your deepened understanding of algorithms from runtime, to executable programmes will set you up for an exciting and successful career in rapidly expanding digital industries.

• Database Systems - This module introduces you to the theory and practice of database systems. You’ll model, design, implement, and use database systems, gaining valuable skills you will need in your career as a software developer.

• Web Development - Designed to empower aspiring developers with the skills needed to thrive in today's digital landscape, this module offers a deep dive into the foundations of both front-end and back-end web development. From crafting captivating user experiences with the latest browser technologies to mastering server-side programming, databases and sound design principles, the curriculum equips you with the proficiency to build robust and scalable web applications. Join us and unlock the keys to shaping the future of the internet.

• Software Development - You will learn about the best practices for developing such software within a team using the agile methodology. You’ll discover the importance of customer involvement for identifying requirements, writing automated tests for verifying functionality, and code reviews for improving the quality of the codebase. You’ll also work with your peers to develop a software product incrementally.

• Fundamentals of Cyber Security - The knowledge you will gain on this module provides a strong foundation to guide and inform security efforts within an organisation. Prepare to embark on a journey where every click, every byte, and every line of code matters – and where you knowledge can make a real difference.

Optional modules may include the following:

• Fundamentals of AI - In this dynamic module, you will be introduced to the essential concepts of AI, setting the stage for a profound exploration into more advanced realms such as machine learning and bio-inspired computations. Through engaging weekly classes, your understanding will evolve, seamlessly transitioning from foundational principles to the intricacies of advanced concepts.

• Functional Programming - You’ll learn the core tenets of functional programming in a general setting and deepen your understanding of what it means to solve problems with a computer. This will enable you to be a better programmer in any language. You’ll also gain insight into foundational topics in computer science and draw deep connections between other modules in the degree. For many, functional programming is a crucial ‘aha!’ moment in their journey towards being skilled in the art, science, and engineering of computer systems.

For more detailed information about these modules, please visit our website.

Year in Industry

You spend a year working in an industrial or commercial environment between Stages 2 and 3. Our students go to a wide range of companies including:

• Accenture

• BT

• GSK

• IBM

• Kent Police

• Microsoft

• Morgan Stanley

• The Walt Disney Company.

They have also been to overseas employers in locations including Amsterdam, Hong Kong and the US.

The year in industry forms an integral part of your degree and constitutes 10% of your final grade. Assessment comprises an employer evaluation, a reflective report and a logbook/portfolio.

Although it is your responsibility to find a suitable placement, the School of Computing’s dedicated Placement Team will help to identify suitable opportunities, assist with your application and prepare you for interviews.

To automatically progress onto the year in industry, you must pass Stage 2 at the first attempt. If you fail, you must pass the first resit opportunity in the August of the same year. Students who do not obtain a work placement will have their registration changed to the equivalent three-year programme without a year in industry.

Year 3

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Year 3: Compulsory modules currently include the following:

• Blockchain and Distributed Systems: Foundations, Security and Applications - You will study architectures of blockchain and distributed systems, distributed consensus mechanisms, relevant cryptographic principles, and smart contracts. You’ll gain insights into their security aspects, strengths, limitations, and use cases. You’ll also engage in critical discussions about their broader implications on economics, governance, user privacy and society while examining opportunities and challenges.

• Information Security Management - You’ll gain a systematic understanding of information security management, such as what standard processes and practices to follow and how to assess and manage risks. You’ll also learn how to manage AAA (authentication, authorisation and accountability), how to understand the complicated cyber law landscape to ensure legal compliance, how to ensure security controls and processes are usable for all, and how to foster a people-centric culture for information security among staff.

• Group Project - Engaging in group projects is a crucial aspect of your computer science studies as it provides you with valuable opportunities to work collaboratively with your peers. In the field of software development, teamwork is indispensable for achieving success as most projects require the combined effort of multiple individuals with diverse skills and expertise.

Optional modules may include the following:

• Computer Networks and Communication

• Computing in the Classroom

• Natural Language Processing

• Programming Language Implementation

• Computational Creativity and Creative AI

• Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery

• Semantic Technologies and Graph Analytics

• Internet of Things

• Programming Languages: Applications and Design

• Deep Learning

• Introduction to Quantum Computing and Quantum Cryptography

• Enterprise and Entrepreneurship

• Research Project

For more detailed information about these modules, please visit our website.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• British Computer Society