COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc in Cyber Security is a comprehensive one-year program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of cyber security. In the first semester, students are introduced to core concepts, including security theory, risk and threat modelling, social engineering, cybercrime analysis, and the legal frameworks surrounding cyber security such as GDPR and the Computer Misuse Act. This foundational knowledge is supported by practical skills training, helping students understand both the technical and human elements of cyber threats and defences.The second semester focuses on more advanced and applied aspects of cyber security. Students explore real-world challenges faced by various sectors and delve deeper into network security, including the specific challenges posed by the Internet of Things (IoT). The module on Cybercrime and Digital Investigation equips students with the skills to trace digital footprints, recover data, and investigate cyberattacks using both technical and legal frameworks. Throughout this semester, students also refine their professional skills, learning how to manage projects, critically review literature, and understand the ethical and societal impacts of their work in cyber security.A key element of the course is the dissertation, undertaken in the final semester. This major independent project allows students to specialise in an area of cyber security that aligns with their interests or career goals. Supervised by faculty, students can propose their own topics or choose from a list of suggestions, with some projects potentially forming part of collaborative or group work. By the end of the course, graduates will have a well-rounded understanding of cyber security, from its theoretical underpinnings and legal context to its technical challenges and investigative methodologies, preparing them for roles in both public and private sectors.