The benefits of Cyber Security
What is Cyber Security?
MSC in Cyber Security and Fee Structure
UK universities offer an MSC in cyber security under various names. Most degrees are year-long if undertaken
full-time. This is a postgraduate degree where students can pay extra to take advantage of placements and internship
opportunities. You can apply for two-year part-time degrees if you are a working individual.
International students can expect to pay between £14,000 and £31,000+ to graduate with a cyber security MSc. Depending
on the university, international students may be required to pay upwards of £40,000.
What does Cyber Security entail?
Increased connectivity and ubiquity of the internet have allowed businesses to grow and develop exponentially.
However, the same developments in the wrong hands, i.e. cybercriminals, hackers, and terrorists, can pose a serious
risk to confidential and critical data.
There are various examples of the monetary and overall business reputation repercussions of an incident when a
business suffers a breach or cyberattack that compromises a client's or customer's private information.
An MSc in Cyber Security aims to equip professionals with technical skills that allow them to build systems and firewalls that prevent such cyberattacks. Students study both theories and learn
practical programming skills along with network security, cryptography, operating systems, incident management,
forensics, and more.
Most cyber security MSc programmes are designed to fill gaps with advanced knowledge that enables both IT and non-IT
professionals to build mission-critical systems. It’s a versatile degree that benefits organizations in various
industries including healthcare, FinTech, software development, hospitality, insurance, and more.
In addition to learning advanced cyber security and IT modules, an MSC in Cyber Security involves:
When should you consider taking Cyber Security?
Most cyber security MSc degrees offered by UK universities are meant for people with previous degrees in information
technology, or ICT. Graduates with experience in computing, networking, and information security can also apply.
However, there are some cyber security MSc programmes that are meant for students without a computing degree.
Graduates with numerate degrees can also engage in a Cyber Security MSc to gain specialist analytic and development
skills for technical and non-technical cyber security aspects.
Some UK universities that cater to Cyber Security MSc programmes to non-IT applicants extend the typically one-year degree. Students can expect 2- to 3-year-long programmes where the first year or so focuses on foundational courses.
UK Universities for Cyber Security
Here are a few UK universities offering an MSc in Cyber Security to both UK and international students:
Abertay University-
Located in Dundee, Abertay University offers an MSc in Cyber
Security under the “Ethical hacking and Cyber Security” label. The university was the first to not only offer a
degree in computer games but also Ethical Hacking, illustrating its expertise in this field.
The programme is offered on a full-time and part-time basis. Students get to engage in courses in digital forensics,
penetration testing, information security management, malware analysis, password cracking, and more. Labs and
practical classes and theoretical instruction are both parts of the programme.
Upon graduation, students with an MSc in Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security from Abertay work for leading firms such
as Goldman-Sachs and Dell Secure Works.
University of Birmingham-
The University
of Birmingham offers a one-year full-time Cyber Security MSc programme that is certified by GCHQ.
The university has received an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research from the UK government.
The degree involved both taught and research courses such as:
These courses are taught by trained and highly qualified cyber security and computing experts. Graduates can hope to
find placement in leading tech companies such as Vodafone, Microsoft, HP, etc.
University College London
UCL is one of the leading UK universities offering an MSc in Information Security as a specialist programme. Highly competitive, the degree aims to equip graduates with technical cyber security engineering skills to fill the shortage gap in the UK.
The
MSc in Information Security is certified by the National Cyber Security Centre or NCSC. Core modules include
computer security, cryptography, cybercrime, malware, distributed systems and security, people and security, and
more.
While difficult and competitive, a Cyber Security MSc can be rewarding and provide specialist skills that will allow you to protect the organisation and its customers and clients from cybercrime. If you’ve chosen this path for your professional and academic career, we can help you apply for an MSC in Cyber Security in UK.
FAQ's
What is Cyber Security?
Cybersecurity is the
practise of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks or unauthorised access. It involves
implementing measures to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats and ensure the confidentiality, integrity,
and availability of information.
Why should i study Cyber Security in the UK?
Studying Cyber Security in
the UK offers numerous advantages. The UK has a strong reputation for its expertise and excellence in the field of
Cyber Security. It is home to renowned universities and institutions that offer high-quality education and research
opportunities.
What are the career prospects for Cyber Security graduates in the UK?
The demand for Cyber
Security professionals is continuously growing in the UK and globally. Graduates with a degree in Cyber Security can
pursue careers as security analysts, penetration testers, security consultants, incident responders, security
architects, and more. The UK government has also emphasised the importance of Cyber Security, leading to increased
job opportunities in the public sector.
What are the entry requirements to study Cyber Security in the UK?
Entry requirements vary
between universities and specific Cyber Security programmes. Generally, you will need a high school diploma or
equivalent qualification. Some universities may require specific subjects, such as mathematics or computer
science.
Are there any scholarships available for studying Cyber Security in the UK?
Yes, there are scholarships
available for international students studying Cyber Security in the UK. Many universities and organisations offer
scholarships based on academic merit, country of origin, or financial need.
What skills and knowledge can i expect to gain from studying Cyber Security in the UK?
Studying Cyber Security in
the UK will equip you with a broad range of skills and knowledge. You can expect to learn about information security
principles, network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, risk management, digital forensics, incident response,
and secure software development.
Are there any professional certifications in Cyber Security that I can pursue in the UK?
Yes, there are various
professional certifications in Cyber Security that you can pursue in the UK to enhance your credentials and career
prospects. Some widely recognised certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional
(CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Offensive Security Certified
Professional (OSCP), and CompTIA Security+. These certifications validate your expertise and demonstrate your
commitment to professional development in the field of Cyber Security.
Is work experience or an internship required during the Cyber Security studies in the UK?
Work experience or internships are not always mandatory for Cyber Security studies in the UK, but they are highly recommended. Many universities have strong ties with industry partners and offer placement opportunities or help students secure internships.