Cyber Security - Applied Cyber Security

Overview

The world’s online security depends on you. Step up to the plate with this fascinating Master’s course, taught by experts at one of the world’s leading cyber security hubs.



About You

You’ll be analytical, technical and a modern-day codebreaker. Cyber security is a challenge that will not go away, affecting companies, individuals and even governments. You could be:



A recent graduate – possibly a maths or engineering graduate with good programming skills, or you might be a good developer but have little knowledge of cyber security.



Already working in industry – experienced in technical software development, and looking to upskill and enhance your professional development.



An international student looking to study a UK master’s degree, to meet the global need for cyber security skills.



About the Course

This innovative programme is at the forefront of technical advances in cutting-edge cyber security topics such as cryptography, computer forensics, malware, networking, software development, as well as investigating the increasingly important legal and ethical issues in cyber security. This is an applied course, which mixes theoretical skills with practical work in the lab to give you hands-on experience.



PLEASE NOTE: Applications for this course received after 30th June 2024 may not be accepted. In addition, a deposit will be required to secure a place.

Course Details

The course, comprising seven taught modules and a research project, provides a broad foundation in cyber security.



The MSc in Applied Cyber Security is available in a full-time or a part-time option.



Full-time (1-year): Consists of seven taught modules (120 CATS points) and a 3-4 month practical project of a research nature (60 CATS). Students study seven taught modules (120 CATS). They will also commence an individual research project (60 CATS).



Part-time (2+ years): Part-time students are normally enrolled for two years. The first year will normally compromise four taught modules (60 CATS).



The individual Research Project focuses on applying taught skills to a leading-edge issue in cyber security research. A dissertation is required for the project. Following tutor approval, the project may be undertaken as a summer placement at a company.



Modules are regularly updated to reflect new developments in the dynamic field of cyber security. Modules offered may be subject to change.



Full-Time/Part-Time:

The MSc in Applied Cyber Security is available in a full-time or a part-time option:



Full-time (1-year): Consists of six taught modules (120 CATS) and a 3-4 month practical project of a research nature/work placement (60 CATS).



Students study all taught modules (120 CATS points) up to the end of the Semester 2 exam period. They will also commence an individual research project (60 CATS points) and continue this through to month 12.



As an integral part of the ELE8095 Individual Research Project, students may undertake summer work placements/internships lasting 3-4 months with local, national and international employers, under the regular supervision of an academic staff member and a staff member of the host organisation.



Part-time (2+ years): Part-time students are normally enrolled for two years. The first year will normally compromise the following modules: Fundamentals of Cyber Security, Network Security & Monitoring and Software Assurance. The second year normally comprises Computer Forensics, Pen-testing, Applied Cryptography, Data Privacy and the Law and an individual research project. The part-time MSc consists of Seven taught modules (120 CATS) which are delivered alongside full-time students over a two-year period (normally), and a practical research project (60 CATS) which may be on a work-based research project following tutor approval.



Students normally take three taught modules (50 CATS points) during Year 1, and four taught modules (70 CATS points) during Year 2. During Year 2 students will undertake the individual research project (60 CATS points).

Graduate

Normally a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical and/or Electronic Engineering, Mathematics with Computer Science, Physics with Computer Science or a related discipline. Applicants must normally have achieved 2:1 standard or above in relevant modules.



Applicants who hold a 2.2 Honours degree and a Master’s degree (or equivalent qualifications acceptable to the University) in one of the above disciplines will be considered on a case-by-case basis.



All applicants will be expected to have mathematical ability and significant programming experience as evidenced either through the content of their primary degree or through another appropriate formal qualification. It would be beneficial if applicants have experience programming in C and working in a Linux environment.



Applications may be considered from those who do not meet the above requirements but can provide evidence of significant recent relevant technical experience in industry, for example, in programming. Significant experience will be indicated by five or more years hands on technical experience in industry. Management type roles will not be considered as relevant experience.



The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning (RPEL). Please visit http://go.qub.ac.uk/RPLpolicy for more information.



Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 30th June 2024 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.



Please note: A deposit will be required to secure a place on this course.

1 year (Full Time), 2 years (Part Time)

Entry Year: 2024/25

Career Prospects

In keeping with the aims of GCHQ/NCSC certified Master’s courses, this programme is intended to provide:

• a deeper understanding of cyber security concepts, principles, technologies and practices.

• a bridge between undergraduate degrees and careers in cyber security.

• a platform for further research at Doctoral level.

• an effective way for people in mid-career to enhance their knowledge of the subject or to move into cyber security as a change of career path.



Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes alongside sterling integration with business experts helps our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.

http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/