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Cyber Security MSc

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  • Level of study:
    Masters
  • Entry Requirements:
    More information
  • Start date:
    January 2026, September 2026 and January 2027
  • Duration:
    One year full-time / Two years full-time with one year placement / Two years part-time
  • Attendance:
    Full-time, Part-time, Placement year
  • Course delivery:
    On-campus (Clifton Campus)
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Information for 2026/27

About this course

In the MSc in Cyber Security course, you will embark on a comprehensive journey through the multifaceted domain of cyber security, learning to protect and secure information and computer systems from cyber threats and vulnerabilities. This program is designed to equip you with the latest knowledge and skills required to navigate the complex cyber security landscape.

You will gain a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of cyber security, including cryptography, network security, penetration testing, secure coding, and information security management. The course delves into advanced topics such as intrusion detection systems, secure software development, and the management of cyber risk. You will learn about cutting-edge technologies and methodologies used to defend against sophisticated cyber-attacks and, through hands-on labs and projects, you will apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Finally, since the cyber security landscape is constantly evolving, this course covers the latest trends and emerging threats, including cloud security, artificial intelligence in cyber security, and the security challenges of IoT devices.

MSc Cyber Security is taught by highly experienced staff members, many of whom are involved in world-leading research that ensures their teaching remains at the forefront of computing technology.

Conversion course

This is a conversion course intended for those who wish to retrain or gain skills and knowledge in the area of Cyber Security. If you already hold an undergraduate degree or extensive knowledge of cyber security, you may be better suited to our MSc Data Science or MSc Software Engineering courses, which build on prior learning in this area.

  • Learn from the experts

    at a university rated TEF ‘Gold’ for teaching and learning.

  • World-Leading Research

    In the last Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) we’re proud that 80% of NTU's Computer Science submission was assessed to be world-leading or internationally excellent.

  • A university campus experience

    within one of Europe’s top 25 student cities, and home to over 75,000 learners.

  • 100% of MSc Cyber Security Jan (SW) students are satisfied with the quality of their course and 100% of students would recommend their course (PTES, 2024).

Throughout the course, you will explore a diverse array of cyber security issues and aspects, encompassing the study of network security, threat intelligence, cryptography, and digital forensics. Special attention will be given to understanding and mitigating vulnerabilities in software and hardware, securing cloud-based and IoT systems, and implementing robust information security management practices. The curriculum is meticulously designed to address both the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of cyber security, ensuring students are well-versed in contemporary security challenges and solutions.

In addition to technical skills, the course places a strong emphasis on developing soft, transferable, and professional skills. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be acquired through hands-on projects and case studies, preparing students to navigate complex security scenarios. Communication and teamwork abilities will be cultivated through collaborative projects and presentations, essential for articulating security concerns and strategies to non-technical stakeholders. Ethical considerations and legal compliance in cyber security practices will also be a focal point, ensuring students understand the broader societal implications of their work.

Module information

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll be studying throughout the course:

We regularly review our course content based on student and employer feedback to ensure they remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or availability in future years. Optional modules will only run where there is sufficient demand. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis to protect the academic and student experience.

Student experience

  • Selina Hayat

    Selina Hayat

    MSc IT Security student

    “The MSC IT Security course offers a range of modules I feel will open doors for me to pursue a career in cyber security.”

    Read Selina's profile
  • Shakeel John-Lewis

    Shakeel John-Lewis

    Cyber Security student

    “NTU has great advice around MSc degrees so I spoke to career advisers who mentioned that having a Masters in a different field could be beneficial as it makes you more employable as you can draw knowledge from two fields.”

    Read Shakeel's profile

How you're taught

You will need to study six taught modules in your first three terms and by the fourth term, you will be conducting your research project. The course offers an excellent combination of theoretical studies and practical experience through coursework assignments, software development and individual and/or group projects culminating in a significant and practical Masters project individually tailored to meet your career aspirations.

Throughout your course, you will be supported by your course leader and personal tutor, who will work with you individually. A comprehensive induction programme will provide you with essential information about the course, including access to the library and virtual learning portal.

You will learn through:

  • lectures
  • guided reading supported by the University's virtual learning portal
  • workshops and laboratories
  • seminars
  • case studies and project work

Artificial Intelligence and Innovation​

On this course, you’ll engage with AI in a practical, informed way, reflecting its use across science and technology today. You’ll explore how AI supports analysis, problem solving and innovation, while developing the skills to understand its limitations and ethical implications.​

AI won’t replace scientific knowledge or professional judgement. Instead, you’ll learn how it complements your expertise and enhances professional practice in industry and research.​

We’ll help you build confidence, adaptability and informed judgement, preparing you for a changing workplace where human expertise remains essential.

Research-informed teaching

By daring to think differently our research is tackling real-world issues. The subjects you will study with us are informed by our research so you can be sure your knowledge will be cutting-edge in your field. In the last Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) - the UK's system for assessing the quality and impact of research in universities - we’re proud that 80% of NTU's Computer Science and Informatics submission was assessed to be either world-leading or internationally excellent.

Learn a new language

Alongside your study you also have the opportunity to learn a new language. The University Language Programme (ULP) is available to all students and gives you the option of learning a totally new language or improving the skills you already have. Find out more about the ULP.

How you're assessed

You will be assessed by a variety of methods including:

  • research project
  • vivas and demonstrations
  • written assignments
  • case studies
  • online class tests
  • coursework reports

Contact hours

For each 20-credit module, you’ll spend about 200 hours learning overall. Around 40 of those hours will be taught in lectures or seminars. The rest of the time is for independent study, reading, research, or working on assignments.

Who will teach you?

  • Image of Alexandros

    Alexandros Konios

    Senior Lecturer

    Dr Alexandros Konios is a Senior Lecturer in Cyber Security in the Department of Computer Science.

    Visit Alexandros Konios's staff profile
  • Taha Osman

    Taha Osman

    Principal Lecturer

    Taha is a Principal Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science. He is also the Postgraduate Courses Manager for the Department.

    Visit Taha Osman's staff profile
  • Jake Street 02

    Jake Street

    Lecturer

    Jake Street is a Lecturer within the Computer Science department. He is module leader for Information Security for Data Science and is on the module team for Information Security, Foundations of Computing and Technology (Networking), and Foundations of Computer Programming.

    Visit Jake Street's staff profile
  • Image of Adnan

    Adnan Kiani

    Senior Lecturer

    Dr. Adnan Kiani is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science at Nottingham Trent University.

    Visit Adnan Kiani's staff profile
  • Ajienka Nemitari Profile Image

    Nemitari Ajienka

    Senior Lecturer

    Dr. Nemitari Ajienka is a senior lecturer in Computer Science in the School of Science and Technology and researcher of software engineering and maintenance.

    Visit Nemitari Ajienka's staff profile
  • John Kingston

    John Kingston

    Senior Lecturer

    John Kingston is a Senior Lecturer in Cyber Security in the School of Science & Technology.

    Visit John Kingston's staff profile

Entry requirements

UK students

Academic entry requirements: 2.2 honours degree or equivalent in a technical or scientific subject, which includes but is not limited to sport science, biomedical, economics, information systems and multimedia.

Applicants with relevant employment experience or other relevant qualifications will also be considered.

International students

Academic entry requirements: 2.2 honours degree or equivalent in a technical or scientific subject, which includes but is not limited to sport science, biomedical, economics, information systems and multimedia.

Applicants with relevant employment experience or other relevant qualifications will also be considered.

We accept equivalent qualifications from all over the world. Please check your international entry requirements by country.

English language requirements: See our English language requirements page for requirements for your subject and information on alternative tests and Pre-sessional English.

Policies

We strive to make our admissions procedures as fair and clear as possible. To find out more about how we make offers, visit our admissions policies page.

Fees and funding

UK students

- see the fees for this course, as well as information about funding and support.
  • Full-time - £10,300
  • Full-time with placement year - £10,300 + £1,905 for placement year
  • Part-time - £5,150

Please note that if you are considering a course that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for the first year of study. The course fee for the second year may be subject to annual review.

Find out about the extra support we may be able to provide to help pay for uni, including scholarships, discounts and loans.

Scholarships

You might be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies. We award scholarships to those who can demonstrate excellent achievement, passion and dedication to their studies. See which courses are eligible for scholarships.

Alumni discount

We’re happy to offer a 20% alumni discount to most current NTU students and recent NTU alumni. This discount is currently available for those starting an eligible postgraduate taught, postgraduate research or professional course.

Postgraduate loans

There is a government postgraduate loan scheme for Masters degrees. The loan contributes towards costs of study, and students can put it towards tuition fees, maintenance costs or other costs at their discretion. Find out more about postgraduate loans.

International students

- see the fees for this course, as well as payment advice and scholarships.
  • Full-time - £19,900
  • Full-time with placement year - £19,900 + £1,905 for placement year

Please note that if you are considering a course that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for the first year of study. The course fee for the second year may be subject to annual review.

Find out about the extra support we may be able to provide to help pay for uni, including scholarships, discounts and loans.

Scholarships

You might be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies. We award scholarships to those who can demonstrate excellent achievement, passion and dedication to their studies. See which courses are eligible for scholarships.

Alumni discount

We’re happy to offer a 20% alumni discount to most current NTU students and recent NTU alumni. This discount is currently available for those starting an eligible postgraduate taught, postgraduate research or professional course.

Living costs

See our advice on managing your money, the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget.

Paying fees

As an international student, you'll need to make an advance payment as part of your offer conditions. You'll then need to pay your tuition fees in full, or have an agreement to pay in two further instalments, in order to enrol on the course.

Find out how and when to pay your fees, including information about your advance payment, instalment dates and how to make payments securely to the University.

Enquiries

If you have any queries relating to advance payments or arrangements to pay, please contact our friendly and experienced international enquiries team.

Additional costs

Your course fees cover the cost of studies and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses. There are just a few additional things you may need to budget for:

Textbooks and library books

Your modules will point you to key textbooks and recommended reading. Many are available online, and in our libraries, but some students choose to buy their own copies. You’ll receive resource lists showing where to access eBooks, digital resources and physical copies. Our friendly Library team is always on hand to help you find what you need.

Printing and photocopying costs

The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the printing and photocopying information on the Library website.

Placements

If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs.

Fees and funding advice

For more advice and guidance, phone the Student Money Team on +44 (0)115 848 2494.

Cost of living information and support

Managing your money can help you make the most of life at NTU. Here's how we can support you, and now you can make your funding go further.

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Cost of living in Nottingham
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Our student benefits and free services
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Money advice for international students

Careers and employability

There is a wide range of career opportunities in the Computing and IT sector, and The School of Science and Technology at Nottingham Trent University has an enviable graduate recruitment record.

Graduates of the MSc in Cyber Security will emerge as well-rounded professionals, equipped with the knowledge and skills to tackle the challenges of securing information and computer systems in a variety of contexts. They will be prepared to enter a range of roles in the cyber security industry, from security analyst to cyber security consultant, ready to contribute to the protection of digital assets in an increasingly interconnected world.

Some graduates choose to venture into other sectors – such as project management or financial forecasting – where they are likely to be equally successful in gaining employment because of the transferable skills gained on the course. Other graduates follow the academic pathway going for further postgraduate studies, such as a PhD.

The University Employability Service is available to all students, offering individual consultation.

Placement opportunities

NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. Increasingly, employers want to recruit graduates who have real-world work experience. That’s why all of our courses, across every subject area, offer you a work experience opportunity. Our experts help build and support your future with a range of career programmes and events.

The school of Science and Technology will work closely with you to help find a placement and strengthen your CV and interview techniques. You'll be supported and assessed throughout your placement year and will write a reflective report and diary at the end of your placement. When you successfully complete your placement and submit your placement report, you will be eligible to receive an additional award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Practice.

Please note that placements are not guaranteed and the process is competitive through an application and interview process.

If you take the sandwich route, you will take a one-year work placement after the first three terms before returning to NTU the following year to start your research project.

Our recent students have taken placements across a wide range of companies including ASAP Data Solutions, ARM (Cambridge) and Stirling Infrastructure Partners. They secured varied roles such as Front End Developer, Information Security Assistant, Information Technology Assistant and Digital Infrastructure Engineer.

Re:search Re:imagined

To us, research is about more than writing papers and proposing new ideas. By daring to think differently, we’re disrupting the research landscape and finding the answers to the questions that really matter. From conservation management to sustainable farming, we’re inspiring the brightest minds to rise up and find solutions to some of the most significant global challenges facing society.

  • Employability Promise

    Personalised support, one-on-one coaching and industry-specific advice – it’s all part of our Employability Promise. And it doesn’t end when you leave NTU – you’ll have access to all our careers services for three years after you graduate (conditions apply).

  • Graduate employers

    Graduates from this course have successful careers in organisations such as:

    • BUPA
    • Railway Survey Design Institute Group
    • NHS
    • Visit Scotland
    • Boots UK
    • Kuehne and Nagel

  • Our graduates are…

    Graduates from this course now work in a wide range of roles such as:

    • Systems Integration Engineer
    • Cyber Security Specialist
    • Web Designer
    • Project Manager - Security Systems
    • Software Engineer and Developer
    • Application Security Support Analyst
    • Security Analyst

  • Assessed work-like experience

    We’ve embedded at least eight weeks of assessed work-like experience into all of our courses. This gives you the opportunity to apply your learning in real-world scenarios, build your confidence, and develop the experience employers are looking for.

  • NTU Enterprise

    If you’re a budding entrepreneur, NTU Student Enterprise can help you to develop your ideas and innovations and turn them into a reality. We also offer training, mentoring, workshops, financial advice and more to develop your business skills.

Campus and facilities

You’ll mainly be studying in the Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Centre (ISTeC) with access to facilities including a Games Development Lab Robotics lab and a High Performance Computing Suite.

Our self-contained, community-focused Clifton Campus has been designed to keep students busy between lectures. Catch-up with your course mates in the Pavilion’s barista café and Refectory; brainstorm group presentations in chic and stylish study spaces; enjoy some proper R&R in The Point, home of our Students’ Union. The campus also hosts the multimillion-pound Clifton Sports Hub, offering great options for everyone — whatever your interests, and however competitive you’d like to get!

You’re also right next to the bright lights of Nottingham — one of Britain’s top 10 student cities, and one of Europe’s top 25. All through termtime, a dedicated on-campus bus service will get you to the heart of the action (and back) in under 25 minutes. You’ll find a city stuffed with history, culture, and well-kept secrets to discover at your leisure: enjoy lush green spaces, galleries, hidden cinemas and vintage shopping by day, and an acclaimed food, drink and social scene by night.

Applying

UK students

Ready to join us? Then apply as soon as you can. Just click the Apply button and follow the instructions for applying. Make sure you check the entry requirements above carefully before you do.

You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU in our postgraduates' guide. Here you'll find advice about how to write a good personal statement and much more.

Keeping up to date

After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process - so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.

Apply now

International students

Would you like some advice on your study plans?

Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.

Please read our application guidance before you start your application.

We advise you to prepare and apply as early as you can as Student visa processing time can vary.

We'll send you important emails throughout the application process. Please check your emails regularly, including your junk/spam mail folder.

Apply now

Personal statement guidance

When you apply to NTU, we’ll ask you to submit a personal statement – here are our tips on what to include and how to structure your personal statement.

Application support

If you have any questions about applying, get in touch through our online form or call us on 44 (0)115 848 4200.

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Further study

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Keeping in touch

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