Cyber Security MSc
- Level(s) of Study: Postgraduate taught
- Start Date(s): January 2024, September 2024, January 2025
- Duration: One year full-time / Two years full-time with one year placement / Two years part-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time / Part-time / Sandwich / January start (Postgraduate)
- Campus: Clifton Campus
- Entry Requirements:
More information
Introduction:
Building on a practical foundation comprising the understanding of operating systems, network protocols security and how to develop secured code, you will learn how to critically assess the security risks to IT organisations and how to evaluate the information security solution to mitigate them. In addition, you will gain the research skills necessary to investigate the continually changing issues in computer forensics and security in Cloud infrastructures.
MSc Cyber Security is taught by highly experienced staff members, many of whom are involved with cutting-edge research that ensures their teaching remains at the forefront of computing technology.
If you're looking to work in computing and technology industries, this is a great fast-track conversion course for graduates from disciplines unrelated to IT and computing.
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100% of Computer science students are satisfied with the quality of their course. (PTES 2023) -
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.
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100% of postgraduate Information Technology students who entered employment are in a 'High Skilled' role 15 months after finishing their degrees (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21).
What you’ll study
Throughout the course you will develop a critical understanding of IT security-related processes and procedures. You will be able to critically analyse software requirements and apply appropriate tools to design and develop innovative solutions. You will acquire the skills to investigate and appraise new and existing technologies and adapt these to specific purposes.
Language support for international students
If you are an international student whose first language is not English, language support will be provided where appropriate by the School to enhance your learning experience and to improve your presentation skills. If necessary, you may be required to attend advanced English language classes as a supplementary module.
Information Security Management (20 cp)
Gain knowledge and understanding of the main issues and challenges related to information security management. Learn how to critically evaluate information security solutions and make decisions regarding the adoption and implementation of information security related technologies, policies and practices in an organisational context.
Computer Forensics (20 cp)
Develop a critical appreciation of the theoretical and practical issues in the field of computer forensics. Learn the necessary skills, methodologies and processes to conduct an initial computer forensics investigation within an organisation and gain an in-depth understanding of the importance of various computing systems in computer forensics investigations.
Computer Security (20 cp)
Learn how to critically analyse the security problems affecting computing systems at the operating system and application levels, understand the design patterns for developing secure code and devise security solutions and formulate detailed technical reports.
Internet Programming (20 cp)
Develop an understanding of the analysis, design and implementation of secure web applications for the Internet and intranet. After an introduction to web based mark-up languages the main focus of the module will be to study the architecture and implementation of internet based applications in the context of current object-oriented systems methodologies.
Network and Cloud Security (20 cp)
Gain an understanding of the security problems of computer networks and the main technologies related to network security. Learn how to migrate networked computing solutions to Cloud infrastructures and address the associated security risks.
Research Methods (20 cp)
You will develop the skills of research and enquiry that will enhance your independent learning abilities and enable you to write effective project reports and technical papers.
Major Project (60 cp)
On completion of the taught modules on this course you will then have the opportunity to undertake an MSc topic. This gives you 15 weeks to concentrate full time on a specialist area that interests you and apply what you have learnt to a specific problem.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
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 group projects culminating in a significant and practical master's 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
You will be assessed by a variety of methods including:
- research project
- vivas and demonstrations
- written assignments
- case studies
- oral presentations
- coursework reports
Contact hours
Lectures / seminars / workshops (20%) and independent study (80%)
How you’re assessed
Coursework (100%)
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. This Cyber Security Masters course will prepare you for roles as a technical security specialist together with a range of technical development and implementation roles. You will also have the potential to develop into security consultancy and technical management roles.
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 go on to study for a PhD.
Recent graduates have secured roles with employers such as Railway Survey Design Institute Group Corp, Bouygues Telecom and Penpec Group, as:
- Software developers
- Web designers
- System administrators
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.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Campus and facilities
Based on Clifton campus the School of Science and Technology is a stimulating and creative environment. We provide facilities that enhance the quality of our education and push the boundaries of our research. We have a range of first-class facilities that you would expect from a university with high-quality teaching and world-leading research.
As a student here, you will have access to specialist facilities including:
- games console laboratories
- networking and security laboratories
- human-interactive technology
- stereo-projection
- Imaging and Displays Research Facility
- our Centre for Innovation and Technology Exploitation (CITE).
You will also enjoy working with the latest software. Examples include:
- EnCase
- 3D StudioMax
- XNA Xbox development suite
- the Adobe Creative Suite (Flash, After Effects, Photoshop)
- the Unreal and Half-Life game engines.
Entry requirements
What are we looking for?
- A UK honours degree (2.2 minimum) 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.
All prospective students who wish to apply via Recognition of Prior Learning should initially contact the central Admissions and Enquiries Team who will be able to support you through the process.
NTU may admit a student with advanced standing beyond the beginning of a course, through an assessment of that student's prior learning, whether it is certificated or uncertificated. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available to these prospective students, such as recognising experiential learning or transferring to a similar course at another institution, otherwise known as credit transfer.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
You will need:
- A UK honours degree (2.2 minimum) 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 qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
Postgraduate preparation courses (Pre-Masters)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Pre-Masters courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
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.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Fees and funding
Course fees for January 2024 are:
| Study route | UK | International / EU |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | £9,300 | £19,100 |
| Full-time with placement year | £9,300 + £1,850 | £19,100 + £1,850 |
| Part-time | £4,650 | £9,550* |
Course fees for September 2024 and January 2025 are:
| Study route | UK | International / EU |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | £9,700 | £19,500 |
| Full-time with placement year | £9,700 + £1,850 | £19,500 + £1,850 |
| Part-time | £4,850 | £9,750* |
* For part-time study, please check your student visa regulations.
Please note that if you are considering a part-time route that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for Year One of study. The course fee for Year Two is subject to annual review.
Funding your studies
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and living costs page and our funding page will answer all your questions.
Scholarships
You might be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies. We award scholarships to those students who can demonstrate excellent achievement, passion and dedication to their studies.
Alumni discount
We’re happy to be able 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.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service on: +44 (0)115 848 2494. For scholarship help please contact us on: +44 (0)115 848 4460.
Course fees for January 2024 are:
| Study route | UK | International / EU |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | £9,300 | £19,100 |
| Full-time with placement year | £9,300 + £1,850 | £19,100 + £1,850 |
| Part-time | £4,650 | £9,550* |
Course fees for September 2024 and January 2025 are:
| Study route | UK | International / EU |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | £9,700 | £19,500 |
| Full-time with placement year | £9,700 + £1,850 | £19,500 + £1,850 |
| Part-time | £4,850 | £9,750* |
* For part-time study, please check your student visa regulations.
Please note that if you are considering a part-time route that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for Year One of study. The course fee for Year Two is subject to annual review.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
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.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
How to apply
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.
If you are interested in joining us in September 2025, this course will be open for applications through the applicant portal from September 2024. Courses starting in January 2026 will be open for applications from July 2025.
Writing your application
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. Make sure you include as much information as possible, including uploading evidence of results already achieved, as well as a personal statement.
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.
Getting in touch
If you need any more help or information, please contact us at Ask NTU or call on +44 (0)115 848 4200.
If you are interested in joining us in September 2025, this course will be open for applications through the applicant portal from September 2024. Courses starting in January 2026 will be open for applications from July 2025.
Application advice
Apply early so that you have enough time to prepare – processing times for Student visas can vary, for example. 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.
Writing your personal statement
Be honest, thorough, and persuasive – we can only make a decision about your application based on what you tell us:
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.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
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