Cyber Security
MSc

Cyber security is now recognised as one of the top global risks, with hacking, malicious code and data theft among some of the reasons why it is vital in the design, development, and implementation of IT systems. This is particularly important as internet users increase exponentially in emerging economies, more data is created and collected than ever before, and businesses find themselves increasingly reliant on online services, and in need of a strong cyber security culture.  

• Build your understanding of the managerial and technical elements of information security, as well as enterprise-level security
• Choose a course designed in consultation with industry to ensure it delivers all the skills needed for the workplace
• Enhance your employability and career prospects by preparing for the BSI ISO 27001 lead auditor certifications which are highly sought after by employers
• Study innovative techniques being developed through the latest research at the cutting edge of cyber security
• Learn how to take a strategic and holistic approach to protect an organisation's systems
• Be inspired by a teaching team offering a blend of industry experience and strong academic credentials

Our MSc Cyber Security has been developed to teach you the very latest in information protection techniques, all delivered by academics at the leading edge of research into system penetration and intrusion analysis.

Building a more secure digital society

The speed with which the internet and information sharing has developed has exceeded the pace of secure infrastructure development. Our MSc Cyber Security is designed to help bridge this gap and meet the accelerating demand for professionals with proven information security expertise.

The course prepares students for a management role within organisations to be able to put in place and give continuance to the security profile of the company. This is particularly important in light of the national Cyber Security Strategy and the current shortage of related skills.

A powerful set of skills

Along with exploring established techniques, we cover the innovative practices which are emerging as a result of the very latest research. You will learn about both the managerial and technical elements of information security, as well as enterprise level security. This includes risk management and compliance, together with issues such as securing networks and system penetration testing.

You will hone a wide range of technical skills that can be applied to protect against specific system breaches. You will also learn how to perform ethical hacking: by understanding many of the techniques employed by malicious hackers, you can mitigate risks and thwart potential attacks.

In addition, the MSc equips you with the skills needed to make vital managerial decisions related to protecting an organisation’s security holistically. 

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

You will learn through lectures, seminars, discussion groups, practical sessions, presentations and blended learning. Our dedicated cyber security lab with an isolated network will also give you the chance to carry out your experiments.

Assessment is through a mixture of coursework and examinations. There will be a range of coursework techniques, including analytical essays, reports on lab-based problems, assignments using case studies, multi-task portfolios and presentations.

Our research-active teaching team

This course sits within the School of Computing and Engineering where our researchers are helping to advance our understanding in these important areas. The programme team for this course includes:

• Professor Fatih Kurugollu – Fatih is a Professor of Cyber Security and is Head of the Cyber Security Research Group (CSRG). Her current research interest is centred around AI-based Security Analytics.
• Dr Mohammad Ajmal Azad – Mohammad is a lecturer and Assistant Professor in Cyber Security. He has a background in the telecommunications industry and his research interests broadly cover the areas of network security and privacy.
• Kim Smith - Kim has more than 20 years experience in the industry, with a particular specialism in ethical hacking.

You will require:

• An honours degree (at least 2.2) or equivalent qualifications / experience in a computing discipline.
• If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent).

2020/21 Fees (August 2020 - July 2021)

*Note – at postgraduate level, you’ll need to gain the following number of credits in total to obtain the awards below.

This means you will gain 180 credits in total to complete the full MA or MSc. If you are studying part time you will normally complete your studies over two or three years, depending on the course structure.

Please note that all fees may be subject to annual increase.

Additional costs and optional extras

Individuals with proven information security knowledge are now in high demand across many different sectors. Successful completion of this degree can therefore lead to prestigious roles in the IT security arena, including Chief Information Officer, System Penetration Tester, Information Security Consultant and Information Security Risk Assessor.

Alternatively, you could undertake further research leading to a PhD or gain employment in a research and development environment.

Contact us

If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.

Additional information about your studies

Download programme specification

Teaching hours

Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.

Additional costs and optional extras

We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.

The information below is correct for entry in the academic year September 2020 - August 2021 only. Entry for future academic years may be subject to change.

Included in your fees

• Specialist computing labs
• access to software and equipment
• Industry speakers

Mandatory costs not included in your fees

• Printer consumables approx. £100 per year
• portable hard drive/memory card approx. £120
• portfolio case approx. £40
• core text books approx. £250

Optional costs not included in your fees

• Personal computer and or tablet computer. From £200 upwards depending on specification

Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.