Program Overview

Introduction to Computer Science BSc (Hons) Cyber Security Pathway

The Computer Science BSc (Hons) Cyber Security pathway is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle real-world challenges in protecting sensitive information and systems from cyber threats.

Program Overview

This program covers all aspects of Computer Science, ensuring that graduates understand what is and isn't possible with computers. The Cyber Security pathway focuses on the fundamentals of cryptography, network security, and mastering the skills needed to address real-world cyber security challenges.

Course Structure

The program is structured over three years, with the first year providing a solid understanding of the fundamentals of computer science, including programming, computer systems, data structures, algorithms, and the basics of artificial intelligence.

Year One Modules

• ANALYTIC TECHNIQUES FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE (COMP116)
• COMPUTER SYSTEMS (COMP124)
• DATA STRUCTURES AND ALGORITHMS (COMP108)
• DESIGNING SYSTEMS FOR THE DIGITAL SOCIETY (COMP107)
• FOUNDATIONS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE (COMP109)
• INTRODUCTION TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (COMP111)
• OBJECT-ORIENTED PROGRAMMING (COMP122)
• INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING (COMP101)
• PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE PARADIGMS (COMP105)

Year Two and Three

In Years Two and Three, students study specialist modules in Cyber Security, including Computer Networks and Networks Security, Distributed Systems, formal methods, and Computer Forensics.

Year Two Modules

• COMPLEXITY OF ALGORITHMS (COMP202)
• DATABASE DEVELOPMENT (COMP207)
• GROUP SOFTWARE PROJECT (COMP208)
• SOFTWARE ENGINEERING I (COMP201)
• Optional modules include:
  • COMPUTER NETWORKS (COMP211)
  • CYBER SECURITY (COMP232)
  • DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS (COMP212)

Year Three Modules

• HONOURS YEAR COMPUTER SCIENCE PROJECT (COMP390)
• Optional modules include:
  • CYBERPSYCHOLOGY-HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTION (PSYC327)
  • FORMAL METHODS (COMP313)
  • COMPUTER FORENSICS (COMP343)

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching is a mix of formal lectures, small group tutorials, and supervised laboratory-based practical sessions. Students also undertake individual and group projects. The main modes of assessment are through a combination of coursework and examination.

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), which means that the course is continually updated and adapted to reflect new technologies and emerging trends.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from this program can pursue a wide range of career opportunities, including computer programmer, software developer, systems analyst, software engineer, technical consultant, and web designer. The program's focus on cyber security also prepares students for roles in data science, artificial intelligence research, and systems analysis.

Entry Requirements

• A levels: AAB, including Mathematics or Computer Science.
• T levels: T level Science or ICT, alongside A level Mathematics or Computer Science.
• BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate: D in BTEC and AA in A levels (to include either Mathematics or Computer Science).
• International Baccalaureate: 34 points overall or 6,6,5 in 3 HL subjects including Mathematics/Computer Science.

Fees and Funding

• UK fees: Ł9,790 per year for a full-time place.
• International fees: Ł32,000 per year for a full-time place.
• Scholarships and bursaries are available, including the Graham Morris Hardship Award, The Liverpool Bursary, and the Asylum Seekers Scholarship.

Global Opportunities

The University of Liverpool offers various global opportunities, including a year abroad, semester abroad, and summer abroad programs, allowing students to study at partner universities worldwide.

Conclusion

The Computer Science BSc (Hons) Cyber Security pathway at the University of Liverpool is a comprehensive program that prepares students for a career in cyber security and related fields. With its strong focus on both theoretical foundations and practical skills, graduates are well-equipped to address the complex challenges of the digital world.