Program Overview

Introduction to MSc Cyber Security with Artificial Intelligence

The MSc Cyber Security with Artificial Intelligence is a postgraduate course designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to become successful cybersecurity professionals. The course focuses on the application of artificial intelligence to protect organizations against evolving digital threats.

Course Overview

The course is delivered online through the University's virtual learning environment, Moodle, and combines structured online learning materials and activities with recorded lectures, practical exercises, live group discussions, and self-directed study. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and will be proficient in the use of modern equipment, principles, techniques, tools, and methodologies for the design, implementation, maintenance, and recovery of secure networks and information systems.

Mode of Study and Attendance

The course is available for part-time study, with a duration of 18 months. The mode of attendance is online learning.

Course Structure

The course consists of two stages:

• Stage 1: Provides a comprehensive foundation in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, covering topics such as AI and cybersecurity, evaluation of security controls to meet business needs, secure network solutions, vulnerability assessment and penetration testing, security operations, and digital forensics.
• Stage 2: Involves a substantial project on a cybersecurity and AI topic of the student's choice, with guidance from a Project Supervisor.

Learning Methods

The course is delivered through a combination of:

• Lectures: 40 students per group, 2 hours per week
• Practical classes or workshops: 40 students per group, 1 hour per week
• Independent study: 27 hours per week

Equipment Requirements

Students are expected to have access to a suitable personal computing device (laptop or desktop PC) capable of supporting the required coursework, with a minimum specification of:

• CPU: Intel Core i5 or equivalent
• RAM: 16 GB
• Storage: 256 GB SSD

Assessment

Students are typically assessed through:

• Stage 1: 4 reports, 1 group critique
• Stage 2: 1 dissertation, 1 project output, 1 oral assessment and/or presentation

Feedback

The university aims to provide feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework, and practical exams.

Staff Delivering the Course

The course is delivered by a team of academics with expertise in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, gained through research, consultancy, and scholarly activity.

Academic Support

The university provides academic support through the Inclusion Centre, which advises and supports students with disabilities, and the Study Support Team, which offers training and support in academic writing, study skills, maths and statistics, English language, and information technology.

Placements

Optional short placements (3 months) and long placements (45 weeks) are built into the course structure, with support from the University Placements Office.

Job Prospects

Graduates of the MSc Cyber Security with Artificial Intelligence can pursue careers in various sectors, including:

• AI Security Analyst
• Cyber Threat Intelligence Specialist
• AI-Powered Security Solutions Engineer
• AI Cybersecurity Consultant
• IT Security Engineer
• Digital Forensics Analyst
• AI Risk and Compliance

Standard Entry Requirements

Applicants normally hold a 2:2 undergraduate honours degree or its equivalent in a subject area with substantial computing content. Applicants with a degree in an alternative subject area or lower degree classification and/or with relevant work experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

Fees and Funding

The course fees vary depending on the student's location and mode of study. For the academic year, the fees are:

• Scottish students: ｣6,100 per year for part-time study
• Rest of UK students: ｣8,850 per year for part-time study
• International students: ｣19,630 per year for part-time study

Additional Costs

Some other costs are not included in the course fees, such as the cost of books, printing, and accommodation.

Scholarships and Financial Awards

Students may qualify for a scholarship or financial award, and the university provides information on funding and scholarship opportunities.