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Students
Tuition Fee
USD 27,780
Per year
Start Date
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Masters
Major
Design | Digital Media | Exhibition Design | Film Studies
Area of study
Information and Communication Technologies
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
USD 27,780
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2023-09-18-
2024-09-16-
About Program

Program Overview


The world’s online security depends on you. Step up to the plate with this fascinating Master’s course, taught by experts at one of the world’s leading cyber security hubs.

ABOUT YOU

You’ll be analytical, technical and a modern-day codebreaker. Cyber security is a challenge that will not go away, affecting companies, individuals and even governments. You could be:

A recent graduate – possibly a maths or engineering graduate with good programming skills, or you might be a good developer but have little knowledge of cyber security.

Already working in industry – experienced in technical software development, and looking to upskill and enhance your professional development.

An international student looking to study a UK master’s degree, to meet the global need for cyber security skills.

ABOUT THE COURSE

This course is certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the UK’s leading cyber security organisation. This certification provides a benchmark for the course by assuring the quality of both the content and its delivery.

This innovative programme is at the forefront of technical advances in cutting-edge cyber security topics such as cryptography, computer forensics, network security, secure software-development and penetration testing, as well as investigating the increasingly important legal and ethical issues in cyber security.

This is an applied course, which mixes theoretical skills with practical work in the lab to give you hands-on experience.

PLEASE NOTE:

Applications for this course received after 30th June 2023 may not be accepted. In addition, a deposit will be required to secure a place.

Applied Cyber Security highlights

The demand for certified cyber security professionals is currently growing at over 12 times the rate of the overall job market.





Professional Accreditations

  • Fully certified by GCHQ/NCSC

    https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/information
    csc-certified-degrees




  • World Class Facilities

  • The syllabus, teaching materials and labs are informed by the world-class research being undertaken at the Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) at Queen's University Belfast. In addition to GCHQ/NCSC Master’s certification, CSIT itself is also certified as an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research by GCHQ/NCSC.

    https://www.qub.ac.uk/ecit/CSIT/
  • Our MSc is informed by the world-class research being undertaken at the Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT).

    In 2015 Queen Elizabeth II awarded CSIT a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for its work in strengthening global cyber security and protecting the online activity of billions of internet users around the world.

    Belfast is rapidly developing a reputation as a global hub for cyber security, and we hope students will be inspired to thrive in this dynamic and exciting environment.

    Dr Niall McLaughlin

    Course Director

    NEXT

    Course content

    Program Outline

    Course Structure

    -

    Course Details The course, comprising seven taught modules and a research project, provides a broad foundation in cyber security.

    The MSc in Applied Cyber Security is available in a full-time or a part-time option.

    Full-time (1-year): Consists of seven taught modules (120 CATS points) and a 3-4 month practical project of a research nature (60 CATS). Students study seven taught modules (120 CATS). They will also commence an individual research project (60 CATS).

    Part-time (2+ years): Part-time students are normally enrolled for two years. The first year will normally compromise four taught modules (60 CATS).

    The individual Research Project focuses on applying taught skills to a leading-edge issue in cyber security research. A dissertation is required for the project. Following tutor approval, the project may be undertaken as a summer placement at a company.

    Modules are regularly updated to reflect new developments in the dynamic field of cyber security. Modules offered may be subject to change.

    Full-Time/Part-Time The MSc in Applied Cyber Security is available in a full-time or a part-time option:

    Full-time (1-year): Consists of six taught modules (120 CATS) and a 3-4 month practical project of a research nature/work placement (60 CATS).

    Students study all taught modules (120 CATS points) up to the end of the Semester 2 exam period. They will also commence an individual research project (60 CATS points) and continue this through to month 12.

    As an integral part of the ELE8095 Individual Research Project, students may undertake summer work placements/internships lasting 3-4 months with local, national and international employers, under the regular supervision of an academic staff member and a staff member of the host organisation.

    Part-time (2+ years): Part-time students are normally enrolled for two years. The first year will normally compromise the following modules: Fundamentals of Cyber Security, Network Security & Monitoring and Software Assurance. The second year normally comprises Computer Forensics, Pen-testing, Applied Cryptography, Data Privacy and the Law and an individual research project. The part-time MSc consists of Seven taught modules (120 CATS) which are delivered alongside full-time students over a two-year period (normally), and a practical research project (60 CATS) which may be on a work-based research project following tutor approval.

    Students normally take three taught modules (50 CATS points) during Year 1, and four taught modules (70 CATS points) during Year 2. During Year 2 students will undertake the individual research project (60 CATS points).


    People teaching you

    Dr Niall McLaughlin

    Course Director

    EEECS

    Email: askeps@qub.ac.uk or pgt-admin-eeecs@qub.ac.uk


    Career Prospects

    Introduction

    In keeping with the aims of GCHQ/NCSC certified Master’s courses, this programme is intended to provide:

    • a deeper understanding of cyber security concepts, principles, technologies and practices.

    • a bridge between undergraduate degrees and careers in cyber security.

    • a platform for further research at Doctoral level.

    • an effective way for people in mid-career to enhance their knowledge of the subject or to move into cyber security as a change of career path.

    Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes alongside sterling integration with business experts helps our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.

    http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/


    Learning and Teaching

    The course mixes lectures with practical, hands-on learning sessions. You will learn in a sandbox environment where you can experiment and make mistakes, enabling you to put your new skills into practice in hands-on cyber challenges.

    You’ll meet our researchers and learn how they apply the cutting-edge research being developed here to cyber security technologies.


    -

    -


    Assessment

    Assessments associated with the course are outlined below:


    Research project dissertation

    Assessment criteria are linked to the learning outcomes for each module. A range of assessment instruments are used including laboratory-based assignments, individual projects and practical exams.

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    Overview

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    Modules



    Modules

    The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2022/23). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

  • Year 1

  • Core Modules

    Data, Privacy and the Law

    (10 credits)

    Foundations of Cyber Security

    (10 credits)

    Pen-testing & Ethical Hacking

    (20 credits)

    Individual Research Project

    (60 credits)

    Software Assurance

    (20 credits)

    Computer Forensics

    (20 credits)

    Network Security and Monitoring

    (20 credits)

    Cryptography

    (20 credits)

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    Course content

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    Entry Requirements



    Career Prospects

    Introduction

    In keeping with the aims of GCHQ/NCSC certified Master’s courses, this programme is intended to provide:

    • a deeper understanding of cyber security concepts, principles, technologies and practices.

    • a bridge between undergraduate degrees and careers in cyber security.

    • a platform for further research at Doctoral level.

    • an effective way for people in mid-career to enhance their knowledge of the subject or to move into cyber security as a change of career path.

    Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes alongside sterling integration with business experts helps our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.

    http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/

    Additional Awards Gained(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)

    Prizes and Awards(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)


    Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

    In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

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    Fees and Funding

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    About University
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    Queen's University Belfast


    Overview:

    Queen's University Belfast is a leading research-intensive university with a global reputation for excellence. Established in 1845, it is located in Belfast, the vibrant capital city of Northern Ireland. The university is known for its strong academic programs, world-class research, and commitment to shaping a better world.


    Services Offered:

    The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:

      Accommodation:

      On-campus and off-campus housing options are available.

      Library:

      The university library provides access to a vast collection of resources, including books, journals, and databases.

      Sport:

      Queen's Sport offers a variety of sports and fitness activities for students.

      Student Support:

      The university provides support services for students in areas such as academic advising, career counseling, and mental health.

      Open Learning:

      The university offers a range of online and distance learning programs.

      Short Courses:

      The university offers a variety of short courses for professional development.

    Student Life and Campus Experience:

    Students at Queen's University Belfast can expect a vibrant and welcoming campus experience. The university is located in a friendly, affordable, and safe city, with plenty of opportunities for social interaction and cultural exploration. The university also offers a range of clubs and societies for students to join.


    Key Reasons to Study There:

      World-class research:

      Queen's University Belfast is a leading research-intensive university, with a strong focus on innovation and impact.

      Global reputation:

      The university has a global reputation for excellence in teaching and research.

      Vibrant campus life:

      The university offers a vibrant and welcoming campus experience, with plenty of opportunities for social interaction and cultural exploration.

      Strong academic programs:

      The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a variety of disciplines.

      Affordable tuition fees:

      The university offers competitive tuition fees for both domestic and international students.

    Academic Programs:

    Queen's University Belfast offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a variety of disciplines, including:

      Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

      Business and Economics

      Engineering and Physical Sciences

      Law

      Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences

      Nursing and Midwifery

      Science


    Other:

    Total programs
    700
    Average ranking globally
    #259
    Average ranking in the country
    #24
    Admission Requirements

    Entrance requirements

    Graduate

    Normally a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical and/or Electronic Engineering, Mathematics with Computer Science, Physics with Computer Science or a related discipline. Applicants must normally have achieved 2:1 standard or above in relevant modules.

    Applicants who hold a 2.2 Honours degree and a Master’s degree (or equivalent qualifications acceptable to the University) in one of the above disciplines will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

    All applicants will be expected to have mathematical ability and significant programming experience as evidenced either through the content of their primary degree or through another appropriate formal qualification. It would be beneficial if applicants have experience programming in C and working in a Linux environment.

    Applications may be considered from those who do not meet the above requirements but can provide evidence of recent relevant technical experience in industry, for example, in programming.

    The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning (RPEL). Please visit http://go.qub.ac.uk/RPLpolicy for more information.

    Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 30th June 2023 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.

    Please note: A deposit will be required to secure a place on this course.


    International Students

    Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.

    Please Select Your Country/Region

    Please Select Your Country/Region

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    English Language Requirements

    Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).

    International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

    For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.

    If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

  • Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
  • Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.
  • INTO - English Language Course(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)

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