Program Overview

Introduction to the BSc (Hons) Cyber Security Program

The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security degree from Robert Gordon University is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to prevent, protect, and minimize cyber security threats and incidents. This program is tailored to meet the high demand for cyber security professionals across the globe.

Program Overview

• The program is offered on a full-time basis over four years, with an optional fifth year for a paid industrial placement.
• It is delivered on campus, providing students with a comprehensive learning experience.
• The course starts in September, with an additional entry point in January for international students via the International College.

Course Structure

The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security program is structured to provide a deep understanding of cyber security principles, practices, and technologies. The course includes:

• Year 1: A multidisciplinary Foundation Year that covers the breadth of subjects offered by the School of Computing, Engineering, and Technology. Students learn the fundamentals of programming, problem-solving, and modeling, along with practical IP networks.
• Year 2: Development of skills in network management, security, software development, and professional skills through problem-based learning.
• Year 3: An optional year-long paid industrial placement that provides practical experience in the field.
• Year 4: Focus on protecting wired and wireless networks, secure data storage, security models, cryptography, database and web security.
• Year 5 (Optional): Advanced skills in network and security management, threats posed by malicious software, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and penetration testing.

Learning and Teaching

The program employs a variety of teaching and learning methods, including:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Computing laboratories
• Workshops
• Seminars
• Practical work
• Industrial placement
• Integrative real-world project work
• Student-centered learning
• Private study

Assessment and Feedback

Assessment methods include written exams, project outputs, reports, and a dissertation. Feedback is provided within 20 working days of submission, aiming to enhance student learning and performance.

Staff and Facilities

The course is taught by a team of staff with academic and industrial experience in cyber security and related fields. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including project computing labs, to support learning and research.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Cyber Security program are prepared for careers as cyber security specialists, with potential roles including IT Security Engineer, Information and Data Security Analyst, Network Manager, IT Security Developer, IT Risk and Fraud Specialist, and Digital Forensics Expert.

Entry Requirements

• Standard Entry: Requires BBCC at SQA Higher, including English and Maths at National 5 grade C or above, or equivalent qualifications.
• Minimum Entry: CCCC at SQA Higher for widening access applicants.
• International Students: Apply through the International College at Robert Gordon University.
• English Language Requirements: IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

Fees and Funding

• Scottish Students: ｣1,820 per year for full-time study.
• Rest of UK Students: ｣9,535 per year for full-time study (subject to change).
• International Students: ｣18,940 per year for full-time study (subject to change).
• Scholarships and financial awards are available for eligible students.

Accreditation

The program is initially accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), The Chartered Institute for IT, for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional and Incorporated Engineer. It is also recognized by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2 as an authorized academic partner.