BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics with Integrated Foundation Year

Program Overview

Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics with Integrated Foundation Year BSc (Hons)

Overview

This four-year version of our popular BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics course includes an integrated foundation year. The course addresses the needs of cybersecurity and digital forensics professionals, developing expertise in the preservation and extraction of digital evidence from computer systems and networks. It examines the overlap between cybersecurity and digital forensics and the preventative approach to cybercrime.

Course Structure

• 4 years
• Full time
• £9,535 Current fee
• I160 UCAS code
• 15 Sep 25 Next start date

Course Modules

The Computing Integrated Foundation Year includes five modules:

• Foundations of Computing (40 credits)
  • Consider a wide range of perspectives related to the field of computing to help prepare you for your degree study.
  • Understand how a modern computer works and how this has developed over time, leading to the adoption of the Von Neumann architecture.
  • Comprehend various ways of programming a computer using a modern compiled software language.
• Essential Study Skills (20 credits)
  • Develop the necessary skills for study at university.
  • Enhance your academic writing, communication, and presentation skills.
  • Reflect upon your development, career aspirations, and personal goals.
• Project (20 credits)
  • Investigate a topic area related to your degree programme, and produce either a portfolio, practical project, performance, artefact, video, website, essay, or analysis of data/report.
  • Engage in lectures, tutorials, lab, and/or practical sessions with subject specialists.
  • Gain experience of researching your subject area and further develop your critical thinking, writing, time management, and organisational skills.
• Fundamentals of Computer Networking and Security (20 credits)
  • Study the components of a computer network, install and power up virtual machines and describe threats to their security and well-being.
  • Develop your confidence when working with networks, virtualization, and security.
  • Enhance the skills vital to becoming an IT professional, including communication skills, operation procedures, and ethical and legal considerations.
• Practical Maths (20 credits)
  • Consolidate your numeracy skills and see how to apply them to real-life scenarios.
  • Consider how statistical results are presented, calculated, and misrepresented.
  • Study the foundations of numeracy, including powers, roots, fractions, percentages, standard form, area and volume, ratio, and proportion.

Year 1 (national level 4):

• Software Engineering (20 credits)
  • Explore a wide range of software engineering techniques and industry practices, designed to promote the production of high-quality, efficient, reliable, and secure software.
  • Examine how software is created and the various stages of the software development lifecycle, together with consideration of social, ethical, professional, and legal issues.
  • Evaluate software products to ensure that they are functioning correctly, and conclude their strengths and weaknesses.
• Computer Systems, Architectures and Networks (20 credits)
  • Gain an overview of how a computer works, from the moment it is switched on.
  • Explore what happens inside the machine, including how computers process input, generate output and store data.
  • Install and configure a modern operating system, and troubleshoot hardware and software problems using real equipment and simulations.
• Introduction to Programming (20 credits)
  • Learn about the fundamental programming concepts, including how to write computer programs using a high-level programming language such as Python or C#.
  • Develop an understanding of debugging techniques to find and resolve defects.
  • Select and implement appropriate structures for file handling, data manipulation, and error handling within a program.
• Full Stack Development (20 credits)
  • Explore both front-end and back-end web development, and use frameworks to create a fully dynamic web application.
  • Consider the development of the modern web and review the underlying technologies and standards.
  • Create programs that run on a live web server and use a modern programming language.
• Specialist Project (20 credits)
  • Explore and develop an individual project based around your preferred area of study.
  • Work directly with subject specialists in workshop-style sessions to explore your specialism.
  • Appreciate the social, ethical, professional, and legal issues as they apply to computer-based systems.
• Emerging Technologies (20 credits)
  • Delve into the emergence of novel tools and techniques within computer science.
  • Discuss the potential impacts of a range of emerging technologies on industry and society, including virtual and augmented reality, drone technology, cryptocurrencies, wearable technologies, and cybersecurity.
  • Consider the issues associated with end user adoption of new and emerging technologies.

Year 2 (national level 5):

• Advanced Programming (20 credits)
  • Propose solutions to programming problems through OO software design modeling, using UML diagrams, notations, and techniques.
  • Apply advanced OO programming constructs to the development of professional-standard software.
  • Select appropriate software design patterns, data structures and algorithms to provide efficient solutions to complex programming problems.
• Cybersecurity (20 credits)
  • Analyse security principles and the core technology used to enforce and maintain security of data and computer systems.
  • Investigate case studies of cybersecurity incidents relating to businesses, where social factors such as social engineering, oversharing, and phishing attacks have played a major part.
  • Design and create a secure system.
• Enterprise Project (20 credits)
  • Participate in the organising, running, controlling, and monitoring of a team tasked to produce a computer-based solution to a client-posed problem.
  • Respond to client analysis and feedback to progress and complete your prototype solution.
  • Appreciate enterprise approaches for software project determination, selection, development, implementation, and criteria-based evaluation.
• Secure Networks (20 credits)
  • Gain a substantial understanding of key network security principles and methods.
  • Develop the practical skills needed to implement and support a complex network infrastructure with regard to security.
  • Evaluate a system to a given set of network security requirements.
• Digital Forensic Computing Practice (20 credits)
  • Delve into forensic techniques, including the examination of Windows, Unix and Macintosh, covering boot disks, file systems, an overview of digital evidence processing tools, data recovery, file traces, system registry, log files, Internet traces, web browsing, e-mail, network traces and network storage.
  • Understand digital evidence and how the interpretations of that evidence can be obtained from computer forensics investigations.
  • Apply the appropriate legal and procedural issues and be aware of the documentary and evidentiary standards in presenting investigative findings in a court of law.
• Virtualisation and Cloud Infrastructure (20 credits)
  • Gain knowledge of a range of cloud models, and analyse these in relation to realistic scenarios.
  • Explore best practices within cloud computing, as well as Development Operations (DevOps).
  • Examine various Linux environments and design, configure and utilise Linux tools and technologies that are relevant to cloud infrastructure.

Optional placement:

• Industrial Placement (120 credits)
  • Spend 48 weeks on placement working within the industry.
  • Refine, plan, schedule, and produce an individual project based on your experience.
  • Critically reflect on the skills and experience gained as part of your placement.

Final year (national level 6):

• Project (40 credits)
  • Articulate an in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of your chosen research topic.
  • Develop your professional skills, such as problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking, self-reflection, and time management.
  • Collect, organise, and present your body of work, including a critical evaluation and correct citation and reference of appropriate research sources.
• Cyber Threat Landscape (20 credits)
  • Gain a holistic understanding of the cybersecurity threat landscape, and of cyber risk assessment and management.
  • Research, investigate, and analyse the cybersecurity incidents, threats, and vulnerabilities that make up the cyber threat landscape, both in terms of recent emergent issues and those issues which recur over time.
  • Work with case studies to investigate the security strategies employed by a company, and then recommend applicable policies and frameworks.
• Web Application Security (20 credits)
  • Understand the most prevalent web application vulnerabilities, their causes, and their consequences.
  • Study the methodologies for testing for evidence, vulnerabilities within applications, and protection against these.
  • Utilise the techniques of ethical hacking to discover and exploit vulnerabilities in web applications.
• Digital Forensic Investigations (20 credits)
  • Discuss and investigate advanced applications in computer forensics such as employability, payment card industry, e-disclosure, social media, internet crime, malware and spyware, network forensics, and mobile phone forensics.
  • Build your knowledge base to include essential areas such as the process of identifying, preserving, analysing, and presenting digital evidence.
  • Consider the ethical and professional dilemmas facing computer forensic practitioners and cybersecurity investigations.
• Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking (20 credits)
  • Evaluate the technical, legal, and business issues involved in developing, implementing, and testing secure systems, considering the potential security threats.
  • Critically analyse the trade-offs of balancing key security properties: confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
  • Examine the specific threats to networks, the architecture for secure networks (for example OSI security architecture), and the development and design of defense mechanisms and countermeasures.

Facilities

• The CyberZone contains many high-performance machines for cybersecurity exploration.
• The Forensics Lab is used by students studying cybersecurity and digital forensics.
• Our outstanding IT facilities include the David Goldman Technology Centre, which has hundreds of computers so it’s easy to find a free workstation with the software you need.
• We are an accredited Cisco Academy and have two laboratories packed with Cisco networking equipment including routers, switches, terminals and specialist equipment for simulating frame relay and ISDN links.
• We host high-performance computing platforms, including a Big Data machine and a High Performance Computing Cluster system, for concurrent processing of complex computational tasks.
• We also have the equipment and licences for our own public mobile cellular network.

Entry Requirements

• We don’t currently display entry requirements for Ireland.
• Eligible entry qualifications:
  • If you're unsure of whether you think you might be suitable for the course, please contact us.
  • If you've studied for a GCSE which has a numerical grade, you'll need to achieve a grade 4 or above.
  • Equivalent alternative qualifications are also accepted, such as Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.
  • If English isn't your first language, please see our English language requirements.

Fees and Finance

• The annual fee for this course is £9,535 if you're from the UK/Ireland/EU settled/pre-settled.
• Undergraduate fees are set according to rules from Government in line with forecast inflation.
• The fee for your first year of study for 2025/26 will be £9,535.
• You will pay tuition fees for every year of study.
• Fees may increase every year based on the Retail Price Index.
• If you're a full-time UK/Irish/EU settled/EU pre-settled student, you may be eligible to receive financial support to cover your fees for the full four years.
• UK and EU settled students may also be eligible to receive a maintenance loan.

Career Ready

• This course has a strong emphasis on real-world learning that boosts employability and equips you to make a bigger contribution in the workplace.
• Our graduates have gone on to become web programmers, IT managers, information analysts and software developers.
• Employers that have taken on our graduates include Sage, British Airways and the NHS.
• Other graduates have started their own businesses or become software contractors earning over £50,000 a year.

Developing Your E-Portfolio

• Employers are increasingly looking not only for strong CVs but also real-life demonstrations of technical know-how and commitment to self-development.
• All computing students at the University of Sunderland develop e-portfolios that become showcases of personal progress.
• A typical e-portfolio would include audits of your skills, reflections on your areas of strength, evidence of how you have tackled weaker areas, and tools for joining up your learning in different modules.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics with Integrated Foundation Year

This four-year undergraduate program addresses the growing need for cybersecurity and digital forensics professionals, equipping students with the skills to investigate and mitigate cyber threats effectively. The program starts with a foundation year, providing a solid grounding in computing fundamentals before delving into specialist modules. Students will gain expertise in:

• Computer security and ethical hacking
• Preservation and extraction of digital evidence
• Network security and vulnerabilities
• Malware analysis and defense strategies
• Law and ethics relating to cybercrime and digital forensics.
The program aims to prepare students for diverse career paths in various sectors, including law enforcement, government agencies, private corporations, and consultancy firms. It also serves as a strong foundation for postgraduate studies in related fields. ## Outline:

Year 1: Integrated Foundation Year

This foundation year equips students with the essential knowledge and skills in computer science.

• Five modules are covered:
• Foundations of Computing:
Introduces diverse perspectives on computing, explores the inner workings of modern computers, and covers fundamental programming concepts.
• Essential Study Skills: Develops academic skills like writing, communication, and time management.
• Project: Completion of a project in a chosen subject area, demonstrating research and analysis skills.
• Fundamentals of Computer Networking and Security: Introduces the components of computer networks, security threats, and hands-on practice with network security.
• Practical Maths: Consolidates numeracy skills, analyzes statistical data, and applies mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios.

Year 2: National Level 4

• Software Engineering: Covers software development methodologies, quality assurance, ethical considerations, and the software development lifecycle.
• Computer Systems, Architectures and Networks: Explores the internal workings of a computer, operating systems, troubleshooting, and basic network concepts.
• Introduction to Programming: Introduces fundamental programming concepts using languages like Python or C#, debugging techniques, and data structures.
• Full Stack Development: Covers front-end and back-end web development, utilizing frameworks to build dynamic web applications with modern programming languages.
• Specialist Project: Students develop an individual project in their preferred area of study, working with subject specialists.
• Emerging Technologies: Discusses the impact of emerging technologies like virtual reality, drones, cryptocurrencies, and wearable technology on society and industry.

Year 3: National Level 5

• Advanced Programming: Deepens knowledge of object-oriented programming concepts and software design using UML diagrams and techniques.
• Cyber Security: Explores security principles, technologies, case studies of cybercrime, and the design of secure systems.
• Enterprise Project: Participates in the planning, development, and implementation of a software solution for a client, applying project management skills to deliver a successful solution.
• Secure Networks: Develops practical skills in implementing and securing complex network infrastructure, evaluating security requirements.
• Digital Forensic Computing Practice: Explores digital forensics techniques, evidence collection from various sources, data recovery, file analysis, and legal considerations.
• Virtualisation and Cloud Infrastructure: Explores cloud computing concepts, best practices, DevOps, Linux environments, and the design of cloud infrastructure.

Year 4: National Level 6

• Cyber Threat Landscape: Investigates the current cyber threat landscape, performs risk assessments, analyzes cybercrime cases, and develops security strategies.
• Web Application Security: Understands web application vulnerabilities, testing methodologies, ethical hacking techniques, and web application security principles.
• Digital Forensic Investigations: Investigates advanced topics in digital forensics, including social media analysis, mobile forensics, and ethical and legal considerations for forensic professionals.
• Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking: Analyzes the legal and technical aspects of secure systems, explores ethical hacking principles, and develops practical skills in conducting penetration tests.
• Project: Conducts in-depth research in a chosen Cybersecurity or Digital Forensics topic, presenting a final project demonstrating knowledge and research skills.
## Assessment: The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student understanding and progress throughout the course. These may include:
• Coursework: Essays, assignments, research papers, project reports, and online quizzes.
• Examinations: Written exams testing knowledge of theoretical concepts and practical problem-solving skills.
• Presentations: Delivering presentations to showcase research findings and demonstrate communication skills.
• Practical Projects: Implementing and showcasing software projects, demonstrating technical skills and problem-solving abilities.
## Teaching: The program utilizes diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and provide a stimulating learning environment. These methods include:
• Lectures: Eminent faculty members deliver comprehensive lectures on key topics, providing a strong foundation in theoretical concepts.
• Tutorials: Smaller group sessions allow for interactive learning, problem-solving exercises, and personalized feedback from instructors.
• Seminars: Engaging discussions and debates on current issues in cybersecurity and digital forensics foster critical thinking and knowledge sharing.
• Laboratory Sessions: Hands-on practical experience with industry-standard tools and technologies solidify theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
• Independent Study: Encourages self-directed learning, research, and exploration of specific topics of interest.
## Careers: Graduates from the program can pursue diverse career paths in various sectors, including:
• Cybersecurity Analyst: Monitors networks for security threats, implements security measures, and investigates cybercrime activities.
• Digital Forensics Investigator: Conducts digital investigations, recovers and analyzes electronic evidence, and prepares reports for legal proceedings.
• Penetration Tester: Conducts ethical hacking tests to identify security vulnerabilities in systems and networks.
• Security Consultant: Provides expert advice and guidance to organizations on implementing security measures and managing cyber risks.
• Network Security Engineer: Designs, implements, and maintains secure network infrastructure.
• Law Enforcement: Utilizes digital forensics skills to investigate cybercrime and provide evidence for legal prosecution.
## Other:
• The David Goldman Technology Centre: Home to the program, this state-of-the-art technology centre provides access to high-performance machines, cybersecurity simulation tools, and specialized software for hands-on learning experiences.

• CyberZone: A unique facility dedicated to cybersecurity exploration, featuring high-performance machines, virtual machine simulations, malware analysis tools, and secure network environments for practical cybersecurity training.

• Forensics Lab: This lab provides industry-standard forensic workstations, software tools, and equipment for students to practice digital forensics techniques, including data recovery, analysis, and presentation in legal settings.

• Project Lab: Final year students have access to a dedicated space with specialized software to work on their individual projects, allowing them to develop technical skills and showcase their capabilities.

• Integrated Foundation Year: This initial year provides students from diverse backgrounds a solid foundation in computing fundamentals, preparing them for the more specialized modules in the subsequent years.

• Emphasis on Practical Applications: The program prioritizes hands-on training through laboratory sessions, simulations, and practical projects, equipping students with the skills to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Please note:

This information about the program is subject to change and may be updated without prior notice. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official website of the University of Sunderland.

The annual fee for this course is £9,250 if you're from the UK/Ireland/EU settled/pre-settled. If you're a full-time UK/Irish/EU settled/EU pre-settled student, you may be eligible to receive financial support to cover your fees for the full four years. UK and EU settled students may also be eligible to receive a maintenance loan. Please note, this course isn't available to international students.