Computer Science (Cyber Security) (with a Placement Year) BSc (Hons)
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Computer Science (Cyber Security) (with a Placement Year) BSc (Hons)
Overview
Lead the tech landscape with our hands-on cyber security course. Develop in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with our cyber security course. You will build a strong foundation in computer science and cover advanced topics like network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, and digital forensics.
A Focus on Employability
Our cyber security degree is hands-on. You will attend lectures from industry guest speakers, hackathons, field trips to leading tech organisations and industry partners, industry conferences, cybersecurity meetups, capture-the-flag events, and tech talks.
Cutting-Edge Facilities
You’ll learn in a dynamic environment and access cyber security labs, industry software and platforms, an E-Sports Arena, modern computing, and an extensive resource library.
One-to-One Support
Our lecturers are dedicated to your personal and professional growth. During your cyber security degree, you will access their one-to-one support.
Work Placements: Build Practical Experience
You can complete optional industrial placements and internships within cyber security and the wider computing industry. As a result, you will stand out after graduation.
Other Pathways to Choose
We also offer:
- Computer Science BSc
- Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) BSc
- Computer Science (Data Science) BSc
- Computer Science (Game Development) BSc
- Computer Science (Software Engineering) BSc
- Computer Science (User Experience) BSc
About the Placement Year
A placement year enables you to undertake a year of experience in an organisation between your second and final year.
Course Content
Modules
These modules are the modules that were available to students in the 2024/25 academic year and are illustrative of what may be offered for 2025/26.
- Computer systems and networks
- Mathematics for computer science
- Programming principles and techniques
- Database systems
- Object-oriented programming
- Web design and development
- Data structures and algorithms
- Artificial intelligence
- Network security and cryptography
- Team project
- Ethical hacking and penetration testing
- Data visualisation
- Individual project
- Software testing and quality assurance
- Cybercrime and digital forensics
- Advanced topics in computer science
- Internet of things
Entry Requirements
2025 and 2026 Entries
- Start date: September 2026
- Standard offer: 120 UCAS points
- Contextual offer: 96 UCAS points
GCSE
- Grade 4/C or above in Maths and English Language or their equivalent.
UCAS Personal Statement Support
Create your UCAS personal statement through our online builder and we'll email you a copy of your completed version at the end.
Fees & Funding
Tuition Fees
- Home: £9,535
- International: £17,100 (£1200 during placement year)
Additional Costs
Your tuition fees will cover the cost of all mandatory elements of your programme.
Scholarships
Find out more about our range of scholarships and bursaries available to undergraduate students.
Living Costs
A guide to your living costs has been created by our Student Funding Team.
How the Degree is Taught
- Contact time: 50%
- Independent study: 50%
Teaching Methods
You'll be taught on our beautiful and historic campus located in Twickenham, London.
Assessment Methods
The assessment strategy for this course aligns intricately with the University's Teaching and Learning Strategy, focusing specifically on cyber security-related evaluations.
Feedback
We adhere to the university’s policy of providing feedback on assessments within 15 working days.
Career Opportunities
Our cyber security course will help you build transferrable skills like critical thinking and communication. As a graduate, you can explore diverse and exciting industries, such as technology, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.
Some examples of job roles and areas of work for graduates of undefined include:
- Ethical hacker
- Cyber security analyst
- Security software developer
- Cyber security solutions architect
- Cryptography specialist
- Security researcher
Program Outline
Computer Science (Cyber Security) (with a Placement Year) BSc (Hons) at St Mary's University, Twickenham, London
Degree Overview:
Objective:
- Develop in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in cyber security.
- Build a strong foundation in computer science and specialize in advanced topics like network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, and digital forensics.
- Become a leader in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Description:
- This program combines intensive coursework with a focus on practical experience through guest speaker lectures, hackathons, industry visits, conferences, and meetups.
- The program boasts a cutting-edge environment with access to specialized labs, industry-standard software, modern computing facilities, and a comprehensive resource library.
- Alternative pathways include Computer Science BSc, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Game Development, Software Engineering, and User Experience.
Outline:
Program Structure:
- 4 years duration with an optional placement year.
- Divided into years, each focusing on specific modules and skill development.
- Includes lectures, hands-on labs, group projects, individual work, and industry engagement activities.
Modules:
- Year 1: Computer systems and networks, Mathematics for computer science, Programming principles and techniques, Database systems, Object-oriented programming, Web design and development.
- Year 2: Data structures and algorithms, Artificial intelligence, Network security and cryptography, Team project, Ethical hacking and penetration testing, Data visualisation.
- Year 3 (Optional Placement Year): Gain practical experience in cyber security related placements.
- Year 4: Individual project, Software testing and quality assurance, Cybercrime and digital forensics, Advanced topics in computer science, Internet of things.
Course Schedule:
- Contact time: 50% (includes lectures, labs, guided learning)
- Independent study: 50% (includes assignments, project work, research)
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Design network topologies.
- Conduct ethical hacking projects.
- Analyze network security case studies.
- Individual and group projects.
- Written examinations.
- Presentations.
Assessment Criteria:
- Understanding of theoretical concepts.
- Applied knowledge and problem-solving skills.
- Development of critical thinking and analytical abilities.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures from academic and industry experts.
- Hands-on labs and practical exercises.
- Group projects and collaborative learning activities.
- Individual tutorials and mentorship support.
- Online learning resources and access to extensive library materials.
Faculty:
- Dedicated lecturers with expertise in cyber security and related fields.
- Guest speakers from industry leading organizations.
- Experienced professionals providing guidance and mentorship.
Unique Approaches:
- Focus on hands-on learning and practical experience.
- Extensive industry engagement with workshops, hackathons, and field trips.
- Individualized support and personalized feedback.
- Access to cutting-edge cyber security labs and technologies.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Ethical hacker
- Cyber security analyst
- Security software developer
- Cyber security solutions architect
- Cryptography specialist
- Work for leading organizations, government agencies, and cybersecurity consultancies.
- Pursue postgraduate studies in specialized areas of cyber security.
Outcomes:
- Become a highly sought-after graduate with specialized skills and experience in cyber security.
- Obtain strong career prospects and competitive salaries.
- Contribute to building a safer and more secure digital world.
Other:
- The program is designed to meet the growing demand for qualified cyber security professionals.
- Graduates can pursue professional certifications like CISSP, CISA, and CEH.
- St Mary's University provides dedicated career services for job opportunities and postgraduate studies.
- Home: £9,250
- International: £16,320
- (£1200 during placement year) Please note: these fees are annual and may increase in line with inflation each year subject to the Government's review of Higher Education Funding.
St Mary's University Twickenham London
Overview:
St Mary's University Twickenham London is a university located in London, known for its strong student experience and high teaching quality. It consistently ranks highly in national university guides for student experience, teaching quality, and location.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
St Mary's University is celebrated for its student experience. The university offers a vibrant campus life and opportunities to enhance career prospects.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top Teaching Quality:
Ranked in the top 5 for teaching quality in the UK (The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2024).Exceptional Student Experience:
Ranked in the top 10 for student experience in the UK (The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2024).Safe Location:
Ranked among the safest universities in England and Wales (Complete University Guide, 2023).High Employability:
98% of graduates are in employment, vocation, or further study within 15 months of graduation (HESA, 2023).Other:
St Mary's University is currently accepting applications through Clearing.
Entry Requirements
GCSE Requirements:
- Grade 4/C or above in Maths and English Language or their equivalent.
A-Level Requirements:
- 128-112 UCAS points.
- Applicants typically require at least BCC for related subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Computing, or IT.
- For other subjects, applicants typically require BBC.
International Applicants:
- Achieve the equivalent of the UK GCSE requirements in their home country's education system.
- IELTS score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section.
- Applicants should provide a personal statement outlining their reasons for choosing this course and their interest in the field of cyber security.
- The university considers applicants' GCSE grades and non-academic achievements in conjunction with their personal statement and references.
Alternative Entry Routes:
Language Proficiency Requirements
IELTS:
- The course is offered with a placement year option, which allows students to gain practical experience in the industry.
- Students can also choose from a variety of modules related to specific areas of cyber security, such as ethical hacking and digital forensics.
- The university's dedicated Careers Service can help students with their job search and postgraduate opportunities.
