Cyber Security and Pen Testing MSc

Program Overview

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Cyber Security and Pen Testing MSc

Why study MSc Cyber Security and Pen Testing at Middlesex University?

This course provides intensive practical training and strong foundations in theory covering the technicalities of network security and strategic and organisational issues. Our academics are leading scientists and practitioners in the field, with years of experience in the industry.

Our strong research profile means our courses are innovative. Our academics are internationally recognised in the field of cyber security and they have been commissioned to build Next-Generation Cyber security products some of which have been directly funded by the UK Government.

If you've previously studied computing at university level or you're currently working in the sector and you're looking to develop an advanced mastery of the subject, then this course is for you.

What you will gain

You'll develop the knowledge and expertise to analyse and build security systems, software and hardware applications, secure transactions, authentication measures, and cryptography and encryption techniques.

You'll become familiar with the configurations of different systems in laboratories and learn to choose the appropriate measures and applications for a network.

In addition to gaining proficiency in the subject, you'll also develop your mathematical, problem-solving, communication, time management and critical skills.

Other benefits of the course include the opportunity to gain practical experience in our industry-standard networking labs. We'll also encourage you to explore new concepts and developments. The acquired skills in the programme are in demand in the market and our graduates secured jobs as junior pen testers, security analysts, and security engineers in well-established businesses. A number of our students embarked into PhD studies under the supervision of our academics.

Placements

Industrial placement is offered as an optional opportunity for full-time students studying at the London campus. Students can choose either a 3-month or 12-month placement duration.

3 great reasons to pick this course

Excellent career opportunities

Graduates have gone onto work for companies such as IBM, L'Oreal, Hutchinson 3G, Halcrow Group and more

Cutting-edge facilities

We have developed our own cyber security lab. Using virtualization, our students will hone their skills in safe and isolated environment

Top 6

UK university in Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024

About your course

About your course

This master's degree gives you an in-depth understanding of network design and construction, programming and operating systems, and the legal, ethical and professional issues which surround this sector. You'll also study online security risks, install the relevant procedures to ensure data is transmitted and stored securely, and develop measures that can be taken not only to prevent breaches but to minimise damage if they do occur.

Modules

• Computer Networks and Internetworking (15 credits) - Compulsory
• Operating Systems and Application Environments (15 credits) - Compulsory
• Security Solutions and Applications (30 credits) - Compulsory
• Penetration Testing and Forensics (30 credits) - Compulsory
• Network Security and Mechanisms (15 credits) - Compulsory
• Cyber Security and Legal Regulations (15 Credits) - Compulsory
• Individual PG Project (60 credits) - Compulsory

Teaching and learning

Teaching

How we'll teach you Coursework and assessments

How we'll teach you

This is an intensive course and much of your study will be independent.

You'll develop your practical skills in laboratory sessions delivered online, and deepen your theoretical knowledge by attending lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials.

The course is delivered by our academics and industry partners in person and via digital platforms. Our learning activities include lectures, presentations, webinars, one-to-one tutorials and group projects.

You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience.

Where will I study?

You will be based at our north London campus. Our cyber security lab is in the Hatchcroft building and the Computer Network lab is in the Ritterman building.

Timetable

If you're a full-time student, you should expect to spend a maximum of three days a week in classes. If you're studying part-time, you should expect one or two days a week.

We aim to make timetables available to students at least 2 weeks before the start of term. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on campus sessions.

Teaching vs independent study

In a typical year, you’ll spend about 1200 hours on your course.

Outside of teaching hours, you’ll learn independently through reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework and presentations.

Typical weekly breakdown

A typical week looks like this:

• On-campus: 7 hours
• Online: 5 hours
• Independent study: 24 hours

For placement, there may be additional hours.

Learning terms

• On-campus: This includes tutor-led sessions such as seminars, lab sessions and demonstrations as well as student-led sessions for work in small groups.
• Online learning: This is teaching that is delivered online using tools like Skype or Zoom, as well as work that you do yourself using online teaching resources.
• Independent study: This is the work you do in your own time including reading and research.

Part-time study

You can also study this course part-time.

Academic support

We have a strong support network online and on campus to help you develop your academic skills. We offer one-to-one and group sessions to develop your learning skills together with academic support from our library, IT teams and learning experts.

Coursework and assessments

As well as exams, tests and your research project, you’ll be assessed through practical assignments, including laboratory work, and through coursework including essays, reports, presentations and class discussions. Some assessed work will be group work.

For your independent project, you'll plan, conduct and produce an original piece of research relevant to the industry – either using existing or emerging technology to solve a practical problem or extending the theoretical understanding of new technology. You will be assessed on your research proposal, written report and via an oral examination.

Feedback

You'll evaluate your work, skills and knowledge and identify areas for improvement. Sometimes you'll work in groups and assess each other's progress.

Each term, you'll get regular feedback on your learning.

Careers

How can the MSc Cyber Security and Pen Testing support your career?

From national security to the privacy of personal communications, the smooth running of societies and economies depends on the security of computer networks. With a security breach potentially costing a company millions, highly skilled experts who can provide protection are sought-after across the globe. Technology is constantly developing and security issues are too, making this a challenging and rapidly evolving specialism.

This master's degree will leave you ideally placed for a role as a training specialist, systems dispenser, business analysis manager or university lecturer. The majority of our graduates are in roles directly related to their studies and working in programming, telecommunications engineering, network management, and computer and network security. You could even start your own business or you may wish to pursue a career in academia.

Our university's postgraduate courses have been recognised for their ability to support your career.

We are a top 10 UK University for employability (UniCompare Rankings 2025), and a top 10 UK university for industry connections and funding in Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024.

Career paths

Our graduates have gone on to achieve many successes since leaving Middlesex, including working for such companies as:

• IBM
• L'Oréal
• Hutchinson 3G
• Halcrow Group
• Cyberspace Network
• AK Electronics
• One Hundred Computers
• Pilat Media
• F5 Networks.

MDXworks

MDXworks, our employability service, will help you make the most of your experience and connections to achieve your career goals. You'll have unlimited access to one-to-one advice and support from specialists in your sector plus 24/7 online support. You can also make the most of events and networking opportunities, on and off campus.

Our dedicated lifetime career support, like our business start-up support programme and funding for entrepreneurs, has been recognised with the following awards:

• The top 20 UK universities for business leaders and entrepreneurs – Business Money, 2023
• A top 10 university for producing CEOs – Novuana, 2023.

Global alumni network

You’ll be studying with students from 122 countries who’ll become part of your personal global network. You'll learn how to work with a global mindset and make invaluable connections on your course for your chosen industry.

Entry requirements

Qualifications

We welcome your application regardless of your background or experience.

For this course, ideally, we are looking for these qualifications:

• A 2:2 honours degree or above
• Graduate-level professional qualifications.

If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, we may be able to count this towards your entry requirements.

We welcome students from the UK and all over the world. Join students from over 122 countries and discover why so many international students call our campus home:

• Quality teaching with top facilities plus flexible online learning
• Welcoming north London campus that's only 30 minutes from central London
• Work placements and networking with top London employers
• Award-winning career support to get you where you want to go after university.

Qualifications

We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the accepted qualifications on your country's support page. If you are unsure of the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest international office.

English language

You will need to meet our English language requirements. And, don’t worry If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, as we offer a Pre-sessional English course.

Visas

To study with us in the UK, you might need a Student visa. Please check to see if this applies to you.

Apply as early as possible to make sure you get a place. You can submit your application before you receive your final qualification.

Personal statements

Make sure that you highlight your best qualities in your personal statement that are relevant to this course. Such as your ability to be forward-thinking, creative and collaborative.

Interviews

You won’t be required to attend an interview.

Fees and funding

Fees

The fees below are for the 2025/26 academic year.

UK students

• Full-time students: £11,300
• Part-time students: £75 per credit
• Part-time students: £37 per dissertation credit

International

• Full-time students: £18,000
• Part-time students: £120 per credit
• Part-time students: £60 per dissertation credit

Placement fee

£3,000 per year

Additional course costs

We cover your costs for the day-to-day things that you need to do well in your studies.

• Free – laptop loans, Wi-Fi and printing
• Free specialist software for your course
• Free online training with LinkedIn Learning.

The following course-related costs are not included in the fees, and you will need to budget for these:

• The cost of books that you might wish to purchase.

Financial support

We offer lots of support to help you with fees and living costs. Check out our guide to postgraduate scholarships and find out more about postgraduate funding.

Scholarships and bursaries

You may be eligible for one of our scholarships including:

• The Alumni Postgraduate Award – for all UK/EU Middlesex alumni a 20% fee reduction
• The Commonwealth Scholarship – full course fees, airfares and a living allowance
• The Chevening Scholarship – full course fees
• The European Academic Awards – £1000 to £7000 for students showing academic excellence
• Regional or International Merit Award –up to £2,000 towards course fees

For international students, we also have a limited number of other awards specific to certain regions, and work in partnership with funding providers in your country to help support you financially with your study.

Find out more about our student life on a budget.

Help from your employer

Your employer can contribute towards the cost of your postgraduate study as part of their staff development programme.

Work while you study

If you are not currently working, we can help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above.

Fees disclaimers

1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase postgraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.
2. International fees: Tuition fees are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

This Master's degree in Cyber Security and Pen Testing provides students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in network design, programming, and operating systems, as well as the legal, ethical, and professional issues surrounding this sector. Students will develop expertise in analyzing and building security systems, software and hardware applications, secure transactions, authentication measures, cryptography, and encryption techniques. They will gain familiarity with different system configurations in laboratories and learn to choose appropriate measures and applications for a network. The program also focuses on the development of mathematical, problem-solving, communication, time management, and critical thinking skills.

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Outline:

The program encompasses a total of 180 credits, spread across 12 modules, each carrying 15 credits. The curriculum includes a blend of theoretical and practical learning, with modules covering various aspects of cyber security and pen testing, including:

• Computer Networks and Internetworking
• Operating Systems and Application Environments
• Security Solutions and Applications
• Penetration Testing and Forensics
• Network Security and Mechanisms
• Cyber Security and Legal Regulations
• Individual PG Project (60 credits)

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Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module and include coursework assignments, laboratory work, presentations, written reports, and individual research projects. The Individual PG Project carries significant weight (60 credits) and involves planning, conducting, and producing an original research piece relevant to the industry. Students are evaluated based on their research proposal, written report, and oral examination.

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Teaching:

The program is delivered by experienced academics and industry partners, both in person and through digital platforms. The teaching methods include lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, and online learning activities. Students benefit from the expertise of dedicated faculty with extensive industry experience. The program utilizes five specialist laboratories equipped with the latest hardware and software, providing students with hands-on experience in industry-standard tools and technologies.

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Careers:

Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in various sectors, including national security, telecommunications, financial institutions, government agencies, and private companies. Potential career paths include:

• Training Specialist
• Systems Dispenser
• Business Analysis Manager
• University Lecturer
• Security Analyst
• Penetration Tester
• Network Administrator
Students also have access to over 1,000 study spaces, including rooms for group study, and over 500 computers available for their use. The program is recognized for its ability to support students' careers, with 95% of graduates securing employment or further study.

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UK students1 Full-time students: £11,000 Part-time students: £73 per credit Part-time students: £37 per dissertation credit International2 Full-time students: £17,300 Part-time students: £117 per credit Part-time students: £59 per dissertation credit