MSc Cyber Security (Infrastructures Security)
Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
MSc Cyber Security (Infrastructures Security)
Overview
Digital technologies drive economic growth yet create new cyber risks requiring ever more sophisticated solutions. There is worldwide demand for new and innovative approaches to tackling global cyber threats specific to large-scale infrastructures, from energy production to finance through to healthcare and smart transportation. The cyber security of such infrastructures is paramount – their disruption can have large-scale impacts on society as well as massive business losses. There is a major shortage of cyber security professionals globally, and the specialist nature of critical infrastructures makes the problem even more acute.
A strong ethos of rigorous experimental and empirical cyber security research underpins the MSc, facilitated by a state-of-the-art testbed for studying critical national infrastructure (CNI) and Internet of Things (IoT) security, and bespoke teaching equipment. You'll learn to apply foundational cyber security techniques to infrastructure and will develop the skills for engineering scalable solutions. You'll be exposed to real-world problems that are practical and challenge-oriented, but underpinned by rigorous research.
This MSc aims to:
- Enable a deep understanding of fundamental concepts, design principles, building blocks and methods to understand and mitigate against cyber security threats;
- Give you hands-on experience of working with devices, systems and networks utilised in realistic infrastructure environments;
- Equip you with the ability to apply security principles and technical knowledge to analyse complex real-world infrastructures systems (including software systems, networks, control systems and IoT) to identify potential security issues and solutions;
- Provide you with the skills to reason critically about complex problems that require evaluation and analysis from a multi-dimensional perspective including technical, human and organisational aspects.
We also offer a related programme in Cyber Security (Software Security).
Key Information
- Programme duration: One year full-time; Two to three years part-time.
- Start date: September 2025
- Application deadline: Overseas applicants: 25 July 2025. Home applicants: 6 June 2025.
- Delivery method: On-Campus
- Location: Clifton
- Awards available: MSc
Programme Structure
The MSc consists of the following compulsory units:
- Foundations of Cyber Security
- Network Security
- Fundamentals of Systems Security
- Security of Industrial Control Systems
- IoT and IIoT Security
To complete your studies you will undertake an individual research project proposed by project supervisors. This unit will provide you with first-hand experience in planning, running, documenting, and presenting a substantial piece of original work in the field of cyber security of infrastructures. This will typically include reading and synthesising academic literature, developing a hypothesis and validating it through hands-on experimental or implementation work. The projects offered each year will vary and each will have a different focus under the overarching umbrella of Infrastructures Security.
The units are taught in intensive week-long blocks. Part-time study will require daytime attendance on campus for the full week when a unit is being taught.
World-leading Research
- The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK (Times Higher Education).
- 94% of our research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.
Entry Requirements
You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical or Electronic Engineering, Cyber Security, Network Security or Information Security. Other disciplines will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants from other related subjects are required to have studied modules relevant to the programme at minimum of 60%, or international equivalent:
Relevant Modules:
- Algorithms
- Computer Security
- Data Privacy/Security
- Data Structures
- Databases/Structured/Unstructured Databases
- Internet of Things
- JavaScript
- Network Security
- Cloud Security
- Software Architecture
- Operating Systems
- Programming (please see additional list of suitable programming modules)
- Software Security
- Software Tools/Software Development
- Structured Programming
- Unstructured Programming
- System Security
- Systems Development
- Systems Engineering
- Systems Programming
- Web applications
Suitable Programming modules (one module from this list):
- Assembly Language
- C/C++
- Java
- Object Orientated Programming
- Problem Solving and Programming
- Programming Fundamentals
- Machine Learning Fundamentals
- Programming Lab
- Parallel Programming
- Cloud Computing
- Serverless computing
- Python
- Scala.
MATLAB, FORTRAN, Basic or Visual Basic will not be considered suitable for this programme.
We will also consider your application if your final achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if you have at least one of the following:
- evidence of significant, relevant work experience with a minimum of two years (full or part-time) experience within a computer science or electronic/electrical engineering role or as a software developer. Examples include software testers (especially penetration testing), technical role in cybersecurity, system engineer, security officer, data protection officer, information officer, product manager;
- a relevant postgraduate qualification.
If this is the case, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing details of your relevant qualifications.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
English Language Requirements
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level D.
Fees and Funding
- Home: full-time £18,400 per year
- Home: part-time (three years) £6,133 per year
- Home: part-time (two years) £9,200 per year
- Overseas: full-time £35,500 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
Alumni Discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and Scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career Prospects
This programme is informed by the skills gap identified by industry. Following graduation from this MSc, students will have the opportunity to play a fundamental role in delivering cyber security on a large scale through their careers. Graduates may find roles in network security, Industrial Control Systems Security and Operational Technology, and will be capable of critically evaluating and synthesising research literature, developing and deploying systems, and communicating with others in their field and other disciplines. Top graduates from this degree will be able to proactively advance the development of infrastructures security or move on to doctoral studies in cyber security.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The MSc Cyber Security (Infrastructures Security) program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the growing cyber security threats faced by large-scale infrastructures. The program provides a deep understanding of fundamental cyber security concepts, design principles, and methods, as well as hands-on experience in working with devices, systems, and networks utilized in realistic infrastructure environments. Graduates will be able to apply security principles and technical knowledge to analyze complex real-world infrastructures systems and identify potential security issues and solutions.
Objectives:
- Enable a deep understanding of fundamental concepts, design principles, building blocks, and methods to understand and mitigate against cyber security threats.
- Give hands-on experience of working with devices, systems, and networks utilized in realistic infrastructure environments.
- Equip students with the ability to apply security principles and technical knowledge to analyze complex real-world infrastructures systems (including software systems, networks, control systems, and IoT) to identify potential security issues and solutions.
- Provide students with the skills to reason critically about complex problems that require evaluation and analysis from a multi-dimensional perspective including technical, human, and organizational aspects.
Outline:
The MSc Cyber Security (Infrastructures Security) program consists of the following compulsory units:
- Foundations (20 credits)
- Network Security (20 credits)
- Fundamentals of System Security (20 credits)
- Security of Industrial Control Systems (30 credits)
- IoT and IIoT Security (30 credits) To complete their studies, students will undertake a 60-credit individual research project proposed by project supervisors. This unit will provide students with first-hand experience in planning, running, documenting, and presenting a substantial piece of original work in the field of cyber security of infrastructures. The units are taught in intensive week-long blocks.
Teaching:
The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members from the School of Computer Science. The faculty members have a strong research background in cyber security and are actively involved in cutting-edge research projects. The program also benefits from the input of industry experts, who provide guest lectures and workshops.
Careers:
Graduates of the MSc Cyber Security (Infrastructures Security) program will be well-prepared for a career in cyber security. They will have the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a variety of roles, including network security, Industrial Control Systems Security, and Operational Technology. Graduates will also be able to critically evaluate and synthesize research literature, develop and deploy systems, and communicate with others in their field and other disciplines. Top graduates from this degree will be able to proactively advance the development of infrastructures security or move onto doctoral studies in cyber security.
Other:
The program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis. The full-time program can be completed in one year, while the part-time program can be completed in two to three years. The program is taught on the University of Bristol's Clifton campus.
UK Tuition Fees
Full-time: £17,700 per year Part-time (two years): £8,850 per year Part-time (three years): £5,900 per year
Overseas Tuition Fees
Full-time: £34,200 per year
University of Bristol Summary
Overview:
The University of Bristol is a renowned public research university located in Bristol, England. It is known for its high academic standards, strong research output, and vibrant campus life. The university is ranked among the top universities in the world and the UK, consistently attracting top students and researchers.
Services Offered:
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs:
A diverse selection of academic programs across various disciplines.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Students' Union:
A dedicated student organization providing support, activities, and representation.Library:
Extensive library resources and facilities for research and study.Sport, Exercise, and Health:
Opportunities for participation in sports and fitness activities.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Bristol enjoy a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university is located in a dynamic city with a thriving arts scene, independent spirit, and alternative culture. Students have access to a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, fostering a strong sense of community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High Academic Standards:
The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world and the UK, offering high-quality education.Strong Research Output:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a diverse and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community.Location in a Dynamic City:
Bristol is a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, independent spirit, and alternative culture.Excellent Career Prospects:
Graduates from the University of Bristol are highly sought after by employers.Academic Programs:
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts:
Arts, Music, Theatre, Film, and more.Science:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and more.Engineering:
Aerospace, Civil, Electrical, and more.Medicine and Dentistry:
Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, and more.Social Sciences:
Economics, Politics, Sociology, and more.Law:
Law, Criminology, and more.Entry Requirements:
An upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in engineering preferably computer science, electrical or electronic engineering or a related subject. Other disciplines will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must demonstrate academic experience in programming with a minimum of two modules at 60%, or international equivalent. This can be through one module in the first year and a minimum second module in year two or onwards. We will consider applicants whose grades are slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if they have at least one of the following: evidence of significant, relevant work experience; a relevant postgraduate qualification.