MSc Cyber Security

Overview

Develop cutting-edge skills in cyber exploitation and defense with our MSc Cyber Security. Designed by leading experts and researchers, this program addresses the increasing demand for cyber security professionals in industry and academia.

Award

MSc

Start date(s)

5 January 2026, 15 September 2025

UCAS Code

Course specifications

View course spec

Course length

Part-time (2 years), Full-time (1 year)

Campus location

University: City Campus

School

Computing and Mathematical Sciences

UCAS points calculator

Open Points Calculator

Why choose this course?

The exponential increase in mobile devices, converged applications and Cloud technologies, initiatives such as Bring your Own Device (BYOD) / Choose Your Own Device (CYOD) and the advent of digital information technologies, has increased the proliferation of threats in our vibrant and active cyber-physical-natural environment diluting further its perimeter.

• Designed to meet the growing shortage of cyber security professionals
• Exposure to real-world cyber security challenges and solutions
• Strong emphasis on practical skills and industry-standard tools
• Opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research projects
• Strong links with government and industry partners

What's unique about this course?

• Award-Winning Program: University of Wolverhampton named "Cyber University of The Year" at The National Cyber Awards 2022.
• Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Addresses the latest challenges in cyber security, including mobile devices, cloud technologies, and digital information threats.
• Flexible Study Options: Choose full-time (12-16 months) or part-time (2 years) study to suit your needs.
• Hands-On Learning: Access to cutting-edge technologies, tools, and techniques in cyber exploitation and defense.
• Expert-Led Teaching: Learn from active researchers and industry professionals, with opportunities for guest lectures from leading experts.

What happens on the course?

You will undertake a wide range of learning activities including:

• Computer-based learning
• Supported learning using the University VLE (CANVAS) as a learning tool, for information and interactive communications
• Lectures
• Tutorials (smaller group/one-to-one)
• Workshops
• Case studies
• Structured laboratory exercises
• Individual structured assignment-based learning
• Directed study
• Individual or group exercises
• Research project investigations

Assessment methods will include:

• Written reports
• Essays
• Literature reviews
• Exams
• Presentations

Course Modules

Year 1

• Ethical Hacking
  • Module: 7CS023
  • Credits: 20
  • Period: 1
  • Type: Core
• Incident Management and Response
  • Module: 7CS022
  • Credits: 20
  • Period: 1
  • Type: Core
• Information Assurance
  • Module: 7CS018
  • Credits: 20
  • Period: 1
  • Type: Core
• Internet of Things Security
  • Module: 7CS024
  • Credits: 20
  • Period: 1
  • Type: Core
• MSc Project Cyber Security
  • Module: 7CS020
  • Credits: 60
  • Period: 1
  • Type: Core
• Proactive Network Defence
  • Module: 7CS017
  • Credits: 20
  • Period: 1
  • Type: Core
• Research Methods in Computing
  • Module: 7CC009
  • Credits: 20
  • Period: 1
  • Type: Core

Potential Career Paths

• Information Security Analyst
• Penetration Tester
• Security Architect
• Lead Security Auditor
• Intrusion Analyst
• Information Systems Manager

Additional Information

Why Wolverhampton?

As a student in this course, you will have a learning journey underpinned by our innovative research projects and strong links with the government and industry. You will have access to our team at the Wolverhampton Cyber Research Institute (WCRI) to learn with a first-hand experience how we address the unique complexity and challenges associated with cybersecurity in a constantly evolving threat landscape.

What skills will you gain?

The educational aims of the course regarding knowledge and skills gained are:

You will enhance critical understanding and synthesis skills regarding security processes, techniques and methodologies around cyber security in a blended learning environment with strong hands-on explication using cutting-edge software and hardware. The course will cover cyber defence elements and state-of-the-art in exploitation techniques, threats and security risks in both targeted and multi-stage cyber-attacks in the cyberspace.

Course Fees and Finance

Location | Mode | Fee | Year ---|---|---|--- Home | Full-time | £8815 per year | Home | Full-time | £9088 per year | Home | Part-time | £4408 per year | Home | Part-time | £4544 per year | International | Full-time | £15950 per year | International | Full-time | £16950 per year |

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have or be about to complete:

• A recognised undergraduate or postgraduate degree (or equivalent qualification) in Computer Science or closely related subject from an accredited college, institution or university, equivalent to or higher than a UK Bachelor honours degree qualification.

OR

Work Experience Pathways:

• At least 3 years of relevant work experience, demonstrating in-depth knowledge of the sector for the subject matter you are interested in pursuing.

Funding

• Postgraduate Loan (Home Fee Status):
  • You may be able to get a postgraduate student loan from Student Finance England of up to £12,858 to help pay for a Master’s degree.
• Postgraduate Loyalty Discount:
  • You can get 20% discount on a taught on-site postgraduate course if you’re a University of Wolverhampton Graduate.
• Self-funded:
  • If you are paying for the fees yourself then the fees can be paid in 3 instalments: November, January and April.
• Sponsored - Your employer, embassy or organisation can pay for your Tuition fees:
  • Your employer, embassy or organisation agrees to pay all or part of your tuition fees; the University will refer to them as your sponsor and will invoice them for the appropriate amount.

University of Wolverhampton

---

Overview:

The University of Wolverhampton is a public university located in Wolverhampton, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as degree apprenticeships and CPD short courses. The university is known for its strong focus on student support and its commitment to providing a high-quality learning experience.

---

Services Offered:

The University of Wolverhampton offers a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

The university provides academic support services such as tutoring, writing workshops, and study skills development.

Student Support:

Students have access to a range of support services, including disability support, mature student support, and career guidance.

Accommodation:

The university offers a variety of on-campus accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.

IT Services:

Students have access to a range of IT services, including computer labs, Wi-Fi, and online learning platforms.

Library:

The university library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.

Gym:

The university has a gym with a variety of facilities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and sports courts.

Students' Union:

The Students' Union provides a range of services and activities for students, including social events, clubs, and societies.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Wolverhampton can expect a vibrant and supportive campus environment. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a number of facilities and services to support student life, including a gym, a Students' Union, and a library.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Student Support:

The university is known for its strong focus on student support, with a range of services available to help students succeed.

Affordable Living:

The university offers a variety of affordable accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.

High-Quality Learning Experience:

The university is committed to providing a high-quality learning experience, with experienced lecturers and modern facilities.

Strong Graduate Outcomes:

A high percentage of the university's graduates are employed or in further education within 15 months of graduation.

---

Academic Programs:

The University of Wolverhampton offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts, Business, and Social Sciences:

The university has a strong reputation in these fields, with programs in areas such as creative industries, social science, humanities, business, and law.

Education, Health, and Wellbeing:

The university offers a variety of programs in these fields, including education, nursing, midwifery, psychology, health and society, and sport.

Science and Engineering:

The university has a strong reputation in these fields, with programs in areas such as architecture, built environment, engineering, computing, mathematical sciences, life sciences, and pharmacy.

---

Other:

The university has a strong commitment to research, with a number of research centers and institutes. The university also has a strong international focus, with a number of programs and services for international students.