Program Overview

MSc Cyber Security

Course Summary

The MSc Cyber Security course prepares students for a career in computing security, with a focus on developing the skills and knowledge needed to protect and defend against cyber-attacks. The course is accredited by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and covers the Cyber-Body of Knowledge (CyBok), industry-standard techniques that many employers are seeking.

How You Learn

The course explores the fundamentals of network security, information security, ethical hacking, and cyber threat intelligence. Students learn through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical laboratory sessions, and access to digital and online resources.

Modules

• Cyber Threat Intelligence And Digital Forensics (40 credits)
• Dissertation For Cyber Security And Computer Networks (40 credits)
• Hacking Techniques And Countermeasures (20 credits)
• Network And Information Security (40 credits)
• Research Methods And Strategies (20 credits)
• Standard Based Security Audit And Assessment (20 credits)

Future Careers

The MSc Cyber Security course prepares students for careers in:

• Pen testing
• Information security
• Security consultancy
• Threat analysis
• Risk management

Previous graduates have worked for companies such as Airbus, Deloitte, HSBC, DataGuard, South Yorkshire Police, and the Regional Cyber Crime Unit.

Equipment and Facilities

Students have access to industry-standard specialist software, including virtual learning cyber security platforms like Hack The Box, a dedicated red-blue team cyber security lab, and digital forensics tools like FTK, Encase, Axiom, and Cellebrite.

Where Will I Study?

The course is based at City Campus, located in the heart of Sheffield, within minutes of the train and bus stations.

Entry Requirements

• A good level of general education with good analytical skills
• An ambition to develop to a high level in the area of information security
• A degree 2.2 or above in computing or a closely-related discipline
• At least one year's direct work experience in information security or a closely related discipline (for those without a degree)
• IELTS score of 6.0 with 5.5 in all skills (or equivalent) for non-native speakers of English

Fees and Funding

• Home students: £10,620 for the course
• International/EU students: £17,725 for the course
• Postgraduate student loans: up to £12,858 available in 2025/26 for home students on most masters courses

Additional Course Costs

• General course additional costs
• Additional costs for School of Computing and Digital Technologies (PDF, 131.3KB)