Program Overview

MSc Cyber Security

Course Summary

The MSc Cyber Security course prepares students for a career in computing security, focusing on the development of skills and knowledge in network security, information security, ethical hacking, and cyber threat intelligence. 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

Students learn through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical laboratory sessions, and access to digital and online resources. The course includes:

• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Problem-solving activities
• Practical projects
• Teamwork
• Reports
• Demonstrations
• Real-world case studies
• Discussions
• Presentations
• Structured walk-throughs

Modules

Year 1

• Cyber Threat Intelligence And Digital Forensics (40 credits)
• Network And Information Security (40 credits)
• Research Methods And Strategies (20 credits)

Year 2

• Dissertation For Cyber Security And Computer Networks (40 credits)
• Hacking Techniques And Countermeasures (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 and facilities, including:

• Virtual learning cyber security platforms like Hack The Box
• A dedicated red-blue team cyber security lab
• 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 non-standard entry)

Fees and Funding

The tuition fee for UK students starting part-time study in 2026/27 is £10,940 for the course. Postgraduate student loans of up to £12,858 are available for home students on most masters courses.

Additional Course Costs

Estimated additional costs for the course include:

• General course additional costs
• Additional costs for School of Computing and Digital Technologies (PDF, 600.1KB)