Program Overview

MSc Cyber Security (Graduate Apprenticeship)

The MSc Cyber Security (Graduate Apprenticeship) is a postgraduate program designed to provide students with expert knowledge and skills in the field of cyber security. This program is fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre and meets the criteria defined for Scottish Graduate Apprenticeship Master’s Degrees providing a General Foundation in Cyber Security.

Key Facts

• Start date: September
• Study mode and duration: Work-based learning in combination with online and on campus study, 18 months part-time
• NCSC Certification: Fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre
• Scholarships: 25 fully funded places available
• Graduate Apprenticeship: Applicants must be employed in Scotland, in a role involving cyber security

Study with Us

This program allows students to gain a master's degree whilst in paid employment, with flexibility to work and study. Classes and learning are structured to fit around work and other commitments, and students do not need to be online at specific times. The program is designed in partnership with industry, and students learn from experienced, industry-facing cyber security academics and researchers.

Course Content

The program focuses on integrating learning with the world of work. During the first 10 months, students study three core modules followed by three specialized modules, alongside work-based learning. In the final eight months, students undertake a research project and dissertation module.

Core Modules

• Information Security Fundamentals
• Advanced Information Security
• Advanced Topics in Information Security

Specialized Modules

• Information Security Research Project and Dissertation
• Work-based Learning in Information Security
• Digital Forensics and Incidence Response
• Compliance and Operational Security Management
• Vulnerability Assessment and Security Testing

Learning and Teaching

Students combine academic theory with professional practice, typically spending about 80% of their work time in their job, and 20% on developing expert knowledge and skills through a combination of online and on campus learning. Students attend classes on campus one day every three weeks, with dates supplied in advance to support planning work and learning commitments.

Assessment

Each module involves a range of formative and summative assessments, including online discussion contributions, online quizzes, practical laboratory exercises, and individual and group assignments.

Support from the University

As a MSc Cyber Security student, students are full University of Strathclyde students, with access to the same facilities, support services, and learning resources as students who study full-time on campus. Students receive one-to-one support from a learning adviser and are given a laptop preloaded with the software required for the program.

Entry Requirements

Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Students typically have a 2:1 BSc Honours degree in Computer Science or a related discipline. Students must be employed in a role with an aspect of cyber security, for a minimum of 21 hours a week, live and work in Scotland for the duration of the program, and have the agreement of their employer to undertake the MSc Cyber Security.

Fees & Funding

Fees may be subject to updates to maintain accuracy. Tuition fees will be notified in the offer letter. The program is fully funded by the Scottish Government through the Scottish Funding Council and the Scotland Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS).