Program Overview

Overview

The Cyber Security MSc is a postgraduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today's cyber security domains. The program explores cyber security theories, principles, practices, technologies, and more, with a focus on information security, system security, and network security.

What You'll Learn

Students will develop practical and high-level skills to assess the security of systems, including cyber, physical, and human factors. They will also learn how to make security recommendations and build more secure and safe systems. The program covers topics such as:

• Information Security and Cryptography
• Secure Software Development
• Security of Complex Systems
• Research Methods and Group Project in Security and Resilience
• Project and Dissertation in Cyber Security
• Advanced Topics in Cyber Security
• Systems Security
• Network Security and Ethical Hacking
• Risk and Trust Management

How You'll Learn

The program is delivered in three phases:

1. Phase one: Introduces core knowledge and skills through modules taught in intensive block mode.
2. Phase two: Emphasizes analysis, research, and communication skills, including a team project.
3. Phase three: An individual research or development project with a cyber security focus, undertaken with personal supervision.

Your Development

The program aims to develop practical skills, such as identifying and managing security risks, detecting and responding to cyber threats, and designing secure systems. Students will also gain transferable skills, including:

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Creative and critical thinking
• Time and resource management

Your Future

Graduates from this program have an excellent record of finding employment in various roles, including:

• Data Warehouse Consultant
• Senior Quality Assurance Engineer
• Civil Servant
• IT Analyst
• IT Security Engineer The program also provides a route into PhD-level study, with several recent graduates progressing to postgraduate research study at Newcastle University.

Quality and Ranking

Newcastle University is recognized for its research excellence, with 42% of its research classified as 4* world-leading. The university is also ranked among the top 140 globally and top 160 in the world for sustainable development.

Facilities

The School of Computing is based in the £58 million Urban Sciences Building, which provides dedicated computing facilities, including:

• Over 300 PCs running Linux and Windows
• An immersive virtual reality suite
• Motion capture facilities
• 3D printing facilities
• Cloud-scale virtualization facilities

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for 2026 entry are:

• Home students: £14,500 per year
• International students: £31,700 per year The university offers a range of scholarships, including a 25% discount for EU students without settled or pre-settled status.

Entry Requirements

The program requires a 2:1 honors degree or international equivalent in computer science or a discipline with significant computing content. Applicants should also have a good background in computer systems, including programming. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be considered for applicants with relevant industrial computing experience.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted online, and there is no application closing date. However, international students are advised to apply at least two months before the course starts. A deposit of £1,500 is required for international students who need a visa to study in the UK. The program starts in September, and applicants can contact the Admissions Secretary for more information.