Course summary
Lead in cyber defence with practical skills and industry-aligned training. This Master’s degree in Advanced Cyber Security gives you the advanced knowledge and practical experience to respond to modern cyber threats and protect sensitive data, systems and networks from attack or misuse. Developed in collaboration with industry and aligned to National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recommendations and the CyBok framework, the course is built around three core themes: offensive security, defensive security and information security governance. You’ll graduate as a well-rounded cyber security expert, able to use industry tools to build secure systems and reduce risks. You’ll learn to conduct penetration testing (ethical hacking) and vulnerability analysis, will explore digital forensics and applied cryptography concepts, while also gaining the strategic insight to design policies and frameworks that reduce risk and ensure compliance with standards such as GDPR and ISO27701. Course modules are integrated with professional certifications including Cisco Networking (CCNA) and Cyber Security (CyberOps), Certified Ethical Hacking (CEH) and ISO27001 ISMS Auditing – available to study alongside your degree at reduced or no additional cost. You’ll also have the chance to engage in professional groups, cyber challenges and competitions to sharpen your skills, and as a Cardiff Met student you’ll benefit from our Academic Partnership with the Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec), qualifying for Student Membership and beginning your journey towards Chartered status. Possible exit points - MSc/PgD/PgC
Modules
The degree programme is comprised of 7 compulsory modules and a Dissertation project to develop your specific interests and expertise. All taught modules are 20 credits, unless specified. Information Security - Risks, Threat and Attacks (20 Credits) This module provides an insight into the implementation of data security in computer systems and aims to encourage students to appreciate the practical and theoretical management principles associated with information security. Human Centred Security (20 credits) This module provides an insight into usable security, social & behavioural factors impacting security, security culture and awareness, as well as the impact of security controls on user behaviours. Forensics (20 credits) This module explores computer forensics with specific focus on definitions, conceptual models, operating system and artifact analysis, main memory, application and cloud forensics. Secure Systems and Software (20 credits) This module provides detailed insights into privacy and security of systems & software, and approaches for designing secure systems & software using traditional and emerging secure SDLCs. Network Security (20 credits) This module explores Internet architecture, network protocols and vulnerabilities, network defence tools, wireless LAN, security, and Advanced network security topics including SDN, IoT. Applied Cryptography (20 credits) This module covers in-depth topics such applied cryptographic schemes, symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, cryptographic security models, and standard and advanced protocols. Research & Professional Practice (20 credits) The aim of this module is to equip the student with the skills, knowledge and techniques necessary to produce a dissertation with a research or technical focus. The module will be assessed through a written research proposal which can then be used as the basis for the dissertation. Cyber Security Dissertation (40 credits) The aim of the technology project is for the student to apply knowledge, skills and techniques developed during directed and independent study to solve a real-world computer security related project. The computer security project may take the form of an in-depth research project or the development of a computer security system. In either case, the module enables the student to advance their knowledge and understanding of real-world development projects and research through independent learning and critical evaluation. To obtain an MSc degree, you must follow and successfully complete a total of 180 credits. PgC (60 credits) and PgD (120 credits) may be awarded as standalone or exit awards.
Assessment method
The assessment strategy for the programme varies to ensure the most appropriate method for each specific module and subject area. Assessments take the form of individual or group coursework, research-based assignments, practical assessments, presentations, reports, class tests and a dissertation. Detailed, specific and timely feedback will be given to each students work according to the Cardiff Met guidelines.
Entry requirements
Applicants should meet one of the following: Possess, or expect to obtain, an undergraduate degree or equivalent, in a relevant area with a minimum of a 2:2 classification; Hold a suitable professional qualification from an appropriate professional body.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Republic of Ireland | £1225 | Module |
| England | £1225 | Module |
| Northern Ireland | £1225 | Module |
| Scotland | £1225 | Module |
| Wales | £1225 | Module |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Student Recruitment & Admissions
Western Avenue
Cardiff
CF5 2YB