Course summary
Attacks on computer systems and technology are increasing, making cyber security a growing discipline. With a shortage of experts to deal with the threat, graduates with the right skills are likely to be in high demand. This is a practical Cyber Security course where you will work with industry to become a highly skilled graduate. Through projects and study, you will learn how to keep computer systems free of interference and find solutions to real-life problems. You will work directly on 'live briefs' from industry, so your training will stay relevant and address current issues and topics. This hands-on approach will also enable you to gain industry contacts and understand what will be expected of you in the workplace when you graduate. This Cyber Security degree is part of the National Cyber Security Academy, which brings theUniversity, Welsh Government and industry experts together to tackle the skills gap and create experts who can fight against cybercrime. USW's Cyber Security degree has three main themes: penetration testing, digital forensics, and governance. During the first year, you will study all three topics, then you can specialise in one of these fields as you progress through your studies. You will study in our Secure Operations Centre, based in Newport, which is equipped with specialist cyber security software and facilities. You will also have mentors from the industry and the University who will support and guide you. This workplace environment emulates what it's like to work in cyber security, so it differs from traditional classroom-based teaching. Given this nature of the degree, assessments are entirely project-based. This Cyber Security course is based at our Newport Campus. Right at the heart of the city, overlooking the River Usk, is one of the University’s most iconic buildings and it couldn’t be in a better location to embrace city life in Newport. Plus, the Halls of Residence are just a few minutes’ walk away, so you won’t have to get up too early for your early morning lectures!
How to apply
31Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- 7B9P
- Institution code:
- W01
- Campus name:
- Newport
- Campus code:
- C
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 104 points
A level - BCC
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - DMM
Access to HE Diploma
Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (last awarded Summer 2024) - C
GCSE/National 4/National 5
T Level - Pass (C and above)
GCSEs: The University normally requires a minimum 5 GCSEs including Mathematics and English at Grade C or above, or their equivalent but consideration is given to individual circumstances.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
Go onto work and study
The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| EU | £9000 | Year 1 |
| England | £9000 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9000 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9000 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9000 | Year 1 |
| International | £12600 | Year 1 |
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
Students have access to a wide range of resources including textbooks, publications, and computers in the University’s library and via online resources. In most cases they are more than sufficient to complete a course of study. Where there are additional costs, either obligatory or optional, these are detailed on the University website (on individual course pages). Of course students may choose to purchase their own additional personal resources/tools over and above those listed to support their studies at their own expense. All stationery and printing costs are at a student’s own expense.
Students from Wales and the EU may be eligible for a means-tested Welsh Government Learning Grant. Please visit the University website for full details.
Provider information
University of South Wales
Llantwit Road
Treforest
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL