Overview
Learn how to identify new and existing cyber threats and determine methods and processes to minimise attacks. Gain skills in a real-life business context, by cracking passwords and wireless networks and testing web applications for vulnerabilities and security breaches.
Find out more about teaching options and studying during COVID-19 in the Entry requirements section, below.
Careers
The 2015 Global Information Security Workforce Study predicts that the global cyber security workforce shortage will reach 1.5 million by 2020, as demand outstrips supply. This means that there hasn't been a better time to join the cyber security sector.
Computer security is a fast developing area and your skills in computer, network and information security could see you working closely with lawyers, government, commercial organisations, the education sector and investigation agencies, as well as the finance and e-commerce sectors and national security organisations.
You’re also in the perfect position to continue your academic career and move up to our research degree Computer Science PhD.
Modules & assessment
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Computer Networks
Working with industry based standards and devices you’ll learn the fundamental networking concepts required by skilled IT professionals. You’ll identify the communication model and the protocols associated in each layer while focusing on Local Area Networks and the role of routers and switches. You’ll cover the OSI model, the TCP/IP protocol suite, IPv4 and IPv6 addressing schemes, and router and switch configuration. You’ll learn practical skills as well as theory as you spend time in the labs solving real-life scenario and critically evaluating possible solutions. -
Operating Systems and Virtualisation
Rather than working with a specific operating system, such as Windows and/or Linux, you’ll work with the generalities of modern operating systems through theory and practice. This means you’ll identify the role of the operating system when dealing with a security breach within the organisation, regardless of the type of environment where the operating system has been deployed. You’ll also be introduced to virtualised environments, from foundations concepts to deployment while using industry standard equipment and toolsets. -
Secure Systems
With the growth of high bandwidth internet, eCommerce, eBusiness and Virtual Private Networks, security has become a centre-stage issue. This module will raise your awareness of the overarching IT security issues faced by business today, and equip yourself with the necessary understanding to fulfil management responsibilities in information security strategies. -
Research Methods
Gain support and foundations in the research skills needed for your Masters level dissertation. You’ll investigate research activities including project management, research project design and analyses, ethical considerations and dissertation preparation. -
Advanced Network Security Principles
Gain an introduction to current best practices in network security and the skills you'll need for the installation, troubleshooting and monitoring of network devices to maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data and devices. -
Penetration Testing
Penetration testers simulate cyber-attacks to find security weaknesses in networks, operating systems, and applications. You’ll gain hands-on experience using different tools and techniques for penetration testing by working in our specialised lab, which is already equipped with tools such as Kali LInux, Wireshark, Nmap and Burp Suite. Using industry standard equipment you’ll learn how to crack passwords and wireless networks and test web applications for vulnerabilities. You’ll use the Metasploit framework to launch exploits and write your own Metasploit modules, automate social-engineering attacks, bypass antivirus software and turn access to one machine into total control of the enterprise in the post exploitation phase. -
Major Project
This module supports students in the preparation and submission of a Master's stage project, dissertation or artefact. The Module provides the opportunity for students to select and explore in-depth, a topic that is of interest and relevant to their course in which they can develop a significant level of expertise. It enables students to: demonstrate their ability to generate significant and meaningful questions in relation to their specialism; undertake independent research using appropriate, recognised methods based on current theoretical research knowledge, critically understand method and its relationship to knowledge; develop a critical understanding of current knowledge in relation to the chosen subject and to critically analyse and evaluate information and data, which may be complex or contradictory, and draw meaningful and justifiable conclusions; develop the capability to expand or redefine existing knowledge, to develop new approaches to changing situations and/or develop new approaches to changing situations and contribute to the development of best practice; demonstrate an awareness of and to develop solutions to ethical dilemmas likely to arise in their research or professional practice; communicate these processes in a clear and elegant fashion; evaluate their work from the perspective of an autonomous reflective learner.
Assessment
We’ll asses your knowledge and understanding through case studies in which you’ll design, implement and test the security strategy of an organisation. You’ll also complete in-class tests, written assignments, software projects and presentations as part of the course.
Where you'll study
Your faculty
The Faculty of Science & Engineering is one of the largest of the four faculties at Anglia Ruskin University. Whether you choose to study with us full-time or part-time, on campus or at a distance, there’s an option whatever your level – from a foundation degree, BSc, MSc, PhD or professional doctorate.
Whichever course you pick, you’ll gain the theory and practical skills needed to progress with confidence. Join us and you could find yourself learning in the very latest laboratories or on field trips or work placements with well-known and respected companies. You may even have the opportunity to study abroad.
Everything we do in the faculty has a singular purpose: to provide a world-class environment to create, share and advance knowledge in science, technology and engineering fields. This is key to all of our futures.
Where can I study?
Cambridge
Our campus is close to the centre of Cambridge, often described as the perfect student city.
Fees & funding
Course fees
UK students starting 2022/23 (full-time, per year)
£9,500
UK students starting 2022/23 (part-time, per year)
£4,750
International students starting 2022/23 (full-time, per year)
£15,000
International students starting 2022/23 (part-time, per year)
£7,500
How do I pay my fees?
UK students
You can pay your fees upfront, in full or in instalments – though you won't need to pay until you've accepted an offer to study with us.
How to pay your fees directlyInternational students
You can pay your fees upfront, in full or in two instalments. We will also ask you for a deposit of £4,000 or a sponsorship letter. Details will be in your offer letter.
Paying your feesFunding for postgraduate students
It’s important to decide how to fund your course before applying. Use our finance guide for postgraduate students to learn more about postgraduate loans and other funding options.
We offer a fantastic range of ARU scholarships and bursaries, which provide extra financial support while you're at university.
International students
As well as a number of scholarships, we offer an early payment discount. Explore your options:
Entry requirements
Important additional notes
Whether you're studying entirely online or through a blend of face-to-face and online learning from September 2021, you'll need a computer and reliable internet access to successfully engage with your course. Before starting the course, we recommend that you check our technical requirements for online learning. Our website also has general information for new students about starting university in 2021-22.
Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements. Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course, please email answers@aru.ac.uk for further information.
Teaching options
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, face-to-face campus teaching is supported by online learning using our established online learning systems. The number of contact hours varies course by course, and you can contact us for further information. The provision offered is subject to change due to the possibility of further Government restrictions, however we remain committed to delivering face-to-face teaching and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment.
In the event that there are further changes to the current restrictions that are in place due to the pandemic, we may need to move some courses online only at short notice to remain in line with Government guidelines and ensure the continued safety of our students and staff.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, you'll need to make sure you meet our English language requirements for postgraduate courses.
Check the standard entry requirements for IELTS requirements for this course.
International students
We welcome applications from international and EU students, and accept a range of international qualifications.
Whether you're studying entirely online or through a blend of face-to-face and online learning from September 2020, you'll need a computer and reliable internet access to successfully engage with your course. Before starting the course, we recommend that you check our technical requirements for online learning.
Improving your English language skills
If you don't meet our English language requirements, we offer a range of courses which could help you achieve the level required for entry.
We also provide our own English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT) in the UK and overseas. To find out if we are planning to hold an ELPT in your country, contact our country managers.
