Our Cyber Security MSc focuses on information and system security and the analysis of complex systems, including machine learning.
Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK
From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK.
Read our detailed explanation.
Applications for this course are now open
You can now apply for September 2021 entry.
About this course
Cyber Security is a dynamic area of computing science, and is about understanding how:
- the features and vulnerabilities of a system can be exploited by attackers
- to detect, prevent and respond to these attackers.
Cyber Security is also a process, requiring input from and interaction with end-users, stakeholders, decision-makers or system designers.
The MSc is designed for honours graduates in computing science, or a discipline with a significant computing component, for example:
- engineering
- systems engineering
- mathematics.
You should have a good background in computer systems, including programming. We also value relevant industrial computing experience and transferable skills.
Research groups and centres
Newcastle has a first class record of research and development in dependable and secure computing. We have leading international research groups and three research centres focusing on a wide range of computer science fields, including:
- security and resilience
- dependable systems
- cybercrime
- cloud computing.
Related courses
This course is part of a suite of closely related courses:
- Cloud Computing MSc
- Advanced Computer Science MSc
- Data Science MSc
All four courses share modules, creating a tight-knit student cohort that has encouraged collaborations on projects undertaking interdisciplinary research.
Delivery
The School of Computing delivers the course. You can study over one year full time or two years part time. The course has three phases.
In phase one (60 credits) we introduce core knowledge and skills through modules. These modules are taught in intensive block mode, with pairs of modules being taught concurrently in 4 weeks of lectures and lab classes during the day.
In phase two (60 credits) we emphasise analysis, research and communication skills, including a team project.
Phase three (60 credits) is an individual research or development project undertaken with personal supervision in one of the School's research labs, or in industry. Recent projects have involved original work in areas like biometrics, cloud computing, secure e-voting and anti-phishing technology. Phase 2 and Phase 3 overlap.
Accreditation
The course is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). The BCS is the chartered institute for IT. Studying a BCS-accredited degree provides the foundation for professional membership of the BCS on graduation and is the first step to becoming a chartered IT professional.
The School of Computing at Newcastle University is an accredited and a recognised Partner in the Network of Teaching Excellence in Computer Science.
Facilities
You will have dedicated computing facilities in the School of Computing. You will have access to the latest tools for system analysis and development, as well as an allocated PC and desk space in a project lab. For certain projects, special facilities for networking can be set up as required.
You will enjoy access to specialist IT facilities to support your studies, including:
- over 300 PCs running Linux and Windows
- an immersive virtual reality suite
- motion capture facilities
- 3D printing facilities
- Graphics Processing Unit
- Cloud scale virtualisation facilities
- Linux based home pages and student hosting services
- haptic and wearable computing hardware
Urban Sciences building
We are located in the £58m purpose-built Urban Sciences Building. Our building offers fantastic new facilities for our students and academic community. The building is part of Newcastle Helix, a £350 million project bringing together:
- academia
- the public sector
- communities
- business and industry
