Overview
Protecting critical systems, data and networks from digital attack is a huge challenge in today’s world of modern computing.
Our MSc Cyber Security is a postgraduate applied computing course, which acts as the perfect launchpad for a career in the rapidly growing field of cyber security.
This course will allow you to solve complex cyber security problems with expert-level ability. You’ll be equipped with specialist knowledge and analytical skills that combine industry best practice with sound academic principles.
The course covers a number of key areas, including:
- infrastructure security – focusing on perimeter security (firewalls, intrusion prevention systems)
- virtual private networks and device hardening
- cyber operations – including classes in our purpose-built Secure Operations Centre (SOC)
- penetration testing and cyber defence
- forensics and information security management.
When you graduate, you'll be ready to:
- resolve digital, cyber and network security problems
- design, develop and manage computing and network solutions for the resolution of cyber security issues
- evaluate current and emergent technologies within their legal, social, ethical and commercial contexts.
In addition to the formal content of the course, GCU is home to the student-led Ethical Hacking Society and a student chapter of Women In Cyber Security (WiCyS).
Why study Cyber Security at GCU?
- This course is accredited by the UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), assuring high-quality, industry-relevant content aligned to national cyber security standards.
- Designed to help you transition into the specialty – this degree is open to both graduates with industry experience but without a degree in cyber security and applicants with a prior degree in cyber security who are seeking an accredited route to advance their career.
- Build real-world skills in modern networking and cyber labs, including experience in a Secure Operations Centre (SOC) environment.
- Keep pace with a fast-moving industry through a course shaped by current trends, building the skills employers need across networks, cyber security and digital forensics.
- Develop practical skills in security, VPN technologies, penetration testing, attack mitigation, and incidence response, preparing you for specialist cyber security careers.
Accreditations
What you will study
We aim to display the most up-to-date information possible.
The modules listed on this page and the Programme Specification are intended to give you an idea of what you may be able to study on this course. Please note that course content, modules, teaching and assessment may change each year and after you have accepted your offer to study at GCU. This might be because we are required to do so by law, by a governmental authority, regulator or accrediting body. We may also make changes for quality assurance reasons, or to enhance the course.
Careers
When you graduate with our MSc Cyber Security, you’ll be well placed to work across multiple sectors, including:
- finance
- healthcare
- critical infrastructure
- consultancy
- technology.
This course will prepare you for a career in a variety of cyber security roles, including:
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Security Tester
- Security Engineer
- Cyber Security and Information Risk Advisor
- Cyber Security / Information Assurance Architect
- Information Security Accreditor
- Cyber Security / Information Assurance Auditor
- IT / Network Security Engineer
- Cyber Security Forensics Analyst.
A career in cyber security is set to be long-term and enduring.
Every day, we see:
- the ongoing digitisation of services
- growth in online transactions
- evolving threat landscapes
- stronger regulatory requirements
- an increased focus on resilience and incident readiness.
All of this points to the current and future relevance of a career in cyber security.
The latest UK government labour market report (2025) estimates that there are approximately 143,000 individuals employed in cyber roles across the UK.
In addition, nearly half of businesses were found to have a basic skills gap around essential security components such as firewalls, personal data management and detecting malware. This shortage demonstrates the need for cyber-related skills – and that’s where you come in.
Course information
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Download the programme specification
In addition to the core modules that all students must undertake, some courses offer students a choice from a selection of optional modules to shape the focus their degree. Optional modules where available, form part of the overall credit structure of the course.
Download the programme specification for a detailed breakdown of the course structure, including modules, what you'll learn and other useful information.
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