MSc Cyber Security - University of London
The MSc Cyber Security program offers comprehensive training in cybersecurity fundamentals and advanced topics. Led by Royal Holloway's Information Security Group, students learn through real-world case studies, practical labs, and industry-relevant coursework. The program covers applied cryptography, security management, and behavior change, preparing graduates for roles like CISO and Security Consultant.
Instructors:
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Duration:
24-60 Months
₹ 14,11,725
Overview
The MSc Cyber Security program at University of London, with academic direction from Royal Holloway, offers a comprehensive education in modern cybersecurity. This flexible online program combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for high-level positions in the cybersecurity field. With over 3.4 million unfilled cybersecurity positions worldwide, graduates are well-positioned for career success.
Why MSc (Master of Science)?
The program stands out for its expert faculty from Royal Holloway's Information Security Group, flexible completion options, and focus on real-world applications. Students benefit from Royal Holloway's top 30 UK university ranking and internationally recognized cybersecurity expertise.
What does this course have to offer?
Key Highlights
10 core modules plus project module
Flexible 2-5 year completion timeline
Real-world case studies and lab sessions
Expert instruction from active professionals
Globally recognized qualification
Comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum
Who is this programme for?
Career switchers entering cybersecurity
Aspiring Chief Information Security Officers
Cybersecurity professionals seeking advancement
IT professionals expanding security expertise
Individuals interested in information security careers
Minimum Eligibility
Bachelor's degree (2nd class honors or equivalent)
Professional experience for PBA route
English language proficiency
Access to computer and internet
Who is the programme for?
The program offers two admission routes: direct entry requiring a UK second-class honours degree or equivalent, and performance-based admission for those with professional experience. The academic structure consists of 10 core modules and one project module, each contributing 15 credits and lasting 10 weeks.
Important Dates
Selection process
How to apply?
Curriculum
The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications across 11 total modules. Core topics include applied cryptography, security management, and behavior change. Each module incorporates real-world case studies and hands-on lab sessions to develop practical skills.
There are 11 semesters in this course
The program consists of 10 core modules and one project module. Students study various aspects of cybersecurity including system security, network infrastructure, cryptography, and security management. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications through simulated scenarios and case studies, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Cyber Security Foundation (CYM010)
This foundational module provides a comprehensive overview of cyber security fundamentals, exploring essential concepts, contemporary challenges, and key technologies. Students develop practical understanding of security principles while learning to apply these concepts across various security contexts, preparing them for advanced study in subsequent modules.
Virtual Linux desktop (UDP and TCP)
command line
processes
networking
Basic Python
Vim
IntelliJ
Security Management and Governance (CYM020)
A practical exploration of effective security management approaches, emphasizing industry standards and risk-based methodologies. The module integrates real-world case studies of security failures to demonstrate the critical importance of proper management practices, legal compliance, auditing procedures, and human factors in maintaining robust cyber security.
Cybercrime (CYM030)
A multidimensional analysis of the cybercrime landscape that combines economic, technical, political, legal, and psychological perspectives. The module examines contemporary cybercrime evolution, actor motivations, and technical mechanisms while exploring law enforcement capabilities and investigative challenges through real-world case studies.
Penetration tools
VirtualBox
Kali Linux
Open Source Digital Forensics
WinHex Editor
Applied Cryptography (CYM040)
A comprehensive examination of cryptography's role in supporting everyday application security, focusing on modern implementations across internet services, mobile communications, wireless networks, and cryptocurrency systems. The module develops critical decision-making skills for selecting and implementing appropriate cryptographic tools while considering broader infrastructure requirements.
Network and Infrastructure Security (CYM050)
A detailed study of critical network and infrastructure technologies, examining protocols, computer networks, data centres, and operational technologies essential for organizational success. The module covers system vulnerabilities, exploitation techniques, and security testing methodologies through practical applications.
Inspect certificates
Wireshark
BGP
passwordless login
SSH keys
firewall configuration
site-to-site VPN
host-based intrusion and prevention system
SQL injection protection
CSRF prevention
SMTP message forging
Computer Systems Security (CYM060)
An in-depth exploration of security mechanisms within modern computing environments, covering core security policies, models, and implementation strategies. The module addresses system vulnerabilities, authentication methods, access control, and emerging technologies including virtualization, containers, and cloud infrastructure.
Linux fundamentals
Linux privilege escalation
Exploiting Linux vulnerabilities and CVEs (SambaCry Dirty Pipe)
Binary exploitation
Software and Applications Security (CYM070)
A comprehensive overview of secure software development principles and practices, focusing on identifying common vulnerabilities and implementing secure programming methodologies. The module examines security considerations across web and cloud environments while addressing the challenges of malicious software.
Security and behaviour change (CYM080)
An examination of the critical relationship between human behavior and security effectiveness across individual and organizational contexts. The module applies concepts from behavioral economics, decision-making theory, and psychology to understand and influence security behaviors while exploring the development of security culture.
Information Privacy (CYM090)
A thorough investigation of organizational data privacy challenges, examining legal requirements, governance frameworks, and technological solutions. The module covers privacy impact assessments, de-identification techniques, and emerging privacy-enhancing technologies while exploring real-world applications through case studies.
Research Methods for Cyber Security (CYM100)
A foundational preparation for the dissertation project, developing essential research methodologies and project planning skills. The module culminates in a comprehensive project proposal including literature review and detailed project planning.
Project (CYM500) MSc only
An independent research initiative demonstrating advanced understanding of cyber security through either academic research or professional investigation. The project represents the culmination of the MSc program, showcasing individual expertise and analytical capabilities in addressing real-world security challenges.
Programme Length
The program offers flexible completion between 24 and 60 months, allowing students to balance their studies with professional commitments. Students can take up to two new modules per session, with each module requiring approximately 150 hours of study.
Tuition Fee
Total program costs range from £9,913 to £13,445 depending on geographic location. The University offers flexible payment options and potential scholarships, including a 10% bursary for University of London graduates.
Fee Structure
Payment options
Financial Aid
Learning Experience
Students engage through a digital-first environment combining synchronous and asynchronous learning. The program features interactive study materials, video lectures, online discussions, and collaborative projects. Regular engagement with professors and peers ensures a dynamic learning experience.
University Experience
The University of London provides comprehensive online resources including a Student Portal, university email, and access to the Coursera platform. Students can participate in virtual discussions, access electronic study materials, and receive support from London-based teams.
About the University
The University of London (UoL) is a federal public research university located in London, England. Established by royal charter in 1836, it is one of the oldest universities in the UK and comprises 17 self-governing colleges and 10 specialist research institutes. The university serves approximately 135,090 campus-based students and over 45,000 students enrolled in its international programs, making it the largest university in the UK by student enrollment.UoL was originally created as an examining body for students from University College London and King's College London. Over the years, it has expanded to include a diverse range of institutions, including the London School of Economics (LSE), King's College London, and Goldsmiths. The university is known for its commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence.
#101
QS World University Ranking
135,090
Total Enrollment
Affiliation & Recognition
Russell Group
Career services
The University of London provides comprehensive career services designed to support students in their professional development. These services include personalized career counseling, workshops on resume writing and interview preparation, as well as access to job fairs featuring top employers across various sectors. The university emphasizes experiential learning through internships that allow students to gain practical experience while studying. The Career Services office maintains partnerships with numerous organizations to facilitate internship placements aligned with students' career goals. Additionally, online resources are available that include job listings and career advice articles.
Duration:
24-60 Months
₹ 14,11,725
Whom you will learn from?
Learn from top industry experts who bring real-world experience and deep knowledge to every lesson. The instructors are dedicated to help you achieve your goals with practical insights and hands-on guidance.
Instructors
Director of Cyber Security Distance Learning Programme
Dr. Fauzia Idrees is the Director of the Cyber Security Distance Learning Programme in the Department of Information Security at Royal Holloway University of London. She holds an MBA in Leadership and Management from the University of Kent and a PhD in Information Security, focusing on malware detection through Android permissions and intents from City University London. Dr. Idrees has contributed to various research outputs and projects, including the establishment of the National CyberSecurity Center of Pakistan. She has received multiple awards for her contributions to education and technology, including the UN Excellence Award for Women in Science & Technology and the Roger Mills Prize for Innovation in Education. Her work aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas such as quality education, gender equality, and innovation.
Professor of Computer Science at Royal Holloway
Professor Chris Mitchell is a distinguished academic in the Department of Information Security at Royal Holloway University of London, where he has served as Professor of Computer Science since 1990. He obtained his BSc and PhD degrees in Mathematics from Westfield College, University of London, in 1975 and 1979, respectively. He was the Head of the Department from 2021 to 2023 and co-founded the Information Security Group in 1990, contributing to the establishment of the MSc in Information Security. His research primarily focuses on information security, particularly the applications of cryptography. Professor Mitchell is also the co-editor-in-chief of Designs, Codes and Cryptography and has been actively involved in information security standardization for over 30 years.
Testimonials
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Faculties
These are the expert instructors who will be teaching you throughout the course. With a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, they’re here to guide, inspire, and support you every step of the way. Get to know the people who will help you reach your learning goals and make the most of your journey.
Instructors
Expert in Marketing and Consumer Culture
Alan Bradshaw is a Professor of Marketing and the Head of Department at Royal Holloway, University of London. With previous academic appointments at the University of Exeter and the University of Stockholm, and honorary faculty status at St Andrews, he brings a wealth of experience to his role. He is the co-author of Advertising Revolution and co-editor of The Dictionary of Coronavirus Culture (both published by Repeater Books), as well as contributing to The Production and Consumption of Music. In addition to his teaching and research, Professor Bradshaw serves as Associate Editor for the Journal of Marketing Management and the Journal of Macromarketing, where he publishes research on consumer culture, drawing insights from various disciplines including sociology, cultural studies, political economy, philosophy, and geography.
Expert in Technology Management and Operations
Alan Pilkington is a Professor of Technology Management and a chartered engineer with extensive academic and industry experience. He has held academic positions across multiple countries and collaborated with international companies, including Deliveroo, du, and Jaguar Land Rover. His research in technology management and operations has been published in prestigious journals such as the Journal of Operations Management and California Management Review. Additionally, he is the author of a significant textbook on Operations Management published by McGraw Hill, further establishing his expertise in the field.
Instructors
Director of Cyber Security Distance Learning Programme
Dr. Fauzia Idrees is the Director of the Cyber Security Distance Learning Programme in the Department of Information Security at Royal Holloway University of London. She holds an MBA in Leadership and Management from the University of Kent and a PhD in Information Security, focusing on malware detection through Android permissions and intents from City University London. Dr. Idrees has contributed to various research outputs and projects, including the establishment of the National CyberSecurity Center of Pakistan. She has received multiple awards for her contributions to education and technology, including the UN Excellence Award for Women in Science & Technology and the Roger Mills Prize for Innovation in Education. Her work aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas such as quality education, gender equality, and innovation.
Professor of Computer Science at Royal Holloway
Professor Chris Mitchell is a distinguished academic in the Department of Information Security at Royal Holloway University of London, where he has served as Professor of Computer Science since 1990. He obtained his BSc and PhD degrees in Mathematics from Westfield College, University of London, in 1975 and 1979, respectively. He was the Head of the Department from 2021 to 2023 and co-founded the Information Security Group in 1990, contributing to the establishment of the MSc in Information Security. His research primarily focuses on information security, particularly the applications of cryptography. Professor Mitchell is also the co-editor-in-chief of Designs, Codes and Cryptography and has been actively involved in information security standardization for over 30 years.
Frequently asked questions
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this course. We aim to provide clear and concise answers to help you better understand the course content, structure, and any other relevant information. If you have any additional questions or if your question is not listed here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for further assistance.
The program can be completed in 24-60 months, with flexible pacing options
Work experience is not mandatory for direct entry, but may be considered for performance-based admission
100% online through a digital-first environment with expert tuition and peer interaction