1. Anglia Ruskin University Cambridge Campus
  2. Program
  3. Masters
  4. MSc Cyber Security

MSc Cyber Security

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

Anglia Ruskin University Cambridge Campus

Program Overview

The MSc Cyber Security at Anglia Ruskin University trains students to analyse cyber-threats, secure networks and systems, perform penetration testing, and investigate digital incidents. It suits students with computing or technical backgrounds who want practical, industry-aligned security skills.

Curriculum structure

Students begin with Computer Security, Advanced Network Security Principles, and Secure Systems, developing an understanding of operating systems, networks, vulnerabilities and secure architecture design. They then move on to advanced modules such as Penetration Testing, Digital Forensics and Malware Analysis, and Web Application Security, gaining hands-on experience with attack simulation, forensic investigation and secure application development. The course concludes with a Major Project, where students design and implement a full cybersecurity solution, such as a security audit, secure-system build or forensic analysis.

Focus areas: “Network Security, Penetration Testing, Digital Forensics, Malware Analysis, Secure Systems, Web Security”

Learning outcomes: “Secure networks and systems; conduct penetration testing; perform forensic and malware analysis; design security architectures; implement defensive measures; complete an applied cybersecurity project.”

Professional alignment (accreditation): Aligns with global cybersecurity standards and supports preparation for professional certifications such as CISSP.

Reputation (employability rankings): ARU is known for strong practical training in computing and security, supporting high employability in cybersecurity, penetration testing, forensic analysis and security engineering roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSc Cyber Security at ARU provides hands-on, practical skills in dedicated Cyber Security and Networking labs. Students work with real-world attack and defence scenarios using industry-standard tools and simulated environments to build technical expertise.

This applied learning is delivered through:

  • Specialist Facilities: Access to the Cyber Security and Networking Lab, equipped with Cisco hardware and software and configured for safe, isolated penetration testing and digital forensics exercises.

  • Software & Tools: Use of professional tools such as Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, Autopsy, Kali Linux, and VirtualBox/VMware for creating segmented test networks.

  • Group Projects: A core collaborative security project where students work in teams to address a complex security challenge, such as designing defensive architectures or conducting forensic investigations.

  • Applied Research & Links: Engagement with the university’s Computing, Informatics and Applications Research Group (CIARG) for dissertation projects, and curriculum input from industry practitioners to tackle current threats.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Anglia Ruskin University's MSc Cyber Security master penetration testing, network security, incident response, and threat detection, addressing global shortages in cybersecurity professionals across government, finance, and IT sectors. Hands-on labs develop hacker-thinking skills for real-world threat mitigation, ensuring alumni secure high-impact roles with rapid career progression. Typical job roles: cyber security analyst, penetration tester, information security manager, network security engineer.​

  • University services: Specialised cybersecurity labs, award-winning facilities, and careers support with CV workshops and employer networking for job placement.​

  • Employment stats/salary: 3.12 million global shortage drives high demand; competitive salaries reflecting sector growth.​

  • University–industry partnerships: Real-world projects simulating enterprise attacks; collaborations with government and commercial organisations.​

  • Long-term accreditation value: Practical skills in secure systems ensure adaptability to evolving cyber threats.​

  • Graduation outcomes: Roles in national security, finance, e-commerce, and investigation agencies worldwide.​

Further Academic Progression: Pursue PhD in cybersecurity at ARU, extending major project research.​

Program Key Stats

£20,500 (Annual cost)
Rolling


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

2.7
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
6.5
88
2:2
50 - 59
5 - 5

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Cyber Security Analysts
  • Information Security Officers
  • Penetration Testers
  • Security Consultants
  • Digital Forensic Investigators
  • and IT Auditors

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