The MSc Cyber Security at Bournemouth equips students with practical skills in defending digital systems through modules in ethical hacking, threat intelligence, digital forensics, and risk & governance. It suits graduates (especially those with a computing or technical background) aiming for roles in cybersecurity or related fields.
Curriculum Structure:
You’ll study core units such as Cyber Threat Intelligence, Ethical Hacking, Infrastructure & System Security, Digital Forensics, and IT Governance & Ethics. These modules build hands-on technical skills (penetration testing, forensic analysis), the ability to secure infrastructures, and an understanding of policy, risk, and ethical issues. You then complete an Individual Master’s Project, applying what you’ve learnt to a substantial cybersecurity challenge in a simulated or real environment. This brings together technical practice, critical thinking, and professional presentation.
Focus areas
“Ethical Hacking; Forensics; Threat Intelligence; System & Infrastructure Security; Governance & Ethics; Risk Management; Project Practice”
Learning outcomes
“Develop hands-on cybersecurity defence skills; conduct digital forensics; analyse threats; design secure systems; understand governance & ethical implications; deliver a substantive project”
Professional alignment (accreditation):
Course delivers industry-relevant content, including labs with up to date tools; BU emphasises employability and digital defence skill-sets.
Reputation (employability rankings):
BU is known for strong student outcomes in computing/security; the course is identified as meeting growing market demand in digital security.
This programme focuses on applying advanced computing principles through practical project work in the University's specialist facilities. You'll develop professional skills using industry-standard tools and high-performance computing resources, working on real-world computing challenges. This hands-on approach is delivered through:
Specialist Computing Facilities: Access to BU's High-Performance Computing (HPC) cluster and dedicated computing labs with professional-grade workstations for software development and research.
Industry-Standard Software: Practical work with programming languages including Java, Python, and C++, plus development environments like Visual Studio and database management systems.
Substantial Individual Project: A major research project where you apply advanced computing techniques to solve a substantial real-world problem.
Professional Collaboration: Opportunities to work on projects with industry partners and BU's research centres, including the Data Science and AI Research Centre.
Graduates of the MSc Cyber Security at Bournemouth University develop expertise in software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI, equipping them for versatile tech careers. Common job roles include Software Developer, Cloud Architect, Cyber Security Analyst, and IT Consultant, appealing to industries with high digital demand.
The dedicated CareersBU team offers career coaching, CV reviews, networking events, and placement support, helping students secure jobs in top tech sectors.
88.7% of graduates find work or pursue further study within 15 months; salaries for computer science roles typically range from £27,000 to £45,000 depending on experience and specialization.
Bournemouth’s close ties to the Cisco Network Academy and collaborations with major tech employers provide hands-on industry projects and recognized certifications.
Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, the MSc ensures long-term industry recognition and supports the path to Chartered IT Professional status.
Graduates demonstrate strong technical, ethical, and leadership skills to drive tech innovation across diverse sectors.
Further Academic Progression:
Students can pursue PhD research in Computer Science, AI, or related fields, or advance with professional certifications and interdisciplinary study for further tech career growth
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