Course overview
Advance specialist knowledge through career-focused postgraduate study.
Advance existing cyber-security expertise through flexible online study in network security, ethical hacking, assurance, risk and independent research.
Course overview
This NCSC-accredited online programme is aimed at working professionals with relevant experience or qualifications who want to deepen their technical and governance capability.
Programme structure
Published duration: 2 years part-time. The detailed curriculum is organised below by route or stage.
Study pattern
Flexible part-time distance learning is delivered online across weekly units.
Curriculum
Review the published modules and route options in a clear structure.
01Online modules
Level 7
Online modules
Level 7
- Information Governance and Security
- Network Security
- Wireless Networks and Security
- Information Assurance and Risk Management
- Ethical Hacking for Cyber Security
- Research and Project Management
- MSc Computer Science and Digital Technologies Project (60 credits)
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
Flexible online teaching uses tutorials, lectures, practical activity, video, text, interactive tasks and guided independent study.
Assessment is through coursework such as reports, presentations, technical exercises and collaborative or individual projects; the published online routes do not use examinations.
Each module is divided into manageable weekly units, with tutor guidance and access to online learning resources.
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Academic entry
- A minimum UK 2:2 honours degree from a recognised university in IT, computer science, cyber security or a related subject is normally required.
- Equivalent professional qualifications or relevant work experience may be considered individually.
English language
- GCSE English at grade A–C or an accepted equivalent is required for the published online route.
Route notes
- The online programme does not currently provide Student visa sponsorship.
International and non-standard entry
Equivalent international qualifications and non-standard applicants are considered against the current published requirements for the chosen route.
Application documents
- Completed application form.
- Qualification certificates and transcripts, with certified translations where required.
- Evidence of English-language ability where applicable.
- Personal statement, CV and evidence of relevant professional experience where requested.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
2026/27 reduced online fee; published original cost £11,250
Fees should be reconfirmed for the selected intake before enrolment.
Tuition does not normally include optional books, stationery, printing, equipment, accommodation, living costs or travel.
Funding your study
Eligible UK students may be able to access postgraduate funding, subject to the exact course route and personal circumstances.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
Assess cyber risk, information assurance and the security of wired and wireless networks.
Apply ethical-hacking, governance and research methods to a substantial cyber-security project.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Potential career directions
- Cyber security analyst
- Information security manager
- Penetration tester
- Security consultant
- Risk and assurance analyst
- Network security specialist
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
How is this course delivered?
The course is delivered online and studied part-time.
When can I start?
Published start months are January, April, July, October.
Who awards the qualification?
The awarding university is Northumbria University.