MSc Cyber Security recertified by the National Cyber Security Centre

Posted on 15 April 2021

The course has again been recognised for the high-quality education it offers, helping students make an informed choice about pursuing cyber security degrees.

Since 2014, the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC), which is a part of GCHQ, has certified Master’s courses offered by institutions in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England, as well as six Bachelor’s degrees and three Integrated Master’s degrees. The NCSC runs the certified degree programme to help students make informed decisions about the range of courses on offer at UK universities and to help set a high standard of cyber security teaching across higher education.

Professor Paul Cairns (Head of Department of Computer Science), said: "I am delighted that NCSC have fully re-certified our MSc Cyber Security Course. Security of our systems is one of the most challenging topics of our time and there is a continued rise in cyber attacks along with general security concerns. Arguably with the rise of remote working, these concerns are even more apparent. So now more than ever there is a need for graduates with cyber security expertise. This certification recognises the standard and relevance to the degree drawing on the staff expertise within our Interdisciplinary Centre for Cyber Security."

Chris Ensor, NCSC Deputy Director for Cyber Growth, said: “It’s great to see more UK universities being recognised for their work in developing skilled cyber security professionals.

“Offering a certified degree helps prospective students make more informed choices about their future careers and employers can rest assured that graduates will be well-taught and have valued industry skills.

“I encourage all institutions offering undergraduate or postgraduate courses to consider applying for certification.”

Digital Infrastructure Minister Matt Warman said: "The UK boasts some of the world's top universities and it's great to see even more offering specialist postgraduate courses certified by our world-class cyber security experts.

"As we build back better from the pandemic we are making sure our thriving cyber sector has the talent and skills to continue keeping people and businesses safe online."

The successful submission was led by Dr Radu Calinescu and Dr Siamak Shahandashti.

Dr Siamak Shahandashti said: "Our MSc Cyber Security is a comprehensive programme with modules in a range of cyber security knowledge areas including cyber security fundamentals, cryptography, network security, malware, forensics, and risk assessment. It is based on this depth and breadth that our programme received full certification by NCSC as 'providing a general, broad foundation in cyber security'."

A full list of NCSC-certified Master’s degrees can be found on the NCSC website.