Online MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security | Walbrook

Get your Master’s in Computer Science with Cyber Security, the Walbrook Way

Study 100% online, from anywhere
- Graduate in as little as 1 year.
- 12 starts per year – start within weeks.
- Competitive tuition – £7,680 total.
Graduate with tech skills in high demand
- Learn network security and digital forensics.
- 89% of Walbrook graduates in skilled roles*
- 24/7 online Careers Hub and job portal.
For professionals balancing work, home and life
- Your supported route into cyber security.
- No computing degree or experience required.
- Flex between full and part-time.

MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security online degree

The UK cyber security sector now employs a record 69,600 people, up 3% year on year (Cyber Security Sectoral Analysis 2026, UK Gov). It is a growing career field that continues to report widespread skills gaps. This online MSc prepares you to identify tech vulnerabilities, secure vulnerable systems, and use critical thinking to find solutions as threats change and evolve.

Why this master's degree?

Graduate in as little as 1 year, with skills for defending cyber threats using the latest tech.
Built for career changers, with 95% of global organisations reporting at least one cyber security skills gap (ISC2, 2025).
Created by experts in the City of London, at the centre of Europe’s largest tech and AI community (Dealroom Global Tech Ecosystem Index).

Meet Prof. Alastair Irons, Academic Lead for Computer Science

Your online MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security at a glance

Location:

‣ 100% Online, distance learning

Start dates:

‣ Start any month

Duration:

‣ Full-time: 1 year or 13 months

‣ Part-time: 2 years

Tuition fees and funding:

‣ Total programme cost is £7,680

‣ Secure your place by paying for your first one or two modules, depending on whether you choose full-time or part-time study.

Entry requirements:

‣ 2:2 honours degree and above (or equivalent) in a subject other than computing.

‣ Alternatively, you can apply 2+ years’ relevant professional experience in one or more computing-related roles.

Tuition fees for your online Master of Computer Science with Cyber Security degree

Total programme cost
Full-time: 1 year or 13 months | Part-time: 2 years

£7,680
in total
You'll study 10x 15-credit modules and 1x 30-credit Research Project module in total (approx. 17-30 hrs/week).
Apply now
Cost per module
Full-time: 1 year or 13 months | Part-time: 2 years

£640
per 15-credit module
You'll study 10x 15-credit modules. Your final 30-credit Research Project module will be charged at £1,280.
Apply now

Total tuition fees: £7,680.  You can pay for your MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree per module, or in full before you start your studies.

If you choose to pay in full, you’ll receive a 15% reduction on your total tuition fees.

If you choose to pay per module, your payment schedule will depend on whether you choose full or part-time study:

If you apply as a part-time student, you’ll pay for one module upfront, then continue to pay per module before each one begins.
If you apply as a full-time student, you’ll need to pay for two modules upfront to confirm your place, then continue to pay in two-module instalments as you progress.

If you’re a UK student, you may be eligible for a government master's loan from Student Finance England for our online master's degrees. The Student Loans Company (SLC) will pay the loan directly to you after you start your studies. So, it’s your responsibility to make your module payments to us directly. Find out more about funding your Walbrook master's with a UK master's loan >
Want to see exactly when payments are due? Open the payment schedule for our next two start dates below.

September 2026 start date
- Full-time payment schedule – September 2026
- Part-time payment schedule – September 2026
October 2026 start date
- Full-time payment schedule – October 2026
- Part-time payment schedule – October 2026
Alumni receive a 10% tuition fee discount. If you’re eligible, our enrolment team can provide your personalised payment schedule.

Entry requirements for your online MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree

New to tech or cyber security? Thinking about a master's, but don’t have an undergraduate degree in computer science? We've designed our master's degree for people with all levels of tech experience, and with support built in, so you're ready to take the next step.

To apply, you’ll need to meet the following entry requirements:
- A UK honours degree at 2:2 or above (or equivalent international qualification) in a subject other than computing.
Or
- 2+ years’ relevant professional experience in one or more computing-related roles.
Thinking of transferring institutions or have you studied before? You can apply to transfer up to 60 credits towards your master's degree. Please note that credits can’t be awarded for the research module of this programme.

These credits must be relevant, current, and aligned with the subject matter of your chosen MSc Computer Science pathway.
- Review our recognition of prior learning process.
- Speak to our Enrolment Team.
- Submit a recognition of prior learning form alongside your application.
Overseas qualifications may be accepted and will be subject to evidence of equivalency normally verified through ECCTIS (UK ENIC).
If English is not your first language, you’ll be asked to provide proof of your English language proficiency. Ideally, your test should be no more than two years old when your course begins. If your test is older, please still apply and our admissions team can review your circumstances.

Alternatively, you may be accepted if you have previously studied in English at an appropriate level and attended a recognised institution.

IELTS
- Evidence of a score of IELTS Level 6.0 or above with no element below 5.5.
TOEFL iBT®
- Evidence of a score of 79 overall (with 18 in reading, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking and 21 in writing).
Duolingo
- Evidence of an overall minimum score of 110 with no component score below 100.
Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English
- Evidence of a score of 170 overall, with 160 in each component.

I would say just go for it. I am currently in full time employment, so being able to study at my own time and being able to be in control of my own studying was really important, and Walbrook provided that as part of their online degrees.

Aleksandra Anastasova
Walbrook online degree student

I actually wanted to say how happy I am that I’m studying on this programme and how lucky I feel. The programme is very well structured, the study materials are solid, and it has helped me develop my skills and knowledge significantly. There are many online programmes available, but finding one that combined academic quality, accessibility and affordability was very important to me.

Marzie Hashemi
Walbrook online MSc Computer Science student

MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security programme details

Build the cyber security and computer science skills employers need now, while developing the judgement to keep defending systems even as threats and technology change. Alongside software, databases, networks, cloud computing and AI, you’ll specialise in cyber security practice and security for digital business.

Through practical virtual environments and case studies on our MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree, you’ll learn to identify vulnerabilities, investigate incidents and choose appropriate countermeasures. You’ll also explore ethical hacking and digital forensics, while developing the critical thinking to assess organisational risk as the tech used by hackers evolves. You’ll finish with an independent research project shaped around your own workplace, interests or career goals.

On this online Computer Science (Cyber Security) programme, you’ll study a series of carefully designed modules. With flexible monthly starts, you’ll join the next available module and study alongside a cohort of computer science master's students learning the same subject at the same time.
- Fundamentals of Cyber Security Practice
  Explore network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and secure software development, applying your learning in a virtual lab environment to configure defences and respond to simulated incidents.
- Cyber Security for Digital Business
  Secure entire organisations against modern threats. You’ll design layered security strategies, assess risks, and implement controls that protect systems, data, and people – balancing technical measures with business priorities for lasting resilience.
- Software Engineering
  Apply the software development lifecycle to create secure, maintainable, and high-quality systems. Use agile practices, testing methods, and effective engineering decisions to reduce vulnerabilities early in the design process.
- Modern Database Systems
  Understand how database choices affect performance, scalability, and security. Learn to design and implement relational and NoSQL systems, manage access and transactions, and use industry-standard tools such as MariaDB and MongoDB.
- Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  Discover how AI and machine learning can be applied to strategic decision-making, using industry tools such as Google Cloud AutoML. Analyse datasets, experiment with algorithms, and evaluate models while considering ethical, commercial, and strategic implications.
- Information Systems Development
  Analyse user and organisational needs to design secure, effective information systems, using HTML, CSS and JavaScript programming languages. Explore requirements analysis, modelling techniques, and development methods that ensure usability, compliance, and resilience.
- Computer Networks
  Explore how networks operate and how to protect them. Study architectures, protocols, and performance management, and apply techniques for configuring, monitoring, and securing networked systems.
- Cloud Computing
  Learn to design, deploy, and secure solutions in cloud environments. Work with virtualisation, networking, and containerisation while addressing the benefits, challenges, and security considerations of cloud platforms.
- Project Management and the Computing Professional
  Develop the ability to lead complex computing projects. Cover system modelling, risk management, scheduling, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on delivering projects that meet technical and security requirements.
- Research Development
  Prepare for your final research project by building advanced research skills. Review literature, refine your research question, plan your methodology, and consider the ethical and professional issues in your chosen area.
- Research Project
  Undertake a substantial independent investigation in a cyber security-related area. Apply the knowledge and skills gained during your studies to produce original work, from problem definition and solution design to evaluation and professional reflection.

Your module schedule depends on the month you start, and whether you study full or part-time. You'll study each module once, completing all taught modules before moving on to your final two modules: Research Development and Research Project.

Full-time students: start a new 8-week module every month.
Part-time students: start a new 8-week module every other month.

Module start date	Module name	Assessment details
7 September 2026	Cyber Security for Digital Business	1. Graded discussion board – 20% 2. Portfolio – 40% 3. Report – 40%
5 October 2026	Project Management and the Computing Professional	1. Group presentation – 20% 2. Group report – 30% 3. Individual systems proposal – 50%
2 November 2026	Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence	1. Individual report – 30% 2. Individual assignment – 20% 3. Individual report – 50%
7 December 2026	Modern Database Systems	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Presentation – 20% 3. Technical implementation and Query report – 70%
4 January 2027	Cloud Computing	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Assignment 1 – 30% 3. Assignment 2 – 60%
1 February 2027	Information Systems Development	1. Individual written assignment – 20% 2. Design diagrams and narrative – 20% 3. Technical report with implementation evidence – 60%
1 March 2027	Software Engineering	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Systems proposal report – 30% 3. System design report – 60%
5 April 2027	Computer Networks	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 60%
3 May 2027	Fundamentals of Cyber Security Practice	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 60%
7 June 2027	Cyber Security for Digital Business	1. Graded discussion board – 20% 2. Portfolio – 40% 3. Report – 40%
5 July 2027	Project Management and the Computing Professional	1. Group presentation – 20% 2. Group report – 30% 3. Individual systems proposal – 50%
2 August 2027	Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence	1. Individual report – 30% 2. Individual assignment – 20% 3. Individual report – 50%
6 September 2027	Modern Database Systems	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Presentation – 20% 3. Technical implementation and Query report – 70%
4 October 2027	Cloud Computing	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Assignment 1 – 30% 3. Assignment 2 – 60%
1 November 2027	Information Systems Development	1. Individual written assignment – 20% 2. Design diagrams and narrative – 20% 3. Technical report with implementation evidence – 60%
6 December 2027	Software Engineering	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Systems proposal report – 30% 3. System design report – 60%
3 January 2028	Computer Networks	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 60%
7 February 2028	Fundamentals of Cyber Security Practice	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Technical report 1 – 30% 3. Technical report 2 – 60%
6 March 2028	Cyber Security for Digital Business	1. Graded discussion board – 20% 2. Portfolio – 40% 3. Report – 40%
3 April 2028	Project Management and the Computing Professional	1. Group presentation – 20% 2. Group report – 30% 3. Individual systems proposal – 50%
1 May 2028	Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence	1. Individual report – 30% 2. Individual assignment – 20% 3. Individual report – 50%
5 June 2028	Modern Database Systems	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Presentation – 20% 3. Technical implementation and Query report – 70%
3 July 2028	Cloud Computing	1. Graded discussion board – 10% 2. Assignment 1 – 30% 3. Assignment 2 – 60%
7 August 2028	Information Systems Development	1. Individual written assignment – 20% 2. Design diagrams and narrative – 20% 3. Technical report with implementation evidence – 60%

Final research modules

Module name

Assessment details

Research Development

1. Literature review – 20%

2. Project plan and enhanced literature review – 80%

Research Project

1. Thesis – 80%

2. Portfolio – 20%

Across your MSc, you’ll complete a mix of assessments designed to stretch your thinking, strengthen your communication skills, and bring your learning to life. Each module (except your final research modules) includes three assignments – helping you build confidence, test ideas and apply theory in more than one way.

Here’s a snapshot of the main types of assessments you’ll complete across your core modules.
- Technical report: produce a detailed, well-structured analysis of a technical problem, solution, or system, often with screenshots, code snippets, or configuration evidence.
- Design or implementation project: plan and design a solution (or document one you've built) using industry-standard tools and practices, from data models to system architecture.
- Case study analysis: evaluate a real or simulated scenario, identify challenges, and propose solutions grounded in computing principles and current best practice.
- Discussion board contribution: engage in structured, tutor-led online debates, demonstrating critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
- Portfolio: reflect on your development as a computing professional, capturing the knowledge, skills and competencies you've built and how they relate to your career goals.
- Ethics or strategy briefing paper: advise an organisation, client, or committee on a complex technology issue, balancing technical, ethical, and commercial perspectives.
- Presentation or video demonstration: explain your project or technical findings in a recorded or live presentation, sometimes paired with a live or narrated system demo.
- Research dissertation: complete an in-depth research project that tackles a significant computing challenge, presenting your findings, methodology, and technical recommendations in a formal dissertation.

How you'll study

Studying online with Walbrook is designed to be flexible and engaging, giving you access to everything you need to succeed:

Full-time students should set aside around 30 hours per week.
- You'll start a new 8-week module each month, so while you’re beginning your learning in one module, you’ll be preparing for assessment in the other.
Part-time students should set aside around 17 hours per week.
- You'll start a new 8-week module every other month, making it easier to fit your studies around work, family and everyday life.
Your self-study will include:
- Engaging programme content delivered via our online study platform.
- Case studies and applied tasks that link theory to real business scenarios.
- Preparation for assessments including reports, proposals and project work.
Our support is built around you and your success. From enrolment to graduation, you’ll have access to digital academic tools that help you study in a way that works for you, and people who are here to help.

You'll benefit from:
- Digital learning materials including key readings, videos, and research resources.
- Access to a digital library to support your independent research.
- Support to help you stay on track and direct you to the right teams when needed.

Apply today – start your MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree within weeks

Applying to study an online master's at Walbrook is simple, and you can do it directly.

1. Check programme entry requirements
Review our entry requirements to make sure you meet them.
2. Complete your application online
Apply through our secure online application portal and upload your documents as you go.
3. Accept your unconditional offer
By paying for your first module (part-time) or first two modules (full-time).

Contact us about our online degrees

Any questions about our online degrees or studying at Walbrook? Our Enrolment Advisors are here to help.

Our office is open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 5.30pm UK time (excluding UK public holidays).

contact-image-enrolment-team

Career opportunities: MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security

The UK cyber security sector now employs a record 69,600 people, up 3% year on year (Cyber Security Sectoral Analysis 2026, UK Gov). But the need for skills goes much wider: 95% of global organisations have reported at least one cyber security skills gap (ISC2Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2025).

If you're passionate about defending the digital systems that protect our modern world – whether that requires you to change careers or demonstrate your experience with a master's degree – you don't need a computer science background to study a Walbrook master's degree. You’ll develop practical technical skills alongside the critical thinking and problem-solving to keep adapting as technology changes. So, when you graduate, you’ll be ready to take your next step in tech: whether that's as a career changer, or as someone working towards senior roles in the industry.

UK annual permanent salaries sourced from 2026 Tech Talent & Salary Report, Harvey Nash.

Cyber Security Engineer
Average UK salary: £80,000

Cyber Security Engineer: job description

Protect the systems, networks and cloud infrastructure organisations rely on by identifying vulnerabilities, implementing security controls and responding to incidents. As cyber security threats and technologies evolve, cyber security engineers need to continually reassess risk and adapt their defences. This MSc develops practical skills in network security, access controls, encryption, system hardening and incident analysis to help you build towards this role.

Average UK salary: £80,000
Cyber Security Architect
Average UK salary: £100,000

Cyber Security Architect: job description

Design the security structures, policies and controls that protect an organisation’s technology, data and services. As cloud platforms, connected computer systems and cyber threats become more complex, cybersecurity architects need to consider security across the whole technology environment. This MSc builds knowledge across networks, cloud computing and cyber security, alongside the risk assessment and technical judgement that can support progression into architecture roles.

Average UK salary: £100,000
Head of Cyber Security
Average UK salary: £110,000

Head of Cyber Security: job description

Lead an organisation’s approach to cyber security, setting priorities, overseeing risk and ensuring teams are prepared to respond as cyber security threats change. The role combines technical understanding with strategic decision-making, communication and responsibility for wider organisational security. This MSc develops broad computer science and cyber security knowledge alongside risk assessment, project skills and professional judgement – useful foundations for experienced professionals progressing towards senior cyber leadership.

Average UK salary: £110,000

FAQs: Why study for an MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree?

Your MBA is delivered through an online study platform, where you’ll study either one or two modules at a time depending on your study mode. Full-time students take two modules in parallel (with a short gap between start dates), while part-time students complete one module at a time.

Here’s what you can expect:
- Weekly learning units to guide your progress
- Readings and case studies
- Videos and narrated presentations (mini-lectures)
- Online discussion forums
- Quizzes and tasks to check your understanding
You’ll have the freedom to plan your study time around work and life – but within a guided schedule that helps you stay focused, connected, and on track to succeed.
Yes. You can complete this master's degree in as little as 1 year when you study full-time, depending on your start date.

A few full-time start dates follow a 13-month structure, instead of 12 months. When your final taught module is one that directly feeds into your research – like Research Methods or one of two modules directly related to your programme topic – we want to make sure you have the time to complete that module in full, before you move into your final research project.

We can confirm the exact duration for your chosen start date when you request information about a programme. Or, if you'd prefer to study over a longer period, you can also study part-time over 2 years.
To get the best learning experience, you’ll need a reliable computer, internet, and audio setup. We recommend a laptop or desktop with at least an Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and 500GB storage (Windows is our primary environment, though you can use Mac or Linux). A stable internet connection (5Mbps download, 2Mbps upload), webcam, and microphone are essential, and we strongly suggest using headphones for online sessions.

For smoother study, extra resources like a second monitor, noise-cancelling headphones, 16GB+ RAM, SSD storage, and an external hard drive are recommended. Walbrook provides access to the required software, though some programmes may ask you to set up a VPN. Our technical support is Windows-based, but you’re welcome to work on Linux or macOS if you prefer.
This MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree builds your technical expertise and strategic thinking across key concepts like network security, web technologies, and information security. You’ll explore research methods, develop essential skills in threat detection and risk management, and learn how to solve computational problems in a security context. Every module focuses on applying knowledge to real-world scenarios from today's digital world so you graduate ready for high-impact roles.
In your final project, you’ll dive into a cyber security topic you’re passionate about. You could focus your research project proposal on areas like secure web technologies, incident response strategies, or designing protection frameworks. Along the way, you’ll build the skills to plan, research, and deliver your project with confidence.
After successful completion of this programme, you’ll hold a recognised MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree – opening doors to a wide range of digital career paths. Whether you move into penetration testing, security architecture, or systems engineering, you’ll have the theory-led perspective and hands-on skills employers want.
Yes – both home and international students can apply. If your first language isn’t English, you’ll need to meet our approved English language test requirements or provide evidence of an international equivalent qualification. Further information can be found in the 'entry requirements' section above. This 100% online course also allows you to study from anywhere while connecting with a diverse global network of fellow students.
Yes, our MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree is an excellent foundation for doctoral study. You'll be taught by research-active staff with PhDs who understand the pathways to doctoral research and can offer guidance as you plan your next steps. What’s more our programme builds your research foundations and practical skills in computer science, giving you a strong platform for postgraduate research.

Many of our students bring professional backgrounds in tech or related fields, which is also valuable. If you don't have that experience, or want to develop your research ideas further before applying, you might consider an MRes or additional professional experience as an additional step after your MSc, to strengthen your research background further.

The Walbrook Way: Digital from day one. Designed for your career.

Graduate in as little as 1 year, or flex to part-time.
Ranked 12th for employment outcomes in the UK*
Total fees: £7,680 – pay in full or pay per module.

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