What is cyber security?
As digital threats grow in complexity and scale, the need for cybersecurity professionals has never been greater. In this subject guide, we’ll examine the world of cyber security, the technical capabilities required, and the vital roles you can pursue post-graduation.
Cyber security helps individuals and organisations protect their computer networks and programmes from digital attacks. These practices combine multiple layers of protection to detect and investigate threats before they inflict significant harm, including:
- Malware
- Phishing attacks
- Data breaches
- Denial-of-service (DoS) attacks
Strong cyber security is especially important for businesses. Attacks that access or destroy sensitive information can cause financial and operational disruption, as well as a loss of customer trust. That's why cyber security skills are in demand now more than ever before. From 2024 to 2025, there was an 11% rise in the number of UK cyber security roles, for instance.
One of the most effective ways to gain these skills and build a career in this industry is by studying cyber security through a master's degree programme, known as an MSc. From learning how networks are secured to defending systems in practice, you'll cover a range of structured and specialised modules designed to give you the skills to become a cyber security expert in today's digital world.
Overview of the MSc in Cyber Security
A typical MSc Cyber Security degree provides the technical knowledge and practical knowledge needed to protect connected computer systems. It covers everything from network security to mitigating vulnerabilities, helping you understand how to anticipate emerging threats and keep information systems running smoothly across a wide variety of industries.
Depending on the specific provider chosen, many MSc Cyber Security programmes contain elements of data science, like analysis and applied statistics. These courses can be combined with other technical subjects, such as artificial intelligence, to help you develop a well-rounded skill set. This prepares you for a range of jobs in the tech sector, from offensive roles like a penetration tester to more defensive risk management roles.
How it differs from undergraduate courses
A typical undergraduate programme has a broader focus and is often slower-paced than a master's. In the UK, most undergraduate degrees take around 3 years, whereas postgraduate study can be anything from 12-14 months (full-time) to 2-3 years (part-time).
The biggest difference is often depth of study. An MSc builds on what you already know and takes you further into a specific subject area. You’ll spend less time on general topics and more time developing specialist knowledge and practical skills.
This can make a real difference when it comes to your next step. While undergraduate degrees often lead to entry-level roles, a master’s can help you stand out for more advanced positions or move into a new area with confidence.
What subjects are taught in an MSc Cyber Security programme?
Programmes that prepare you for a career in cyber security tend to cover the important aspects of computer protection, which all cyber security professionals need to know. The aim of a master's degree is to prepare you for a career in this exciting tech sector. Here are some of the core topics you could be studying, depending on your chosen provider and course:
Software Engineering and Design
Software engineering explores development life cycles, design patterns, testing, and maintenance. This topic can help you gain practical problem-solving skills so that you can work with real-world development scenarios. You should also gain experience with modern development tools, version control workflows, and collaborative engineering practices that reflect professional software engineering environments.
Network Security
Network security involves securing important infrastructure and architectures, while also establishing network protocols. You will also cover practical skills like network monitoring and intrusion detection, allowing you to develop the necessary skills for identifying vulnerabilities and implementing robust defensive measures in real life.
Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Studying ethical hacking at MSc level involves assessing network vulnerabilities through offensive security techniques and penetration testing methods. You'll learn to understand attacker mindsets and exploit chains by performing controlled testing exercises. You may also consider ethical and legal aspects to ensure you can approach security testing responsibly and professionally.
Research Project and Dissertation
At the end of a master's programme, you'll typically be tasked with identifying a problem related to computer science and data science. This will involve conducting a literature review, analysing data, and applying the right tools and methods to solve the issue. You can focus your research interests on an area of the course that most appeals to you, such as:
- Ethical hacking
- Malware analysis
- Network defence strategies
- Secure software development
- AI-based security tools
What are the eligibility requirements for an MSc in Cyber Security?
To join this type of course, UK students will typically need a 2:2 honours degree (or an international equivalent from a recognised university). However, some institutions will still encourage you to apply if you don’t have an honours degree but have at least two years of relevant professional experience in related areas, such as:
- Computer programming
- Engineering
- Mathematics
International students should note that there are English language requirements. You’ll usually need an IELTS score of 6.0 or higher, though the course provider may also accept other qualifications like the TOEFL, Trinity College ISE, or the Cambridge Certificate at the equivalent required level.
As entry requirements can differ by degree provider, you should always check the webpage for the programme you're interested in studying.
What should MSc Cyber Security students know before applying?
It's a good idea to consider the following at the start of the application process:
- Highlight relevant experience to make your application shine.
- Make sure you understand the basic entry requirements of the programme before you apply.
- Reach out to your network and ask if anyone would be willing to provide you with a reference.
- If you need to take an English test, do so as early as possible, as the results can take several weeks to process.
Ready to start your career in protecting tech systems from cyber threats?
At Walbrook, we believe that a career in cyber security benefits from a thorough understanding of computing and software development. That's why we teach the principles of cyber security as part of a wider MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree, rather than in a standalone master's programme.
By choosing this course, you'll develop practical knowledge of cyber security principles and how they apply to real-life businesses, with skills that apply to a wide variety of tech employers. Walbrook is 12th in the UK for career outcomes, with 90% of graduates in paid employment or further study. This makes us a great option if you want to graduate straight into the cyber security industry.
And with our fully flexible online programme, you'll get to decide which month of the year you begin the course, allowing you to balance learning with your work and home life.
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