Where can I study cyber security?
Along with two of the best universities in the world for Computer Science – the University of Oxford (fifth) and the University of Cambridge (sixth), there are nearly 100 undergraduate and postgraduate cybersecurity courses in the UK to choose from. Wherever you apply, you’ll find flexible, research-led teaching and state-of-the-art computing labs, infrastructure, academic facilities, and virtual lab facilities. Everything you need for the best possible start in a career in cyber security.
What is the application process?
To apply for a master’s degree in cyber security, you’ll need a second-class honours degree or above, ideally in Computer Science or Business Computing. Other degrees with robust computing and numeracy components, such as engineering, mathematics or physics, may also be considered. The typical IELTS requirement is 6.5 overall and no lower than 6.0 in any one component.
How long does it take to graduate?
Most AI and robotics undergraduate degrees will take around three years to finish in the UK, with many offering opportunities for a year of work experience and study abroad. Postgraduate degrees are usually between one and two years. Some universities also offer an integrated master’s degree, allowing you to complete the undergraduate and postgraduate components in four years of full-time study.
What is the course structure?
All UK courses are flexible and research-led, meaning you can specialise with modules relevant to your interests and chosen career as you go. Whatever your focus, you will leave with solid skills in the most valuable areas of the field, such as Big Data Hadoop, Cisco-Networking, Ethical Hacking and Digital Marketing.
Why is the UK a good choice for cyber security?
The UK is one of the most proactive countries battling cyber-terrorism worldwide and has a cyber security sector worth £8.3bn. Given the massive number of businesses at risk from cyber threats and the UK’s heritage in computing and innovation, there’s nowhere better to be exposed to the latest academic insights, research and industry trends.
Are there any scholarships for cyber security?
An extensive range of master’s scholarships is available to apply for directly through universities, such as the Royal Holloway University of London and PhDs from the leading SECReT doctoral research training centre at University College London. You can also apply for one of the more high-profile opportunities, such as Chevening Scholarships or Commonwealth Scholarships, which are open to residents of any country.
What are my work options after I graduate?
Cybersecurity offers some excellent career prospects to UK graduates. The current unemployment rate is 0 per cent, and it’s forecast to stay that way. Cyber security professionals are employed by various organisations across all sectors, from security consultancies, IT companies and network providers, financial services institutions, government departments and energy companies, and even schools and hospitals.
Starting salaries for cyber security analysts are typically around £25,000 to £35,000. Many UK cyber security degrees also offer certification from the National Cyber Security Centre, which can be a significant advantage when applying for jobs in a competitive field. International students who have completed an undergraduate or master’s degree can apply to stay and work in the UK for two years upon graduation through the Graduate Route.