Mathematics, Cryptography and Network Security

The Master of Science in Mathematics, Cryptography, and Network Security at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in these rapidly evolving fields. This multidisciplinary degree combines theoretical foundations with real-world applications, preparing graduates to address complex security challenges in the digital landscape. Throughout the course, students explore core mathematical concepts that underpin modern cryptography, including number theory, algebra, and algorithm design, providing a solid grounding for understanding encryption, data protection, and secure communication protocols. The programme also delves into advanced topics in cryptography, such as public key infrastructures, cryptographic protocols, and recent developments in quantum-resistant algorithms, ensuring students stay at the forefront of technological innovation.

In addition to cryptography, the curriculum emphasizes network security, covering essential areas like network architecture, intrusion detection and prevention systems, vulnerability assessment, and security policies. Students learn to design, implement, and manage secure networks in various environments, including enterprise, cloud, and mobile platforms. The program is designed with a strong practical component, featuring laboratory work, industry-focused projects, and opportunities for internships, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Furthermore, students benefit from the expertise of academic staff who are actively engaged in research in areas such as secure communications, cryptographic algorithms, and cybersecurity policy, ensuring the program remains aligned with current industry trends and technological advances.

Graduates from this MSc program are well-prepared to pursue careers in cybersecurity roles across various sectors, including government agencies, financial institutions, technology companies, and consultancy firms. They may also choose to continue their studies at doctoral level, contributing to research and development within cryptography and network security fields. With the increasing importance of data protection and digital security in our society, this program provides a vital foundation for those aspiring to become leaders and innovators in cybersecurity and cryptography. The University of Essex’s supportive learning environment, combined with its strong links to industry and research partners, ensures students receive a high-quality education that seamlessly integrates academic excellence with practical relevance, making it an ideal choice for aspiring security professionals.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking science and engineering subjects, then these options are slightly restricted because our science modules tend to rely on previous knowledge of the subject.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BSc, then you are qualified to enter the second year not only of that course but also of a range of other courses: for example, if you are a BSc student who takes economics, politics, philosophy and sociology in your first year, then you have a choice of at least two courses and, in some cases, as many as five. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available.
We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you. Some of our science courses offer an optional extra year of an industrial placement.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Calculus;
Linear Mathematics;
Introduction to Programming;
Object-oriented Programming;
Introduction to Databases;
Network Fundamentals;
Statistics and;
Further Calculus

Year 2

Linear Algebra;
Optimisation (Linear Programming);
Mathematical Methods;
Probability and Statistics I;
Application Programming;
Analysis;
Computer and Data Networks; and
Computer Security

Year 3

Ordinary Differential Equations;
Graph Theory;
Codes and Cryptography;
Network Security;
Mathematics Project; and
three mathematical sciences options
Please note that Mathematics Careers and Employability is a compulsory module which must be taken in all years (not including Year Abroad) but is non-credit bearing and does not contribute towards your final degree.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A-levels: ABB-BBB, including Mathematics (please note that we are unable to accept A-level Use of Mathematics in place of A-level Mathematics)
GCSE English: C
IB: 32-30 points, including a 5 in Higher Level Mathematics (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Mathematics, Cryptography and Network Security at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the fields of mathematics, encryption techniques, and cybersecurity. This programme begins with foundational courses in pure and applied mathematics, providing students with a solid understanding of mathematical principles, algorithms, and problem-solving techniques essential for advanced topics. As the course progresses, students delve into specialized modules focusing on cryptography, exploring classical and modern encryption methods, cryptographic protocols, and their applications in securing digital communications. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of network security, covering topics such as network protocols, threat detection, security architectures, and the implementation of security measures to protect information systems.

Students will develop practical skills through laboratory work, computer-based projects, and real-world case studies, reinforcing their understanding of secure system design and vulnerability assessment. The programme encourages critical thinking about emerging security challenges, ethical issues, and current trends in cybersecurity, preparing graduates for careers in cybersecurity, IT security consultancy, cryptographic research, and related industries. Additionally, students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources, including software tools used in cryptographic analysis and network security testing.

The course is designed with input from industry experts and academic researchers, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and aligned with current technological developments and workforce needs. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to undertake work placements, internships, or collaborative projects, gaining valuable industry experience and professional networks. Upon graduation, students will be equipped with the analytical skills, technical knowledge, and ethical understanding necessary to develop innovative solutions for protecting digital information and infrastructure. The programme also offers pathways to postgraduate study or research in cybersecurity, cryptography, and mathematics, providing a strong foundation for further academic pursuits and a successful career in technology security.