Cyber Security

The Master's degree in Cyber Security at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and specialized education designed to prepare students for the rapidly evolving field of digital security. The programme emphasizes the development of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address the complex challenges posed by cyber threats, data breaches, and digital vulnerabilities encountered by organizations worldwide. Throughout the programme, students will gain an in-depth understanding of core topics such as cryptography, network security, software security, threat analysis, and security policies, alongside emerging areas like blockchain security, ethical hacking, and cyber law.

Radboud University's curriculum integrates cutting-edge research and industry best practices, enabling students to develop innovative solutions to real-world security problems. The programme encourages a hands-on approach, with practical assignments, lab work, and collaborations with leading cybersecurity organizations providing valuable experiential learning opportunities. Students will also engage in critical analyses of security incidents and explore strategies for proactive defense and incident response.

The programme is designed to foster interdisciplinary thinking, combining insights from computer science, law, and ethics to prepare graduates for leadership roles in academia, industry, or government. With a strong focus on ethical considerations and responsible conduct, students are encouraged to think critically about the societal impacts of cybersecurity measures. The Master's in Cyber Security at Radboud also offers options for specialization, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career aspirations.

Graduates of the programme will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop, implement, and evaluate security measures in various sectors, contributing to the protection of digital infrastructures and supporting the digital resilience of organizations. The degree prepares students for careers as cybersecurity analysts, security consultants, forensic experts, or researchers, among other roles. With the increasing importance of digital security in today's connected world, this programme provides a solid foundation for those seeking to make meaningful contributions in the field of cybersecurity.

Key courses: Software Security; Security in Organisations; Advanced Network Security; Principles of Data Protection; Cryptology, Verification of Security Protocols; Philosophy and Ethics for Computing and Information Science.

A completed Bachelor's degree in Computing Science or related area

In order to get admission to this Master’s you'll need a completed Bachelor’s degree in Computing Sciences or a related discipline, such as Artificial Intelligence and Mathematics. For the specialisation in Data Science, we also encourage students to apply who have a background in natural sciences, such as Chemistry, Biology, and Physics, with a keen interest in data analytics and proven mathematical and programming skills. In all cases, the Examination Board will consider whether or not you have met the requirements.

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in the programme, you need to have fluency in English, both written and spoken. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

• TOEFL score of ≥575 (paper based) or ≥90 (internet based)
• IELTS score of ≥6.5
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE), with a mark of C or higher

* Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Master's program in Cyber Security at Radboud University is a comprehensive and research-oriented program designed to prepare students for advanced roles in the field of information security. The program emphasizes both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of cyber security, including topics like cryptography, network security, system security, cyber threat intelligence, and security management. Students will learn to analyze security issues, design secure systems, and develop strategies to mitigate cyber threats in various environments.

Radboud University’s curriculum incorporates a multidisciplinary approach, combining technical skills with understanding legal, ethical, and societal aspects of cyber security. The program offers a mix of compulsory courses, electives, and a Master's thesis project, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. Practical experience is emphasized through labs, simulations, and collaboration with industry partners, ensuring students are well-equipped for the professional world.

The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are active researchers in the field, contributing to cutting-edge developments in cyber security. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and participate in research projects that address current challenges such as IoT security, cloud security, and cybercrime investigation. The university’s strong connections with security organizations and industry ensure that graduates have excellent career prospects, including roles in security consultancy, government agencies, and private sector firms.

Radboud University also provides a dynamic academic environment that encourages innovation, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Graduates will gain not only technical expertise but also an understanding of the legal, ethical, and societal implications of cyber security, preparing them to become responsible cybersecurity professionals. The program typically takes one year for full-time students to complete and is delivered predominantly in English. Overall, the Master’s in Cyber Security at Radboud University aims to develop highly skilled professionals capable of addressing the complex security challenges of the digital world.