Information Security

The Information Security MSc offers a specialist programme designed to provide a fundamental understanding of information security and to convey practical engineering skills. There are good prospects for highly trained information security professionals and there is a shortage of trained personnel in this area.

Students develop an advanced knowledge of information security and an awareness of the context in which information security operates in terms of safety, environmental, social and economic aspects. They gain a wide range of intellectual, practical and transferable skills, enabling them to develop a flexible professional career in IT.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) and a research project (60 credits).

Core modules

• Computer Security I
• Computer Security II
• Introduction to Cryptography
• Research in Information Security

Optional modules

Students choose four of the following:

• Applied Cryptography
• Cryptanalysis
• Cybercrime
• Distributed Systems and Security
• Information Security Management
• Language Based Security
• Malware
• People and Security
• Philosophy, Politics and Economics of Security and Privacy
• Privacy Enhancing Technologies

Dissertation/report

All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation (maximum length of 120 pages) and an oral presentation.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, problem classes, tutorials, laboratory classes and projects. Assessment is through written examinations, presentations, vivas, tests, coursework, written reports, formal presentations and the research project.