Cyber Security
Our cyber security degree combines three sought after streams of computing: networking, cyber security and digital forensics. It gives you a thorough understanding of socio-technical systems and skills to prevent or respond to cyber security incidents.
| Award Name | Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 6 years
Full time – 3 years
Time limit – 16 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you’ll need to succeed. If you’re not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
Stage 1 includes a choice between Discovering mathematics (MU123) and Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) – decide which is best for you.
https://learn1.open.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=100193&cmid=22027
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
A study by the UK Government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) indicates a severe shortage of cyber security skills is a national challenge and is also an indication of technology growth.
Cyber security graduates will be in demand beyond the traditional workplaces where general computing and IT graduates have sought employment. The extensive range of organisations employing cyber security graduates includes retail, financial services, leisure and gaming, legal and insurance sectors, telecommunications, broadcast media, digital media, manufacturing, transport, tourism, the public sector and healthcare.
Cyber security is top among the areas of high demand while other areas include mobile development, cloud computing and the management of Big Data.
Other careers
Beyond pure technology roles, some graduates also enter careers in policing (cyber crime), insurance companies where digital forensic experts are in demand to support cyber insurance services, management consultancy firms or corporate roles, while others go into technical writing roles or work freelance.
Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course
Start dates
• October 2024 - Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025 - Registration closes 09/01/2025
• April 2025 - Registration closes 13/03/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
BSc (Honours) Cyber Security
Our cyber security degree combines three sought after streams of computing: networking, cyber security and digital forensics. It gives you a thorough understanding of socio-technical systems and skills to prevent or respond to cyber security incidents. And develops your ability to critically analyse and apply digital solutions to security examination and digital forensic investigations. This includes an appreciation of tools, techniques and legal requirements. The degree programme, with its well-balanced theory and practice, has a strong technical focus. You’ll develop your understanding of how networked cyber systems function and how they might be abused. The course centres around the relationship between technology, people, processes, the physical environment and cyber security. You’ll be able to pursue a wide array of career pathways within the public, private and charity sectors.
Key features of the course
• Study curriculum is aligned with The Cyber Security Body of Knowledge (CyBOK) and the Chartered Institute of Information Security (CISSec) framework
• The growing demands of the cyber security sector and a shortage of skilled professionals will increase job opportunities
• Develop your understanding of how cyber security fits into business and commerce through applied learning
• Demonstrate your knowledge and skills through a substantial independent cybersecurity-related project.
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
• In Stage 1, you’ll study three 30-credit computing and IT modules and a 30-credit mathematics module.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study four 30-credit modules.
• In Stage 3, you’ll study two 30-credit modules, choose one 30-credit module and complete a 30-credit project module.
See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.