Computer Networking and Cyber Security

Entry requirements

You will be required to have:

• a 2:2 UK degree (or equivalent) in Electronics and Communications, Computer Science, Computing or a closely related discipline (applicants with relevant professional experience will also be considered)

Months of entry

January, May, September

Course content

Why study this course

The Computer Networking and Cyber Security MSc is designed for those wishing to pursue a career in Computer Networking and Cyber Security. On this course you will develop the ability to design and manage robust networking and cyber security systems and at the same time gain Cisco accreditation. Security of our systems is one of the most challenging topics of our time. The MSc provides knowledge of the very latest security principles, tools and techniques taught by specialist staff in a dedicated IT security laboratory, and an understanding of the principles underpinning effective approaches to cyber defence in response to a cyber attack. Guest speakers from industry will complement the teaching staff and enhance and challenge your knowledge of computer networking and cyber security.

More about this course

This course offers a unique opportunity for students to blend networking technologies with cyber security and at the same time gain Cisco accreditation. Such a combination will attract employers increasingly seeking graduates and postgraduates within this area. The 10 practical sessions will be housed in specialist laboratories including a specialist IT security laboratory. Lectures by guest speakers from industry will also add to your learning.

The Communications Technology group is one of the first in UK to be awarded the title of "Cisco Networking Academy" in 1998. The academy has been running short/evening courses in Cisco CCNA and CCNP certification since. These are two of the most prestigious vocational certifications valued by networking and related industries. Some of the modules in both CCNA and CCNP are currently embedded in the above two existing MSc courses and students follow the relevant Cisco curriculum. The courses are supported by three major laboratories equipped with some of the most up-to-date networking technology equipment and it is taught by qualified Cisco instructors.

Security of our systems is one of the most challenging topics of our time. There is an international consensus that the level of security skills will have to be increased in order to respond to the number and sophistication of threats we face. It is impossible to ignore the importance of cyber security which is recognised by governments, large and small organisations as a priority. Cyber security provides knowledge of the very latest security principles, tools and techniques taught by specialist staff in a dedicated IT security laboratory and understanding of the principles underpinning effective approaches to cyber defence in response to a cyber attack.

Assessment

A range of assessment methods is employed throughout the course. The method of assessment for each module is clearly described in the individual module guide which is made available to the students at the start of the semester. Every module has dedicated online resources providing students with comprehensive learning/teaching material including workshop exercises. Module leaders use this site regularly to communicate with their students, including to provide general feedback, guidelines on how to write technical reports and effective presentations and keeping logbooks. Modules employ a combination of the following forms of assessments:

• Case study reports and presentations
• Laboratory workbooks/logbooks
• Unseen examinations
• Part-seen examinations

Professional accreditation

This course offers a Cisco accreditation.

Modular structure

Core modules include:

• Cyber Security Management
• Cybercrime and Security
• MSc Project

Option modules include:

• Digital Forensics
• Hardening Network Infrastructure
• Networking Troubleshooting

Please refer to the course page on the London Met website for the full list of modules.

Fees and funding