It’s unlikely that a day goes by when you don’t at some point make use of technology or interact online in some way. With the growth of the digital economy and the digitisation of services, you want to feel confident that your information and activity is secure. From banking to social media, and business networks to email, cyber security has become critically important. Let’s investigate what the discipline is all about, what you can expect to study, and what types of work you can do when you graduate.
Is cyber security a discipline or specialisation?
Cyber security is focused on preventing data and information from being damaged or stolen. Cyber security aims to proactively stop cyber-attacks, identify threats and the possible weak spots or areas of the system/network that are vulnerable.
Cyber security is considered a specialist area of information technology. There are also elements of computer science that for part of the discipline, such as programming languages. You may come across what are described as ‘types of cyber security’. These are essentially different specialisations that are available, including:
- Network security
- Infrastructure security
- Application security
- Cloud computing security
- Internet security
While you can study cyber security as part of a computer science or information technology degree, it is also offered as a standalone course.
Find out more about STEM-related degrees and courses.
What types of cyber security courses are available?
If studying cyber security attracts your interest, it’s important to evaluate the options available to you. Degrees in cyber security are available at both an undergraduate and postgraduate level. Usually, a qualification in cyber security is offered as a BSc honour’s degree at the undergraduate level and as an MSc at the postgraduate level. It is also possible to study diploma and certificate courses in the subject.
Entry requirements for the course will differ between universities however, you will likely be expected to have the following for a BSc degree:
- ABB A-Levels with mathematics; International baccalaureate 28 and above; SAT score of 1,290 for reasoning; Associate degree 3.2.
- IELTS score of 6.0 or above with no band lower than 5.5.
Remember to always check with your prospective university what the entry and English language requirements are. There is always the possibility of taking a pre-sessional English course or pathway programme to reach the required level.
Read additional information about how to apply to a university.
What do you learn in a cyber security qualification?
The curriculum for a cyber security degree will depend on which level you are studying at. Postgraduate degrees are generally more focused on a specific area, while a BSc is likely to touch on many aspects of the disciplines. If you do study for a degree in cyber security, you can expect to cover:
- Software engineering
- Network architecture
- Algorithms and data structure
- Cyber security for networks
- Information management
- Database management
- Artificial intelligence
- Cryptography
- Security architecture
- Digital forensics
- Data analytics
At a master’s degree level, you can specialise in several areas that include cryptography, network security, security engineering, and security management. A degree in cybersecurity aims to develop your knowledge and skills in the field so that you can:
- Critically evaluate emerging threats
- Work under pressure and at speed
- Use advanced research and analytics tools
- Manage network architecture and infrastructure
- Develop strategy and policy
- Design security systems
- Gain professional accreditation and certification
Investigate some of the universities around the world where you can study cyber security.
What are the benefits of studying cyber security?
Choosing a degree in cyber security has several benefits. Not only are the skills sought after and transferable, but you’ll also be able to work in different industries. Some of the other benefits of pursuing a cybersecurity degree include:
- Cyber security is a constantly evolving and dynamic field.
- You’ll develop many other additional skills such as critical thinking, project management, and leadership.
- Cyber security can contribute positively to society and individuals.
- Demand and job opportunities will continue to grow over the next decade. It’s a degree for the future.
- There are great opportunities for career progression.
When thinking about whether cyber security is right for you, think about your career and study path, as well as your personality.
What can you do after a degree in cyber security?
With a degree in cyber security, you may find yourself working in many different environments and roles. The degree will allow you to work for companies and organisations in industries including:
- Government
- Business and finance
- Energy
- Education
- Logistics
- Online retail
- Media
- Information technology
The sorts of roles that you could fulfil may include, but are not limited to:
- Security analyst
- Network engineer
- Systems manager
- Software developer
- Network architect
- Risk manager
- Policy advisor
Speak with prospective universities about potential career opportunities. You can see if they offer work placements or internships. Don’t forget that you can speak to an education counsellor and a university careers office too.
Studying for a degree in cyber security offers an interesting academic experience and sets you up for an exciting career. Why not carry on your study abroad research now that you are here? Read up about professional degrees, pre-masters courses and your ultimate study abroad checklist.
Chat with Couru
