Networks and Cyber Security BSc (Hons)
Option for Placement Year
Option for Study Abroad
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Option for Placement Year
Option for Study Abroad
Networks and Cyber Security BSc (Hons) at Northumbria University has been created to meet global demand for skilled individuals who understand how networks are designed, built and configured, how Cybersecurity works in an age where the online world is so vulnerable to attacks, and how software is used to monitor and secure these systems.
As we increasingly move our lives online, there is high demand for network and cyber security skills. So, this may be a future-proof career choice for people ready to rise to the challenge.
Starting with computer science essentials in your first year, you will become an expert in network engineering, digital security and forensics by the time you graduate. Specifically, you will study Advanced Network and Security modules and have the opportunity to opt for Cisco CCNA modules certifications through Cisco Net Academy.
The course highlight is a final year module involving a project focusing on topics related to advanced network and security technologies using state-of-the-art virtual machines, simulation or programming tools that could include AI or Machine learning.
Networks and Cyber Security is one of the fastest-growing areas of computer science. Every organisation needs protecting against cyber risk - from business to healthcare, and education to entertainment. That means, when you graduate, you will be qualified for a valuable job and be in high demand from a wide range of employers.
You will have plenty of chances to practice your skills. During the course, you will take part in a business consultancy project, delivering solutions to real-world problems. This can be here in Newcastle or at our partner campus in London.
As well as this, you can opt for an optional year in industry or studying abroad. This can be a great opportunity to develop and enhance your intellectual and professional skills, broadening your overall learning experience.
Over 94% of students studying Information Sciences at Northumbria believed their course challenged them to achieve their best work, that their course was well organised and felt that changes to teaching were well communicated (NSS, 2023).
Computer Science and Informatics is ranked 12th in the UK for research power out of 90 submissions (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 54 places compared with 2014.
Information Technology & Systems is ranked 4th in the UK by the Complete University Guide for 2024.
Information Systems & Management at Northumbria is ranked 2nd in the UK for Teaching Quality & Student Experience (Times Good University Guide, 2024)
Networks and Cyber Security BSc (Hons) at Northumbria University has been created to meet global demand for skilled individuals who understand how networks are designed, built and configured, how Cybersecurity works in an age where the online world is so vulnerable to attacks, and how software is used to monitor and secure these systems.
As we increasingly move our lives online, there is high demand for network and cyber security skills. So, this may be a future-proof career choice for people ready to rise to the challenge.
Starting with computer science essentials in your first year, you will become an expert in network engineering, digital security and forensics by the time you graduate. Specifically, you will study Advanced Network and Security modules and have the opportunity to opt for Cisco CCNA modules certifications through Cisco Net Academy.
The course highlight is a final year module involving a project focusing on topics related to advanced network and security technologies using state-of-the-art virtual machines, simulation or programming tools that could include AI or Machine learning.
Networks and Cyber Security is one of the fastest-growing areas of computer science. Every organisation needs protecting against cyber risk - from business to healthcare, and education to entertainment. That means, when you graduate, you will be qualified for a valuable job and be in high demand from a wide range of employers.
You will have plenty of chances to practice your skills. During the course, you will take part in a business consultancy project, delivering solutions to real-world problems. This can be here in Newcastle or at our partner campus in London.
As well as this, you can opt for an optional year in industry or studying abroad. This can be a great opportunity to develop and enhance your intellectual and professional skills, broadening your overall learning experience.
Over 94% of students studying Information Sciences at Northumbria believed their course challenged them to achieve their best work, that their course was well organised and felt that changes to teaching were well communicated (NSS, 2023).
Computer Science and Informatics is ranked 12th in the UK for research power out of 90 submissions (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 54 places compared with 2014.
Information Technology & Systems is ranked 4th in the UK by the Complete University Guide for 2024.
Information Systems & Management at Northumbria is ranked 2nd in the UK for Teaching Quality & Student Experience (Times Good University Guide, 2024)
UCAS Code
G417
Level of Study
Undergraduate
Mode of Study
3 years full-time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department
Computer and Information Sciences
Location
City Campus, Northumbria University
City
Newcastle
Start
September 2024 or September 2025
Fees
Fee Information
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Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Networks and Cyber Security. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.
In your first year you will study computer science essentials like computational thinking, programming and data, and also get your first introduction to networks and cyber security. Thanks to some shared modules, you will get to know other students on our computer science degrees and make connections between the different topics we teach.
From second year, you become a specialist, focusing almost entirely on networks and cyber security. You will gain understanding of operating systems, human factors in cyber security, and network switching and routing. Also, you will have the chance to work on a consultancy project based on real-world contexts, getting real-life, practical experience of the application of Cyber Security.
Your final year makes you an expert, ready for the world of work. You study advanced security and learn about networks in large enterprises. You will also complete a group computing project with fellow students and work independently on your dissertation. This is your chance to impress employers by designing, building and evaluating your own computing project.
During your course, the assessments are designed to help you develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required of a Networks and Cyber Security graduate. You will be assessed through a variety of different methods including exams, reports, presentations, individual, group and project work.
The course also offers opportunities for Cisco CCNA module certifications through Net Academy and for Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification.
You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience from the computer science sector. What you study is shaped by their research, which is classed as both ‘world-leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’ (REF, 2021).
As well as teaching you and conducting research, your tutors work with other organisations and regularly publish work in prestigious publications, contributing solutions to cyber security challenges.
Computer Science programmes at Northumbria take place in a dynamic learning environment where you will have access to an expert team of staff - developing in-depth technical expertise as well as career-ready skills like teamwork, communication and critical thinking.
View their profiles to read about their research interests, academic journey, and publications.
Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Networks and Cyber Security. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.
During your studies, you will have the opportunity to access state of the art facilities and equipment which will encourage your individual intellectual freedom and allow your creative vision to become a reality.
Our £7m Computer and Information Sciences building was opened in 2018, especially for our computing students, and it is packed with high quality services to support your learning. Here, you will have access to dedicated computing areas which you can use during free periods and into the evenings and weekends. These areas are useful spaces for completing your coursework, stocked with the latest PC, Mac and Linux machines. Plus, our award-winning Library has lots of resources and study spaces to support your learning, with professional support services for students at all levels of study.
The Computer Science facilities at Northumbria will provide you with a wide range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating, and dynamic learning environment.
Specifically, those studying Networks and Cyber Security will have access to the Specialist Networks Labs. These specialist labs house Cisco Routers and Switches, along with high-spec/GPU-based computers that can run multiple virtual machines.
These facilities will help you gain real-world experience by enabling you to work with different virtual machines and Cisco hardware equipment. You also have the opportunity to configure Switches and Routers for performance and security, creating different network topologies, ultimately gaining practise-based knowledge and strengthening your employability.
We are proud to say that the Computer and Information Science building at Northumbria University is a sustainable ‘Smart Building’, which is able to run itself efficiently and sustainably. This ‘Living Lab’ supports student learning and provides useful links between sustainability and technology.
Northumbria also contributes to the Institute of Coding - a £40m collaboration between 25 UK universities – delivering education to people of all ages, helping them gain the skills they need to become the next generation of digital talent.
We work very closely with companies in the North-East England and support them in their cyber security work.
The Cyber Clinic provides an avenue for students to learn and practice skills that are related to penetration testing and ethical hacking. Providing consultancy services to businesses in Newcastle and beyond, helping students gain real-world experience before they graduate.
The Department of Computer and Information Sciences is home to a variety of facilities and equipment to help enhance your studies.
At the heart of each Northumbria campus, our libraries provide a range of study space and technology to suit every learning style.
Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Networks and Cyber Security. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.
We are living in a digital age where all of our lives are impacted by computer sciences and digital technologies, from cyber security and computational intelligence to games and visual effects, meaning it is essential that research continues to broaden our understanding.
In studying Computer Sciences at Northumbria University, you will be immersed in a research-rich environment with new and exciting insights into the discipline by our rapidly expanding Computer and Information Science research groups, helping to overcome challenges and understand the future of technology.
You will be taught by staff with a strong academic background in research-informed areas.
With access to diverse research work carried out by our expert academic staff, we seek to promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice, which will improve your student experience here at Northumbria.
Digital Health & Wellbeing
Network Systems and Security (NetSyS)
Computer and Information Sciences
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Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Networks and Cyber Security. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.
As a graduate in Networks and Cyber Security, you’re going to be in high demand. As Cybercrime techniques change, cyber security needs to evolve to catch ever-more sophisticated attacks. So, people with skills in this area are always going to be needed.
Your future career options could include Security Analyst, Security Engineer, Security Architect, Security Software Developer, Cryptographer, Cryptanalyst, Security Consultant, Incident responder, and/or roles in the intelligence services.
Studying Networks and Cyber Security at Northumbria doesn’t limit you to only security roles, however. With the skills and knowledge gained through first year Computer Science modules, you may also be qualified for a wider range of careers. For example, you may also wish to work on: Software engineering, Systems analysis and design, Consultancy, Computer networks, Database development and management, Software testing, Embedded systems, Web development, IT management, and more.
You will graduate with specialist skills and knowledge in Operating systems, Network switching and routing, and Human factors in cyber security, as well as essential professional skills such as effective communication, problem solving, informational literacy, and teamwork.
Yes. You will have the chance to take up to a year-long work placement. This will give you a real head-start in your career because you will understand how your learning applies to real-life problems that businesses face, have more confidence about working life and what it involves, and could gain valuable contacts.
Thanks to Northumbria’s excellent professional links, you will have the opportunity to apply for a placement in the public or private sector, in the UK or abroad. Previous students from across the department have been on placement with blue-chip companies such as Hewlett Packard and GlaxoSmithKline and at CERN in Geneva.
An alternative option for your third year could also be study abroad. This option allows you to get a global perspective on your subject, which could pave the way for an international career in the future.
From first year through to final year and beyond graduation, we are here to help.
We have a fantastic service for students' to use to gain advice and tips on furthering careers and enhancing their employability.
Careers and Employment Services
Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Networks and Cyber Security. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.
112 UCAS Tariff points
From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator
Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our University regardless of personal circumstances or background. To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo
Subject Requirements:
There are no specific subject requirements for this course.
GCSE Requirements:
Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.
Additional Requirements:
There are no additional requirements for this course.
International Qualifications:
We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.
If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry
English Language Requirements:
International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).
*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications
112 UCAS Tariff points
From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator
Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our University regardless of personal circumstances or background. To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo
Subject Requirements:
There are no specific subject requirements for this course.
GCSE Requirements:
Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.
Additional Requirements:
There are no additional requirements for this course.
International Qualifications:
We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.
If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry
English Language Requirements:
International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).
*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications
UK Fee in Year 1: £9,250
* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.
EU Fee in Year 1: £19,750
International Fee in Year 1:
ADDITIONAL COSTS
There are no Additional Costs
UK Fee in Year 1*: TBC
* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.
EU Fee in Year 1: **TBC
International Fee in Year 1:
TBC
ADDITIONAL COSTS
TBC
* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here
To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.
Home or EU applicants please apply through UCAS
International applicants please apply using the links below
Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.
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Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
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