MSc Information Security and Digital Forensics Placement Year

Course Summary

The threat of cyber security attacks is increasingly apparent to individuals and organisations across the globe. From hacking to phishing, scamming to grooming, and botnets to cyber-terrorism, the variety and ingenuity of exploits appear to expand constantly. In this context, this programme addresses system vulnerabilities and the preventative measures that may counter cyber-attacks, including steps to repair systems weaknesses, prevent repeat occurrences, and collecting and examining digital evidence using a variety of digital and mobile forensics tools such as FTK and Cellebrite. You will also develop a detailed understanding of comprehensive cyber risk management practices for ensuring overall security. This course is also available as a two year master's with an industrial placement year.

What we're researching

Our research focuses on key aspects of information security and digital forensics. Our Information Security research was rated world-leading during the 2014 Research Excellence Framework. We continually work towards the design of solutions to detect, prevent, and analyse cyber security attacks. Many of our staff are at the forefront of the battle against hackers and criminals who relentlessly target our digital society. The near future may favour criminals even more as the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to expand possible avenues of attack.

What You'll Learn

The danger of cybercrime is growing and is affecting individuals, governments and organisations across the world. From phishing to hacking, scamming to grooming, and botnets to cyberterrorism, the range and variety of threats seems to expand constantly. This MSC in Information and Digital Forensics addresses system vulnerabilities and explores preventative measures, repair and detection. You will learn to collect and examine digital evidence with a variety of forensics tools. You will find out how to secure virtual crime scenes, and how to put protection in place. You will also apply modelling techniques to simulate and evaluate mobile communication networks, computer system architecture and data centres.

Your Future Career

There is a shortage of skilled personnel in the fields of information security and digital forensics, and graduates of this programme can progress to work in multinational organisations including cybercrime-fighting agencies. In addition, the course will prepare you to sit for ACE Certification (FTK).

Students need 2.2 honours degree in a relevant subject. They will normally be expected to have Grade C in GCSE English and Maths.