Enjoy critical thinking, identifying problems and providing strong technical solutions. You can progress to a career as a security engineer or analyst. Study cyber security with a focus on network infrastructure to ensure protection from cyber-crime.

With today's advancing technologies comes the increasing threat of cybercrime. The National Cyber Security Strategy makes clear the importance of good network defences in securing the UK. GCU has developed a suite of programmes which provide the opportunity to be at the forefront of defending cyberspace from sophisticated malicious attacks and future threats.

Cyber Security and Networks covers the protection of computer equipment, information and services from unauthorised access, change or destruction. It will inform you of the latest technologies, help you understand legal, ethical and professional responsibilities and provide a broad awareness of the industry.

The School of Engineering and the Built Environment is an accredited Cisco Academy. The curriculum material from the professionally recognised Cisco Certified Network Associate qualification and Cisco Certified Network Professional is integrated into this programme. With additional work and assessments, you can work to complete these Cisco Certified qualifications.

The programme features an optional one-year sandwich placement which can be undertaken after completion of Year 3. The placement consists of a year of practical paid work experience in a suitable company position. The different types of posts undertaken can be of quite a diverse range but will always relate to your area of study. Recently students have been placed with companies such as IBM, Dell Corporation, National Australia Group, The Royal Bank of Scotland and Strathclyde Police among others. The placement can provide valuable experience to enhance your career prospects following graduation.

Course structure-

• Year 1

Programming 1, Computer Networking 1, Web Platform Development 1, Integrated Project 1, Mathematics for Computing, Fundamentals of Computing.

• Year 2

Secure Systems Administration, Computer Networking 2, Programming 2, Integrated Design Project 2, Database Development, Cyber Security Operations.

• Year 3

Advanced Routing, Digital Forensic Investigation, Ethical Hacking, Advanced Switching, Integrated Design Project 3, Research Skills and Professional Issues.
 

• Year 4

Web Application Security, Internet Security, Network Simulation, Regulating the Information Society, Honours Project.

These programmes will prepare you for entering the communication networks, security engineering and digital forensics sector, an industry which employs one in three of all jobs within the IT sector. This sector is becoming increasingly complex, with particular need for digital forensics, digital security, ethical hacking, wireless and mobile specialist skills.

The University expect digital security graduates to embark on a range of career pathways including government agencies, law enforcement or associated private sector agencies, business, supporting specialist roles such as forensic practitioners, penetration testers (ethical hackers) and security and forensic consultants.