Cyber security guide
Interested in studying a degree in cyber security? Check out our helpful cyber security guide which covers everything you need to know about studying cyber security at University of Gloucestershire.
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What is cyber security?
Cyber security focuses on protecting computer systems from unauthorised access or being otherwise damaged or made inaccessible.
Cyber security is an important business issue for all organisations as the recent GDPR regulations require organisations to have robust security measures in place to protect personal data or face large penalties.
It’s a billion-pound industry and is growing due to continued threats from malware, ransomware, phishing, DDoS attacks and hacking.
With almost all of our personal data now stored online, cyber security attacks have the potential to completely ruin businesses and people lives. With the number of recent high-profile attacks, such as those on the NHS, Yahoo and LinkedIn, companies are becoming increasingly concerned with any potential leaks that could occur.
What field of study is cyber security?
Cyber security falls under the field of computer sciences. Computer science is the study of computers and computing – this involves scientific and mathematical theory, which is used to develop software, hardware, artificial intelligence, coding, and much more.
Knowledge of these areas allows professionals to fight cybercrime.
What are cyber security courses?
Cyber security courses offer students a chance to gain skills, knowledge and experience in cyber. The courses can vary from choice of study level, modules and qualifications.
At the University, we offer an undergraduate cyber course in cyber security.
What degree is cyber security?
You can study for a degree in cyber security at different levels. You could study a cyber security degree at undergraduate level, and you’ll receive a Bachelor’s of Science award upon completion of the course.
You can also study cyber security at postgraduate level, and from that, you’ll receive a Master’s of Science award upon completion of the course.
How to get a bachelor’s degree in cyber security?
If you’re looking to get a bachelor’s degree in cyber security, then the best route would be to study a course in cyber security at university.
At University of Gloucestershire, we offer an undergraduate degree in cyber security in which you can achieve a Bachelor’s of Science upon completion of the course.
What do we study in cyber security?
If you choose to enrol on a cyber course at the University, you will study a range of topics and modules that are integral to fighting cybercrime.
Below are some of the study modules you will cover in Cyber Security BSc (Hons)
- computers and security
- principles of cyber security
- principles of programming
- web development
- operating systems
- ethical hacking and security
How difficult is a cyber security degree?
Any degree will and should have challenges when studying. If you have previously studied at A-Level (or BTEC) and received a level 3 qualification, then studying at degree level would be the natural progression route for you.
A level 3 qualification in a computing-related subject would also be an advantage when studying a cyber degree.
What do I need to study cyber security?
If you’re interested in studying a cyber security degree at undergraduate level, you will typically need the following qualifications:
- 112 tariff points
- English Language or Literature and Math’s Grade 4/C in GCSE (or equivalent) are normally required.
Interested in studying with us? View our cyber courses for full entry requirements.
Cyber security courses
View our undergraduate cyber courses below.
Cyber security
During this course, you’ll learn the fundamentals of protecting individuals and organisations from cyber-attacks. You’ll develop skills to identify security breaches and implement solutions using the latest industry tools and techniques.
Why I want to study cyber security
There are many great reasons to study cyber security at the University.
Studying an undergraduate degree in cyber security enables you to gain and develop a range of skills that are integral to fighting cybercrime. You’ll learn technical skills such as programming, information systems, databases, digital forensics and cryptography.
There is a range of additional benefits to studying cyber security:
- Gain a science qualification at degree level
- Study in one of the UK’s most popular locations for cyber security
- High demand in the sector for cyber graduates
- Industry-leading experts as lecturers at the University
- Global industry links
- Placement opportunities.
Who would want a cyber security degree?
A cyber security degree course can help you gain the qualifications you need to enter cyber security jobs and combat the growing threat of cybercrime.
If you like problem-solving, have a technical mind, and are interested in IT, a cyber security degree may be for you.
Cyber security degrees cover a wide range of IT related subjects including programming, algorithms and data types, information systems and databases, digital forensics, software development, penetration testing, cryptography and cyber-crime.
Entry requirements for an undergraduate degree course are set by individual universities and you may be required to have higher grades in particular subjects which are related to computing.
Which country is best to study cyber security?
England in the United Kingdom is considered one of the best countries to study cyber security.
Our University is based in south-west England, in the county of Gloucestershire.
Gloucestershire is fast becoming known as the ‘cyber capital of the UK’, with many companies choosing our county as their base. This makes Gloucestershire the perfect location to study and gain experience, through placements, internships and industry links.
Why study cyber security in the UK?
The UK is a fantastic location to study cyber security. By studying an undergraduate degree in cyber security in the UK, you’ll have the opportunity to receive a Batchelor’s of Science, which is a globally recognised award.
The UK has high demand for cyber security professionals and graduates and is one of the most popular countries in the world to study cyber security.
What to study for cyber security jobs?
If you’re looking to land a job in cyber security, there are a range of courses you can study that will improve your job prospects.
At the University, we offer a range of cyber security and computing-related courses that will improve your skillset and job opportunities in the cyber sector:
What degree to work in cyber security?
If you’re looking to study a degree that will allow you to work in cyber security, it’s worth considering a cyber or computing-based course in which you’ll gain a Bachelor’s of Science award upon completion.
Take a look at our undergraduate cyber security course.
What to do with a cyber security degree?
Gaining a degree in cyber security opens a world of opportunities. Below are some options for further development in cyber.
Education
- You could choose to study at postgraduate level and become a Master’s of Science in cyber
- Complete a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in cyber security.
Career paths
- Cyber security engineer
- Ethical hacker
- Web developer
- Cloud security consultant
Where can I work with a cyber security degree?
There are so many great career paths available nationwide and globally to those who gain a cyber security degree. Below are a few options:
- Cyber forensic investigation
- Forensic computing
- Fraud investigation
- Penetration testing
- Systems security
- Information security management
- Digital forensic examination
- Law enforcement
- Civil forensic examination
There is currently a skills shortage in cyber security and demand for people working in the industry is on the rise.
Career prospects are good for people with the right combination of skills and experience. You’ll typically start in an entry-level or junior cyber security role and then progress into roles such as a senior cyber security analyst or consultant. You may then be able to progress into higher level leadership and managerial roles.
Achieving relevant certifications is helpful for your development and progression as many employers specify these as role requirements. With experience, you could also set up your own company and become an independent cyber security consultant.
Interested in studying a cyber security degree?
Applications for undergraduate cyber security degrees are made through UCAS, while applications for postgraduate cyber degrees are made directly to the university.