BSc in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
Kingston University
Key Information
Campus location
Kingston upon Thames, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
3 - 4 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
GBP 9,250 / per year **
Application deadline
Request info *
Earliest start date
Request info
* only for home students. We will continue to accept applications from international students after the 25th of January
** UK students: £9,250 per year | international: £15,800 for the first year
Introduction
Why choose this course?
Have you considered a career at the cutting edge of the fight against cybercrime? There's an increasing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals with the expertise that this course offers.
In this course, you'll study how computers and technology can be used to investigate, prevent and manage cyber attacks. You'll develop web technology programming skills and study specialised tools and operating system environments. You'll examine encryption algorithms, public-key cryptography, network security, endpoint security and digital forensics. Project themes include security and vulnerability analysis, mobile app security and cyber intelligence analysis.
Practical studies include ethical hacking (such as password cracking, vulnerability scanning, social engineering and system exploits) and Security Operations Centre (SOC) functions, such as threat intelligence, threat hunting, SIEMs and incident response.
Please note: this course was previously called Cyber Security & Computer Forensics BSc (Hons).
Reasons to choose Kingston University
- You'll have access to software and tools widely used in the cyber security industry, such as Splunk, Nessus, Kali Linux, and Autopsy.
- This degree is aligned with industry-recognised certifications (i.e. CompTIA, EC-Council, Splunk and more), giving your career a head start.
- Kingston has a dedicated cyber security and digital forensics lab.
Gallery
Admissions
Curriculum
What you will study
Year 1
In the first year of this degree, students are introduced to computer security, digital forensics and legal aspects of forensic investigative processes. They will also develop web technology (e.g. Javascript, HTML, CSS), Java and Python programming skills; and gain practical insight into the use of specialised tools and operating system environments. Examples include hex editors, hash functions, Forensic Tool Kit (FTK), Windows 10, Linux, Android, iOS and more.
Core modules
- Programming I: Thinking Like a Programmer
- Computing Fundamentals
- Cyber Crime and Digital Forensics
- Professional Environments 1
Year 2
In the second year, students will study ethical hacking through practical activities (e.g. password cracking, port scanning, anonymous browsing, keyboard logging, screen capture, packet interception, social engineering and malware).
Core modules
- Ethical Hacking
- Computing Systems
- Professional Environments 2
Optional modules
- Database-Driven Application Development
- Networking Concepts
Optional sandwich year
Core modules
- Industrial Placement
Year 3/4
In the final year, students will study encryption algorithms, public-key cryptography systems, network security techniques, and security policies as well as live, network and mobile forensics in the context of a security operations centre. They will also complete an individual 'capstone' project. This project is a showcase opportunity in which students undertake a research and development project of their choice. They will develop a tangible and noteworthy artefact, that can be showcased during interviews for placements, internships or full-time roles. Examples of topic themes include cryptocurrencies, mobile privacy, blockchain technologies, malware etc.
Core modules
- Cryptography and Network Security
- Threat Hunting, Analysis and Mitigation
- Individual Project
Optional modules
- Internet Protocols and Services
- Software Development Practice
- Digital Entrepreneurship
Please note
Optional modules only run if there is enough demand. If we have an insufficient number of students interested in an optional module, that module will not be offered for this course.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Cybersecurity career opportunities are diverse and exist across many sectors. Examples include government, finance, entertainment, media, law and intelligence services.
Careers and recruitment advice
The Faculty has a specialist employability team. It provides friendly and high-quality careers and recruitment guidance, including advice and sessions on job-seeking skills such as CV preparation, application forms and interview techniques. Specific advice is also available for international students about the UK job market and employers' expectations and requirements.
The team runs employer events throughout the year, including job fairs, key speakers from the industry and interviews on campus. These events give you the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.