Computer Security and Forensics MSc (7Safe Cambridge)

Programme title:	MSc Computer Security and Forensics
Apply:	direct to the University
Start (pt):	September/ February/ June
Mode:	part-time
Duration:	variable
Location:	Luton campus and Partner Institutions
Faculty:	Faculty of Creative Arts, Technologies & Science
Department:	Department of Computer Science & Technology

Summary

The MSc in Computer Security and Forensics seeks to provide students with specialist Internet knowledge and programming skills as well as addressing the key areas in which there is a skills "gap". The award is intended for individuals that require more than just a good knowledge of computer security and provides them with the technical skills in areas such as forensics, data analysis, law of evidence and emerging technologies.

The award is (typically) aimed at students with prior academic achievement or formal background in an IT-related discipline (e.g. computing or information systems).

There has been massive growth in demand for computer programmers over recent years. While the economic climate has undergone change, with some smaller companies suffering as the "dotcom" bubble burst, there has remained a need for programmers with the ability to display and manipulate information over the Internet. Latest projections from the US Department of Labour predict that employment in computer systems design and related services will grow by 39.5% and account for almost 1/4 of all new jobs in professional scientific and technical services by 2014.

Why choose this course?

You will study in a friendly environment with state-of-the-art computer facilities
There are opportunities for Independent and Work-Related Learning
There are opportunities for professionals or employees wishing to pursue Continuing Professional Development via our individual taught modular scheme ( Postgraduate Diploma or Certificate)

Career Opportunities

This degree is an provides an excellent opportunity for those who are in current employment, or those who wish to enter into employment within the Computer Security and Forensics area, to gain both professional qualifications (provided by 7 Safe Ltd. of Cambridge) and an academic qualification.

Teaching/learning methods and strategies

This degree is delivered entirely by distance learning. The main delivery tool will be the University of Bedfordshire's Virtual Learning Environment (BREO). BREO will provide online lectures, podcasts, discussion boards, group communication and a variety of other online activities.

The professional course content will be delivered at the 7Safe premises in Cambridge. Their courses are delivered intensively over a 2-5 day period.

In addition to the 7Safe training courses you will be required to undertake assignments for the University of Bedfordshire (please see below for more details).

Assessment

As mentioned above, the main assessments will be (computer-based) examinations, for the 7Safe professional courses associated with a selection of our modules. For the University of Bedfordshire components, the main form of assessment will be the production of written coursework assignments (usually in the form of an essay or professional report.

Dissertation/project and research

For those wishing to successfully complete an MSc a final dissertation is required. Each student will have access to a supervisor (an academic member of staff) and will be required to submit a final report of approximately 10,000 words.

Further details about the programme

The programme is a collaboration between the University of Bedfordshire and 7Safe Ltd. Therefore, the programme has both professional and academic aspects.

On the professional side students will be able to study for:

Certified Security Testing Associate (CSTA)
Certified Security Testing Professional (CSTP)
Certified Forensic Investigation Analyst (CFIA)
Certified Wireless Systems Analyst (CSWA)
Certified Forensic Investigation Practioner (CFIP)
Certified ISO 27001 Implementation Practioner (CIIP)
Certified Security Incident Specialist (CSIS)

For more information on these courses please visit the 7Safe website

Within the course as a whole (and particularly within the University of Bedfordshire) components, the following areas will be covered:

CIS001-6 Advanced Forensic Techniques and Incident Responses
CIS002-6 Applied Proactive Network Defence
CIS007-6 Network Vulnerability and Analysis
CIS009-6 Wireless Network Security
CIS026-6 Forensic Investigations
CIS027-6 Information Systems Security Strategy
CIS031-6 Applied Forensic Investigations
CIS032-6 Independent Study Module

Entry requirements

For standard entry, applicants should have an Honours degree or equivalent qualifications, or a postgraduate qualification, in an IT related subject area.

For mature applicants with non-standard academic profiles, entry and exemption on the basis of Accreditation by Prior Learning, certificated or experiential (APL/APEL) is available.

Attendance

This MSc is delivered in distance learning mode, so there is no official requirement to attend the University of Bedfordshire campus. However, dedicated contact time will be provided and will be detailed upon entry to the course.

Find out more

For detailed information about the content of this programme please contact - Dr Paul Sant

E: paul.sant@beds.ac.uk
T: +44 (0) 1582 74 3705
F: +44 (0) 1582 489212

Related Links

• Read the full course information (programme specification)
• 7 Safe website (professional training)
• Department of Computer Science and Technology Staff Profiles: Dr Paul Sant

Further Study Opportunities

For those students wishing to explore further (research) opportunities (MRes and PhD) please see the Research Graduate School

General Enquiries

• www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply for information about standard entry requirements, application routes, open days, fees and funding.
• T: +44 (0)1582 489286 UK/EU Admissions
• T: +44 (0)1582 489326 International Admissions
• Order a prospectus form. Enquire about courses and order a printed undergraduate or postgraduate prospectus.
• T: +44 (0)1234 400 400 University switchboard