Networking and Cyber Security BSc (Hons)

Our Networking and Cyber Security BSc (Hons) degree is designed to equip you with the ability to solve complex computing problems in order for you to progress to graduate-level roles.

Discover all there is to know about deterring and preventing cyber security breaches and hacking. Additionally, explore fraud against networks, applications, businesses and everything in the world that relies on technology and what we can do to prevent them.

Learn your craft in modern, state-of-the-art digital suites - bespoke for your learning. Gain support from passionate and industry experienced tutors who support your ambition. 

You will also undertake a work placement or work-based learning experience as well as develop your practical and cognitive skills to solve work related everyday problems by combining knowledge of information transfer, communications technology, software and business context relevant to the computing industry.

You will develop professional-level industry related skills, learning, for example, how to build web-sites, design databases and plan networks together with the necessary problem solving techniques.

All students take a total of 120 credits per level.

Level 4 Modules includes:

• Computer Systems Architecture
• Introductory Programming Concepts
• Computer Threats and Attacks
• Software Design and Development
• Network Systems
• Web Design and Development

Level 5 Modules includes:

• Network Infrastructure
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Modern Computing Environments
• Network Management
• Work Based Learning
• Research Project

Level 6 Modules includes:

• Distributed Computed Environments
• Cyber Security and Threat management
• Ethical and Legal Issues
• E-Business
• Major Project

You will need a minimum of 80 UCAS Tariff points.

In addition, for this programme, you will be required to have a GCSE (or an equivalent level 2 qualification) at grade 4 (formerly grade C) or above in English and mathematics.

If English is not your first language you will need to demonstrate the ability to study in English. For non-native speakers of English, you must demonstrate proficiency of English equivalent to B2 of the Common European Framework, specifically IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no more than 2 sub scores below IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent). 

Applicants who do not meet the standard entry criteria but have relevant work/life experience will be considered on an individual basis and will be invited to interview. The interview will consider prior formal qualifications, and evidence of experience gained through employment or other verifiable sources.

Where applicants do not have the requisite GCSE 4 (formerly C) in mathematics or Equivalent Level 2 qualification in mathematics, a short Bridging maths course will be offered and upon successful completion (you will need to pass a test at the end) candidates will be accepted to the course.

Care Leavers or Young Carers

We want students from all backgrounds to have the opportunity to go to University. If you have spent three months or more in local authority care OR are a young carer, you will be eligible for a contextual offer. This is a grade reduction of 1-A Level grade below our standard entry requirements. For example, a standard offer of CCC, would become CCD. MMM at Level 3 Extended Diploma would become MMP. To apply we advise that you tick the box on your UCAS application which identifies you have spent time in care and to help identify you as eligible for our contextual offer.

Throughout the course a full range of assessment techniques will be used. You could be assessed by examinations, including open-book examinations, practical assessments, assignments, briefs, essays, presentations (including group presentations), reports and portfolio building.

Each module is formally assessed through, for example, open book examinations, group projects, essays, assignments or briefs, presentations, group presentations, portfolio building, self-assessments, peer assessments, studio/exhibition assessments and a dissertation.  This formal assessment will count towards your module mark and feedback is usually given within 3 weeks following the submission of your formal submission of work.

Additionally, some lecturers will provide informal feedback, for example, following an examination they may choose to work through the exam paper in a tutorial. It should be noted that feedback is part of the ongoing learning cycle which is not limited to written feedback. Other forms of feedback include one-to-one meetings with a personal tutor, dissertation and project supervision meetings, a lecturer responding to learner questions or responses during topic or situation discussions.

Feedback is intended to help you learn and you are encouraged to discuss it with your module tutor.

Teaching and Learning

The learning environment and facilities could include lecture theatres, classrooms, technology suites, laboratories and workshops, library and skills labs, art and photography studios, small group and quiet zones. Learning methods will vary according to the programme of study but will include lectures and group tutorials. In addition, seminars, field trips, work placements, role play or scenario activities, laboratory and workshop practical, demonstrations, guest lectures, discussions and debates all contribute to the learning experience to support the acquisition of subject specific skills and knowledge and the development of transferable and employment related skills.

You should typically expect to have around 15 contact hours per week if you are studying full time.

In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor. 

You will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course.  The team could include senior academics, professional practitioners with industry experience, demonstrators and technical officers.  You can learn more about our staff by visiting our staff profiles.

Learning and teaching will be delivered through a range of established methodologies including:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Audio Visual materials
• Research
• Archive and Library searches
• Distance and e-learning (via VLE)
• Field Visits
• Attendance at conferences
• Presentations at conferences
• Research visits

Graduates of the programme can progress onto a diverse range of professions with an Honours degree in Computing. These include: Software Developers, Business Analysts, Web Developers, Project Managers, Network Designers, Teachers and Games Developers, will be accessible at a more senior level in addition to professions requiring knowledge of more specialist areas such as Data Science, Distributed Computing, Security and Mobile Development.

Upon successful completion of the course, you could choose to progress onto Masters programmes. Opportunities include MSc programmes in Databases Design, Computer Science, Internet Technologies and Agile Software Projects.