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Applied Cyber Security

Course Code: UF7676, UX7676
  • Level: 6
  • Qualification: BSc (Hons)
  • Awarding body: City College Plymouth
  • Duration: One year
  • Course type: Full-time
  • Time of day: Daytime
  • When you'll study: Two days per week - Tuesdays and Wednesdays

What's it all about?

The BSc (Hons) Advanced Applied Cyber Security programme offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with advanced skills for tackling modern cybersecurity challenges.

You will undertake mandatory modules such as Advanced Threat Detection and Response Systems, where you will learn real-time threat monitoring and AI-driven incident response, and Cloud and IoT Security, which focuses on securing cloud platforms and IoT ecosystems. Practical modules like Cyber Security Automation with SOAR and Red Teaming and Ethical Phishing provide hands-on experience in automating security workflows and performing offensive security operations.

Optional modules, such as Zero Trust Security Architectures and Blockchain and Quantum Security will allow you to specialise in cutting-edge topics. These modules delve into designing secure architectures based on Zero Trust principles and developing quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions. This breadth ensures you can tailor your learning to your career goals while mastering industry-relevant practices.

The programme culminates in a Capstone Project, where you will apply your knowledge to solve real-world cybersecurity problems. You will manage the project lifecycle, design and implement solutions, and present your findings.

This emphasis on applied learning, combined with the use of state-of-the-art facilities like the Security Operations Centre (SOC), ensures graduates are job-ready and equipped for a dynamic cybersecurity landscape.

Course information

The BSc (Hons) Advanced Applied Cyber Security programme provides a robust and detailed curriculum designed to address the complexities of modern cybersecurity challenges. Below is a detailed description of the core and optional modules covered.

Mandatory Modules

Advanced Threat Detection and Response Systems (20 credits)

Focus: Real-time threat monitoring, AI-driven incident response, and advanced Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools.

Key Skills: Developing AI models for threat detection, SOC workflows, analysing Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), and ransomware response.

Assessment: Includes SOC simulations and incident response exercises.

Cloud and IoT Security (20 credits)

Focus: Automating security operations using Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) tools.

Key Skills: Automating incident responses, integrating cybersecurity tools with SOAR, and scripting for automation.

Assessment: Includes creating and testing automation scripts in simulated environments.

Red Teaming and Ethical Phishing (20 credits)

Focus: Offensive security methodologies, including ethical phishing campaigns and red teaming techniques.

Key Skills: Conducting penetration testing, simulating real-world attacks, identifying infrastructure vulnerabilities, and developing countermeasures.

Assessment: Simulated red teaming exercises and phishing campaign designs.

Capstone Project in Applied Cyber Security (40 credits)

Focus: Students undertake a comprehensive project, integrating their learning to solve a real-world cybersecurity issue.

Key Skills: Project lifecycle management, designing and implementing solutions, and presenting findings to a panel.

Assessment: Project report and viva demonstration.

Optional Modules

Zero Trust Security Architectures (20 credits)

Focus: Continuous authentication and designing secure architectures without trusted zones.

Key Skills: Implementing Zero Trust models, access control, identity management, and preventing lateral movement in networks.

Assessment: Includes implementing Zero Trust in simulated environments.

Blockchain and Quantum Security (20 credits)

Focus: Addressing blockchain vulnerabilities and quantum computing’s impact on cryptography.

Key Skills: Quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions, blockchain infrastructure security, and analysing quantum-based threats.

Assessment: Practical exercises on blockchain vulnerability assessments and quantum security solutions.

Special Features

  • Hands-on Learning Environment: Students gain practical experience in the state-of-the-art Security Operations Centre (SOC), simulating real-world threat monitoring and response scenarios.
  • Industry-Aligned Curriculum: Modules are designed to meet employer needs, focusing on areas like AI, IoT, and advanced security frameworks.
  • Flexible Learning Pathways: Optional modules allow students to tailor their learning to areas of interest, enhancing their career readiness.

This programme ensures graduates possess both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, preparing them for roles such as SOC Analysts, Cyber Security Engineers, and Penetration Testers.

In order to be successful on this course you will need to have successfully completed a level 5 course in computing, engineering or a relevant subject.

You will be assessed by coursework and practical activities.

Upon successful completion you may progress to the MSc in Cyber Security at the University of Plymouth.

Please note fees are quoted for one year only.

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Future careers

What you could earn:

IT Business Analysts, Architects and Systems Designers

£77,032.25

Potential salary

£27,362.18

Entry level salary

£46,660.00

Average salary

11

Annual openings in Plymouth

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