Cyber Security and Forensics MSc

Next open evening Wednesday 5 June
Book Now

Can't attend? See more open events

Course Overview

UK Fees £10,500 *
International Fees £17,000 *
Alumni Discount See details
Duration 1 year

* Price per academic year

Course summary

Our Cyber Security and Forensics MSc has been designed with a high degree of relevance to the industry’s needs. This course is also fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which is a sign of national excellence.

Digital devices, including computers and mobile phones, play a pivotal role in our daily lives, impacting various industries such as communications, banking, engineering, information systems and AI technologies. With this reliance the demand for enhanced cybersecurity and forensics has become more imperative. 

This course focusses on two key aspects of Cyber Security: analysing and assessing risk to minimise them and Digital Forensics, which involves investigating and extracting digital information from various devices for legal evidential purposes. You’ll gain insights into security threats facing computer systems, the nature of stored information on digital devices, and the extraction processes. 

All students will take the core modules which are designed to give a comprehensive introduction to this specialist field of Cyber Security and Forensics. The course structure allows you to choose optional modules from either the Cyber Security or Digital Forensics themes, providing a comprehensive and flexible learning experience.  In addition, you’ll undertake and complete a Cyber Security and Forensics Major Project Module. 

The course offers access to state-of-the-art resources, including the licensed FTK Forensics Toolkit and other Open-Source Tools. 

Key features include:

  • A dedicated forensics computer laboratory
  • Over 30 computing laboratories equipped with specialist software supporting Linux/UNIX, Windows and Mac OS, facilitated by high bandwidth networks
  • Access to a range of free software titles through a number of academic initiatives for use on home computers for educational and personal purposes
  • Specialist technicians supporting optimal utilisation of technologies and to ensure you can get the most out of these digital technologies

You’ll have the opportunity to explore a variety of tools available in the market and learn how to use forensic tools for data retrieval. The Cyber Security and Forensics MSc addresses professional and ethical considerations in computer security and forensics, developing competencies like report writing and evidence presentation in court.  

Teaching methods involve lab sessions, student-led tutorials and lectures by internal staff and industry guest speakers. You’ll be taught by friendly, highly experienced staff, and benefit from the diverse specialist knowledge and skills within the School of Computer Science and Engineering. Assessments predominantly comprise of practical or research-based course work.

Top reasons to study with us

  • State-of-the-art technologies and resources: You’ll be equipped with cutting-edge tools, including a licensed FTK Forensics Toolkit and other readily available Open-Source Tools. Our dedicated forensics computer laboratory, along with over 30 computing laboratories, offers an extensive range of software, providing hands-on experience with Linux/UNIX, Windows, and Mac OS. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to utilise specialised software tools and packages specifically designed for cyber security and forensics.
  • Gain industry insider knowledge – you'll benefit from presentations by industry professionals who regularly appear as guest speakers.
  • Accredited course – you’ll be entitled to professional membership of the BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, an important part of the criteria for achieving Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status through the institute.
  • Develop in-demand skills – the need for improved computer security has never been greater, with a growing demand for cyber security specialists.
  • This course has links to an active cyber security research group with PhD students and academic staff investigating the latest advances in cyber security and forensics studies.
  • Some of our graduates have gone on to work in leading governmental and security organisations such as the Police and the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD).
     

Course structure

The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course. For more details on course structure and modules, and how you will be taught and assessed, see the Programme Specification document.

Core modules

The module is divided into two parts. The first part introduces the fundamentals of Cyber security, such as the CIA tenets and the various models and formal methods used to design and understand threats and security methods. It will also introduce the human factor and its impact on organisations. The second part of the module will focus on understanding cryptographic concepts and introduce several applied cryptography models in different environments.

The project is an extended piece of supervised independent work relevant to the field of Cyber Security and Forensics. The topic is generally proposed by the student after consultation with the module leader. The project should enable the student to draw on and extend the knowledge, skills and techniques of the field covered by the taught modules and show independent work that, whilst not original, demonstrates the development of skills and knowledge. The module will allow students to show appreciation of the topic investigated by providing a critical analysis of the findings.
 

This module covers the fundamental concepts in computer forensics. Students will learn about the physical and logical structure and organisation of storage media for the purpose of digital forensics. Students will use a variety of investigative examination and software tools to determine disk and file organisation, the gathering of information and evidence, recovery of deleted files and revealing hidden files structures.

This module examines various aspects of network security, including theoretical and practical areas. A substantial amount of work will be laboratory-based, involving the deployment of network security tools, the analysis of network data, and identifying security threats to networked computers and devices, their consequences, and methods of dealing with such threats. It provides an overview of security issues for networked systems.

Information Security (IS) Governance and Compliance are both essential components of cyber security and Forensics activities within any organisation, incident, or case study. The Information Security governance part of this module focusses on identifying risk management frameworks to guide information security activities, while the Information Security compliance focusses on defining policies, procedures, and guidelines aligning with an organisation’s objectives and regulatory and legal requirements.

Option modules: Digital Forensics theme


This module examines digital forensics and security response with a practical focus. It introduces key network protocols and their potential vulnerabilities, emphasising tools like Wireshark, intrusion detection systems, and their role in incident response. Core topics covered include malware analysis, evidence handling and incident response procedures. Students will apply their learning to through the exploration of real world network security incidents to meet the constantly evolving and emerging challenges in forensics.

The aim of this module is to explore the main aspects of the Digital Forensics Investigative process and apply the theory to practically based exercises, which would be similar to the work conducted in Industry.

Option modules: Cyber Security theme

The module assumes basic knowledge of cryptography and covers both theoretical and practical issues related to cyber security applications. The module aims to explore fundamental technologies and applications in cyber security; discuss underlying technologies and techniques used in cyber security applications; introduce the latest research that can help organisations move from ‘patch and pray’ defenses to security ‘by default’; set major theoretical issues involved in security in a broader information requirements context and explore current technological trends and the way they are employed by businesses (especially for cloud-based services); introduce a variety of techniques and frameworks designed to support security and privacy with particular emphasis on various cryptographic techniques; discuss different techniques used to exploit vulnerabilities and to mount attacks that result in security breaches. Students will be exposed to many exciting open problems in the field and will have the opportunity to work on programming projects related to security.

This module will look at system architectures and how systems can be defended; it will include consideration of the threat to security posed by legitimate users of the system and behavioural issues.

Professional accreditation

This course has been accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of partially meeting the further learning academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional. The accreditation is a mark of assurance that the course meets the standards set by BCS and it entitles you to professional membership of BCS, which is an important part of the criteria for achieving Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status through the Institute.

This course has also been accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer. The accreditation is a mark of assurance that the course meets the standards set by the Engineering Council in the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC).

An accredited degree will provide you with some or all of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for eventual registration as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng). Accreditation to the BCS is valid for intakes to this course between September 2022 - August 2028.

This programme is also fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which is a sign of national excellence. Students will receive a certificate upon graduation. The NCSC is part of the UK Government’s national communications intelligence agency GCHQ. Accreditation to the NCSC is valid for intakes to this course between May 2023 - August 2028.

Studying Computer Science and Engineering at Westminster

Watch the video below to find out more about studying Computer Science and Engineering at Westminster.

book icon in turquoise
Programme specification

For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).

To request an accessible version please email [email protected]

Checklist top tips icon
Prospectus

Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.

Request a prospectus

Chat icon in turquoise
Get in touch

Contact us for general course enquiries:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm GMT)

[email protected]

Live chat with us
(Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm GMT)

Open evenings

Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.

More ways to meet us

Careers

This course is designed with a high degree of relevance to the industry’s needs. It will equip you with all the necessary skills needed for jobs in the field of cyber security and digital forensics. 

With computers being central to all aspects of our daily lives, as industries ranging from communications to banking have come to rely on them, the need for improved computer security has never been greater. This means that there’s a growing demand for specialists in cyber security and digital forensics.

With a growing global network of 3,000 employers, our Careers and Employability Service is here to support you to achieve your full potential.

Industry knowledge

We have strong links to industry, a highly-experienced teaching team in the cyber security and digital forensics field, and industry professionals who regularly appear as guest speakers.

Transferable skills

This course will equip you with a range of highly marketable and skills to prepare you for a successful career in this industry.

Stand out from the crowd

Qualified people in cyber security and digital forensics are currently in high demand in the job market

Industry links

We have links with professionals from a range of fields in the cyber security and digital forensics industries. They regularly appear as guest speakers and act as advisors for the course. Their input ensures that the course is continually up to date and highly relevant to the needs of the industry. 

Job roles

This course will prepare you for roles such as:

  • Anti-piracy/content protection analyst
  • Computer forensics analyst
  • Computer security incident responder
  • Cyber security manager
  • Information security analyst
  • Information security assurance officer
  • Information security assurance analyst
  • Information security consultant
  • Information security risk officer
  • IT security engineer
  • IT security operations specialist
  • Penetration tester (also known as ethical hacker)
  • Researcher in applied cryptography
  • Researcher in network/computer security
  • Security officer
  • Source code auditor
  • Vulnerability assessor

Graduate employers

Graduates from this course have found employment at organisations including:

  • KPMG UK
  • Metropolitan Police
  • UK Ministry of Defence
  • Willis Towers Watson

Our graduates

Abdul Karim

Cyber Security and Forensics MSc - 2024

My Westminster experience has been a blend of academic rigour, cultural immersion, personal growth, and the excitement of being part of a vibrant city. It's an experience that has equipped me with skills, perspectives, and memories that I'll carry well beyond graduation.

Alumnus Zeena Radwan

Zeena Radwan

Cyber Security and Forensics MSc - 2017

Zeena graduated in 2014 from Queen Mary University of London with Computer Science degree. In 2017 she successfully completed the Cyber Security and Forensics MSc while working full time. Zeena is Currently working for the Technical Services Department for the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University of Westminster. She applies gained expertise and knowledge in cryptography, risk management, forensics and cyber security across many departments including Engineering, Psychology and Computer Science.

Najeeb Anwar Tareen

Cyber Security and Forensics (FT) MSc - 2022

The student facilities and campuses spread around central London and Harrow are excellent. The courses are practical and tailored to the industry. Not to forget the fantastic social life you can create here while studying with other like-minded people. Graduating from the University of Westminster feels different in a very good way!

Westminster Employability Award

Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.

The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities. 

Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.

Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.

Westminster Employability Award

Course Leader

Why study this course?

Study in central London

Based in our Cavendish Campus in central London, you’ll enjoy the benefits of studying in a major tech hub.

Prepare for industry

You’ll have access to a dedicated forensics computer laboratory, and use a range of specialised software tools and packages for cyber security and forensics.

Accredited course

This course is accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, for partially meeting the educational requirement for CITP and CEng.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a computing-related discipline. If your first degree does not have a strong computing element then your work experience and other qualifications may also be taken into account.

If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.

Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.

Application process

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

  • the application process
  • what you need to apply
  • deadlines for applications

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a computing-related discipline. If your first degree does not have a strong computing element then your work experience and other qualifications may also be taken into account.

If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.

Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.

Application process

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

  • the application process
  • what you need to apply
  • deadlines for applications

More information

What Our Students Say

Learn new skills

Volunteer and gain new skills

We offer a number of different volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, create connections, and make a difference in the community.

Develop your entrepreneurial skills

Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your start-up projects.

Get extra qualifications

We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.

Fees and Funding

UK tuition fee: £10,500 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

Paying your fees

If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.

Find out more about paying your fees.

Alumni discount

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.

Funding

There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).

Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what you tuition fees cover.

International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

Paying your fees

If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.

Find out more about paying your fees.

Alumni discount

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.

Funding

There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.

Find out more about funding for international students.

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what you tuition fees cover.

Teaching and Assessment

Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable.  Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.

How you’ll be taught

Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:

  • Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
  • Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
Year
1
13%87%
Scheduled hoursIndependent study

How you’ll be assessed

Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into two broad categories:

  • Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
  • Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Year
1
7%93%
PracticalCoursework

Data from the academic year 2022/23

Research groups

Our research achieves real-world impact and we are proud to claim a rich and diverse profile of high-quality research and knowledge exchange in a wide range of disciplines.

Find out more about the following research group related to this course:

exterior of University of Westminster building

Supporting you

Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.

  • Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
  • Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
  • Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
  • Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more

Visit our student hub

Course location

With state-of-the-art science and psychology labs and refurbished computer suites, our Cavendish Campus offers our science and technology students a range of learning spaces that are both dynamic and inspiring,

Located in central London, our Cavendish Campus is just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road.

For more details, visit our Cavendish Campus page.

Contact us

Call our dedicated team on:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511

Opening hours (GMT): 10am–3pm Monday to Friday

[email protected]

Start live chat

Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday

More information

Your Westminster

Book an open day. Order a prospectus. Sign up for newsletters.