MSc | Grad Cert | Grad Diploma Cybersecurity

The MSc in Cybersecurity is a part-time blended learning programme that prepares IT professionals for a managerial or technical career in cybersecurity. Lectures are delivered online, complemented by occasional full-day workshops on campus, allowing for flexible learning but with face-to-face interactions. It is designed to help companies, government and state institutions, defence forces and others to upskill their staff to fill new roles in cyber security so that they can protect their organisations, their customers and the public.

The UCD MSc Cybersecurity is a Level 9 taught postgraduate course taught by faculty from the UCD School of Computer Science and the Sutherland School of Law. The Master's was created with funding and support from the Advance Centre which is funded under the Higher Education Authority's Human Capital Initiative Pillar 3. A limited number of places (subject to Eligibility Criteria) are available for learners to take single modules from the programme in order to promote participation in industry related programmes. For more information please check: (opens in a new window)https://www.advancecentre.ie/courses/learnerfeesubsidy/

Minimum of a 2.1 honours bachelor’s degree in Computer Science (or a cognate discipline) or 2:2 honours bachelor’s degree in Computer Science (or a cognate discipline) and equivalent (> 5 years) industrial experience in software development or software/system security.

Each applicant will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Students are also required to fulfil UCD’s English Language Requirements.

The core MSc programme comprises eight taught modules and then students take one of two paths to completion:

(i) three more taught modules and a 15 credit Case Study

or

(ii) a 30-credit Project

Students who successfully complete 90 credits will be awarded the degree of MSc in Cybersecurity from UCD.

Graduate Diploma (60 credits) and Graduate Certificate (30 credits) awards are also available and it is also possible to take single modules.

This holistic and well-rounded programme prepares students for a career in cybersecurity.
It will be of great interest to executives and professional / technical staff who:

• need to acquire knowledge and skills in cybersecurity
• want to gain a promotion
• want to open up new career opportunities for themselves in cyber security related roles
• are interested in doing some research in this field, perhaps in relation to a current work problem
• want to gain a qualification to add to their standing and credibility within their professional life

The programme will help to reduce the cybersecurity skills shortage and prepare professionals for a rewarding career in cybersecurity; for example, to take a role as a security manager, security engineer, security analyst, or IT security specialist.

Career development possibilities in this field are excellent. There is a growing cyber security market globally as cyber security is recognized as critical for national security and the smooth functioning of society.