TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Computer Science (Cyber Security)

Cyber security underpins our connected world. Build skills in protecting systems, analysing threats and responding to incidents, combining computer science with specialist expertise in cyber security, digital forensics and ethical hacking.

Our typical offer

104 UCAS points

Connect with industry

Benefit from the University's strong links with leading companies such as Microsoft, IBM, Oracle, Cisco, Intel, Apple, Nvidia, BBC and the Met Office. We'll support you from your first year to secure high-quality placements and job opportunities, enhancing your career potential.

Real-world problem solving

Work on live industry projects and case studies, tackling current cybersecurity challenges to develop practical, job-ready skills.

Security and forensics lab

You'll use industry-standard agile development processes throughout your studies, collaborating with peers to design and deliver complete systems from concept to deployment, becoming expert in professional practices.

About

The cyber security challenges facing organisations have never been greater, creating unprecedented demand for highly skilled professionals. As one of a select group of fully NCSC-certified degrees in the UK, this course provides you with the technical knowledge, practical experience and professional skills needed to pursue careers in cyber defence, digital investigations, security operations and cyber consultancy.

Nathan ClarkeProfessor Nathan Clarke
Professor in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about protecting data and systems from cyber threats
Three individuals below a globe, depicting community
you enjoy problem-solving and have a keen interest in technology
Jigsaw
you're eager to gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity practices
Padlock depicting cyber security
you aspire to work in roles such as secure software developer, penetration tester or digital forensic examiner
Globe with arrow

Details

Year 1

Build the core computing and security skills needed to understand and protect modern digital systems. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll study programming, problem-solving, computer architecture, operating systems, databases and networking, along with the maths that supports computing and cyber security.
Through practical lab work and realistic scenarios, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll explore how systems can be attacked and defended, how data is stored and transmitted, and the technologies used to keep digital services secure. YouÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll also develop an understanding of why cyber security matters in protecting individuals, organisations and critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
Cyber Security laboratory, Smeaton Building

Core modules

BPIE111
Stage 1 Computing Placement Preparation 0 credits

Undertaking a sandwich-year placement (also known as an industrial or work placement) offers many benefits, including valuable hands-on work-experience and enhanced employability. This module is for first-year students who may undertake a placement in their third year. It is designed to support students in exploring placement opportunities and developing the skills and knowledge required to successfully secure one.

COMP1000
Software Engineering 1 20 credits

In this hands-on module, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll explore how computers make decisions, repeat actions, and store data while building your own programs step by step to solve real-world problems using programming languages. Along the way, you'll use professional tools and techniques to write clean code, test, and debug. Whether you're dreaming of games, apps, or AI, this module is your first step into the world of software engineering.

100% Coursework

COMP1001
Computer Systems 20 credits

Explore the hidden machinery behind every computing device. In this foundational module, you'll uncover how computers really work - from digital logic to hardware architecture, operating systems, and assembly language. Build the understanding needed to work confidently across platforms and systems.

100% Coursework

COMP1002
Cyber Security & Networks 20 credits

Step into the world of secure digital infrastructure. You'll learn how devices connect, how data flows, and how to defend networks against cyber threats. From configuring routers to exploring malware and encryption, this module builds the skills to protect and manage today's interconnected systems.

100% Coursework

COMP1003
Algorithms, Data Structures and Mathematics 20 credits

Discover the logic that powers computing. This module dives into essential data structures and algorithms, showing how they solve real problems efficiently. From recursion to graph traversal, you'll combine theory and coding to develop analytical skills that form the core of computational thinking.

100% Coursework

COMP1004
Computing Practice 40 credits

Develop confidence in the day-to-day tools and workflows of modern computing. In this foundational module, you'll use real development environments, track code changes, write effective documentation, and collaborate on small projects. You'll gain essential habits that support software development, problem-solving, and teamwork from day one.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

Year 2

Develop the knowledge and technical skills needed to design, analyse and secure modern computing systems. Building on your computer science foundations, you will study advanced software engineering, information management, artificial intelligence and cyber security, including secure system design and defence in depth.
Working on practical projects, you will use industry tools to explore security challenges, assess vulnerabilities and develop secure software. You will also consider how organisations manage information and respond to cyber threats in complex digital systems.
Alongside this, you'll explore the ethical, legal and societal aspects of cyber security, including privacy, digital trust, responsible use of AI and protection of critical infrastructure.
Computer SCience students using the high spec computing facilities

Core modules

BPIE211
Stage 2 Computing Placement Preparation 0 credits

A year-long work placement is a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enhance future career prospects. This module prepares students to begin their placement search by providing practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, and how to present themselves effectively to potential employers; featuring insights from students who have recently returned from their own placements.

COMP2000
Software Engineering 2 20 credits

Go beyond coding to master the craft of software development. This module builds on foundational skills by exploring agile practices, version control, test automation, and software quality. You'll learn how professionals deliver reliable, maintainable systems in dynamic real-world environments.

100% Coursework

COMP2001
Information Management & Retrieval 20 credits

In a world where data is everywhere, learn to find what matters. This module explores how to structure, store, and retrieve meaningful information using modern databases. You'll design queries, optimise search performance, and understand the backbone of intelligent data systems.

100% Coursework

COMP2002
Artificial Intelligence 20 credits

Unlock the foundations of machine intelligence. This module introduces core AI concepts including decision trees, neural networks, and heuristic search. You'll explore how machines learn, adapt, and solve problems, building intelligent systems that mimic human thinking.

100% Coursework

COMP2003
Computing Group Project 40 credits

Collaborate to build a working software system from idea to delivery. In this module, you'll take on a real-world development challenge as part of a structured team. You'll plan, design, code, and test your solution while honing agile methods, managing client expectations, and developing the communication and coordination skills used in professional software teams.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

COMP2006
Security Architectures & Cryptography 20 credits

Build secure systems from the inside out. In this module, you'll study cryptographic techniques, authentication mechanisms, and secure architectural design. You'll learn to evaluate risk, apply encryption, and design layered defences - gaining the skills to build systems that protect data, ensure trust, and withstand evolving threats.

100% Coursework

Year 3

Step into the real world and put your skills to the test. During this 48-week industry placement, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll gain invaluable experience in a professional environment ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ applying everything youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve learned so far to real projects, real teams and real challenges.
Supported by our strong network of industry partners and dedicated placement team, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll build confidence, sharpen your technical and professional skills and grow a network of contacts that can open doors after graduation. ItÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s your opportunity to stand out, gain a competitive edge and graduate with more than just a degree ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ graduate with experience.
Computing student Samuel H Holmes

Core modules

BPIE330
Computing Related Placement (Generic)

A year-long work-placement, undertaken with an approved placement provider and in a role relevant to the students programme. Students will leave with practical and relevant work experience, where they put theory into practice. This module is attached to the Placement and provides students with a single digital space to refer to for key reminders, FAQs, contact details, top tips and their Placement-year handbook.

Final year

In your final year, you will build advanced cyber security skills, learning how to protect, investigate and manage digital systems. You will study ethical hacking, penetration testing, digital forensics, incident response and security operations, and learn how to identify vulnerabilities, assess risk and respond to threats.
Using a cyber range and realistic scenarios, you will explore how organisations detect, respond to and recover from cyber-attacks, while also looking at information security management, legal frameworks and ethical challenges.
Your final-year project gives you the chance to tackle a complex cyber security problem in depth and develop a practical solution, preparing you for professional roles.
Computer Science students

Core modules

COMP3000
Computing Project 40 credits

This module provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to work independently on an in-depth project with an implementation element that builds on their established knowledge, understanding and skills to provide a problem solution. Self-management, innovation, creativity, ability to synthesise information, ideas and practices are key concepts, as is the ability to engage in critical self-evaluation.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

COMP3009
Information Security Management & Governance 20 credits

Lead the defence of digital systems with a strategic mindset. This module focuses on information security management, governance frameworks, risk assessment, and legal compliance. You'll learn how to develop policies, respond to threats, and align security initiatives with business goals- preparing you to protect information in complex organisational environments.

100% Coursework

COMP3011
Ethical Hacking 20 credits

Discover how systems are broken, so you can help secure them. In this module, you'll apply ethical hacking techniques and penetration testing strategies to expose vulnerabilities and assess risk. Learn how attackers think, so you can stay one step ahead.

100% Coursework

Optional modules

COMP3003
Machine Learning 20 credits

Dive into the world of machine learning, where data becomes insight and algorithms learn from experience. You'll explore supervised and unsupervised models, build neural networks, evaluate results, and apply industry-standard tools - gaining hands-on experience in one of the most transformative fields in computing today.

100% Coursework

COMP3008
Big Data Analytics 20 credits

Work with data that doesn't fit in a spreadsheet. In this module, you'll use big data frameworks to process, analyse, and visualise vast datasets. You'll learn a range of big data analytical techniques and technologies, explore distributed storage, and develop scalable analytics solutions - building practical skills for industries where data drives discovery, decision-making, and innovation.

100% Coursework

COMP3010
Security Operations & Incident Management 20 credits

Step into the frontlines of cyber defence. This module explores the workings of a Security Operations Centre, equipping you with the tools to detect threats, manage incidents, analyse logs, and respond to breaches. You'll develop critical skills for operating in high-pressure security environments.

100% Coursework

COMP3012
Digital Forensics & Malware Analysis 20 credits

Trace the digital footprints of cybercrime. You'll investigate forensic analysis techniques, unpack malware behaviours, and use real tools to gather evidence. This module prepares you to support law enforcement, corporate investigations, and incident response teams in the fight against cyber threats.

100% Coursework

  • Accredited by, and entitles membership to, the BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT
  • You may also gain registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP)
  • You will partially meet the educational requirements for Chartered Engineering (CEng) registration
  • .

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the UniversityÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the UniversityÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s policies and requirements.

Experience

There is a true sense of community within the computer science department. The lecturers are really approachable and supportive! They are committed to helping us succeed and ensuring we understand the material.

Aspa
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year student
In this video, Aspa shares her experience of studying computer science at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ.

Step into the future of cybersecurity

Curious about how ethical hackers help keep the digital world safe? This short video gives you a first look at some of the exciting tools professionals use to test systems and defend against cyber threats. It highlights the powerful systems real ethical hackers rely on to uncover weaknesses and strengthen security.
If you're thinking about a future in tech, cybersecurity offers a fastÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘growing, highÂÌñ»»ÆÞ‘impact career path.
On our course, youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll learn how these tools work, how to use them responsibly, and how ethical hackers protect organisations every day.

Develop your computational theory and practice

Gather requirements

Understand the problem. Learn how to conceptualise and design solutions to real-world problems. Be more than a coder.

Collaborate within a team

Work on projects from week one. Develop workflows, processes and understanding that allows your team to innovate.

Manage the pressure of deadlines

Make something tangible. Ensure it works. Optimise and iterate. Be agile and ready to overcome challenges.
 
 
 
Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching
Our computer science hub provides a dedicated space for our community of students, staff and technicians.
We also have artificial intelligence, games development, cyber security and software engineering labs to support our suite of specialist degrees.
Computer science students
 
Our purpose-built security and digital forensics laboratory, and cyber range, provides cutting-edge facilities to practice your skills.
The physical servers provide a cyber range capability to simulate and model industry-based IT infrastructure which subsequently provides the platform upon which students can learn to perform red-teaming in a safe and supportive environment.
The laboratories also support the delivery of digital forensics, where students have the opportunity to learn how to use ExterroÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s Forensic Toolkit ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ industry leading computer forensic software used globally by Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) and law enforcement.
Kara Stewart - BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security).

I chose to study at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ because of the environment and the facilities offered. I like the fact that we are able to develop projects using Android Studio; you develop an Android application and host it at Play Store or the App Store.

Clara, BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security) student
 
 
 

Meet your expert teaching staff

Learn from researchers and lecturers who are developing applications
We have active research projects that are key to some of the industry's most pressing issues. Active core members of these research groups make up a large proportion of your lecturers and tutors, and you will be taught be some of the best academics in the field.
Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.

Research groups

Dr Rory Hopcraft Lecturer in Cyber Security


Lecturer in Cyber Security

Programme Director
Dr Vasilios Kelefouras Lecturer in Computer Science


Lecturer in Computer Science

Admissions Tutor
Dr Fatma Bouabdallah Lecturer in Computer Science


Lecturer in Computer Science

Year 1 Tutor
Show all
 
 
 

Passionate about all things computing?

Explore, innovate and connect with CompSoc ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ the ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Computing Society. We offer a platform to:
  • participate and learn together in collaborative coding sessions. Perfect for both improving your skills and helping others with their coding challenges
  • gain insights from industry professionals through our guest speaker events, providing valuable industry connections and real-world perspectives on what it's like working in tech.
  • build your professional network at our events. Meet peers, alumni and professionals from the tech industry, opening doors to potential career opportunities and collaborations.
Computing students huddled around a laptop
 
 
 

Life in ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ

ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You donÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Careers

Abstract computer code

Every year, there are students who get into big companies. Our cyber security students go into a number of intelligence services, large consulting firms and defence contractors. IÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve supervised students at Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, and GlaxoSmithKline.

Nathan Clarke
Professor of Cyber Security & Digital Forensics

A wide range of career opportunities exists in cyber security across public and private sectors, and demand for skilled graduates continues to grow.
As a graduate, you will be ready to work in cyber security roles, equipped with the technical, investigative and professional skills needed to tackle real-world challenges such as cybercrime, digital investigations, and protecting critical systems across healthcare, public services, and other essential infrastructure. You will also be prepared to work with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing, and understand the risks and opportunities they bring.
Career paths can include secure software developer, penetration tester, digital forensic examiner, intrusion analyst, information systems auditor, vulnerability assessment analyst, SOC analyst, security compliance analyst and cyber security risk auditor.

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future

Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects. 
The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Our students have been highly successful in obtaining positions in top-class companies including well-known multinationals such as: IBM, Intel, HP and Microsoft; at national and government organisations and corporations such as BBC, Met Office, and Land Registry; and at local companies/organisations such as Delt Shared Services, ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ City Council, ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Marine Labs and ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Technology Information Service (TIS) department.
 

We regularly have students securing placements and jobs at FTSE 100 companies. There is a perception that only students from red brick universities go to these places. It simply is not the case ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ our students are massively competitive and win these placements as well.

Nathan ClarkeProfessor Nathan Clarke
Professor in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics

The placement year taught me how to interact with different people throughout the company at differing levels and how to approach conversations to get the maximum amount of information out of them.

Richard Imms
BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Senior Machine Learning Engineer at Just Eat.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about fees and costs of studying.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international studentÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the GovernmentÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements. 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

6 This is a DSUS Scheme recognised degree

The Defence STEM Undergraduate Sponsorship (DSUS) Scheme offers tuition fees (up to £9,535/year), a £5,000 annual bursary and paid placements for engineering/STEM students intending to join the Royal Navy, Army, RAF or MOD Civil Service. 
 
British Union Jack flag on army uniform - stock photo. Getty Images.

The Tamar Engineering Project

The Tamar Engineering Project is for ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study.
Successful applicants will receive:
  • £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
  • £1,500 fee waiver per annum
  • one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
104 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE

GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above are required.

A levels

104 points from a minimum of 2 A levels.

18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma

DMM ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ in science-related subjects: IT, Humanities, Engineering, Software Development, IT Practitioners, Business, Computing, Science.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses

Pass Access to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant subject (e.g., Computer Science, Science,  Engineering, Mathematics, Technology) with at least 33 Level 3 credits at Merit and/or Distinction.

T level

Merit overall in Digital: Digital Production, Design and Development or Digital Support Services.

International Baccalaureate

26 overall. English and Mathematics are accepted within as GCSE equivalent.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
I104
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ

Other routes into this course

The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year

Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning computer science through an additional foundation year, gaining hands-on skills across a range of topics.

 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
 

Need support with your application?

  • Personal statement guidance
  • student visa support
  • travel and arrival information
  • and more.
 
UCAS course code
I104
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ

Other routes to this course

Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects. 
The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that youÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Our students have been highly successful in obtaining positions in top-class companies including well-known multinationals such as: IBM, Intel, HP and Microsoft; at national and government organisations and corporations such as BBC, Met Office, and Land Registry; and at local companies/organisations such as Delt Shared Services, ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ City Council, ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Marine Labs and ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Technology Information Service (TIS) department.
 
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.