Cyber Security and Forensics MSc

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 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

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

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.

Information for international students

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 no element below 6.0.

Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.

Application process

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

• the application process
• what to include with your application
• deadlines for application and enrolment

More information

• Country-specific entry requirements
• English language requirements
• Visas and advice
• Fees and scholarship information

University preparation courses

Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that may help you gain a place on a postgraduate degree at Westminster.

To find out more, visit University preparation courses.

Fees and funding

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page. As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.