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Online MSc Cyber Security

Future-proof your career with a flexible online degree that builds advanced expertise in digital security.

Start Dates: January, March, June, September

Duration: 2 years part-time

Study Mode: Online

Fees: £9,000 (regional discounts available)

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With digital threats on the rise, there’s never been a better time to build your expertise in cybersecurity with our Online MSc Cyber Security degree. From day one, you’ll explore critical topics such as risk management, forensics, and security testing, building a robust and practical foundation for navigating the increasingly complex digital landscape.

You’ll become a valuable, technically-savvy asset to your organisation, and thanks to our self-paced modules and cutting-edge virtual learning platform, you can study and develop your skills, all while balancing professional commitments.

The MSc Cyber Security is delivered through the university’s Moodle virtual learning environment, combining live and pre-recorded lectures, interactive quizzes, discussion forums, and collaborative group activities. The platform supports a blended approach – you engage with content at your own pace while participating in scheduled seminars and peer discussions that bring your learning to life.

As a part-time programme, you should expect to dedicate approximately 15-20 hours per week across directed learning, independent study, and assessment preparation. The programme is structured across two years, giving you time to develop deep technical expertise alongside your professional commitments.

Assessment combines theoretical understanding with practical security skills. You will work through security labs, vulnerability assessments, forensic analysis exercises, networking assignments, and individual written submissions. The programme emphasises hands-on practice – you will learn to test, defend, and investigate systems in simulated environments that reflect real-world security challenges. The programme culminates in an MSc Project, where you conduct an independent cyber security investigation.

You will receive tailored feedback and guidance from your academic tutors throughout each module. A dedicated student support team is available for academic, technical, and administrative queries. Beyond graduation, Roehampton’s Careers Support Team offers personalised guidance, workshops, networking events, and one-on-one coaching to help you take the next step in your career.

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To be eligible for this online degree, you must normally hold a second-class honours degree in a STEM subject. You should have a background in computing or computer science, gained through previous study or relevant professional experience. Applicants with a third-class honours degree or significant work experience may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Our programmes are taught in English. If you’re applying as an international student, you’ll need to provide evidence of your proficiency with a valid qualification issued within the last two years.

  • IELTS Academic – 6.5 overall
  • Roehampton’s English Language Test – 6.5 overall
  • Kaplan Test of English – 478-509 overall 
  • TOEFL IBT – 89 overall
  • PTE Academic – 59 overall
  • Cambridge – 176 overall

Every 20-credit module gives you the chance to test ideas, solve problems, and apply what you learn straight into your work. Studying online with Roehampton means you’re part of an active learning community where theory meets practice, and where your day-to-day experience becomes part of the classroom.

Strengthen security measures by grasping the core principles and identifying vulnerabilities of computer and operating-based systems. Gain hands-on experience in OS hardening, system performance evaluation, and effective management of user accounts and processes.

Dive into the world of computer networking with an emphasis on secure-by-design principles. Acquire essential skills in networking concepts, protocols, and professional standards to establish a strong foundation for careers in network security.

Analyse governance, risk, and compliance frameworks essential for managing cyber security threats. Develop critical thinking and practical skills to implement effective risk assessment methodologies and navigate regulatory landscapes.

Investigate the digital footprints left by online activities to uncover evidence in corporate and criminal cases. Learn about forensic processes, evidence preservation, and techniques for analysing digital artefacts.

Conduct security assessments on web and mobile applications to identify weak spots. Master penetration testing procedures and learn to defend against common threats and attacks, ensuring robust application security.

Automate security processes to enhance the resilience of systems against cyber threats. Build practical skills in threat detection, incident response, and compliance monitoring, while leveraging key automation techniques.

Research an issue of your choice and apply your learning to real-world challenges. With guidance from an academic supervisor, you’ll sharpen your critical thinking and analytical skills while demonstrating expertise in areas such as emerging technologies, ethics, or risk management.

Tuition fees for the MSc Cyber Security are £9,000 for the full programme. Fees cover all teaching, learning materials, assessments, and access to student support services. Regional discounts may be available depending on your location – check your individual programme page or speak with a student recruitment adviser for details.

Roehampton graduates are eligible for a 20% tuition fee discount when returning for postgraduate study online. This is the only university discount available for 100% online programmes. It cannot be combined with other scholarship offers.

UK residents may be eligible for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan through the UK Government, worth up to £12,167. The loan is not means-tested and can be used towards tuition fees and living costs. Visit gov.uk/masters-loan to check your eligibility and apply.

International students are required to pay an initial deposit (IDP) before making the full deposit payment (FDP). This deposit is deducted from your tuition fees when you enrol. Full payment details are confirmed in your offer letter. Contact the student recruitment team if you have questions about international payment arrangements.

Cyber security is no longer optional – it is a legal, regulatory, and commercial necessity. As cyber threats grow in frequency and sophistication, organisations across every sector are investing in security professionals. The UK Government’s National Cyber Security Strategy has identified a significant skills gap, and professionals with the right qualifications are in high demand.

The programme’s depth across security operations, forensics, and automation prepares you for specialist technical roles, including:

  • Cybersecurity analyst – monitoring, detecting, and responding to security threats and incidents
  • Security operations engineer – building and maintaining security infrastructure and defence systems
  • Penetration tester – testing systems for vulnerabilities and advising on remediation
  • Network security engineer – designing and managing secure network architectures
  • Digital forensics investigator – conducting forensic analysis of security incidents and digital evidence

Roehampton’s Careers Support Team is available to online students from day one through to beyond graduation. Services include personalised one-on-one coaching, tailored workshops, employer networking events, and guidance on CV writing, interview preparation, and career planning.

Cyber security professionals command strong salaries and have high job security. The combination of persistent skills shortages, growing regulatory requirements, and increasing threat complexity means that qualified security professionals are among the most sought-after in the technology sector.

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Seven modules cover the full breadth of modern cyber security – from computer and operating systems through networking and security practice, risk management, digital forensics, security testing, and automation. You graduate with both defensive and investigative capabilities.

The programme emphasises practical security skills. You will work with security tools, conduct testing exercises, and perform forensic analyses in simulated environments. This is not a theoretical programme – you graduate with the practical skills that employers need.

The University of Roehampton is based in London, one of the world’s leading centres for financial services, government, and technology – all sectors where cyber security professionals are in constant demand. Your MSc carries the credibility of a London university.

A dedicated Digital Forensics module gives you specialist skills in investigating security incidents, preserving digital evidence, and conducting forensic analysis. These are high-value skills in law enforcement, consultancy, and corporate security.

The programme is delivered part-time over two years, with four start dates per year, giving you the time and flexibility to develop advanced security skills without stepping away from your career.

Your MSc is designed with industry skills and knowledge in mind, providing you with the skills you need to secure your chosen career path. Each module is carefully constructed to elevate your knowledge in key areas of cyber security relevant to industry standards.

Explore the essentials of computer systems, hardware, and operating systems and identify their limitations to enhance key security configurations.

Integrate asset and software automation techniques with strategic network architecture to ensure more cost-effective, responsive, and resilient systems.

Develop advanced skills in web and mobile protection by applying penetration testing, ethical hacking techniques, and industry-standard tools.

Discover the processes behind digital forensics, tracing data to uncover evidence for corporate and criminal investigations.

Design, implement, and maintain comprehensive governance, risk and compliance (GRC) frameworks to protect organisations from cyber threats.

Learn the principles of network architecture and security protocols to ensure seamless and secure communication.

The Roehampton difference

Internationally recognised: Earn a prestigious business degree respected by global brands and guided by industry leaders.

Flexible first: Study at the office or on your commute home with our fully online curriculum and cutting-edge virtual learning platform.

Personalised experiences: Get tailored feedback and support throughout your studies with resources ready whenever you need them.

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Support at every step

We provide bespoke support at every stage of your studies, from wellbeing and accessibility to academic guidance and career development, so you can thrive online with Roehampton.

Enquire now

Yes. The MSc Cyber Security is delivered entirely online and part-time over two years, specifically designed for working professionals who want to develop cyber security expertise without leaving their role. All materials are accessible through the university's virtual learning platform. Four start dates - January, March, June, and September - give you flexibility on when you begin.

Yes. You will receive the same University of Roehampton MSc as on-campus students. Your degree certificate makes no distinction between study modes. As an online student, you are a full member of the university community with access to academic resources, the library, and dedicated student support services.

UK residents may be eligible for a Postgraduate Master's Loan through the UK Government, worth up to £12,167. The loan is not means-tested and is paid directly to you. Roehampton also offers a 20% alumni discount for graduates returning to study. For full details on eligibility and how to apply, visit the government's student finance website.

A second-class honours degree in a STEM subject with a computing or computer science background is preferred. Applicants with a third-class degree or significant relevant work experience may also be considered on a case-by-case basis. The programme builds your cyber security knowledge progressively, from computing and networking fundamentals through to digital forensics and security automation.

The MSc Cyber Security is a technical programme covering computer systems, networking, digital forensics, security testing, and cyber security automation. The MBA with Cyber Security is a business leadership programme with two cyber modules layered onto the MBA core. Choose the MSc if you want to work in hands-on cyber security roles; choose the MBA if you want to manage cyber risk at a strategic business level.