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Computer security is one of the key challenges in contemporary computing. You will gain critical knowledge within the cyber security and digital forensic domains, combining academic principles and industrial practice.
The course is informed by current research in security and digital forensics and is underpinned by our experience with external partners in law enforcement, the cyber security industry, financial institutions and other knowledge transfer activities.
Course specialisms include network security, penetration testing, incident response, malware analysis, cryptography, audit and compliance, and host and mobile digital forensics.
The specialisation you gain in the taught modules is further developed through an extensive research-based MSc dissertation project, leading towards a mastery of a subject area and enhancing your particular specialism.
Computer security is a growth industry and is vital in modern computing environments. You will gain foundation knowledge in all the key areas of cyber security, both defensive and offensive, as well as post-incident response and malware analysis.
The digital forensic aspects of the course include network and computer forensics, allowing you to develop the knowledge required to conduct computer-related investigations across networks, systems, and other digital devices.
The School of Computing has developed close ties with industry, law enforcement, and the public sector, through partnerships with organisations such as Cisco Systems, Guidance Software, Symantec, NCC Group, NCA, Police Scotland, and many others.
This helps inform the course, and provides guest lecturers by industry experts. Innovative research is also carried out in key domains by academics and PhD students in our dedicated cyber security and forensic research group.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Computer Science and Information Systems
Degree
MSc
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Computer security is one of the key challenges in contemporary computing. You will gain critical knowledge within the cyber security and digital forensic domains, combining academic principles and industrial practice.
The course is informed by current research in security and digital forensics and is underpinned by our experience with external partners in law enforcement, the cyber security industry, financial institutions and other knowledge transfer activities.
Course specialisms include network security, penetration testing, incident response, malware analysis, cryptography, audit and compliance, and host and mobile digital forensics.
The specialisation you gain in the taught modules is further developed through an extensive research-based MSc dissertation project, leading towards a mastery of a subject area and enhancing your particular specialism.
Computer security is a growth industry and is vital in modern computing environments. You will gain foundation knowledge in all the key areas of cyber security, both defensive and offensive, as well as post-incident response and malware analysis.
The digital forensic aspects of the course include network and computer forensics, allowing you to develop the knowledge required to conduct computer-related investigations across networks, systems, and other digital devices.
The School of Computing has developed close ties with industry, law enforcement, and the public sector, through partnerships with organisations such as Cisco Systems, Guidance Software, Symantec, NCC Group, NCA, Police Scotland, and many others.
This helps inform the course, and provides guest lecturers by industry experts. Innovative research is also carried out in key domains by academics and PhD students in our dedicated cyber security and forensic research group.
Admission Requirements
4+
56+
6+
2.7+
169+
The entry requirement for this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree at a 2:2 or above in a Computing discipline e.g. Computing, Computer Science, Computer Networking, Software Engineering, or Cyber Security.
Other IT disciplines may be considered provided a minimum of 50% of the modules undertaken in the last two years of study were Computing related.
We may also consider lesser qualifications if you have sufficient relevant work experience.
30 Jun 2026
1 Year
Jan
Sep
Tuition fees
Domestic
7,650 GBP
International
21,430 GBP
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
MSc Cyber Security
Merchiston Campus, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
12 monthsProgramme duration
21,430 GBPTuition Fee/year
30 Jun, 2026Application Deadline
Jan, SepStarting Month
Programme overview
Main Subject
Computer Science and Information Systems
Degree
MSc
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
The course is informed by current research in security and digital forensics and is underpinned by our experience with external partners in law enforcement, the cyber security industry, financial institutions and other knowledge transfer activities.
Course specialisms include network security, penetration testing, incident response, malware analysis, cryptography, audit and compliance, and host and mobile digital forensics.
The specialisation you gain in the taught modules is further developed through an extensive research-based MSc dissertation project, leading towards a mastery of a subject area and enhancing your particular specialism.
Computer security is a growth industry and is vital in modern computing environments. You will gain foundation knowledge in all the key areas of cyber security, both defensive and offensive, as well as post-incident response and malware analysis.
The digital forensic aspects of the course include network and computer forensics, allowing you to develop the knowledge required to conduct computer-related investigations across networks, systems, and other digital devices.
The School of Computing has developed close ties with industry, law enforcement, and the public sector, through partnerships with organisations such as Cisco Systems, Guidance Software, Symantec, NCC Group, NCA, Police Scotland, and many others.
This helps inform the course, and provides guest lecturers by industry experts. Innovative research is also carried out in key domains by academics and PhD students in our dedicated cyber security and forensic research group.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Computer Science and Information Systems
Degree
MSc
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
The course is informed by current research in security and digital forensics and is underpinned by our experience with external partners in law enforcement, the cyber security industry, financial institutions and other knowledge transfer activities.
Course specialisms include network security, penetration testing, incident response, malware analysis, cryptography, audit and compliance, and host and mobile digital forensics.
The specialisation you gain in the taught modules is further developed through an extensive research-based MSc dissertation project, leading towards a mastery of a subject area and enhancing your particular specialism.
Computer security is a growth industry and is vital in modern computing environments. You will gain foundation knowledge in all the key areas of cyber security, both defensive and offensive, as well as post-incident response and malware analysis.
The digital forensic aspects of the course include network and computer forensics, allowing you to develop the knowledge required to conduct computer-related investigations across networks, systems, and other digital devices.
The School of Computing has developed close ties with industry, law enforcement, and the public sector, through partnerships with organisations such as Cisco Systems, Guidance Software, Symantec, NCC Group, NCA, Police Scotland, and many others.
This helps inform the course, and provides guest lecturers by industry experts. Innovative research is also carried out in key domains by academics and PhD students in our dedicated cyber security and forensic research group.
Admission Requirements
The entry requirement for this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree at a 2:2 or above in a Computing discipline e.g. Computing, Computer Science, Computer Networking, Software Engineering, or Cyber Security.
Other IT disciplines may be considered provided a minimum of 50% of the modules undertaken in the last two years of study were Computing related.
We may also consider lesser qualifications if you have sufficient relevant work experience.
Tuition fees
Domestic
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
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