Master of Cyber Security

On successful completion of the program students will have:

1. Critically analyse and evaluate the cyber security needs of an organisation to develop a suitable security architecture.
2. Measure the performance of, and troubleshoot, ICT security systems.
3. Discuss the effects of human factors on security breaches.
4. Design operational and strategic cyber security strategies and policies.
5. Effectively use cyber security, information assurance, and cyber/computer forensics software/tools.

Cyberspace has profoundly transformed the way we live and do business. We are increasingly relying upon networked applications for assessing information and making critical business decisions, so it is critical for individuals, enterprises, and governments to be able to secure cyberspace from attacks to allow them to effectively conduct their business. 

This program is tailored for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those without an IT foundation, aiming to delve into the realm of cyber security. Students in this program will cultivate a holistic understanding of security measures, encompassing network, system, and foundational theories, making it relevant for cyber professionals and aspiring security analysts.

Choose your subjects

Majors

The program offers two distinct specialisations. Both pathways provide insights into key industry standards, option to obtain relevant certifications, and enable a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted world of cyber security, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address society’s unique cyber challenges.

Cyber Security Engineer:

For those with a prior technical or computing background, the Cyber Security Engineer Specialisation delves into the advanced technical intricacies of data and network security, ensuring a robust understanding of the tools and techniques essential for safeguarding digital infrastructures.

Key study areas include:

• Techniques for analysis of security attacks and mitigation strategies
• Security concepts and techniques for distributed systems
• Design of secure systems and applications
• Cryptographic techniques and security protocols.

Cyber Security Analyst

The Cyber Security Analyst Specialisation emphasises the human dimensions of cyber security, cyber crime, and the broader implications of security breaches.

Key study areas include:

• An advanced knowledge of different areas of internet law
• Advanced knowledge of cyber-offences, how to successfully prioritise and prosecute them, and appraise their impact on victim-survivors
• Cybercrime as a driver of social inequality and the integral role that community engagement plays in responses
• Developing online policing and security strategies to address cybersecurity problems
• Analysis of community participation to address social justice issues facilitated through digital technologies.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $31,200

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

The University of Newcastle is dedicated to outstanding education and research. Their degrees are shaped around global learning, work placements and entrepreneurial opportunities. The university is known as a champion of innovative approaches, striving for a dynamic teaching culture that delivers world-class outcomes. Welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, they focus on equity and developing the next generation of socially-oriented leaders.

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Times Higher Education Ranking 2024:

13

The Master of Cyber Security is a 160-unit postgraduate qualification, where students must complete one of two specialisations:

• Cyber Security Analyst Specialisation (2 years): Bachelor’s Degree (AQF 7 level) or higher in any discipline OR equivalent professional experience.
• Cyber Security Engineering Specialisation (2 years): Bachelor Degree (AQF 7 level) or higher in a related discipline* OR equivalent professional experience.
• Applicants who have completed the UON Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security are eligible for admission to the Master of Cyber Security and will receive 40 units of credit towards the program.
• Applicants with a Bachelor’s Degree (AQF 7 level) or higher in a related discipline* may apply for up to 80 units of RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) towards the program.
• Applicants with relevant professional experience may be considered for up to 40 units of RPL towards the program.
• Applicants may receive a combined maximum of 80 units of RPL via previous qualifications or professional experience.
• Applicants who would like their professional qualifications and/or work experience to be considered need to provide certified copies of all relevant qualifications, a detailed CV, and a statement of service or signed letters from employers confirming their role, duties, and period of employment.

*Related fields: cyber security, computer science, software engineering, computer systems, and information technology.

All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement:

• IELTS Overall Minimum: 6.5
• IELTS Sub Test Minimum: 6.

If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.