Cyber Security BSc (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
HNC/HND courses
Two Cyber Security students walking through a hall at Dagenham

As a result of the continuing digital revolution, computer systems are involved with just about every aspect of modern life.

Year of entry

Location

CU London (Dagenham, London)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years sandwich
3 year - Degree
2 year - HND
1 year - HNC

Course code

I107 / I106 / I104

Start date

September 2025
November 2025
January 2026
March 2026
May 2026
June 2026


Course overview

As the number of mobile users, digital applications, and data networks increase, so does the number of potential risks and threats, resulting in the need for talented professionals to secure and protect systems and data.

Our Cyber Security BSc (Hons) course is designed to produce high quality graduates who can contribute effectively in one of the highest growing sectors in the UK. The course offers real-life tools and challenges, giving you the opportunity to become an independent learner through practical projects and advanced teaching methods. 

We offer a style of education which is flexible and designed to fit around your life, allowing you to benefit from a modern, forward-thinking higher education institution, reinforced by the quality and reputation of Coventry University.

  • We are dedicated to making higher education accessible and enjoyable to everyone.
  • Our courses cover one module at a time, allowing you to feel confident with each topic before moving on to the next.
  • We aim to provide career-focused courses, wherever possible, coupled with placement opportunities2 to help prepare you for the world of work.
  • We offer multiple start dates each year, meaning we're ready to start preparing you for your future, when you are.

What you'll study

This degree examines the principles and threats which underpin computer systems, networks and the software development process. Throughout the course, you will become competent and confident in a range of prevalent topics, such as operating systems, network security, programming language, penetration testing and ethical hacking.

Year one introduces you to the core fundamentals that underpin computing science. You will explore the importance of IT security, and the risks posed to computer systems globally. In addition, you should develop your professional problem-solving skills, as you understand the basic principles of programming. Most of the modules in this year contain a practical element, so that you receive the best combination of theoretical and hands-on learning. Students who successfully complete year one are eligible for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing Science.

Modules

Building on knowledge gained in your first year, this year is aimed at building your skillset to a advanced standard. You’ll develop object-orientated analysis, design and implementation skills as you explore complex subjects such as cryptography, digital forensic science and algorithms. Towards the end of the year our skilled lecturers work with you to refine transferable employability skills, as you prepare for a career in cyber security. Students who successfully complete their second year are eligible for a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Cyber Security.

Modules

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur before your final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee3 of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time, you will receive guidance from your employer or participting institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Modules

In the final year of study, you look at complex subjects such as the Internet of Things and the underlying principles. You will analyse and evaluate potential risk and exploitation in secure programming, and assess a range of issues such as buffer overflows and how to mitigate a number of security risks. Finally, you’ll get the chance to demonstrate your skills in a number of independent projects, taking charge of processes from inception to delivery. Students who complete the final year are awarded a BSc (Hons) degree in Cyber Security.

Modules

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

Institute of Technology

Barking and Dagenham College has collaborated with CU London, along with TfL, Huawei and Saint Gobain, to launch the Institute of Technology (IoT), a purpose-built facility for advanced technologies, which offers technical skills development via advanced and higher-level courses and higher apprenticeships.

Careers in STEM industries

There’s a growing demand for skilled technical workers for jobs within the engineering, technology and science industries. The IoT aims to bridge the skills gap and train the workforce of the future by providing specialisms in the following sectors – all of which are critical to the London and UK economy:

  • Construction & Infrastructure Technologies
  • Advanced Engineering & Robotics
  • Creative Digital (Animation & Games Design, 3D Design, Graphic Design)
  • IT

Designed with key collaborators

The IoT at Barking & Dagenham College has been designed with key employers, student client groups and local stakeholders, to help ensure it successfully meets the skills requirements and economic opportunities of the future.

STEM degrees at CU London

We offer this BSc Cyber Security degree and a BSc (Hons) Computing Science, which would be suitable for progression from Barking & Dagenham College.


How you'll learn

This course is available as a full-time three year or optional four-year sandwich course, the latter incorporating a work placement or study year in a related field2.

Our teaching methods are varied so in addition to lectures, we also utilise a blended learning approach, including online aspects, workshops and group work. Additional support is available via email and our online learning platform.

Progression through the modules develops knowledge and skills, including communication (written and oral), study skills, research methods, project management, presentation and career development. We will also encourage you to consider your employability and/or entrepreneurial development.

Unlike traditional institutions, there are no end-of-year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework and phase tests, which is more reflective of our learning model.


Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 20 credit module requires a total of 200 hours study. This is made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours:

Teaching hours vary each semester, year of study and due to module selection. During your first year you can expect 15-18 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend optional sessions including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study:

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You'll be digging deeper into topics, review what you've learnt and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you'll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning:

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.


Assessment

The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your feedback will refer to each outcome and your academic skills as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. The assessment methods may include:  practical class and project performance, written practical reports, project thesis, laboratory experiments, tutorial tasks and assessments, which take place during each six-week block.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.


Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

Entry level What we're looking for
HNC 64 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
HND 80 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
Degree 104 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

Are you eligible for the CU Support Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background.

CU Support Scheme

Entry level What we're looking for
HNC 64 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
HND 80 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
Degree 104 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with a foundation year. 

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on how to apply and travelling to and living in the UK.

English language requirements

  • Applicants must possess a minimum IELTS of 6.0 overall (with no component part lower than 5.5)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.


Fees and funding

Student Full-time Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man 2025/26 fees TBC*
2024/25 fees-£7,950 per year
Not available
EU 2025/26 fees TBC
2024/25 fees - as UK per year with EU Support Bursary**
2025/26 fees TBC*
2024/25 fees -£18,300 per year without EU Support Bursary**
Not available
International 2025/26 fees TBC*
2024/25 fees -£18,300 per year
Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement2 or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee3 of £1,250 to cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our undergraduate finance page and see the university’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

We offer a range of international scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our international scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.


Facilities

CU London Dagenham campus is in the Civic Centre building and is easily accessible by road, bus and rail.

Facilities include:

  • our impressive Cyber Suites, spaces designed to give computing and cyber course students a practical learning experience for conducting research, testing and experimentation related to cyber security
  • classrooms with interactive teaching capabilities
  • comprehensive library and learning services
  • study areas, loanable laptops/open-access computers and social spaces/ free wi-fi
  • student support and careers advice teams
  • onsite free student parking.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.


Careers and opportunities

The cyber security course at CU London provides students with a strong foundation in cyber security, industry-relevant skills, work-based learning, and career guidance.

An important vocation in the modern digital age, cyber security professionals work with creativity and analytical thinking to understand how systems can be broken, protected and used.

A career in cyber security is challenging, dynamic and highly transferable, meaning graduates may have the opportunity to work internationally throughout their careers.

Cyber security is a rapidly growing market, with plenty of scope to develop a very lucrative career. Graduates from this course can enter a number of specialisms, such as Cyber Security Consultancy, Software Developer/Programming, Cyber-Crime Investigation or Digital Forensics Analysis.


How to apply

You may also like

CU London (Dagenham, London) Cloud Computing student talking with tutor in a computer room

Cloud Computing

CU London (Dagenham, London) Two Cloud Computing students using a computer

Computing Science


Discover Uni stats