UCAS code I900

Overview This specialized degree program equips students with the technical, legal, and operational expertise needed to defend digital infrastructure against complex global threats. Combining a strong foundation in computer science with advanced threat defense techniques, the curriculum at Lancaster University prepares graduates to secure modern networks, safeguard data integrity, and address critical security challenges across diverse sectors.

What You'll Learn

• Fundamental computer science principles, software development, and digital system architectures

• Core principles of cryptography, network protocols, and secure system design

• Ethical hacking methodologies, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing techniques

• Defensive measures for emerging technologies, including secure artificial intelligence and cyber-physical systems

• Methods for conducting digital investigations, incident response, and forensic threat analysis

• Legal frameworks, ethical considerations, and risk management strategies governing data security

Learning Outcomes

• Analyze and mitigate security vulnerabilities within complex networks, distributed systems, and modern applications

• Apply cryptographic algorithms and protocols to ensure data confidentiality, authenticity, and access control

• Execute ethical hacking and penetration tests to evaluate and strengthen organizational security postures

• Synthesize technical findings to formulate comprehensive risk management plans and security policies

• Evaluate the societal, ethical, and legal implications of cyber threats to implement compliant defense strategies