Cyber Security BSc (Hons)

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

Year of entry

2023-24 2024-25 2025-26

Location

Coventry University Wrocław (Poland)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

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

Course code

CUPU047

Start date

April 2024
June 2024

How to apply

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Course overview

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

Our BSc (Hons) Cyber Security course is designed to produce high quality graduates who can contribute effectively in one of the highest growing sectors globally.

The course offers real-life tools and challenges, giving you the opportunity to become an independent learner through practical projects and advanced teaching methods.

Why you should study this course

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 become a specialist in each topic before moving onto the next.

What you'll study

This course examines the principles and threats that underpin computer systems, networks and the software development process.

Throughout the programme, you will aim to become competent and confident in a range of prevalent topics, such as operating systems, networking, information security, python programming language, penetration testing, ethical hacking and more.

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 will 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

Networking - 30 credits

This introductory module aims to provide knowledge of key networking and computer architectures. Focusing on the origins, structure and fundamental components of a computer network, you will gain foundational knowledge of relevant technologies including wireless, wired and optical computer networking. This includes access controllers, hubs, transceivers and more.

Compulsory

Operating Systems - 30 credits

In this module you will learn basic operating system concepts including processes, memory management, drivers and file systems, while examining security risks and security management strategies. You will also examine favoured operating systems such as Microsoft Windows and Mac OSX, with focus placed on the Linux operating system.

Compulsory

Information Security - 30 credits

Here you will cover the prevalent issue of IT security and risk. You will critically analyse risks a computer may face, from viruses to computer hacking. Exploring the pros and cons of ethical hackers, website hacking and internet security. You’ll aim to gain specialist knowledge of legal, social, ethical and professional issues associated with cyber security.

Compulsory

Problem Solving and Programming - 30 credits

Basic problem-solving and algorithm design techniques will be studied in this module, alongside programming and programming language concepts. You will learn the syntax and semantics of a high-level programming language (e.g. Python) and the basic principles of developing well-engineered software and the supporting tools and techniques.

Compulsory

Building on knowledge gained in year one, this year is aimed at building your skillset to an advanced standard. You’ll aim to 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 computing as a global citizen. Students who successfully complete year two are eligible for a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Cyber Security.

Modules

Cryptography - 30 credits

In this module, you’ll study the methods and use of cryptography at two levels. Firstly, you will be introduced to cryptographic primitives and their use in developing secure systems. Secondly, you will be given the opportunity to use current implementations of crypto-based security systems for applications such as signing websites and encrypting emails.

Compulsory

Computer Forensics - 30 credits

You will develop the skills necessary to gather, analyse and evaluate digital evidence by deploying digital forensic science techniques. The processes of forensic investigation and incident response will be studied, along with the application of digital investigation and evidence recovery techniques within a UK legal framework.

Compulsory

Algorithms and Data Structures - 30 credits

In this module, you will extend your programming and algorithm design skills and gain the ability to structure and manipulate intricate data sets through extensive work with complex programs. In addition, you will refine object-oriented analysis, design and implementation skills and learn to effectively utilise libraries, components and supporting tools.

Compulsory

Communications and Collaboration - 30 credits

In preparation for the final year project, this collaborative module aims to enhance your skillset by developing key skills such as communication, team working, co-operation and collaboration, project planning, commercial awareness, cultural awareness and distributed working. In addition, you will develop the critical thinking, research, academic and professional writing skills required as a reflective practitioner.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement can often be beneficial. Work placements¹ usually occur between your second and 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 study this course with a placement/sandwich year, you will need to pay a tuition fee of 2000 zł to cover your academic support.

Modules

UK Work Placement - 0 credits

This module¹ provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement - 0 credits

This module¹ provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

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 successfully complete year three are awarded a BSc (Hons) degree in Cyber Security.

Modules

Secure Programming - 30 credits

In this module, you will study advanced programming techniques specifically aligned to developing secure software. A detailed understanding of potential security risks and flaws in software should be developed, along with knowledge on how these flaws and areas of exploitation can be mitigated via defensive means.

Compulsory

Internet of Things - 30 credits

The underlying principles, technologies and architecture of wireless sensor networks will be examined in this module along with current practical applications and future trends. You will critically evaluate the security, privacy and trust implications of IoT technology and explore the approaches and mechanisms that mitigate security risks.

Compulsory

Contemporary Issues in Computing - 30 credits

This unit focuses on a range of contemporary and emerging technologies, applications and professional issues in computing. Throughout the module, you will engage with research and advanced practice literature with the aim of extending and broadening your subject knowledge. There’s a focus on professional, ethical, business and societal issues, through an international lens.

Compulsory

Project - 30 credits

You have the opportunity to focus on an area of interest within the field of Cyber Security, which may be aligned to your future career interests. Throughout the project, you will need to demonstrate research, problem-solving, design and development skills, through practical implementation, investigation (possibly including the gathering and analysis of secondary evidence) and evaluation.

Compulsory

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.

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 field¹.

Our teaching methods are varied, offering a number of teaching styles to suit the needs of our students, 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, Aula.

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

The number of full-time contact hours may vary from module to module, however, on average, it is likely to be around 20 contact hours per week.

Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 30 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

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 final feedback will refer to each outcome and your academic skills as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

Assessment methods vary and 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

Polish requirements

The candidate should be able to demonstrate one of the following diplomas:

Requirement	What we're looking for
Polish Matura Exam	Pass Matura (Świadectwo Dojrzałości) poziom podstawowy/basic level with satisfactory grade 40% or better
Polish Matura Advanced Level	Pass Matura poziom rozszerzony/advanced level with a grade of 55% in two subjects. Obtain 75% in Matura extended level English Language Exam OR IELTS 6.0 overall OR equivalent.
A Level	BBB
International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma)	28 points

EU requirements

Requirement	What we're looking for
EU exams	We're here to help you understand which qualifications, diplomas and certificates you can use from your own country to meet our entry requirements. Contact us to find out more
International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma)	28 points

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

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International requirements

For international students and regional specific information, find your home country on our regional entry requirements page.

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

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English language requirements

A telephone interview to assess English language skills will be arranged for non-native English speakers.

If you hold IELTS Level 6.0 (with no component less than 5.5) or equivalent, you will not have to complete the telephone interview.

Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees².

Student	Full-time	Part-time
EU	27,500 zł (EU) per year	Not available
International	46,000 zł (non-EU) per year	Not available

If you choose to do a work placement¹, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee² of 2,000 zł that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

Coventry University Wroclaw will review tuition fees each year. Coventry University Wroclaw may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. Please note that the calculation of inflation is based on the information on price indices of consumer goods and services published by the President of the Statistics Poland website: www.stat.gov.pl for the quarter preceding the fees’ valorisation. Students who are not satisfied with the changes will be offered the opportunity to withdraw.

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.

We offer a range of scholarships to students. For more information, visit our 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 fees²:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in Poland, the UK or abroad)

Facilities

Coventry University Wrocław will offer you a wide range of facilities³ to support your studies and help you succeed.

This campus offers the opportunity to study in fully equipped classrooms for interactive and collaborative teaching, IT suites purpose-built to support the needs of our students and also break out spaces.

Careers and opportunities

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 as there is a recognised global demand for trained specialists.

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 possible career pathways, such as Cyber Security Consultancy, Software Developer/Programming, Cyber-Crime Investigation or Digital Forensics Analysis.

Further study

How to apply

EU students

EU full-time students should apply directly to the university. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

For further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

(+48) 71 748 85 55

wroclawenquiries@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

International students

International full-time students should apply directly to the university. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

For further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

(+48) 71 748 85 55

wroclawenquiries@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Coventry University Wroclaw is a branch campus of Coventry University. Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹UK, Polish and International opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK, Polish or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

² Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study. Coventry University Wroclaw will review tuition fees each year. Coventry University Wroclaw may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. Please note that the calculation of inflation is based on the information on price indices of consumer goods and services published by the President of the Statistics Poland website: www.stat.gov.pl for the quarter preceding the fees’ valorisation. Students who are not satisfied with the changes will be offered the opportunity to withdraw.

³Facilities

Facilities are subject to availability. Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2023/24 contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.