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Postgraduate Taught

MSc Cyber Security Analytics

Please note: The below is for 2025 entries. Click here for 2024 entries.
UCAS code 1234
Duration 1 year full time or 2 years part time
Entry year 2025
Campus Streatham Campus
Discipline Computer Science
Contact

Web: Enquire online 
Phone: +44 (0) 1392 724061

Typical offer

View full entry requirements

Normally a 2:1 degree or equivalent

Contextual offers

Overview

  • If you have a degree in a strongly numerate subject and an interest in a career in cyber security, data analytics, or the intersection of both then this programme is for you. You do not need a computing background
  • Our innovative programme is taught in a multi-disciplinary partnership of Computer Science, the University of Exeter Business School and our Law School with input from leading industry experts
  • We work closely with the local cyber security community such as the South West Cyber Security Cluster and BSides Exeter
  • You’ll learn how to recognise and manage risks to a network or a system’s security with data analytics, and how to build and defend secure systems with cyber security
  • You’ll investigate wider security elements including mathematical, human and societal factors alongside the option to study cyber security law and the future of virtual currency
  • Join us in tackling the challenges of modern life from the complementary viewpoints of Cyber Security and Data Science

Apply online

View 2024 Entry

Fast Track (current Exeter students)

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Contact

Web: Enquire online

Phone: +44 (0)1392 72 72 72

Dr Diego Marmsoler talks about Cyber Security Analytics at the University of Exeter.

Graduation cap and diploma icon: symbolizing academic achievement and success.

Top 10 in the UK for graduate prospects

Joint 9th for graduate prospects for Computer Science in the Complete University Guide 2025 (94%)

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Long-established partnership with the Alan Turing Institute and home to the Institute of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

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Excellent facilities spanning a wide range of machine types and software ecosystems alongside world-class computer science labs

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Courses designed to launch and develop careers for those working in or entering data and technology-driven roles

Graduation cap and diploma icon: symbolizing academic achievement and success.

Top 10 in the UK for graduate prospects

Joint 9th for graduate prospects for Computer Science in the Complete University Guide 2025 (94%)

Ancient style building icon

Long-established partnership with the Alan Turing Institute and home to the Institute of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

Computer icon

Excellent facilities spanning a wide range of machine types and software ecosystems alongside world-class computer science labs

Briefcase icon

Courses designed to launch and develop careers for those working in or entering data and technology-driven roles

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to have at least a 2:1 degree in a strongly numerate subject (e.g. computer science, mathematics or physics) and must be able to show evidence of good programming ability in a recognised modern computer language. Applicants may be interviewed by video conference to assess their programming ability and suitability for the course.

The Python programming language is used extensively during this course and applicants with experience in other languages will be asked to learn basic Python before commencing the course.

We may consider applications with non-standard qualifications where there is evidence of exceptional performance in modules relevant to the programme of study, significant relevant work experience, or relevant professional qualifications.

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Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B3. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

Course content

The MSc Cyber Security Analytics is an innovative course that allows you to study two highly sought after skills: cyber security and data science. This combination enables you to study challenges in modern life from two complementary viewpoints. Our course has a strong focus on ensuring that safety, security and data privacy are inherent in the design of software systems.

Our compulsory modules offer you a firm foundation in cyber security and data science yet you have the flexibility to create a degree that matches your interests through our optional module choices.

MSc Cyber Security Analytics consists of core compulsory Cyber Security and Data Analytics focussed modules worth 60 credits, a 60-credit MSc Research project, and 60 credits of optional modules (two chosen from Cyber modules and two from Data Science / Analytics). Your research project typically applies knowledge of both cyber security and data analytics and will be under the supervision of a research expert in your chosen area.

The full time programme starts in September and the taught elements are concluded by May. Your research continues until September.

If you choose to study the programme part time over two years you will also begin in September. During your first year you will study at least 4 modules which must include ECMM443 Introduction to Data Science, ECMM462 Fundamentals of Security, and COMM108 Data Systems. In year two, you will complete at least 4 modules (which must include ECMM463 Building Secure and Trustworthy Systems, if not already taken in year 1) and complete your research project.

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

Compulsory modules

CodeModuleCredits
CYBER MODULES (30 credits)
ECMM462Fundamentals of Security15
ECMM463Building Secure and Trustworthy Systems15
DATA SCIENCE / ANALYTICS MODULES (30 credits)
ECMM443Introduction to Data Science15
COMM108Data Systems15
PROJECT
COMM514Research Project 60

Optional modules

CodeModuleCredits
CYBER MODULES (Select 30 credits)
ECMM464Security Assessment and Validation15
LAWM163The International Law of Cyber Operations15
LAWM155Human Rights and Digital Technologies15
BEE3109Bitcoin, Money and Trust15
SOCM033Data Governance and Ethics15
DATA SCIENCE / ANALYTICS MODULES (Select 30 credits)
COMM511Statistical Data Modelling15
ECMM422Machine Learning15
ECMM423Evolutionary Computation & Optimisation15
ECMM445Learning From Data15
ECMM450Stochastic Processes15
ECMM461High Performance Computing 15
MTHM508Bayesian Philosophy and Methods in Data Science15

Fees

2025/26 entry

UK fees per year:

£12,600 full-time; £6,300 part-time

International fees per year:

£29,500 full-time; £14,750 part-time

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships*.

For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.

*Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.

Academic partners

As academic partners of the Chartered Institute of Information Security, our MSc students are eligible for free student membership. This enables you to develop your network and make contacts within the cyber security community, attend CIISec events and contribute articles to their magazine. Find more information about CIISec Academic partnership and their student membership.

Our long-established partnership with the Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and artificial intelligence, means that we have strong connections to the UK data science and AI research community. Currently we host 11 Turing Fellows and one Turing AI Fellow at the University. Turing Fellows are established scholars with proven research excellence in data science, AI, or a related field. Lectures, conferences and seminars organised by Turing and the Turing University Network are usually open to our students to attend either in person or online.

World-class facilities

Our latest facilities for computer science students are world-class spacious teaching labs allowing comfortable, collaborative working in a sensory-friendly environment.

Investment in data science and artificial intelligence

The University has invested £50 million in the development of its Data Science and Artificial Intelligence capabilities. The Accelerating Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (ADA) project has been running since 2023 and has invested in teaching, research and infrastructure which this programme benefits from.

Teaching and research

Teaching

Teaching is mainly delivered by lectures, workshops and online materials. Each module references core and supplementary texts, or material recommended by module deliverers, which provide in depth coverage of the subject and go beyond the lectures. Our connections with industry and the local, national and international cyber security network mean we have an in depth understanding of the skills and knowledge needed by industry. We regularly review our curriculum to ensure the employability of our MSc students.

Internationally recognised research

We believe every student benefits from being taught by experts active in research and practice. All our academic staff are active in internationally-recognised scientific research across a wide range of topics. You will discuss the very latest ideas, research discoveries and new technologies, becoming actively involved in a research project yourself. 

Our Security and Trust of Advanced Systems group focusses on all aspects of building secure, safe, privacy-preserving, reliable, and trustworthy systems. You can also read more about our data science researchers by discovering our hub for data-intensive science and artificial intelligence at the Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.

Supportive environment

We aim to provide a supportive environment where students and staff work together in an informal and friendly atmosphere. We operate an open door policy, so it’s easy to consult individual members of staff or to fix appointments with them via email. As a friendly group of staff, you’ll get to know us well during your time here.

Assessments

Modules are either assessed by coursework only, or a mixture of coursework and an exam. For detailed information on assessment of each module, see the module descriptions above. Assessment methods can include essays, technical reports, closed book tests, practical exercises in programming, program and data analysis, project work, and individual and group presentations.

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Careers

Cyber security and data science are elements of computer science which affect almost every aspect of society today. Every company around the world is in need of cyber security experts, no matter which field or industry you are interested in shaping. Huge opportunities exist for the businesses and individuals who can apply machine learning; mathematical modelling; and offensive and defensive security techniques to applications in data science and cyber security. This programme provides you with the foundations for a great career in data analytics, cyber security or the intersection of both.

Graduate destinations

Career opportunities are limitless, with graduates being found in a variety of sectors, including software engineering, health communications, education, life sciences, finance, civil service, intelligence and manufacturing. This programme is particularly suited to professionals and graduates looking to develop career options or pursue academia.

Dedicated careers support

You will receive support from our dedicated Career Zone team, who provide excellent career guidance at all stages of career planning. The Career Zone provides one-on-one support and is home to a wealth of business and industry contacts. Additionally, they host useful training events, workshops and lectures which are designed to further support you in developing your enterprise acumen. Please visit the  Career Zone for additional information on their services.

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