MSc in Applied Cyber Security with Professional Internship, Queen's University Belfast

24 Months

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About this course

This course at Queen's University Belfast prepares students to meet the growing global demand for cyber security professionals. It’s designed for recent graduates, industry professionals, and international students who wish to develop strong technical skills in cyber security. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, covering advanced topics such as cryptography, computer forensics, malware, networking, and legal and ethical issues in cyber security. A distinctive feature of this MSc is its applied focus, with hands-on lab work and real-world projects. The two-year program includes a year of taught modules and a subsequent industry internship, providing valuable industry experience. Students must secure an internship before the start of the second year, which is competitive and outside the university’s direct control. The degree is fully certified by GCHQ/NCSC, ensuring it meets high standards recognized internationally.

Why this course is highly recommended

This MSc is highly regarded for its certification by GCHQ/NCSC, placing it among the elite cyber security degrees in the UK. Its research-informed syllabus is developed in collaboration with the world-class Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT), which has received national recognition for excellence. Belfast’s reputation as a global cyber security hub offers students unique opportunities for networking and internships. The program prepares graduates for leading roles in cybersecurity, offering a strong technical foundation, practical experience, and industry certification—making it a compelling choice for aspiring cyber security professionals.

Specialisation

The course specializes in applied cyber security, combining core modules on cryptography, network security, software assurance, ethical hacking, and AI in cybersecurity. It emphasizes practical skills, with modules offering hands-on labs, attack simulations, and security analysis. The program also explores legal and ethical considerations, equipping students to handle complex security challenges in various sectors. This specialization is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of modern cyber threats and defense techniques, alongside certified industry-level training.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

27.24L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should typically hold a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification in an appropriate field, such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mathematics with Computer Science, or Physics with Computer Science. Relevant industry experience or formal programming skills, particularly in C and Linux, will strengthen applications. Applications from those with a 2.2 Honours degree combined with a Master’s qualification may be considered on a case-by-case basis. The course also requires proof of mathematical ability and significant programming experience.

English language test

PTE

IELTS

DUOLINGO

110

TOEFL

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Queen's University Belfast admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this MSc will be well-positioned for roles in cyber security across sectors such as government, industry, and private enterprise. The program aims to build skills that support careers in security analysis, penetration testing, forensic analysis, and security management. The certification’s recognition by GCHQ/NCSC enhances employability, and the internship provides practical industry experience, making graduates competitive for leadership positions both nationally and internationally.

FAQs

Is professional internship a compulsory part of this course?

Yes, the internship is a mandatory part of the two-year program. Students must secure an internship before the second year begins.

Can students graduate without the internship?

Students who are unable to secure an internship will transfer to the one-year MSc Applied Cyber Security and graduate after that duration.

What is the certification status of this MSc?

The MSc Applied Cyber Security with Professional Internship is fully certified by GCHQ/NCSC, which is a mark of high-quality industry-standard training.