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Network Security and Pen Testing, MSc Network Security and Pen Testing, MSc Middlesex University

Middlesex University

Masters Degree , Computing Systems

Course Description

From national security to the privacy of personal communications, the smooth running of societies and economies depends on the security of computer networks. With a security breach potentially costing a company millions, highly skilled experts who can provide protection are sought-after across the globe. Technology is constantly developing and security issues are too, making this a challenging and rapidly evolving specialism.

Why study MSc Cyber Security and Pen Testing at Middlesex University?

This course provides both intensive practical training and a profound theoretical education, extending beyond the technicalities of network security to cover strategic and organisational issues. During your studies, you will work with our LTE test bed and Blade Server, and you will learn how to access and configure cloud-based networks.

You will be encouraged to learn, explore and work within our award-winning technology centre and its five specialist laboratories equipped with the latest industry-standard hardware and software, including OPNET, Wireshark, MATLAB, Simulink, OpNet Modeller 17.0, OMNeT++ , NI and Cisco technology such as Packet Tracer.

Practical work is an important part of every module, and unless you're already in employment, we'll encourage and support you to finding a placement for up to 12 weeks, during which you'll work on your independent research project.

Our strong research profile ensures our courses remain innovative. We have developed our own WSN, Senso LAB, and have also undertaken notable research in areas such as MIMO, LTE and LTE Advanced

The course is designed for those students who have previously studied computing at university level or who are currently working in the sector, and are looking to develop an advanced mastery of the subject.

Course highlights

  • You'll have the opportunity to gain practical experience in our industry-standard networking labs
  • We encourage students to explore new concepts and developments and were delighted when three of our students were crowned winners at the Young Professional Engineering Challenge
  • Middlesex University is an official Cisco Academy and as part of your studies, you'll have the chance to work towards a Cisco CCNA professional certification
  • As a student of this course you'll receive a free electronic textbook for every module.

Course Content

This Masters degree gives you an in-depth understanding of network design and construction, programming and operating systems, and the legal, ethical and professional issues which surround this sector. You will also study online security risks, installing the relevant procedures to ensure data is transmitted and stored securely, and developing measures that can be taken not only to prevent breaches but to minimise damage if they do occur.

What will you gain?

You will be equipped with the knowledge and expertise to analyse and build security systems, software and hardware applications, secure transactions, authentication measures, and cryptography and encryption techniques.

You will become familiar with the configurations of different systems in laboratories and learn to choose the appropriate measures and applications for a network. In addition to your proficiency in the subject, you will also have developed your mathematical, problem solving, communication, time management and critical skills.

  • Modules

    • Computer Networks and Internetworking (15 Credits) - Compulsory

    • Operating Systems and Application Environments (15 Credits) - Compulsory

    • Security Solutions and Applications (30 Credits) - Compulsory

    • Penetration Testing and Forensics (30 Credits) - Compulsory

    • Network Security and Mechanisms (15 Credits) - Compulsory

    • Cyber Security and Legal Regulations (15 Credits) - Compulsory

    • Individual PG Project (60 Credits) - Compulsory

 

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements

  1. UK & EU
  2. International
  3. How to apply
  • Qualifications

    • We normally require a second class honours degree 2:2 or above in computer science, science or engineering
    • Candidates with other degrees but with relevant work experience will also be considered.

    Eligibility

    UK/EU and international students are eligible to apply for this course.

    Academic credit for previous study or experience

    If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your Middlesex University programme of study. For further information please visit our Accreditation of Prior Learning page.

    Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions

    Entry onto this course does not require an interview, portfolio or audition.

Assessment Methods

As well as exams, tests and your research project, you’ll be assessed through practical assignments, including laboratory work, and coursework including essays, reports, presentations and class discussions. Some assessed work will be group work. You will receive regular feedback on your work, including your assessed coursework and your exams.

For your independent project you will plan, conduct and produce an original piece of research relevant to the industry – either using existing or emerging technology to solve a practical problem, or extending the theoretical understanding of new technology. You will be assessed on your research proposal, written report and via oral examination.

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