Cyber security is a fast-paced, rapidly developing field which demands competent, efficient aspirants. This field relies heavily on technical computer-based work that would enhance the security of networking, communication and data storage. For those interested in this field, the United Kingdom is a preferable choice. The UK has many globally reputed universities with top-notch education and a high number of opportunities. However, before you decide to pursue an MS in cyber security in the UK, it is essential to explore various factors like top educational institutes, admission requirements, eligibility, cost of living and future scope. Our guide here compiles all this information to help you figure out the ideal pathway. Continue reading to find out!
MS In Cyber Security In The UK
Masters in Cyber Security is a specifically designed course that revolves around preventing cyber attacks and data theft and enhancing security methods. In the United Kingdom, it is typically a one or two-year-long programme. The primary curriculum involves creating a solid foundation of knowledge of operating systems, monitoring communication, and protecting data. As the threat of cyber attacks increases, master’s courses in this field have gained attraction as a significant number of computer science students choose to continue their higher education in this field.
While the focus of education is cyber security, international students can pursue it through various degrees, specialisations and majors. Some of these are mentioned here.
- MS in cyber security
- MSc in Information Security
- MSc in IT Security
- MSc in Cyber Defence
- MSc in Applied Security
Why Study MS In Cyber Security In The UK?
The number of international students choosing to migrate to the UK for their higher education has significantly increased in recent years. This can be attributed to several factors, some of which are listed here.
- MS in cyber security in the UK focuses heavily on solid foundations, practical training, advanced knowledge and high exposure, which benefits students to work on their careers.
- The United Kingdom has ample resources to advance its technology and research in this field. Thus, pursuing a masters in cyber security in the UK opens several opportunities and facilities for international students.
- Companies, organisations and government bodies in the UK have a high demand for graduates in this field.
- Masters in Cyber Security UK has a considerable return on investment in terms of job opportunities, future prospects and career advancements.
- Graduates of MS in cyber security in the UK can expect an average salary of £30,000 annually.
Top UK Universities For Cyber Security
Merely migrating to the UK isn’t enough. International students must also focus on the best educational institutes. Each college or university has different opportunities and facilities, and it is crucial to explore your options before choosing the one that best aligns with your interests and goals. Here are some of the best universities for masters in cyber security in the UK, along with their popular courses.
| University | Popular Course | QS World Rankings |
| University of Birmingham | MS in Cyber Security | 12 |
| University of Southampton | MS in Cyber Security | 15 |
| University College London | MSc in Information Security | 4 |
| Lancaster University | MS in Cyber Security | 17 |
| University of York | MS in Cyber Security | 16 |
| Queens University Belfast | MSc in Applied Cyber Security | 28 |
| Nottingham Trent University | MSc in IT Security | 67 |
| Middlesex University | MS in Cyber Security and Pen Testing | 49 |
| Anglia Ruskin University | MSc in Artificial Intelligence with Cyber Security | 38 |
| Swansea University | MS in Cyber Security | 35 |
Eligibility Criteria & Admission Requirements
Once you’ve explored the different universities and courses in-depth, you must verify the eligibility criteria and admission requirements to ensure that you qualify for the programme. Although each institute has a separate screening process, we can derive a list of basic prerequisites as mentioned below.
- A 2:2 honours degree or equivalent in relevant subjects.
- Official academic transcripts of all previous degrees.
- Scores of English proficiency tests
- Scores of entrance exams. (depending on the course and university)
- Work experience (may be optional)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essay
- CV/Resume
- Financial documents
- Visa documents
The minimum required scores in the entrance exams are as follows.
| Exam | Minimum Required Score |
| TOEFL | 70 – 87 |
| IELTS | 6.0 – 6.5 |
| PTE | 61 |
| DET | 100 – 110 |
Students are advised to thoroughly review the university’s website and analyse the prerequisites for their shortlisted universities to pursue an MS in cyber security in the UK.
Admission Process
Similar to the eligibility criteria and admission requirements, the application process for each university varies substantially. Thus, applicants must be thorough with the requirements and application process before proceeding. Here is a step-by-step guide to successfully applying to the different UK universities offering masters in cyber security.
- Begin by exploring the different universities and cybersecurity-related courses offered by them. Shortlist those that provide maximum facilities and opportunities for career advancement.
- Go through the universities’ official websites to verify their eligibility criteria and admission requirements. Compile a file of documents depending on these prerequisites.
- Fill out their application form, depending on the given deadlines. Upload all the required documents, like CV, transcripts, financial papers, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.
- You may be required to pay an application fee. However, most colleges offer a waiver depending on the applicant’s financial background.
- You may receive an offer letter or a conditional placeholder, depending on your application. Fulfil their requirements and ensure your seat at the university.
Cost Of Studying
The cost of studying includes all the expenditure incurred for pursuing a course. Typically, it includes two significant expenses – the tuition fee and the cost of living. The average tuition fee for an MS in cyber security in the UK is approximately £23,882 per year. For a deeper perspective, refer to the following table with the average annual cost of attendance at the top universities in the UK.
| University | Average Annual Tuition |
| University of Birmingham | £27,540 |
| University of Southampton | £29,512 |
| University College London | £35,000 |
| Lancaster University | £26,985 |
| University of York | £27,200 |
| Queens University of Belfast | £23,150 |
| Nottingham Trent University | £19,237 |
| Middlesex University | £13,500 |
| Anglia Ruskin University | £15,800 |
| Swansea University | £20,900 |
Other than the cost of attendance, the living expenses contribute significantly. The average annual cost of living in the United Kingdom is around £13,848. A detailed breakdown of how we arrive at this figure through the costs of housing, commute, groceries, utilities and recreation is mentioned in the following table.
| Item | Cost of living in the UK (per month) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | £408 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | £472 |
| Transportation | £65 |
| Food | £360 |
| Utilities | £189 |
| Groceries | £28 |
| Clothes | £64 |
| Entertainment | £40 |
| Total Cost Of Living With Off-Campus Accommodation | £1,154 |
| Total Cost Of Living With On-Campus Accommodation | £1,218 |
| Annual Cost Of Living | £13,848 |
Scholarships
As the above section indicates, pursuing an MS in cyber security in the UK is quite expensive, especially for international students. To lessen the burden of these expenses, universities often offer different kinds of financial aid, like scholarships, grants, awards or bursaries, based on the student’s academic merit, past records, community service, and economic background. Some of the most helpful scholarships for international students are listed below.
| Scholarship | Amount Awarded |
| Cisco Scholarship | £28,954 |
| Chevening Scholarship | 100% tuition fee |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship | Flexible |
| Goa Education Trust Scholarship | Flexible |
| Northumbria University Country Scholarship | £2,316 |
| Vice Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship | 50% tuition fee waiver |
| University of Birmingham Commonwealth Scholarships | £3,000 |
| Queen’s University Belfast Vice Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship | 50% tuition fee waiver (for two years) |
Return On Investment
ROI, or Return on Investment, is an approximate measure of the profitability of any investment. One significant aspect for international students is that universities generally offer a high return on investment for graduates of MS in cyber security in the UK. Refer to the following table of comparison to get an idea of the same.
| University | Average Annual Tuition | Average Annual Salary |
| University of Birmingham | £27,540 | £34,000 |
| University of Southampton | £29,512 | £35,000 |
| University College London | £35,000 | £36,000 |
| Lancaster University | £26,985 | £33,000 |
| Anglia Ruskin University | £15,800 | £30,000 |
Placements
Graduates of MS cyber security in the UK get a plethora of opportunities to gain exposure and work with some of the best international companies. A few of the top companies that hire these graduates are listed here –
- Accenture
- Deloitte
- KPMG
- JP Morgan
- Tata Consultancy Services
- Tempest Security Intelligence
- PWC
Jobs Prospects
After graduating with a masters in cybersecurity UK, students can explore job opportunities in different sectors. The average salary for employees in this field is around £30,000 annually. Some of the popular job profiles and their average annual salaries are listed in the following table.
| Job Profile | Average Annual Salary |
| Lead Cyber Security Consultant | £85,000 |
| Cyber Security Operations Manager | £55,000 |
| Cyber Security Consulting Manager | £89,000 |
| Threat Intelligence Analyst | £43,000 |
| Security Operations Analyst | £31,000 |
| Information Security Analyst | £55,000 |
| Security Engineer | £39,000 |
FAQs
Q1. What is the salary after a master’s in cyber security in the UK?
Ans: The average annual salary for graduates of master’s in cyber security in the UK is around £30,000.
Q2. How much is the tuition fee for cybersecurity masters in the UK?
Ans: The average tuition fee for an MS in cyber security in the UK is approximately £23,882 per year.
Q3. Which universities in the UK offer MS programmes in Cyber Security?
Ans: The University of Birmingham, University of Southampton, University College London, Lancaster University, and Anglia Ruskin University are some of the top universities that offer MS programmes in cyber security in the UK.
Q4. Are there scholarships available for MS in Cyber Security students at UK institutions?
Ans: UK universities offer several types of financial aid. Vice Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship, University of Birmingham Commonwealth Scholarships, Queen’s University Belfast Vice Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship, Cisco Scholarship, and Chevening Scholarship.
Q5. What are the specialised areas of focus within MS in Cyber Security UK universities offer?
Ans: UK universities primarily focus on the different types of cybersecurity threats as a foundation for cybersecurity courses. Other than that, ethical hacking, network security, secure design and development, and cryptography are some of the specialised areas of focus in this degree.
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further