In today’s digital world, the need for cybersecurity professionals is increasing every day. With the ever-imminent threat of cyber attacks via various social media platforms or the internet, protecting our data, networks and work systems has become more crucial than ever. That is why a cyber security course offers vast career scope and a plethora of opportunities.
If you’re looking to pursue your higher education abroad, cybersecurity might be a worthy career path to explore. In the guide below, we have elaborated on the different courses available in cybersecurity, why they will help in acquiring a great career and some of the top UK universities for cyber security.
What Is Cyber Security?
Cybersecurity is an extensive job of securing networks, data and computer systems from unauthorised access or theft. It includes detecting threats, preventing attacks, and repairing the damage caused by them. Techniques like encryption and firewall are typically employed. Cybersecurity has become the need of the hour since we’re becoming increasingly fast-paced concerning technology. There are many courses and programmes that students can pursue in this field. Some of the best programmes available with their necessary qualifications are mentioned here –
- Diploma in Cybersecurity – 10+2
- BSc in Cybersecurity – 10+2
- BTech in Cybersecurity – 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics as basic subjects
- Postgraduate Diploma in Cybersecurity – bachelor’s degree
- Online courses – 10+2
Why Opt For Top UK Universities For Cyber Security?
Pursuing cybersecurity courses from some of the top universities has numerous advantages. The best universities usually have a global reputation, a high standard of education and modern research, which helps accelerate career growth tremendously. Collaborations and tie-ups with top colleges are highly beneficial to increase your network, reach and access to better opportunities. If you wish to move abroad for your education, consider some of the top UK Universities for cyber security. Here’s why –
- Global Leaders: UK universities have established themselves as global leaders at the forefront of this field. They introduce students to varied skills, like security science, software engineering and technology, which would complement their portfolios in the job search.
- Research-Based Education: Since the universities in the United Kingdom emphasise research-based education, it enables students to acquire a wider approach to the subject and its subsequent fields. This way, they learn to be sceptical about current procedures and devise better solutions for everyday problems.
- Job Market: Studying a cybersecurity course in the UK will open multiple doors of opportunities for students. Not only is there a high demand for cybersecurity experts in the industry, but they also offer high job stability.
- Networking: The best schools have the best opportunities for building a strong network through internships, apprenticeships, hands-on training, and volunteering programmes. This reach will help you gain better experience, practical training, and a developed skill set, which will ultimately lead to a better job profile.
- Salaries: Since cybersecurity is a demanding field, the average salary offered to professionals is quite high as well. You can expect an average annual pay of £30,000 to £70,000 if you’re well-trained with an impressive portfolio.
Top UK Universities For Cyber Security In 2023
To help advance your search for the best colleges, we have compiled a list of the top UK universities for cybersecurity, their rankings, average tuition fees and most popular courses. Refer to the following table for all the required information about the top UK universities for cyber security in 2023.
| University | QS World University Ranking | Average Cost Of Tuition for Masters (per semester) | IELTS Requirements | Acceptance rate |
| University of Cambridge | 4 | £23,625 | 7.0 | 21% |
| University of Oxford | 41 | £19,683 | 7.0 | 18% |
| Imperial College London | 58 | £33,000 | 6.5 | 15% |
| University College London | 36 | £29,632 | 7.0 | 63% |
| University of Birmingham | 91 | £21,950 | 6.5 | 14% |
| University of Southampton | 127 | £26,121 | 6.5 | 84% |
| University of York | 162 | £25,950 | 6.5 | 20% |
| Lancaster University | 135 | £26,229 | 7.0 | 19% |
| Newcastle University | 111 | £21,875 | 6.5 | 87% |
| University of Bristol | 116 | £24,950 | 5.5 | 68% |
| University of Edinburgh | 141 | £26,500 | 7.0 | 51% |
Eligibility & Necessary Documents
Although the eligibility criteria for the top UK universities for cyber security will vary depending on the course, it is possible to list out the basic requirements that one might need. Getting an idea of these allows applicants enough time to compile the documents and the process ahead. Refer to the following list for the common prerequisites.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Undergraduate degree in relevant subjects
- Academic transcripts of each subject
- CGPA qualifications
- CV/Resume
- Statement of purpose
- Scores of English Language Proficiency Tests – IELTS or TOEFL
- Scores of entrance exams like the GRE, ACT, SAT or GMAT – depending on the course and college
- References or letters of recommendation (may not be mandatory)
- Details of previous work experience (may not be necessary)
- UK Student visa and copy of passport
- Financial documents
Career Scope & Job Opportunities
Cybersecurity is a dynamic field which offers a plethora of diverse opportunities. Currently, this field is experiencing high demand for all related job profiles. As most companies prioritise the safety of their networks and data systems, a vast number of career paths open up, like cybersecurity analyst, security consultant, ethical hacker and security architect. Furthermore, there are many chances for higher salaries, career growth and deeper learning.
On acquiring a suitable degree from one of the top UK universities for cyber security, graduates can expect the average annual salaries mentioned below. Students can use this reference to understand which stream has a higher return on educational investment.
| Job Profile | Average Annual Salary |
| Security Analyst | £64,900 |
| Chief Information Security Officer | £102,000 |
| Platform Security Manager | £97,000 |
| Data Security Manager | £92,300 |
| Information Security Manager | £67,300 |
Average Cost Of Living In The United Kingdom
The cost of living is a crucial aspect to consider since it can affect your education to a great extent. Maximum students manage their cost of tuition via scholarships, grants or student loans. However, sometimes, the cost of living might not be included in any of these. Since it affects your day-to-day expenditure, it is advisable to analyse it carefully before you make a decision.
| Expenditure | Estimated cost per month |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | £408 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | £472 |
| Food | £360 |
| Transportation | £65 |
| Utilities | £189 |
| Entertainment | £40 |
| Groceries | £28 |
| Clothes | £64 |
| 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
A bachelor’s, master’s or research-based degree from one of the top UK universities for cyber security can be expensive. Managing the tuition fees and living costs in the United Kingdom can become straining over time. One way to aid your finances is to apply for scholarships. While each college or university has separate scholarship programmes, the government or many organisations often fund students’ education. Some of the best scholarships for Indian students are compiled below.
| Scholarships | Awarded Amount |
| Cisco Scholarships | INR 23,96,261 |
| JN Tata Endowment Scholarship | INR 1,00,000 |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship | INR 20,00,000 |
| Chevening Scholarships | INR 20,80,051 |
FAQs
Q1. What is the best college for cyber security in the UK?
Ans: University of Oxford, Imperial College London, University College London, and University of Birmingham are some of the best colleges for cyber security in the UK.
Q2. What is the salary of a cyber security analyst in the UK?
Ans: The average starting salary of a cyber security analyst in the UK ranges from £35,000 to £38,000 per year.
Q3. What qualifications do you need for cyber security in the UK?
Ans: A degree or educational qualification in computer science, computer or cyber security, mathematics, or network engineering and security is advisable for a cybersecurity course in the UK.
Q4. What is the duration of a master’s in cybersecurity?
Ans: A master’s degree in cybersecurity lasts 1 to 2 years in the United Kingdom.
Q5. Is coding required for cyber security?
Ans: A few basic cybersecurity positions don’t require extensive coding and programming knowledge. However, some highly technical positions require individuals to understand various coding languages and concepts.
Thank you for reading our guide to the Top UK Universities For Cyber Security In 2023! Let us know your queries in the comments section below.
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