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Cyber Security MSc, PGCert, PGDip

Start date

September / January

Previous degree

2:2

Distance learning available

No

Student visa accepted?

Yes

Duration

1 year (full-time), 2 years (part-time)

Computer Science master's

Study a comprehensive, industry-relevant MSc in cyber security

On this MSc Cyber Security course at St Mary's London, you’ll build practical skills to secure systems, networks, applications, and databases. Everything you'll learn on this postgraduate course is based on current industry standards and real-world threats.

Why choose an MSc Cyber Security at St Mary's?

Portfolio-driven assessment for improved employability

Assessments on the course build a professional portfolio, giving clear evidence of your skills to future employers. This includes penetration testing reports, secure software solutions, vulnerability analyses, and technical documentation.

Students using the computer science lab.

Advanced technical expertise

Develop expertise in network security, secure software design, database protection, web application security, and AI-driven cyber threat analysis, reflecting both industry needs and current research.

Cross-sector application

Prepare for diverse career paths by applying cyber security principles across sectors including finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure.

Ethical and legally compliant security practices

Explore emerging threats and current research, while building a strong understanding of ethical and legal responsibilities. Learn through guest speakers, industry practitioners, and real-world scenarios.

Access to cutting-edge computer science facilities

Prins computer science lecturer teaching in esports arena

The MSc Cyber Security is based at our London campus, where you'll have access to specialist facilities, including:

  • High-spec computing labs with networking and cyber security software
  • Industry-standard cyber security tools and platforms for penetration testing, malware analysis, secure software development, network monitoring, and digital forensics.
  • High-performance systems for simulating networks, testing vulnerabilities, and executing advanced AI-based security models.

Hands-on cyber security industry experience

Get hands-on experience taking part in security competitions, hackathons, and collaborative projects with industry. You’ll also visit technology companies, cyber security research centres, and security teams across government and critical infrastructure, as well as attend industry conferences.

Please note: this course is subject to validation.

Upcoming Event

undergraduate-open-day-home

St Mary’s University Postgraduate Open Afternoon

Friday 5 June 2026, 2pm

Course content

Modules

These modules are the modules that were available to students in the 2025/26 academic year and are illustrative of what may be offered for 2026/27. 

Please note: it is possible that a module listed on the website will not be able to run due to reasons beyond our control. For more information please refer to our course information disclaimer.

Entry requirements

2:2

Previous degree

An undergraduate degree with at least 2:2 honours degree (or equivalent).

Additional requirement information

For more information about entry requirements, please email apply@stmarys.ac.uk.

Further Information

For more information about entry requirements please get in touch.

Fees & funding

September 2026

Home

£9,630

International

£18,180

Additional costs

*Please note: The tuition fees listed are if you study the course in full during the 2026/27 academic year. Part-time students will be charged for the modules undertaken per academic year. Module prices are calculated as a percentage of credits against the total credits and cost of the degree for that academic year. Please see the detailed breakdown of tuition fees for further information.

Your tuition fees will cover the cost of all mandatory elements of your programme. Additional costs could be incurred depending on optional modules chosen and other projects undertaken.

For further information about additional costs please see our additional costs webpage

For more information about whether you are likely to pay home or international fees, please visit our 'understanding your tuition fee status' page.

Alumni discount

A 20% tuition fee discount is available for our alumni (undergraduate and PGCE) planning to study this Master's degree. Those studying for a PGDip of PGCert are not eligible for the discount.

Funding

Except for any iQTS courses, you can check on the UK government website to see if you may be eligible for a loan of up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate programme.

Home and international students for non-iQTS courses may also be eligible for external sources of funding. International students should check their eligibility for our International Scholarship.

For more information, please look at our postgraduate funding page.

How the degree is taught

Contact time
20%
Independent study
50%
Guided learning
30%

Assessment methods

  • Coursework assignments (secure software development, network analysis, threat modelling)
  • Practical lab-based security exercises
  • Group projects and collaborative system development
  • Presentations and technical demonstrations
  • Written reports and critical evaluations
  • Dissertation (major research project and viva)

Who teaches this course?

Career opportunities

Our Cyber Security master’s helps you develop essential transferable skills, such as flexibility, teamwork, and attention to detail.

Please contact our Career Services at careers@stmarys.ac.uk for further information on jobs and postgraduate opportunities.

Some examples of job roles and areas of work for graduates of Cyber Security MSc, PGCert, PGDip include:

Cyber Security AnalystPenetration Tester / Ethical HackerSecurity Software DeveloperThreat Intelligence AnalystDigital Forensics Specialist

Apply now

September 2026

January 2027

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Open Days

Open Days are a fantastic opportunity for you to meet academic staff. You'll also be able to look around the campus, speak to current students and find out more about services such as Accommodation and Student Wellbeing.