01 June 2018

Abertay University’s unique MSc course in Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security has been certified by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) which is part of GCHQ.

Topics explored within the postgraduate degree programme include penetration testing, web hacking, exploit development, digital forensics, network security and information security management. Students are said to benefit from an active teaching group, links to industry, and knowledge transfer projects.

Dr. Natalie Coull (pictured), head of the cyber security division at Abertay, says the course develops the traits needed for a hacker mindset and teaches an offensive approach to cyber security. “[It provides] detailed knowledge of electronic attacks and how to defend against the methods used to gain access to and exploit a system.”

The application for certification was assessed by a panel from NCSC, including experts from the public and private sectors, as well as independent academics.

Chris Ensor, NCSC deputy director for cyber skills and growth, says: “Studying degrees like this one will help prepare students for their future careers in cyber security, and fill the skills gap. Certified degrees are part of our programme to set the standard for excellent cyber security education in the UK.”