Programme Specification for 2012/13

MSc Network and Computer Systems Security

This programme is designed for graduates with a good first degree in computer science, information systems or other computing related subject, with some knowledge of computer networks studied at undergraduate level. It is suitable for both new graduates wishing to specialise in computer security and IT professionals who wishes to further their skills and move into this area.

It covers the relevant skills, software and hardware technologies as well as more theoretical studies that underpin everyday practice. It will, in addition, ensure that students have a basic understanding of the legal, regulatory requirements, and international standards requirements, pertaining to computer security in different nations.

Students will gain an understanding of the threats to networks, information systems and servers of businesses. They will learn to administer and manage business critical distributed applications and configure relevant security options. They will be exposed to industry standard software and hardware systems for security management.

Graduates will therefore be able to contribute quickly to the well-being of corporate IT and informational assets.

There will be hands-on training in current industry standard tools for implementing security - access control, authentication, encryption, key management and other aspects. Graduates will therefore be able to contribute quickly to the well-being of corporate IT and informational assets.

What's the difference between ...
MSc Network and Computer Systems Security and other computer systems programmes?

Typical content
The following is an indication of current programme content. However, the rapidly changing nature of the subject area means that both the courses offered, and individual course content, are likely to change in future years. Finally note that certain combinations of options may not be available.
For details of timetabling and study patterns, see the timetables page. Masters students take 120 credits of taught courses and undertake a 60-credit project. All courses are 15 credits unless otherwise stated.

Core courses:

• Project (60 credits) - a substantial individual project on a topic chosen by the student
• Network Management
• Network Security
• Operating System & Application Server Security
• Computer Security & Risk Analysis
• IT Application Security & Control
• Network & Internet Technologies & Design

Options (a total of 30 credits) chosen from:

• Distributed Data Management Technology
• Distributed Data Architecture & Management
• Data Mining & KDD
• E-Business Applications
• Mobile Application Development
• Mobile Technologies
• Audit & Security
• Web Engineering
• Software Engineering Management
• Enterprise Software Engineering Development
• Computer Crime & Forensics
• High Performance Systems Engineering
• High Performance Distributed Memory Systems
• Network Architectures & Services
• Software Tools & Techniques
• Visual Interactive Programming

Specifics

Entry requirements
Applicants should have a good first degree (minimum lower second) in computer science or equivalent, with some knowledge of computer networks studied at undergraduate level. Where candidates fall short of these requirements, any relevant work experience will be taken into consideration.
See the School entry requirements for more details.

Professional recognition
This degree has full CITP (further learning) and partial CEng / CSci accreditation from BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT - the body responsible for establishing and maintaining technical and ethical standards in the computing profession. This means that on successful graduation from this degree, you will have fulfilled the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP), including the CITP Further Learning Element, and partially fulfilled the education requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Chartered Scientist (CSci). However, please note that there are additional requirements, including work experience, to achieve full Chartered status - see the BCS website for further information.

Career opportunities
Upon successful completion of this master's programme students should be proficient in computer security and systems security and will be in a position to follow careers in these areas.

Location
This master's programme is based in the Department of Smart Systems Technologies, School of Computing & Mathematical Sciences, Greenwich Campus, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London SE10 9LS.

Study mode
1 year full-time / 2 years part-time
September or January start

JACS code
MSc Network and Computer Systems Security - G420