Study Cyber Security

Cyberspace has profoundly transformed the way we live and do business. We are increasingly relying upon networked applications for assessing information and making critical business decisions, so it is critical for individuals, enterprises, and governments to be able to secure cyberspace from attacks to allow them to effectively conduct their business.

This program is tailored for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those without an IT foundation, aiming to delve into the realm of cyber security. Students in this program will cultivate a holistic understanding of security measures, encompassing network, system, and foundational theories, making it relevant for cyber professionals and aspiring security analysts.

Why study with us?

  • Open Path to Cyber Security: Break into Cyber Security without a tech background. Our Cyber Security Analyst specialisation accepts all disciplines and values professional experience. Launch your career in this high-demand field.
  • Access our industry-leading cyber security labs – our System Security Lab, Smart Network Infrastructure Security Lab, and Malware Lab each offer a range of advanced technologies and are setup to ensure each student has access to virtual machines to provide an isolated and secure environment to learn in. Our labs use advanced VMware based virtualisation technology, can be used to run cyber hackathons, and develop real-world applications in a safe and controlled environment.
  • Flexible study options – choose your study load and study on-campus or 100% online to suit your professional and personal needs.
  • High demand – 29100 new Database & Systems Administrators & ICT Security needed by 2026 (Labourmarketinsights.gov.au)
  • Global Networking Opportunities – students are able to connect with a diverse cohort of industry professionals, faculty and peers. The programs facilitate networking through virtual events, guest lectures and industry-based projects.
  • Enhance your career opportunities – this degree was created specifically to address the needs and demands of both individuals and industry. Develop analytical and technical skills that are essential to organisations looking to employ secure protocols.
  • Gain a strategic edge – our unique Human Factors course allows you to delve into the crucial interplay of human psychology in cybersecurity. This distinctive offering equips you to address the intricate challenges posed by human error in the realm of cyber security.

Take the first step with a Grad Cert in Cyber Security

Learn more

International Excellence Scholarship

IT and Computer Science

Learn more

What you will study

In today's interconnected world, foundational cyber security skills are indispensable across all industries, from finance to healthcare, ensuring data integrity and trust. The University of Newcastle’s Master of Cyber Security has been designed to provide you with quality training that will enable you to become a cyber security professional. You will gain extensive knowledge in cyber systems and infrastructures, their applications, along with human and legal aspects of cyber security, which will provide you with the skills to address severe skill shortages in these areas globally.

Key study areas include:

  • The foundations of cyber security, privacy, and risk
  • The role of human factors in cyber security, including cognitive, psychological, and sociotechnical aspects
  • Cyber security governance, risk, and compliance
  • Strategies for security management of systems and organisations
  • Professional practice in the Information Technology field
  • Foundational concepts and experience in networking and systems administration
  • Theory, concepts, and practical experience in managing, maintaining, and securing cloud environments

Specialisations

The program offers two distinct specialisations. Both pathways provide insights into key industry standards, option to obtain relevant certifications, and enable a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted world of cyber security, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address society’s unique cyber challenges.

For those with a prior technical or computing background, the Cyber Security Engineer Specialisation delves into the advanced technical intricacies of data and network security, ensuring a robust understanding of the tools and techniques essential for safeguarding digital infrastructures.

Key study areas include:

  • Techniques for analysis of security attacks and mitigation strategies
  • Security concepts and techniques for distributed systems
  • Design of secure systems and applications
  • Cryptographic techniques and security protocols

The Cyber Security Analyst Specialisation emphasises the human dimensions of cyber security, cyber crime, and the broader implications of security breaches.

Key study areas include:

  • An advanced knowledge of different areas of internet law
  • Advanced knowledge of cyber-offences, how to successfully prioritise and prosecute them, and appraise their impact on victim-survivors
  • Cybercrime as a driver of social inequality and the integral role that community engagement plays in responses
  • Developing online policing and security strategies to address cybersecurity problems
  • Analysis of community participation to address social justice issues facilitated through digital technologies
2024 Program Handbook

Refer to the program handbook for details of the complete program structure, course requirements and availability.

View program handbook

My Degree Planner

Use our degree planner to see what your study journey through the Master of Cyber Security might look like.

Prospective student planner Current student planner

Sign up. Stay connected

What excites and motivates you? Let us know what you’re interested in and we’ll keep you updated on all the latest info and events relevant to you.

Please make sure you have completed all fields above.

We advise that the information you provide is collected by the University of Newcastle and its contracted service providers and may be used to make you aware of future University events and opportunities. The University and its contracted service providers may use your personal information to invite you to participate in surveys or market research activities. The University abides by the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (NSW), under which you have the right to access your personal information held by the University. The University’s Web Privacy Statement and Privacy Policy provide further detail. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

* Please make sure you have completed all required fields above.

We advise that the information you provide is collected by the University of Newcastle and its contracted service providers and may be used to make you aware of future University events and opportunities. The University and its contracted service providers may use your personal information to invite you to participate in surveys or market research activities. The University abides by the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (NSW), under which you have the right to access your personal information held by the University. The University’s Web Privacy Statement and Privacy Policy provide further detail. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Thank you! Keep an eye on your inbox, you will receive
a confirmation email shortly.
Connect with us on WeChat
Connect with us on WeChat - QR Code
Thank you! Keep an eye on your inbox, you will receive
a confirmation email shortly.

Career

Career opportunities

Upon graduation, this program will allow you to harness your expertise in cyber security to work in a variety of industry sectors.

Career options may include:

  • Cryptographer
  • Cyber security analyst
  • Cyber security architect
  • DevOps engineer
  • IT security engineer
  • Network engineer
  • Security consultant
  • Security system developer
  • Security system manager
  • Systems administrator

Practical experience

Master of Cyber Security students are required to do a 2 semester (1 year) project in Cyber Security. This project can be done via career-ready placement or in collaboration with industry.

Furthermore, as part of the course on Security Standards and Practices in Industry, students learn about cyber security best practice in industry in various business sectors such as finance, healthcare and manufacturing.  The program also provides opportunities for the students to carry out industry related small projects in the Cyber Security Labs.

Application info

Applying for Master of Cyber Security

Ok, great, let's go!

Applications to study are now open. Submit your application now..

Apply to study in Australia

Both students and education agents can submit applications online. This is our preferred way of application. You can save your application after you have started, and come back to it later.

Before you get started

To ensure that the process goes smoothly for you, you should complete the following steps before applying:

  1. Review the program that you wish to apply for. Note the admission criteria, admission instructions, requirements & structure and any additional information listed.
  2. Review the program fees and costs.
  3. Check whether your postgraduate program has a Semester or a Trimester closing date. Please view the application closing date.
  4. If you are from a non-English-speaking background, you need to satisfy the University's English language requirements and ensure that you can provide evidence of your English proficiency if required.

You will be considered for entry based on criteria such as your undergraduate studies and/or equivalent prior learning and/or relevant work experience.

Postgraduate application process

Other things to consider

Make sure you double check the special entry requirements, assumed knowledge or recommended studies for the degree:

The Master of Cyber Security is a 160-unit postgraduate qualification, where students must complete one of two specialisations. 

  • Cyber Security Analyst Specialisation (2 years): Bachelor’s Degree (AQF 7 level) or higher in any discipline OR equivalent professional experience.
  • Cyber Security Engineering Specialisation (2 years): Bachelor Degree (AQF 7 level) or higher in a related discipline* OR equivalent professional experience.
  • Applicants who have completed the UON Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security are eligible for admission to the Master of Cyber Security and will receive 40 units of credit towards the program.
  • Applicants with a Bachelor’s Degree (AQF 7 level) or higher in a related discipline* may apply for up to 80 units of RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) towards the program.
  • Applicants with relevant professional experience may be considered for up to 40 units of RPL towards the program.
  • Applicants may receive a combined maximum of 80 units of RPL via previous qualifications or professional experience.
  • Applicants who would like their professional qualifications and/or work experience to be considered need to provide certified copies of all relevant qualifications, a detailed CV, and a statement of service or signed letters from employers confirming their role, duties, and period of employment.

*Related fields: cyber security, computer science, software engineering, computer systems, and information technology.

You can look at Uni prep for options to brush up on knowledge before you start.

View University key dates