Queen's University Belfast

Applied Cyber Security with Professional Internship MSc

Queen's University BelfastBelfast, United Kingdom

Course overview

The world’s online security depends on you. Step up to the plate with this fascinating Master’s course, taught by experts at one of the world’s leading cyber security hubs. ABOUT YOU: You’ll be analytical, technical and a modern-day codebreaker.

Cyber security is a challenge that will not go away, affecting companies, individuals and even governments. You could be: > A recent graduate - possibly a maths or engineering graduate with good programming skills, or you might be a good developer but have little knowledge of cyber security. > Already working in industry - experienced in technical software development, and looking to upskill and enhance your professional development. > An international student looking to study a UK master’s degree, to meet the global need for cyber security skills. ABOUT THE COURSE: This innovative programme is at the forefront of technical advances in cutting-edge cyber security topics such as cryptography, computer forensics, malware, networking, software development, as well as investigating the increasingly important legal and ethical issues in cyber security.

This is an applied course, which mixes theoretical skills with practical work in the lab to give you hands-on experience. The MSc Applied Cyber Security with Professional Internship is a two-year programme. The first year comprises taught modules and a research project.

The second year comprises an internship up to 12 months in industry in a cyber security related role. To progress to an internship in the second year students must secure an internship before the end of the first year. Students must also pass all modules before beginning an internship.

Applicants should be aware that students must be proactive in applying to appropriate companies to have the best chance of securing an internship. Internships are not offered by the university. This is a competitive recruitment exercise outside the control of the university, and some students may not be successful.

Students who are unable to secure an internship will transfer to the 1-year MSc Applied Cyber Security and graduate after one year. PLEASE NOTE: Applications for this course received after 30th June 2026 may not be accepted. In addition, a deposit will be required to secure a place.

Key highlights

  • Optional industry internship of up to 12 months in cyber security
  • Modules cover cryptography, computer forensics, malware and networking
  • Explores legal and ethical issues in cyber security
  • Applied approach combining theory with hands-on lab work
  • First year includes taught modules and a research project
  • Taught at a leading international cyber security hub

Entry requirements

  • Degree: 2:1 — 2.1

Scholarships

  • International Postgraduate Taught Scholarship

    Year one award of between £2000 and £5000.

    Up to £2,000
  • The Burdett Trust MSc Nursing Scholarships

    For Home Students: Tuition fees £7,665 Stipend £10,250. For International Students: Tuition fees £24,295 Stipend £17,000

  • Vice Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship - Postgraduate Taught

    Value: 50% of tuition fees paid for up to a maximum of two years.

    Up to 50% of fees

Careers this course leads to

  • Cyber security analyst
  • Penetration tester
  • Digital forensics analyst
  • Security software engineer
  • Malware analyst
  • Information security consultant

Cost of study

UK/Home: £7,700 (NI/ROI), £10,400 (GB) | International: £27,600

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Queen's University Belfast, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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