Course Overview
Arden University's MSc Cyber Security programme is aligned with the NCSC academic framework and equips you with the skills necessary to thrive in highly lucrative cyber security roles. In recent studies, 57% of businesses said they currently have unfilled cyber security positions* , and 1.8 million jobs in the field went unfilled in 2022 alone**. With such huge skills gaps and a burgeoning demand for cyber experts across the globe, this course will arm you with the knowledge you need to excel as an expert in cyber security across almost limitless industries.
What you'll learn
Our programme goes deep into cyber security, covering everything from understanding core concepts and standards to identifying vulnerabilities and risks within modern networks and infrastructures. You'll gain the expertise to design secure systems, making them resilient against potential attacks. We'll also teach you the technical skills needed to become an ethical hacker and proactive security tester, as well as how to perform digital forensics and incident management.
Additionally, you'll explore cloud, web, and mobile security concepts, becoming adept at recognising critical threats. We emphasise hands-on learning, allowing you to apply essential security techniques to test and protect against real-world attacks and recommend improvements.
Beyond the basics
Our commitment to your success goes beyond the classroom. Arden University offers access to industry-leading resources and certifications, such as Microsoft Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals and Microsoft Azure Security Technologies. We cover the costs of these resources, so you only pay for your exams in many cases, making your degree great value for money.
Arden University is a Cisco Network Academy, providing you with access to free Cisco resources. You can self-study for Cisco courses and receive badges in key areas such as networking, Python and Linux that you can add to your CV. Arden is also an AWS Academy, so you’ll gain access to further free course content to complement your degree.
Course details and modules
- Our MSc Cyber Security course delivers exciting and up-to-date module content that guarantees you’ll develop essential workplace skills. Just a few course highlights embedded into your modules include:
- Building networks: Gain hands-on experience using Cisco IOS simulation software to design secure networks. You'll configure devices like firewalls, switches, and routers, ensuring network safety.
- Learn ethical hacking: Master ethical hacking with industry-standard tools like MITRE ATT&CK, Cyber Kill Chain, and Metasploit.
- Master digital forensics: Learn professional digital forensics and incident management skills, including evidence acquisition and analysis using industry-standard tools. Maintain ethical and legal standards during investigations.
- Find and mitigate risk from vulnerabilities: Explore common cyber security vulnerabilities and apply mitigations using OWASP Top 10 guidelines.
Standard entry requirements:
- A 2.2 Honours degree in a computing-related subject, or an equivalent 2.2 Honours degree with 18 months of relevant computing work experience.
Typical non-standard entry requirements:
- A minimum of 3 years of relevant computing work experience with reference and evidence.
- Your work experience should be in a computing or IT role.
MSc Cyber Security at Arden University is eligible for Student Finance England funding: a tuition fee loan of up to £9,535 per year paid directly to the university, plus a maintenance loan of up to £13,762 per year for your living costs. There is no upper age limit — mature students apply through exactly the same process. Repayments only start once you earn over £25,000 a year.
Explore more funded Computing courses .
MSc Cyber Security is offered by Arden University in partnership with ARDEN . Students can choose flexible class schedules such as Online, allowing them to balance education with other commitments. The programme is offered in Part time study mode. It supports academic pathways at Masters level, and is available across key study locations including Online. Direct Google Maps links are provided for each location.
Available Campuses for MSc Cyber Security
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Prefer to study from home?
If an on-campus location doesn't work for you, this course also offers an online study option — so you can still progress with a flexible learning route.
Entry Requirements for Arden University (Postgraduate)
These entry requirements apply to Arden University postgraduate courses (for example MSc, MBA and postgraduate certificates). All applicants must provide supporting evidence to enrol.
Standard entry
- A UK Honours Degree at a minimum of second class (2.2) or equivalent
Non-standard / experience routes
- If you are unable to provide academic qualification, application may still be considered based on at least 5 years of work experience, ideally within the relevant discipline.
Programme-specific notes
For program specifics requirements, please see the relevant course's information.
Note: Postgraduate applicants normally pay a holding fee (around £170–£250). Confirm the current amount with admissions before you pay.
English Language Requirements for Arden University
Arden University needs evidence that your English is at the right level for the course. You can meet this through recent study in English or an accepted English test.
Qualifications studied in English
- 45 credits at Level 2 or 3, or
- 90 credits at Level 4, 5 or 6, or
- 60 credits at Level 7 or 8, or
- GCSE English Language at grade C/4 or above
These normally need to have been completed within the last 5 years.
Accepted English tests (usually valid for 2 years)
Duolingo
- Undergraduate: overall 105 (Literacy 95, Conversation 85, Comprehension 105, Production 75)
- Postgraduate: overall 120 (Literacy 105, Conversation 95, Comprehension 115, Production 85)
IELTS
- Undergraduate: overall 6.0 (no less than 5.5 in each element)
- Postgraduate: overall 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in each element)
Other accepted options include TOEFL, Pearson PTE, and Arden University’s Password English Proficiency online invigilated test. Confirm which option fits your situation with your AF Education adviser before you book a test.
Interview Process
Arden University interviews are held online on Microsoft Teams. They are a short conversation about your course choice and how you meet the entry route — not a formal exam.
Before the interview
- Install Microsoft Teams on the laptop, desktop or phone you will use.
- Join 5 minutes early using the link in your calendar invite. Arriving more than 5 minutes late usually means the interview is cancelled and needs rebooking.
- Check camera and microphone work before you join.
- Re-read your personal statement — you may be asked about what you wrote.
- Know your entry route: academic qualifications or work-experience (non-standard) entry.
- Know your course: the exact course title, why you want it, and whether you are applying for blended learning or distance learning.
- Prepare a couple of questions about the course, timetable or support before you enrol.
During the interview
- Take a moment to listen to each question before you answer.
- Answer clearly and honestly — the interviewer is checking fit and readiness, not trying to catch you out.
- Ask anything you are unsure about. It is better to clarify now than after you enrol.
After the interview
- AF Education will contact you with the outcome.
- If your documents are complete, your application can move to Arden admissions.
- If anything is still missing, send it to your AF Education adviser as soon as you can so the application can progress.
Who it's for
MSc Cyber Security at Arden University is a practical option for mature students, career changers, and anyone returning to education who wants a clear, funded route into university study.
There is no upper age limit for Student Finance England-supported study in England. If you are exploring a return to learning, our advisors can help you check fit before you apply.
Study location & mode
This course is listed with Arden University with an online study option .
- Study mode: Part time
- Class schedule: Online
Exact campus availability can vary by intake — use the campus list above and speak to an advisor if you need a specific location or timetable.
How this course is funded
Eligible students in England may be able to fund tuition and living costs through Student Finance England. As general guidance, that can include a tuition fee loan paid to the university and a maintenance loan for living costs. Repayments normally start only once you earn over the published repayment threshold.
This is general information, not a personal funding decision. Final eligibility, amounts, and repayment terms are confirmed when you apply for student finance — AF Education does not guarantee funding approval.
How AF Education helps
AF Education support is 100% free for students. We help you check eligibility, choose a suitable course and campus, prepare documents, and submit your application — with clear next steps for Student Finance England where relevant.
Register your interest
Register your interest in under 2 minutes. 100% free — we never charge you anything. A dedicated advisor will contact you to check eligibility and guide you through enrolment for MSc Cyber Security.
Ready to Start Your Funded Degree?
Register your interest in under 2 minutes. A dedicated student advisor will contact you to check eligibility, explain tuition and maintenance funding, and guide you through every step to enrolment.
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- 02 Advisor calls you back
- 03 Apply & enrol with support
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