BSc (Hons) Cyber Security

As technology evolves, organisations become more susceptible to cyber attacks if adequate protections aren’t implemented against these threats. This has created a demand for professionals who are capable of mitigating the risks of potential cyber attacks, such as data breaches, identity thefts and phishing schemes. Whether you’re looking to make a career change into the computing industry, or if you already have experience but wish to earn a formal degree, this online BSc (Hons) Cyber Security has been designed for you. Throughout the course you’ll explore a range of topics, including:

• fundamentals of programming and the impact on software development
• software development life cycle
• user authentication, operating system security and malware forensics
• methodology of keeping computer networks safe from cyber attacks
• the importance of risk management in making business decisions

A shorter 16-month CertHE is also available for this course, equal to a total of 120 credits.

Learning and assessments The course is delivered via our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), enabling you to study at your own pace with 24/7 access to study materials. Lectures take place in the form of multimedia lecturecasts comprising of video, audio, text, infographics and multiple questions to provide you with an interactive study experience. Even though you’ll be learning remotely, you'll have the opportunity to engage with your classmates and tutors through seminars and live Q&A sessions. There are no exams as the assessments are conducted in a form of written assignments, discussion forum participation, reflective journal entries and group work accessed via our VLE.

University of Essex Online offer 100% online and part-time degree courses to both UK and international students. They’re one of the top 30 universities in the UK (Complete University Guide 2025). All University of Essex Online degrees are awarded and validated by the University of Essex. This means you’ll get to benefit from world-class research, ground-breaking teaching, and become part of a truly global community.   We're proud to be rated Gold in the Times Higher Education (THE) Online Rankings 2024. Our achievement, which is based on four pillars - resources, engagement, outcomes and environment - recognises our commitment to excellent online education. Our students benefit from a flexible approach to learning while receiving the same dedicated support. Whether you're a professional looking to enhance your career or a school leaver who wants to boost their CV, online study is a cost-effective, convenient and flexible way to get ahead.

At University of Essex Online, we believe everyone should be able to access education. That’s why we take both academic and work-based experience into account when deciding if you’re eligible for a course. All our potential students are assessed individually by a dedicated Admissions team who’ll determine whether you’re right for either the academic, open or work experience entry route onto our courses.

Academic entry route

•  three A-levels or equivalent

Work experience entry route

• GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above, or equivalent  
• at least three years’ experience within the fields of IT, computer science or business

English language requirements As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency in English is required. If English isn’t your first language, your  ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0. Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency. You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of the countries listed on our website.

Scholarship Opportunities

• Designated for undergraduate student loans in England.
• Simple monthly payment plan available, enabling you to spread the cost over the duration of your studies.
• Full payment discount of 5% if you pay upfront.
• Regional scholarship available for international students based overseas in eligible countries.
• 10% corporate discount available when three or more of your employees study with us.

, a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. The corporate discount can only be used in combination with our upfront payment discount, but not in conjunction with any other discount or scholarship. Make an enquiry now to find out more information about our discounts and scholarships.

• Designated for postgraduate student loans in England.
• Simple monthly payment plan available, enabling you to spread the cost over the duration of your studies.
• Full payment discount of 5% if you pay upfront.
• Regional scholarship available for international students based overseas in eligible countries.
• Alumni discount of 10% of the tuition fee available if you are a previous graduate with the University of Essex or University of Essex Online.
• 10% corporate discount available when three or more of your employees study with us.

Please note, a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. The corporate discount can only be used in combination with our upfront payment discount, but not in conjunction with any other discount or scholarship. Find out more information about our discounts and scholarships.