Computer Science with Cyber Security with Professional Experience
Full-time
With placement
Four year
September 2025
In a nutshell
Cyber criminals are using sophisticated techniques to infiltrate I.T systems and steal valuable data. Help businesses and organisations to fight back by building cyber security knowledge and skills with our BSc Computer Science with Cyber Security with Professional Experience degree.
Designed to fill an emerging global skills gap, our fast-growing course will take your interest in computer science, and enhance it with a specialist cyber focus. Accredited by the BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, the course will build your understanding of the inner workings of programmes, operating systems and networks, so you understand how cyber-attacks happen.
This professional experience pathway includes a 12-month industry placement between years two and three. This is a great opportunity to apply what you've learnt so far, and develop additional workplace skills to complement your academic studies. Read on to explore to learn more about the course experience.
Start your study journey
Register for our next Open Day to learn more about studying computer science with cyber security, explore our facilities and meet the course team
You will:
- Learn how to diagnose attacks and use forensics to determine the extent of damage
- Gain industry experience from a placement year in between your second and third year
- Develop an understanding of cryptography to address security concerns
- Know how to preserve evidence so you can work within an ethical framework
- Build risk management knowledge so you can actively manage threats
options available
students accepted
Course accreditations
This is for you if...
You're passionate about computing and are excited about how to fight cyber crime
You're interested in how things work rather than just wanting to use them
You've got a keen attention to detail, enjoy problem-solving and like to use your initiative
All about the course
Course delivery
Delivered across four years including a year-long industry placement, our BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Cyber Security with Professional Experience degree is designed to develop your in-depth knowledge and understanding of programming, computer systems, data mining, security and network penetration testing.
In you're final year you'll take further cyber security-focused modules, including cyber investigation and malware and exploit analysis. You'll also complete an individual project that will demonstrate your knowledge and skills
Learn more about the course modules in the section below.
Learning experience
Embedding collaboration with industry and working on real-world projects is an essential aspect of studying computing at Salford. In your second year you'll have the opportunity to take-part in our three-week long industry challenge, Hackcamp. Working in a team with other second year computing students, you'll develop a web-hosted dashboard or application to meet a real-life brief, set by one of our industry partners. At the end of the three weeks students also have the chance to present their finished project at our Hackcamp showcase day.
Working on real-world set briefs alongside your specialist studies will give you the skills and knowledge you need to prepare for an exciting career in tech. You will also bring all of your learning together by completing an individual project in your final year, where you can focus on an area of software engineering of your choice.
Industry placement
On this study pathway, you will complete an industrial placement year between years two and three. Although you will be responsible for securing your own placement, we will assign you a placement tutor to monitor your progress and assess your final report.
By completing a placement year, you can add 'with professional experience' to your degree award. Industry placements are an excellent way to enhance your CV, gain hands-on work experience and build industry connections.
Database Systems
This module will share fundamental knowledge of database management systems, their design, implementation and applications. It will develop your knowledge and understanding of the underlying principles of relational database management system, and how to implement and maintain an efficient database system.
Computer System Internals and Linux
This module will provide you with an in-depth low-level knowledge of computer systems, concentrating on computer architecture, operating systems and communications technology. You will also start to develop skills in the use of Unix-like operating systems at command-line level, writing and using simple scripts and batch files and the simple system administration of a standalone Linux PC.
Programming 1
You will be introduced to a practical, hands-on approach to programming where workshops will provide focused practical activity on a managed learning curve. You will learn excellent programming practice through design, implementation and testing, and will be introduced to the basics of structured programming language using an integrated programming environment.
Programming 2
You will strengthen your syntax and semantics base of Java developed in the ‘Programming 1’ module. You will develop an appreciation of recursion as well as your knowledge of dynamic data structures. Additionally, you will learn how to test and debug code, along with an appreciation of more sophisticated programming behaviour.
Professional Development and Practices
You will be introduced to the business context and application of computing and information systems. You will explore this through societal, professional, ethical and legal issues surrounding business practices and the theory and process of project delivery to a professional standard.
Web Development and Human Computer Interfaces
You will be introduced to theory and practice of website design and development and develop knowledge and understanding of human-computer interaction and techniques for designing and analysing user interfaces. You will also gain skills and practical experience of designing, developing and testing websites using HTML5 & Cascading Sheets (CSS).
Client Server Systems
You will develop data-driven interactive web applications, with client-side and server-side components, using industry-standard software development tools and techniques. You will design, create, test and demonstrate software implementing a data-driven web application, programming, industry standard scripting languages (such as PHP and Javascript), connecting to industry standard databases, identifying security risks, and working within legal constraints such as data protection, accessibility and copyright.
Data Structures
In this module you will first be introduced to some of the most important data structures used in the design and implementation of computer software and shown how these are implemented using Java. You will then learn to analyse the requirements of algorithm resources to allow you to provide a sound basis for objective choice when dealing with competing algorithms
Career Development
You will develop a range of employability 'soft skills' to give you an advantage when applying for (and carrying out) a placement as well as graduate roles. Employers value a combination of technical and interpersonal skills. This module will draw from our extensive industry contacts to demonstrate the range of skills needed to succeed in your career and to help you develop a career plan.
Networking and Security
You will learn in detail how the Internet works, from local area networks to global networks. This will include designing and troubleshooting networks, and configuring and testing network applications. You will also look at security vulnerabilities, cryptographic principles, protocols, C-I-A trade-offs, firewalls and legal implications. You will apply these principles to designing solutions for some realistic case studies.
AI and Data Mining
You will be introduced to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Mining (DM) techniques for problem solving. You will become familiar with AI techniques and terminology for knowledge representation and searching, and gain an understanding of DM algorithms, and learn how these techniques are used in real world applications.
Software Projects with Agile Techniques
This module combines technical work in computer programming with personal development planning. You will work in a group to design, develop, document and demonstrate a solution to a problem, working to a professional standard using Java programming. This module also introduces agile techniques and methodologies and provides an opportunity for applying, evaluating and reflecting on these techniques.
Computer Science Placement Year
You will undertake a year in industry as part of this course.
Cyber Investigation
You will go further into digital investigation techniques and methodologies, covering specific forensic details for Windows, mobile devices, multimedia files and networks and using a variety of tools.
Malware and Exploit Analysis
You will learn to examine a range of exploits, malware and malicious programmes, using network and system monitoring tools and disassemblers to determine what they do and how they avoid detection. You will evaluate and analyse incident management and recovery procedures.
Information Security Management
This module will prepare you for the creation and implementation of information security policies in organisations, with an emphasis on risk management and business continuity planning, taking account both the practicalities of implementation in a real-world setting and the various legal and ethical issues involved. You’ll learn to identify assets, vulnerabilities, threats and controls and to consider issues of security culture.
Project
You will undertake an individual project that will demonstrate your understanding of security issues. You can select your own area of study, identify and develop a realistic problem and, working independently and in a professional manner, organise, sustain and report on your project in a way which is both detailed and reflective.
Choose an optional module:
Mobile Development
The module will provide an introduction to the key technologies used to provide interactive web sites and interactive applications for use with mobile devices, taking into account the unique environment in which these applications operate. Consideration will be given to how to use these technologies whilst still maintaining web standards, particularly accessibility.
Business Management
You will learn business and enterprise concepts so you can analyse and evaluate business practices, concepts, theories and frameworks and their relationship to the strategic and operational management of an enterprise or a project. This is intended to complement the technical project management content of the course and provide a real-world context linked to current enterprise activities at the university. You will also learn about freelancing.
Virtual Reality and 3D Games
This module will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices and measures of virtual reality technology and the development of interactive 3D worlds. Applications of the technology that will be used are from across sectors including the computer games industry, medicine, energy, engineering and science. You will develop your programming to an advanced level of understanding and experience of modern interactive 3D engine development.
New
Deep Learning
Introducing you to the field of deep learning and its applications, you will learn about the deep learning architectures and algorithms that are used in applications such as face recognition, speech recognition and medical diagnosis. You will also have the opportunity to develop your professional skills using the Python programming language and utilizing a deep learning framework to develop predictive models and applications.
Advanced Web Development
You will learn the common stages of creating a large-scale web application. This consists of the following: development of a scalable web application using design patterns, frameworks and other industry best practices; discussion of the concepts of APIs; designing a fully RESTful API for the application; and create a client to consume the application API .
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
Frequently asked questions
What is computer science and cyber security?
Computer science is the development and testing of software and systems. It involves working on areas such as mathematical models, data analysis and security, algorithms, and computational theory.
Cyber security specifically focuses on the protection of technological systems from digital threats. These threats can include deliberate attacks to access, change, or destroy sensitive information, to interrupt business processes, or extort money from users via ransomware. These are only a few examples of cyber threats.
Why should I choose a degree with professional experience?
By choosing to undertake professional experience as part of your degree, you will have greater opportunity to put into practice the knowledge and skills you gain in your studies. Experiences are typically taken between the second and third year of the degree. You will spend a fixed term with an organisation, getting involved with the exciting work they do and getting the chance to build on your skills with real-world experience.
Is computer science a good job?
A degree in computer science will teach you a range of technical and non-technical skills that are greatly valued by employers. Computer technologies are integral to most industries in the modern day, so you will have plenty of choice when it comes to pursuing your career. Some of the roles you could explore include programmer, software developer, web developer, IT consultant, computer analyst, and systems administrator.
Our computer science alumni have found employment with leading national companies across a range of industries, such as Sainsbury's, Cisco, Microsoft, SIS, Autotrader, HMRC, Ferranti and Civica, plus local firms emerging in the fast-growing tech community in the northwest.
What GCSE and A Levels do you need for computer science?
Most of our computing programmes require an English Language and Mathematics GCSE at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent) and a level 4 qualification (A Level, BTEC, or equivalent) in Computing or a related subject. The specific entry requirements for this programme can be found in the entry requirements section.
Is computer science and cyber security difficult?
Studying computer science and cyber security can be challenging since it involves many scientific and complex technological topics, however, our students find our programmes incredibly rewarding when gaining a wide range of skills during their studies.
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our degree courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants and leaders.
Driven by industry, and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to become unstoppable in your career.
Facilities
As a computing student you will learn in our specialist computing suites and laboratories, including a networking laboratory and dedicated final year project laboratory. You can also use Cisco-enabled facilities with the option to gain Cisco Certified Network Associate status.
Industry Collaboration and Research
When you start this degree with Salford, you are also joining a community making a difference in industry, our local region and in our wider society.
Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of local and global computing and informatics issues and challenges.
Discover how you are part of something bigger.
What about after uni?
Employment
Once you complete the full honours degree, you'll graduate with exciting and rewarding careers opportunities ahead of you. With demonstrable programming skills, supported by a large portfolio of practical work, you'll have an excellent set of computer science skills and a specialism in cyber security.
Designed to fill an emerging global skills gap, our fast-growing course will take your interest in computer science, and enhance it with a specialist cyber focus. There is currently a shortage of cyber security specialists, with a rise in demand for security analysts, penetration testers, security auditors and information security managers.
Our computer science alumni have found employment with leading national companies across a range of industries, including Sainsburys, Cisco, Microsoft, SIS, Autotrader, HMRC, Ferranti and Civica, plus local firms emerging in the fast-growing North West tech community.
Further study
You might find you want to learn more about computing. Building on our expertise, we offer postgraduate courses that can take your interests and career opportunities further. Salford graduates and alumni receive a significant fees discount.
What you need to know
Applicant profile
We're looking for applicants with a strong interest in computing, a good work ethic and attention to detail. You will have an interest in understanding how computers work, rather than just wanting to be a user of them. With such exciting opportunities emerging in computer science, we're seeking applicants who have the initiative to take their learning beyond the tasks that are part of the coursework.
English language requirements
If you are an international student and not from a majority English speaking country, you will need an IELTS score of 6.0 with no element below 5.5. We also accept a range of other English language qualifications. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take the Pre-Sessional English course, or the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.
Course accreditation
This degree is accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT. An accredited degree provides a valuable contribution towards professional membership and evidencing breadth of knowledge. Some employers give preference to applicants who have accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.
GCSE
English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.
UCAS tariff points
112 UCAS points, to include minimum grade C A-level in Computer Science (or related) or Computing BTEC or Access to HE course
A-Level
112 UCAS points, to include at least grade C in A-level Computer Science (or related)
BTEC National Diploma
DMM to include Computing (or related)
Access to HE
Pass with 112 UCAS points, from a QAA-approved computer-related programme with Level 3 Computing content.
Scottish Highers
112 UCAS points, to include Computer Science (or related)
Irish Leaving Certificate
112 UCAS points, to include Computer Science (or related)
European Baccalaureate
Pass in Diploma of at least 60%, to include computing, a numerate subject or engineering.
International Baccalaureate
30 points with 14 in Higher Level subjects, to include computing, engineering, science or technology.
International Students
We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements. If you do not meet the entry requirements, you could take the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test. To be considered for the scheme, you must have already achieved or be working towards GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4 (or equivalent).
Learn more about the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme.
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,250.00per year |
| Full-time international | 2025/26 | £17,650.00per year |
Additional costs
You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Scholarships for International Students
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. Explore our international scholarships.