Computer Networking and Cyber Security

If you want to learn how to prevent and detect cyber security breaches, from hacking to fraud, then the Computer Networking and Cyber Security BSc course is for you. You'll take classes in our cutting-edge laboratories, which are part of our Cisco Networking Academy. With professional accreditation from the British Computer Society, this career-focused course will equip you with the key skills necessary to succeed in the computing industry.

This cutting-edge course will equip you with the knowledge, skills and experience needed to pursue a career in computer networking and cyber security. You’ll look at fundamental topics such as logic and problem solving, programming and computer forensics, before moving on to specialist issues such as digital crime investigation and cloud security.

Theoretical study will be complemented by hands-on practice in our state-of-the-art computer laboratories. London Metropolitan University is the proud home of the UK’s first-ever Cisco Networking Academy, which was established more than 15 years ago. This course incorporates the complete set of CCNA modules, meaning that you’ll graduate with additional Cisco certifications on top of your degree. Throughout the course, you’ll be supported by highly-qualified teaching staff who have strong links with the industry and potential employers.

Assessment

You'll be assessed through coursework reports, case studies, individual and group research assignments, written and lab-based exams, and a final engineering project or dissertation. You'll receive regular, supportive feedback throughout the course.

Professional accreditation

This course is currently undergoing the accreditation process for the British Computer Society (BCS), and The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), which has more than 150,000 members in 127 countries.

Entry requirements

In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:

• A minimum of grades BB or CCE (or a minimum of 80 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification, eg BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma/Diploma; or Advanced Diploma; or Progression Diploma; or Access to HE Diploma of 60 credits)
• English Language and Mathematics GCSE at grade C/grade 4 or above

If you do not have traditional qualifications or cannot meet the entry requirements for this undergraduate degree, you may still be able to gain entry by completing the Cyber Security Extended Degree. Applicants with relevant professional qualifications or extensive professional experience will also be considered on a case by case basis.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Applicants who require a Tier 4 student visa may need to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. For more information about English qualifications please see our English language requirements.

Accelerated study

If you have relevant qualifications or credit from a similar course it may be possible to enter this course at an advanced stage rather than beginning in the first year. Please note, advanced entry is only available for September start. See our information for students applying for advanced entry. If you have the full Cisco CCNA certification from an approved Cisco academy, you can apply for exemption from the relevant Cisco modules.

Modular structure

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2018/19 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time. Year 1 modules include:

• Communications Engineering (core, 30 credits)
• Fundamentals of Computing (core, 15 credits)
• Introduction to Information Systems (core, 15 credits)
• Networking Concepts (CCNA1 and 2) (core, 30 credits)
• Programming (core, 30 credits)

Year 2 modules include

• LAN & WAN (CCNA 3 & 4) (core, 30 credits)
• Networks and Operating Systems (core, 30 credits)
• Professional Issues, Ethics and Computer Law (core, 15 credits)
• Risk, Crisis and Security Management (core, 15 credits)
• Security in Computing (core, 30 credits)

Year 3 modules include

• Ethical Hacking (core, 15 credits)
• Network Security (CISCO) (core, 30 credits)
• Project (core, 30 credits)
• Creating a Winning Business 2 (alternative core, 15 credits)
• Work Related Learning II (alternative core, 15 credits)
• Digital Crime Investigation (option, 30 credits)
• Distributed and Internet Systems (option, 30 credits)
• Network and Cloud Security (option, 30 credits)

After the course

You’ll complete this course ready to pursue a career in computer networking and/or cyber security, or within the wider IT industry. Previous graduates have gone on to find employment as data analysts at companies such as CACI and Cisco Systems. Potential employers include cybercrime investigation companies, government agencies and the police force, as well as national and international organisations that need protection against digital crime.

Throughout the course, you’ll have the opportunity to attend regular student enterprise workshops, where you’ll have the chance to network with potential employers. You’ll also be able to gain valuable work experience through our optional work placement module. This course is also an excellent preparation for further study or research.