Master of Cyber Security

This one-year full-time program equips you with advanced technical skills to protect and secure digital infrastructures across a range of industries, including government, defence and corporate sectors, in australia and around the world. 

Whether you choose to specialise in Digital Forensics or Advanced Tradecraft or follow the general program, you'll gain highly sought-after expertise in a field where demand is constantly growing. Graduate ready to take on roles like security analyst, penetration tester, or incident responder, and protect people, countries and businesses against the increasing risk of cyber threats.

Secure systems and networks are a vital responsibility for all organisations in our increasingly connected world. Informed by global best practice and cutting-edge research, the Master of Cyber Security at UNSW Canberra provides you with the tools and techniques to detect, analyse and confront cyber challenges.

Explore how cyber security, strategy and diplomacy intersect. Learn how to develop and apply effective cyber security strategies to real-world problems, and understand the policy, operational, and ethical challenges that result from increasing advances in technology.

Key features

• Become a cyber security expert- Master specialised skills in Digital Forensics or Advanced Tradecraft, positioning yourself as a leader in the field. With niche expertise in high-demand areas, you’ll graduate with the tools and knowledge needed to stand out in competitive cyber security roles.
• Access to cutting-edge facilities- If you’re located in Canberra, take advantage of UNSW’s state-of-the-art Cyber Range and Digital Forensics Labs, where you’ll gain real-world experience tackling simulated cyber attacks. Develop the skills to confront complex cyber threats head-on, preparing for the challenges of this dynamic field.
• Flexible learning and support- Balance your studies with work, family and other commitments. The program is offered exclusively online, complemented by an online learning platform that allows you to receive support from your teachers and fellow students.

Why study at UNSW Canberra?

• World-leading research- UNSW Canberra is home to the Institute for Cyber Security (IFCyber), a pioneering research hub delivering real-world solutions to complex cyber challenges. By leading cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research, IFCyber is positioning Australia as a global leader in cyber security innovation and commercialisation.
• Leading cyber security expertise- Learn from faculty and industry professionals with up-to-the-minute expertise in cyber threats and technologies. You’ll gain critical insights from leaders who are shaping the future of cyber security.
• Supportive, close-knit community- Benefit from a supportive learning environment with the best teacher-to-student ratio in Australia. Even when you study online, you’ll benefit from personalised support and a strong sense of community.

Program structure

• The Master of Cyber Security program at UNSW Canberra is delivered by the School of Engineering and Information Technology. Students will complete 48 Units of Credit (UOC), including four core courses and elective courses.  You can choose whether to complete the generalist Master of Cyber Security program or specialise in Digital Forensics or Advanced Tradecraft.
• Core courses cover key cyber security principles and practices, including Information Assurance and Security, Tradecraft, and Wireless, Mobile and Internet of Things Security. You'll then choose from electives in areas like Digital Forensics or Advanced Tradecraft. This blend of technical and practical learning ensures you develop in-depth knowledge across information systems, network security and cyber defence, preparing you for real-world challenges.

Full program structure

• This program contains a total of 48 units of credit (UOC) and can be completed in one year of full-time study.

Core courses - 24 UOC

• Cyber Offence: Threats and Opportunities
• Information Assurance and Security
• Wireless, Mobile and Internet of Things Security
• Cyber Defence: Network Security Operations

Prescribed Electives - Up to 24 UOC

• Software Security Lifecycle
• Reverse Engineering
• Critical Infrastructure and Control System Security
• Digital Forensics
• Mobile Network and Memory Forensics
• Big Data and Decision Analytics for Security
• Introduction to Exploit Development
• Applied Machine Learning

Research Project - 12 UOC

• Project Report – Cyber Security (Part-Time)
• Project Report – Cyber Security (Full-Time)

Future careers

• The cyber security sector is rapidly expanding as organisations face increasing digital threats. Australia alone will need an extra 5000 cybersecurity workers each year to meet the growing demand for experts in this area.
• Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in high-demand roles such as security analysts, penetration testers and forensic investigators. Industries like government, Defence, finance and tech seek skilled professionals to protect sensitive data and secure networks. You’ll be prepared to take on key roles in defending against evolving cyber threats and ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructures.

Potential roles

• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Cyber Security Consultant
• Cyber Security Incident Responder
• Digital Forensic Investigator
• Information Security Manager
• Intrusion Detection Specialist
• Network Security Engineer
• Penetration Tester
• Security Architect
• Security Operations Centre (SOC) Manager
• Vulnerability Assessment Analyst