Get ready with a foundation year and learn the foundational skills and knowledge to complete a full Honours degree. You'll be able to embark on this qualification without meeting the level 3 entry requirements, giving you the opportunity to study at degree level through this four year course.
In today's digital world, cyber threats are evolving rapidly, making cyber security and forensic investigation critical skills in safeguarding individuals, businesses, and governments. This Cyber Security and Computer Forensics degree will give you the essential knowledge and practical skills to protect digital systems, investigate cybercrime, and combat evolving online threats.
What you’ll learn
Throughout this cybersecurity course, you’ll develop specialist skills in both digital security and computer forensics, giving you the ability to protect digital environments and investigate security breaches. You’ll explore real-world case studies, gain hands-on experience with industry tools, and learn from experts.
Designed to meet the latest industry needs and employer expectations, with a Cyber Security and Computer Forensics from CCCU, you’ll be fully prepared to enter industry upon graduation.
We accept a wide range of general qualifications that attract UCAS Tariff points either on their own or in combination with others. Below are some common examples.
Qualification | Grades |
---|---|
A Levels | DDE |
BTEC | MPP |
Access | Pass 45 Credits |
International Baccalaureate | TBC |
As a Computing academic team, we are dedicated to supporting your development as skilled, analytical thinkers who are ethically aware of the impact of technology on the world and its future. To help you achieve this, we use a range of teaching methods tailored to your learning needs.
Your learning experience will include lectures, tutorials, and online resources delivered through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), alongside hands-on workshops and interactive exercises.
This approach ensures a dynamic and engaging learning experience, with regular one-to-one feedback and support. By the end of this journey, you will have developed the independence, confidence, and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed at Level 4 and beyond.
Your learning experience will include a blend of lectures, seminars, and hands-on laboratory sessions. On average, you will have around 12 contact hours per week. Laboratory work will often involve small group collaboration, allowing you to engage in discussions, deepen your understanding of lecture material, and apply theoretical concepts in practice.
Beyond these contact hours, you will also have regular scheduled meetings with your assigned academic personal tutor, who serves as your primary point of contact for guidance and support throughout your undergraduate studies.
Building on the knowledge and resources gained from expert-led taught sessions, independent study empowers you to develop into autonomous, self-directed learners throughout your course, from enrolment to graduation.
We provide a range of resources to support your independent research, including web-based materials, journal articles, recorded events relevant to your studies, access to development software, library resources, and online academic skills workshops.
Additionally, we offer maths and statistics support sessions, giving you the opportunity to participate in one-to-one or small group sessions if you need extra guidance in these areas.
You will dedicate a significant portion of your time—approximately 200 hours per semester for a 30-credit module—to independent learning beyond scheduled classes. This includes completing computer-based exercises, preparing for workshops and seminars, conducting research, working on projects, and completing coursework assignments. You will also engage with directed readings, review journal articles and books, and prepare for class tests and assessments under the guidance of your module leader. This independent study will enhance your understanding, particularly during project work, and help you apply theoretical concepts effectively.
Collaborating with peers through group discussions and teamwork will further enrich your learning experience by exposing you to different perspectives. Additionally, a range of support resources, including reading materials and drop-in sessions for both technical and non-technical skills (such as academic writing and referencing), will be available to assist with any challenges you may encounter.
In your final year, the focus will shift toward an independent dissertation. You will conduct research under the guidance of a dedicated supervisor, with regular scheduled meetings to track your progress. This will be your first substantial independent project, requiring strong time management and critical thinking skills to successfully navigate your academic journey.
Your weekly workload typically includes 12 contact hours alongside approximately 25 hours of independent study. Additionally, your course may involve field trips and other events as part of your learning experience.
You will study a combination of 15-credit and 30-credit modules. In-class study time amounts to around 12 hours per week, supplemented by time spent on assessments. For each 30-credit module, assessments typically require around 75 hours of independent work. While there are no formal examinations, some time-constrained assessments will require you to complete specific tasks within a set timeframe.
Completing a 30-credit module requires a commitment of approximately 300 hours, which includes class attendance, independent study, group work, and assessment preparation. While this may seem like a substantial investment, it is essential for developing a strong understanding of the subject and achieving your academic goals. This dedicated time will help you build critical skills, apply theoretical knowledge, and enhance your overall learning experience.
Your teaching will be delivered by a diverse team of academic experts actively engaged in research. This includes participation in conventions and conferences that shape and enhance the course content. To further enrich your learning, we provide insights into industry practices through guest lectures from professionals with real-world experience. Additionally, PhD students, under the close guidance of academic staff, may assist in tutorials or laboratory sessions, offering peer support and sharing their research expertise.
Our academic staff continuously research emerging trends and maintain strong industry connections to ensure that the material you learn remains relevant to employers, enhancing your career prospects.
Key areas of expertise that inform our teaching include XR (AR, MR, VR) and immersive technologies, artificial intelligence, machine learning, databases, knowledge-based systems, and software development using CDIO processes.
You will learn in a dynamic and supportive community of peers and faculty, where group projects, discussions, and hands-on labs encourage collaboration and inclusivity. Our curriculum emphasises practical learning and career readiness, combining innovative teaching methods with real-world problem-solving to equip you with essential industry skills you will need to work successfully in the Cybersecurity and Computer Forensics.Dr Man QiCourse Director
You'll be assessed largely by coursework and project work, though some modules will also have examinations or class tests. Coursework is mainly practically-oriented with appropriate theoretical elements to ensure a well rounded education. Assessments are generally individual, with group work in some modules where this matches the approaches used in industry.
We use coursework assessment methods based on their suitability for specific modules. Formative feedback is provided formally in Year 1 and during the Year 3 individual study, and informally in workshops and seminars.
Methods of assessment used include production of software artefacts, project plans and diaries, essays, reports, ‘investigation-based’ presentations, oral presentations, individual studies/projects, poster presentations, online assessment, logs, examinations and time constrained assignments.
You'll receive feedback on all practice assessments and on formal assessments undertaken by coursework. Feedback on examination performance is available upon request from the module leader. Feedback is intended to help you learn and you are encouraged to discuss it with your module tutor.
We aim to provide you with feedback within 15 working days of hand-in (formal coursework assessment).
The increasing reliance on digital systems and the growing number of cyber threats have created a high demand for professionals with expertise in security, investigation, and data protection. Potential career paths include: Cybersecurity Analyst; Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker); Security Engineer; Security Consultant; Incident Response Analyst; Cloud Security Specialist; Cryptographer; Digital Forensics Investigator; Forensic Analyst; Cybercrime Investigator; Malware Analyst; Threat Intelligence Analyst; IT & Compliance Roles (IT Auditor; Compliance Analyst; Risk Analyst); Specialized Roles in Emerging Fields (Artificial Intelligence Security Specialist; Blockchain Security Expert; IoT Security Specialist).
Industries are hiring Cybersecurity & Forensics Graduates. These include Government agencies (e.g., law enforcement, intelligence services, defence); Financial institutions (e.g., banks, insurance companies); Tech companies (e.g., software firms, cybersecurity firms); Healthcare organizations (protecting medical records and patient data); Consulting firms (advising businesses on security strategies); Critical infrastructure sectors (energy, transportation, utilities).
With the ever-growing cyber threat landscape, cybersecurity and forensics professionals are in high demand, making this degree a strong choice for a stable and rewarding career.
This course also lays the groundwork for further study in specialised Master's programs or research opportunities (MPhil/PhD).
The course has a good choice of modules and a degree in Cybersecurity and Computer Forensics opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.Dr Man QiCourse Director
Tuition Fees for 2026/27 have not yet been finalised. These course web pages will be updated with Tuition Fee information once they have been agreed.
You will have the chance to build your professional network by connecting with industry experts, attending events such as conferences and career fairs, and engaging with our strong alumni community. Many of our graduates maintain close ties with the University, offering valuable career advice and job opportunities to current students.
Industry professionals play a vital role in shaping our curriculum, ensuring the course remains aligned with the latest developments in the tech industry. Their insights help refine the program, equipping you with the most relevant skills and knowledge. Additionally, local companies frequently share job opportunities tailored specifically for our students, creating a direct pathway to employment after graduation.
The Office for Students (OfS) regulates Canterbury Christ Church University. The OfS is the independent regulator of higher education in England. It aims to ensure that every student, whatever their background, has a fulfilling experience of higher education that enriches their lives and careers. Further details about its work are available on the OfS website.
Duration:
4 yearsUCAS code:
FG4FLocation(s):
CanterburySign up to hear the latest from the University, including upcoming events, useful updates, student life and more!