University of York

What you'll study

This four-year integrated masters blends core computer science topics with dedicated cyber security modules and an assessed industry placement year. Teaching combines lectures and practical lab work with project-based learning and assessed coursework. The programme builds progressively from fundamentals to advanced topics, culminating in a substantial individual or group project in the masters year.

• Core computer science: programming and software engineering, algorithms and data structures, operating systems, databases, computer architecture and networks.
• Mathematical and theoretical foundations: discrete mathematics, formal methods, logic, and probability and statistics for computing.
• Cyber security specialisms: cryptography and applied cryptography, network and systems security, secure systems engineering, malware analysis and reverse engineering, digital forensics, security assessment and penetration testing, and human factors in security.
• Advanced and optional topics: distributed systems and cloud security, privacy-preserving technologies, machine learning for security, formal verification and assurance, and elective modules that reflect current research and industry needs.
• Industry placement year: a credited year in industry between taught years, giving practical experience in a professional setting such as a security operations centre, software company, consultancy or research organisation. The placement includes employer supervision and academic assessment.
• Final project: an extended research or development project in the masters year, often aligned with cyber security research themes or an employer problem from the placement.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a strong background in mathematics and computing. Typical applicants will hold A-levels (or equivalent) with a strong pass in Mathematics, or an equivalent qualification such as the International Baccalaureate or relevant vocational/overseas qualifications. Demonstrable programming ability and experience with computing concepts are expected. Mature applicants and those with relevant industrial experience are welcome and assessed on the strength of their application and references. Specific conditional offer levels and acceptable qualifications are listed by the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a combination of deep technical knowledge and practical experience valued by employers across sectors. The industry placement enhances employability and often leads to graduate roles with the same employer.

• Typical roles: security analyst, security engineer, penetration tester, incident responder, digital forensics specialist, secure software developer, cloud security engineer, and risk and assurance consultant.
• Other pathways: applied research or doctoral study in cyber security or computer science, roles in software development, systems engineering or IT consultancy, and positions in government, finance, critical infrastructure and security-focused startups.
• Support: careers and placement services at York help with CVs, interview preparation and employer engagement throughout the degree.

Why study at University of York

The Department of Computer Science at York combines strong teaching with active research in security, networks and formal methods. Students benefit from modern computing labs, small-group teaching and opportunities to work on research-led projects. The programme’s industry placement strand offers direct employer engagement and practical experience, while the university’s careers and enterprise teams support networking with regional, national and international employers. York’s campus and collegiate environment also provide a supportive setting for collaborative learning and extracurricular technical societies and security-focused student groups.