University of York

What you'll study

This four-year integrated master's programme builds core computer science knowledge in the first years before introducing and then specialising in cyber security topics. Core areas include programming, data structures and algorithms, systems and networks, databases, software engineering and formal methods. Cyber security-specific modules cover topics such as cryptography, network and systems security, secure software engineering, threat modelling, digital forensics, and applied penetration testing.

Teaching combines lectures, small-group tutorials, laboratory practicals and project work. You will complete individual and group projects, with a substantial integrated master's project in the final year that typically addresses a research or applied security problem. Optional modules allow you to follow interests such as machine learning for security, privacy-preserving technologies, cloud security, or advanced operating systems.

Entry requirements

Typical offers ask for strong performance in relevant A-levels or equivalent qualifications. Successful applicants generally have A-level Mathematics and at least one other science or computing-related subject, or substantial computing experience. Typical entry profiles may include high A-level grades, a competitive UCAS tariff, or an International Baccalaureate with strong Higher Level subjects; alternative qualifications such as BTEC plus A-levels are considered where they demonstrate appropriate technical grounding.

Admissions look for evidence of problem-solving ability and programming aptitude. Applicants who do not have formal computing qualifications are encouraged to demonstrate coding experience, relevant self-study projects, or workplace experience. English language requirements apply to international applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of technical roles in industry, government and research. Common career paths include security analyst, penetration tester, security consultant, secure software developer, network engineer, digital forensics specialist and incident responder. The strong computer science core also opens routes into software engineering, data science and systems architecture.

Some graduates move into specialist cyber security roles within finance, technology firms, consultancy practices and public sector organisations, while others continue to doctoral study or join research teams working on advanced topics in privacy, cryptography and trustworthy systems.

Why study at University of York

The Department of Computer Science at York offers a balance of rigorous theoretical foundations and hands-on practical experience. Teaching staff include researchers working on security-relevant topics, enabling project supervision that connects to current challenges in cyber security. Students have access to dedicated teaching laboratories and computing facilities for systems and security work.

York supports employability through career services, industry guest lectures and collaboration with employers to help secure internships and graduate roles. The university’s collegiate campus and strong student community provide opportunities for societies and peer learning, including student-led security and coding groups where you can practise applied skills beyond the taught programme.

The integrated MEng format gives an advanced qualification that is aligned with professional expectations for technical leadership and, where applicable, meets the criteria used by professional bodies in computing and engineering.