Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This programme covers the technical foundations of computing alongside specialist cyber security topics. Teaching balances theory, practical labs and project work so you gain skills in secure software development, network defence and investigative techniques.

• Core computing foundations: programming, operating systems, databases and computer networks to give the underpinning knowledge required for security work.
• Security fundamentals: concepts in confidentiality, integrity and availability, threat modelling and risk assessment.
• Technical security modules: network security, cryptography and applied encryption, secure software engineering, intrusion detection, and cloud security.
• Offensive and defensive practice: ethical hacking and penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, security monitoring and incident response, often delivered in specialist lab environments or a cyber range.
• Digital forensics and investigative skills: evidence collection, filesystem and memory analysis, and legal/ethical issues surrounding digital investigations.
• Professional and management topics: security policy, governance, compliance and business risk to prepare you to communicate security decisions to non‑technical stakeholders.

Typical programme structure includes an introductory first year establishing computing skills, a second year building specialist cyber modules, and a final year focused on advanced topics and a substantial individual or group project. An optional placement/sandwich year or industry project is typically available to gain workplace experience between academic years.

Entry requirements

Entry normally requires completion of secondary qualifications equivalent to UK A‑levels or a BTEC diploma, with a strong pass profile in subjects such as mathematics, computing or a related STEM discipline. Applicants without traditional qualifications but with relevant vocational experience may be considered through the admissions process.

Typical offers ask for a combination of A‑level/BTEC or equivalent qualifications and GCSE (or equivalent) in English and mathematics at a standard pass level. Admissions decisions also take into account your personal statement, references and any relevant practical experience. International applicants should provide accepted international qualifications and English language evidence where required.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across private and public sectors. Typical job titles include:

• Cyber security analyst or information security analyst
• Penetration tester / ethical hacker
• Security consultant
• Security operations centre (SOC) analyst
• Digital forensics investigator
• Security architect, risk or compliance officer

Employers span technology firms, financial services, consultancy, government agencies and managed security providers. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study or for pursuing industry certifications such as CompTIA, CREST, or vendor qualifications to complement the academic award.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University emphasises applied learning with modern computing and security laboratories, practical assessments and industry‑linked projects. Students benefit from opportunities for placement experience, guest lectures from practitioners and support from a careers service focused on graduate employability.

The university hosts student groups and activities related to cyber security and computing, enabling peer learning and extra‑curricular practice such as capture‑the‑flag events. Teaching is delivered by staff with academic and industry experience, and students can tailor later years with specialist modules and a final project aligned to career interests.