Session: 2022/23
Last modified: 07/09/2022 14:10:04
| Named Award Title: | MSc AdvCompSec/CySec/DigForenics/CompNet&IntSec |
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Award Title for Each Award:
| MSc
AdvCompSec/CySec/DigForenics/CompNet&IntSec
PG Dip
Advanced Computer Security
PG Cert
Advanced Computer Security
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| Awarding Institution/Body: | |
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| Language of Instruction & Examination: | English
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| Award Accredited By: | Accreditation will be sought from BCS & NCSC |
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| Maximum Period of Registration: | 3 years full-time, up to 4 years part-time |
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| Mode of Study: | Full Time
Part Time
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| Campus: | Lanarkshire
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| School: | School of Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences |
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| Programme Leader: | Sean Sturley |
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Admission Criteria
Candidates must be able to satisfy the general admission requirements of the University of the West of Scotland as specified in Chapter 2 of the University Regulatory Framework
together with the following programme requirements:
Appropriate Undergraduate QualificationBachelors Degree with Honours awarded at 2.1 in Computing Science, Computer Networking. Applicants who have other academic, vocational or professional qualifications deemed to be equivalent or have at least 3 years of relevant industrial experience may also be considered.Other Required Qualifications/ExperienceApplicants may also be considered with other academic, vocational or professional qualifications deemed to be equivalent.
Further desirable skills pre-application |
General OverviewThis Masters programme has been design from the ground up to meet the needs of industry, by the inclusion of current methodologies, modules designed and taught in collaboration with industry professionals and by exposing students to contemporary tools and techniques.
The students will be encouraged to cultivate their skills through a practice based learning approach which will allow them to develop a detailed understanding of the numerous security problems and factors facing industry today.
The modules are designed to enable the students to understand the legal, ethical and social impact of security breaches alongside developing a skillset valuable in any business sector.
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Graduate Attributes, Employability & Personal Development Planning |
Graduates of the programme will be universal, work ready and successful across three dimensions (academic, personal and professional) which encapsulate the breadth of the learning experience at University level.
The statement of general objectives identifies the ways in which the students’ transferable intellectual skills are developed and evaluated, particularly their ability to:
(i) communicate in speech, writing and other appropriate ways: this is achieved through the inclusion in modules of assessments where the students make a presentation, or complete an assignment, or answer examination or class test questions, or participate in the work of groups, and in other ways more specific to individual modules.
(ii) argue rationally and draw independent conclusions based on a rigorous, analytical and critical approach to data, demonstration and argument: this is required in all examinations and class tests, and is a particular feature of the Master’s project.
(iii) apply what has been learned: in all modules there are requirements for students to exercise problem-solving and simulation studies, in which they apply the principles covered in the course to situations that model, to some degree, realistic problems in computer systems.
(iv) use the development technologies and skills taught to create computer systems as solutions to the problems identified from users.
(v) demonstrate an awareness of the programme of study in a wider context: many modules contain aspects where the wider organisational context are referred to.
The Programme Leader is assigned as the personal tutor for each student. Students are expected to meet their personal tutors on a regular basis, at least once per term, to discuss issues relating to academic progress etc.
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Work Based Learning/Placement Details |
Opportunities for industry focused learning activities have been built into some of the modules of the programme enabling students to engage with employers. These include ‘live’ case studies, problem-solving scenarios, and individual work-related projects. Some industry and research based placement will be offered in the programme.
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Engagement |
In line with the Academic Engagement Procedure, Students are defined as academically engaged if they are regularly engaged with timetabled teaching sessions, course-related learning resources including those in the Library and on the relevant learning platform, and complete assessments and submit these on time. |
Programme structures and requirements, SCQF level, term, module name and code, credits and awards
(
Chapter 1, Regulatory Framework
)
A. PG Cert
Learning Outcomes (Maximum of 5 per heading)
Knowledge and Understanding |
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A1 | Demonstrate a knowledge and critical understanding of Digital Forensics, Cyber and Network Security |
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A2 | Carry out work that evidences a critical understanding of the practical aspects of Digital Forensics, Cyber and Network Security. |
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A3 | Demonstrate a critical awareness of the capabilities of relevant forensic techniques and security technologies |
Practice - Applied Knowledge and Understanding |
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B1 | Develop expertise in a range of specialised skills, techniques, practices that are at the forefront of, and are informed by recent developments. |
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B2 | Apply skill, knowledge and understanding in the planning and execution of techniques of enquiry |
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B3 | Demonstrate a critically understanding that the impact the law has on Forensic Enquiry and Network and Information Security |
Communication, ICT and Numeracy Skills |
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C1 | Use a range of skills including academic writing and referencing skills, analysis and interpretation of complex information and the use of appropriate ICT skills to aid dissemination of information |
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C2 | Be able to communicate information effectively with different audiences using a range of appropriate methods. |
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C3 | Demonstrate an effective use of communication skills |
Generic Cognitive Skills - Problem Solving, Analysis, Evaluation |
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D1 | Identify, conceptualise and apply critical analysis to new and abstract problems and issues related to Digital Forensics, Cyber and Network Security |
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D2 | Critically review and consolidate knowledge relating to Digital Forensics, Cyber and Network Security |
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D3 | Be able to interpret and analyse forensic and network data and information using ICT Tools. |
Autonomy, Accountability and Working With Others |
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E1 | Be self-directed and take responsibility for own study and using own initiative |
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E2 | Develop time management skills to schedule and manage own and, where appropriate, others activities |
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E3 | Use initiative to cooperate and share learning with fellow students and, where appropriate, demonstrate leadership in teams |
Core Modules
* Indicates that module descriptor is not published.
Footnotes
1. Core for the Cyber Security, Digital Forensics and Computer Network & Internet Security pathways.
2. Core for the Cyber Security and Digital Forensics pathways.
3. Core for the Cyber Security and Computer Network & Internet Security pathways.
4. Core for the Digital Forensics pathway only.
5. Core for the Computer Network & Internet Security pathway only.
Optional Modules
* Indicates that module descriptor is not published.
Footnotes
1. Optional module(s) for the Digital Forensics pathway only.
2. Optional module(s) for the Cyber Security and Computer Network & Internet Security pathways.
Criteria for Progression and Award
For the award of Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) Advanced Computer Security, 60 credit points are required of which a minimum of 40 at SCQF 11 and none less than SCQF level 10.
B. PG Dip
Learning Outcomes (Maximum of 5 per heading)
Knowledge and Understanding |
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A1 | Demonstrate a critical and deep understanding when examining current and emerging techniques, standards, methodologies and tools that support the development of forensic analysis or secure systems. |
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A2 | Develop and deploy information gathering and network security solutions using suitable methodologies, technologies, software tools etc. |
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A3 | Identify and use suitable tools in the exploration and evaluation of forensic and network security data. |
Practice - Applied Knowledge and Understanding |
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B1 | Gain expertise in using a significant range of the principal professional skills, techniques, practices and/or materials associated with the role of either Forensic or Cyber Security specialist. |
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B2 | Develop expertise in a range of specialised Forensic or Cyber Security skills, techniques, practices and associated materials that are at the forefront of, and are informed by recent developments/research. |
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B3 | Critically analyse and evaluate theoretical and technological developments in the subject areas of Digital Forensics or Cyber Security |
Communication, ICT and Numeracy Skills |
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C1 | Make effective use of a range of ICT tools to effectively communicate with others. |
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C2 | Effectively use software tools to support Forensic and Security activities. |
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C3 | Develop and apply numeracy skills to assist in the decision making process |
Generic Cognitive Skills - Problem Solving, Analysis, Evaluation |
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D1 | Carry out critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of strategies meeting a given set of requirements |
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D2 | Deal with complex issues and make informed judgements in situations in the absence of complete or consistent data/information |
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D3 | Evaluate information from a variety of sources including printed and online academic journals to enhance the quality of the learning experience and performance. |
Autonomy, Accountability and Working With Others |
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E1 | Demonstrate an ability to manage and work autonomously with a range of self-directed learning resources. |
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E2 | Demonstrate an ability to work on a common project with other members in a team. |
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E3 | Demonstrate a substantial ability to adopt reflective practices that enable critical analysis and reflection on own work and that carried out by others. |
Core Modules
* Indicates that module descriptor is not published.
Footnotes
1. Core for the Cyber Security, Digital Forensics and Computer Network & Internet Security pathways.
2. Core for the Cyber Security and Computer Network & Internet Security pathways.
3. Core for the Digital Forensics and Computer Network & Internet Security pathways.
4. Core for the Digital Forensics pathway only.
5. Core for the Cyber Security pathway only.
Optional Modules
* Indicates that module descriptor is not published.
Footnotes
1. Optional module(s) for the Cyber Security, Digital Forensics and Computer Network & Internet Security pathways.
2. Optional module(s) for the Cyber Security and Computer Network & Internet Security pathways.
3. Optional module(s) for the Digital Forensics pathway only.
4. Optional module(s) for the Cyber Security pathway only.
5. Optional module(s) for the Computer Network & Internet Security pathway only.
6. Optional module(s) these modules are optional for students unable to continue on a named pathway.
Criteria for Progression and Award
For the award of Postgraduate Diploma (PgD) Advanced Computer Security, 120 credit points of which a minimum of 90 are at SCQF 11 and none less
than SCQF level 10 are required.
C. Masters
Learning Outcomes (Maximum of 5 per heading)
Knowledge and Understanding |
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A1 | Demonstrate extensive, detailed and critical knowledge of the literature relevant to a chosen topic |
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A2 | Display a broad awareness of current issues relevant to a chosen topic |
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A3 | Display a critical understanding of a range of specialized theories, principles and concepts relevant to a chosen topic |
Practice - Applied Knowledge and Understanding |
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B1 | Plan and develop a detailed dissertation |
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B2 | Critically evaluate research and a range of information and evidence |
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B3 | Analyse, evaluate and interpret evidence and theory underpinning both general practice and the relevant subject area of the project |
Communication, ICT and Numeracy Skills |
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C1 | Utilise a range of written skills to compare and contrast literature |
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C2 | Effectively use a range of module related software tools |
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C3 | Undertake critical evaluations of a wide range of numerical and graphical data. |
Generic Cognitive Skills - Problem Solving, Analysis, Evaluation |
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D1 | Develop a critical understanding of the planning, conducting and reflecting and reporting on a programme of Masters level of research on a chosen topic |
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D2 | Evaluate information from a variety of sources including printed texts and online academic journals |
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D3 | Be able to critically reflect on the relationship between theory and practice relevant to a chosen topic |
Autonomy, Accountability and Working With Others |
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E1 | Demonstrate an ability to manage and work autonomously with a range of self-directed learning resources |
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E2 | Demonstrate an ability to define and carry out tasks autonomously, demonstrating critical enquiry in producing quality work underpinned by rigorous relevant research and investigation |
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E3 | Demonstrate a substantial ability to adopt reflective practices that enable critical analysis and reflection on own work and that carried out by others |
Core Modules
* Indicates that module descriptor is not published.
Footnotes
Optional Modules
* Indicates that module descriptor is not published.
Footnotes
Criteria for Award
For the MSc Advanced Computer Security, at least 180 credit points of which a minimum of 150 are at SCQF 11 and none less that SCQF level 10 are required.
For the named exit award:
MSc Cyber Security
MSc Digital Forensics
MSc Computer Networks & Information Security
students need to meet the criteria above and complete the core modules for each pathway as indicated in footnotes above.
Regulations of Assessment |
Candidates will be bound by the general assessment regulations of the
University as specified in the
University Regulatory Framework.
An overview of the assessment details is provided in the Student Handbook and
the assessment criteria for each module is provided in the module
descriptor which forms part of the module pack issued to students. For further
details on assessment please refer to Chapter 3 of the Regulatory Framework.
To qualify for an award of the University, students must complete all the
programme requirements and must meet the credit minima detailed in Chapter 1
of the Regulatory Framework.
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Combined Studies |
There may be instances where a student has been unsuccessful in meeting the award criteria for the named award and for other more generic named awards existing within the School.
Provided that they have met the credit requirements in line with the SCQF credit minima (please see Regulation 1.21),
they will be eligible for an exit award of
PgCert/ PgDip in Combined Studies.
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Version Number: 1.03