Computer Science (Cybersecurity)

On this computer science degree you'll develop specialist knowledge of cybersecurity and learn how to keep operating systems secure and protected in the global digital age

Why study BSc Computer Science (Cybersecurity)

• In this BSc Computer Science pathway you'll specialise in cybersecurity, exploring how to keep computer systems secure from hackers and how to protect users from fraud. These skills are incredibly in demand across a wide range of industries, making you highly employable in a competitive jobs market.

• You'll learn how to interrogate the underlying principles of networking and operating systems, find vulnerabilities, and propose solutions.

• You'll get to grips with understanding cryptography (hiding or coding information to protect it) and how it is used.

• You'll challenge the methods that protect a computer system and network from attack, and develop websites and software that use secure models and principles.

• You'll investigate information flows and the transactional nature of data in both client-server and peer-to-peer networks.

• In your third year, you'll have the opportunity to undertake a year-long industry placement (making this programme four years full-time, or eight years part-time). This gives you valuable experience to build confidence and contacts, further develop your skills and industry insight, and enhance your career prospects.

• The degree is hands-on and practical from the start. You'll explore your potential through practical projects while learning relevant technical skills for your future career.

Year 1
In your first year, you'll take the following compulsory modules:
Introduction to Programming
User Experience and the Web
Logic and Computer Architecture
Computing Project 1
Graphics 1
Algorithms 1
Identity, Agency & Environment 1
Identity, Agency & Environment 2

Year 2
In your second year, you'll take the following compulsory modules:
Software Development and Design
Computing Project 2
Object Oriented Programming
Networks and Operating Systems
Information Security
The Goldsmiths Elective

You'll also take 2 optional modules from the following list:
Data Programming for Artificial Intelligence
Interaction Design
Fundamentals of Computer Science
Algorithms 2
Goldsmiths’ Social Change Module

Optional placement year
The degree includes an optional industrial placement year after the second year of study. You'll be responsible for securing a placement, but we can support you through this process.

The industrial placement year is a great opportunity for you to gain work experience, build confidence and contacts, develop your skills and industry insight, and enhance your career prospects.

You'll be supported throughout your placement year by a placement tutor, who will provide you with guidance and liaison between you and your employer.

Although we encourage you to take the opportunity of a placement year, you can also complete your degree in three years.

Year 3 (or year 4 with placement year)
In your final year, you'll complete the following compulsory modules:
Final Project in Computer Science
Network And System Security
Cryptography

You'll then use your remaining credits to take 2 to 3 optional modules from a list provided annually by the Department of Computing.

*Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.