Undergraduate Course
BSc (Hons) Cyber Security
(including Foundation Year)
Overview
The details
Cyber Security (including Foundation Year)
I903
October 2027
Full-time
What is the BSc (Hons) Cyber Security (including Foundation Year)?
The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security (including Foundation Year) is a four-year degree.
You’ll gain the technical expertise needed to protect digital systems, critical infrastructure and emerging technologies in an increasingly connected world.
If you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for the three-year version, starting the course with a Foundation Year gives you a supported step up to university study.
Why this course
The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security (including Foundation Year) gives you a strong foundation in computer science alongside specialist knowledge in secure software development, network and systems security, cryptography, digital forensics and cyber security.
Open to UK and EU applicants, this four-year course includes a Foundation Year. From the start of your journey at Essex, you’ll be integrated as a student within the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering for the entire duration of your degree, helping you to feel connected to your subject, lecturers and future classmates from day one. At least 25% of the teaching during your Foundation Year will be delivered directly by the School. You’ll also study academic skills modules designed to help you build confidence and prepare for university-level study. Your Foundation Year won’t just prepare you for university - it’ll help you feel part of your academic community right from the beginning.
From Year One of the BSc (Hons) Cyber Security, you’ll learn through hands-on laboratories, real-world scenarios and project-based work, gaining practical experience in penetration testing through ethical hacking, threat analysis, secure system design and incident response.
By graduation, you’ll have the technical foundations and applied experience needed for careers in cyber security and beyond.
Who should apply
- Future cyber security experts and software engineers
- Students eager to combine AI and cyber security
- Those interested in securing a range of systems and technologies across industries
- Computational thinkers with great grasp of pattern recognition and algorithms
What you’ll learn
- Security: Explore what makes secure networks, computers and software
- AI: Investigate AI for cyber security and cyber security for AI systems
- Engineering: Study natural language, network and/or software engineering
- Specialise: Tailor your degree with your choice of optional modules
Your learning experience
- Expert teaching: Learn from internationally-recognised researchers in cyber security, secure networking, formal methods, critical national infrastructure protection and next-generation communication systems
- Specialist facilities: Access 24/7 computing labs with a range of programming software and specialist facilities for brain-computer interfaces, intelligent environments and more
Careers and outcomes
A BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree prepares you for a rewarding career in:
- Cyber security operations
- Secure software engineering
- Infrastructure protection
- Risk and compliance
- Postgraduate research
Why we're great.
- Top 250 (Top 25 in the UK) for computer science in THE World University Rankings by Subject 2025
- 9th in the UK for research impact in computer science (REF 2021)
- 91% of our computing undergraduates are in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2025)
Course content
Course structure
Our research-led teaching is continually evolving to address the latest challenges and breakthroughs in the field. The following modules are based on the current course structure and may change in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision for you. We'll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities as described on our website and in line with your contract with us. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, we'll let our applicants and students know as soon as possible.
Components and modules explained
Components
Components are the blocks of study that make up your course. A component may have a set module which you must study, or a number of modules from which you can choose.
Each component has a status and carries a certain number of credits towards your qualification.
| Status | What this means |
| Core |
You must take the set module for this component and you must pass. No failure can be permitted. |
| Core with Options |
You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component but you must pass. No failure can be permitted. |
| Compulsory |
You must take the set module for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail. |
| Compulsory with Options |
You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail. |
| Optional |
You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail. |
The modules that are available for you to choose for each component will depend on several factors, including which modules you have chosen for other components, which modules you have completed in previous years of your course, and which term the module is taught in.
Modules
Modules are the individual units of study for your course. Each module has its own set of learning outcomes and assessment criteria and also carries a certain number of credits.
In most cases you will study one module per component, but in some cases you may need to study more than one module. For example, a 30-credit component may comprise of either one 30-credit module, or two 15-credit modules, depending on the options available.
Modules may be taught at different times of the year and by a different department or school to the one your course is primarily based in. You can find this information from the module code. For example, the module code HR100-4-FY means:
| HR | 100 | 4 | FY |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The department or school the module will be taught by. In this example, the module would be taught by the Department of History. |
The module number. |
The UK academic level of the module. A standard undergraduate course will comprise of level 4, 5 and 6 modules - increasing as you progress through the course. A standard postgraduate taught course will comprise of level 7 modules. A postgraduate research degree is a level 8 qualification. |
The term the module will be taught in.
|
COMPONENT 01: CORE
Computer Programming
(30 CREDITS)
How do you test and evaluate the operation of simple computer programs? Or develop a program using tools in the Python programming language? Study the principles of procedural computing programming. Examine basic programming concepts, structures and methodologies. Understand good program design, learn to correct coding and practice debugging techniques.
COMPONENT 02: CORE
Communicating Science: Reading, Writing and Research Skills
(30 CREDITS)
This module is designed to support students in their academic subject disciplines and to strengthen their confidence in key skills areas such as: academic writing, research, academic integrity, collaborative and reflective practices. The students are supported through the use of subject-specific materials tailored to their chosen degrees with alignment of assessments between academic subject modules and the skills module.
View Communicating Science: Reading, Writing and Research Skills on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 03: CORE
Mathematics and Statistics for Sciences
(30 CREDITS)
The module covers the mathematical skills needed to proceed to any degree course within the School of Life Sciences. The syllabus covers the mathematics of basic arithmetic and algebra, graphs and rates of change as well as statistical distributions and hypothesis testing. The associated work in classes and lab sessions develops the skills used to solve problems applicable to the study of biological sciences, with classwork and online assignments being set and full solutions provided as part of the feedback process.
View Mathematics and Statistics for Sciences on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 01: CORE
Team Project Challenge
(15 CREDITS)
Our Team Project Challenge gives you the opportunity to develop a range of professional skills by working as part of a small student team on a specific project. The projects are research-based and incorporate the concepts of specifications, design, and implementation. You’ll learn about sustainability, project and time management, design, legal issues, health and safety, data analysis and presentation, team reporting, and self-evaluation. You’ll also develop skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, agility, leadership, collaboration across networks, and effective oral and written communication, as well as curiosity and imagination, all of which will enhance your knowledge, confidence and social skills necessary to innovate and succeed in a competitive global environment.
COMPONENT 02: CORE
Data Structures and Algorithms I
(15 CREDITS)
Data structures and algorithms are two of the foundations of computer science, distinguishing it from just programming. In this module, you will learn what algorithms are and how they can be implemented even in very simple computers. You will cover fundamental algorithms for sorting and searching, along with data structures for lists and trees, and will be introduced to the analysis of algorithm efficiency.
View Data Structures and Algorithms I on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 03: CORE
Mathematics for Computing
(15 CREDITS)
The aim of this module is to cover fundamental mathematics for Computer Scientists. It does not assume A-level mathematics, and the emphasis and delivery will be on understanding the key concepts as they apply to Computer Science.
COMPONENT 04: CORE
Introduction to Programming
(15 CREDITS)
The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts of computer programming. After completing this module, students will be expected to be able to demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles and concepts that underlie the procedural programming model, explain and make use of high-level programming language features that support control, data and procedural abstraction. Also, they will be able to analyse and explain the behaviour of simple programs that incorporate standard control structures, parameterised functions, arrays, structures and I/O.
COMPONENT 05: CORE
Object-Oriented Programming
(15 CREDITS)
Want to become a Java programmer? Topics covered in this module include control structures, classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, interfaces, file I/O, event handling, graphical components, and more. You will develop your programming skills in supervised lab sessions where help will be at hand should you require it.
COMPONENT 06: CORE
Introduction to Databases
(15 CREDITS)
Databases are everywhere. They are employed in banking, production control and the stock market, as well as in scientific and engineering applications. For example, the Human Genome Project had the goal of mapping the sequence of chemical base pairs which make up human DNA. The result is a genome database. This module introduces the underlying principles of databases, database design and database systems. It covers the fundamental concepts of databases, and prepares the student for their use in commerce, science and engineering.
COMPONENT 07: CORE
Web Development
(15 CREDITS)
The aim of this module is to provide students with an introduction to the principles and technology that underlie internet applications and the techniques used in the design and construction of web sites. Students showcase their skills by designing and building both client and server components of a data driven web site.
COMPONENT 08: CORE
Fundamentals of Digital Systems
(15 CREDITS)
Computers, embedded systems, and digital systems in general have become an essential part of most people's lives, whether directly or indirectly. The aim of this module is to introduce the software and hardware underpinnings of such systems at an introductory yet challenging level suitable for future computer scientists and engineers. Topics covered in the module include both top-view as well as bottom-view approaches to understanding digital computers. They range from the more theoretical (e.g., state machines, logic circuits, and von Neumann's architecture) to the more practical (e.g., how transistors produce binary signals, operating system functions, memory management, and common hardware devices). The module also includes problem solving classes in which a guided discussion of weekly exercises is aimed at giving the student an opportunity to consolidate his/her understanding of the topics involved. Upon completion of this module, students should have a good conceptual and practical understanding of the nature and architecture of digital computer systems and their components.
View Fundamentals of Digital Systems on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 01: CORE
Team Project Challenge
(15 CREDITS)
This course covers the principles of project management, team working, communication, legal issues, finance, and company organisation. Working in small teams, students will go through the full project life-cycle of design, development and implementation, for a bespoke software requirement. In this course, students gain vital experience to enable them to enter the computer science/Electrical engineering workforce, with a degree backed by the British Computer Society, and by the Institute of Engineering and Technology.
COMPONENT 02: CORE
Software Engineering
(15 CREDITS)
This module aims to equip students with the main principles guiding the activities involved in software development throughout its lifecycle, including software requirements, object-oriented analysis and design, software validation and testing, and software maintenance and software evolution.
COMPONENT 03: CORE
Data Structures and Algorithms II
(15 CREDITS)
Data structures and algorithms lie at the heart of Computer Science as they are the basis for the efficient solution of programming tasks. In this module, students will study core algorithms and data structures, as well as being given an introduction to algorithm analysis and basic computability.
View Data Structures and Algorithms II on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 04: CORE
Secure Software Engineering
(15 CREDITS)
Secure software engineering is presented as a lifecycle-wide practice focused on identifying, analysing and mitigating vulnerabilities. The module covers attack vectors, secure design patterns, threat modelling and methods for building resilient systems, emphasising that security must be embedded from requirements through testing. You will learn proactive strategies for reducing risk by integrating security into software and hardware architectures, supported by real-world case studies. Practical labs and applied analysis develop the skills needed to evaluate, harden and assure software in realistic threat environments.
COMPONENT 05: CORE
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
(15 CREDITS)
Artificial intelligence will be a great driver of change in the coming decades. This module provides an introduction to three fundamental areas of artificial intelligence: search, knowledge representation, and machine learning. These underpin all more advanced areas of artificial intelligence and are of central importance to related fields such as computer games and robotics. Within each area, a range of methodologies and techniques are presented, with emphasis being placed on understanding their strengths and weaknesses and hence on assessing which is most suited to a particular task.
View Introduction to Artificial Intelligence on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 06: CORE
Computer Security
(15 CREDITS)
This module introduces a number of ideas of computer security, ranging from ciphers to malicious software. After completing this module a student will be able to make a sufficiently informed judgement on most computer security issues and computer security solutions. The module includes programming coursework encouraging the students to experiment with ideas of computer security on simplified examples.
COMPONENT 01: CORE
Individual Capstone Project Challenge
(45 CREDITS)
The highlight of our undergraduate degree courses is the individual capstone project. This project module provides students with the opportunity to bring together all the skills they have gained during their degree and demonstrate that they can develop a product from the starting point of a single 1/2 page description, provided either by an academic member of staff or an external company. In all the student spends 450 hours throughout the academic year, reporting to their academic tutor, and in the case of company projects, to a company mentor. All projects are demonstrated to external companies on our Project Open Day.
View Individual Capstone Project Challenge on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 02: CORE
AI for Cyber Security and Secure AI systems
(15 CREDITS)
This modules explores how artificial intelligence can both strengthen cyber security and introduce new vulnerabilities, focusing on applications such as anomaly detection, intrusion detection and policy verification. It also examines threats unique to AI systems, including adversarial attacks, data poisoning and model extraction. You will develop a critical understanding of the robustness, security and trustworthiness of intelligent systems. Through practical labs and analytical coursework, you will assess the effectiveness and risks of AI-based security approaches and design strategies for building resilient AI-driven systems.
View AI for Cyber Security and Secure AI systems on our Module Directory
COMPONENT 03: CORE
Network Security
(15 CREDITS)
How do you secure networked computers and systems? What are the methods you can apply to detect, mitigate and stop attacks? Examine common network security vulnerabilities and design computer network architectures that reduce risk. Study suitable security techniques and key management skills required for encrypted communication/authentication.
Teaching
- Courses are taught by a combination of lectures, laboratory work, assignments, and individual and group project activities.
- Undergraduate students in the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering typically attend a two-hour lecture and a two-hour lab for each 15-credit module.
- A significant amount of practical lab work will need to be undertaken for written assignments and as part of your learning.
Assessment
- In your first year, you will have exams before the start of term in January.
- You are assessed through a combination of written examinations and coursework.
- All our modules include a significant coursework element.
- You receive regular feedback on your progress through in-term tests.
Entry requirements
UK entry requirements
UK and EU applicants:
All applications for degree courses with a foundation year (Year Zero) will be considered individually, whether you
- think you might not have the grades to enter the first year of a degree course;
- have non-traditional qualifications or experience;
- are returning to university after some time away from education; or
- are looking for more support during the transition into university study.
Standard offer:
Our standard offer is 72 UCAS tariff points from at least two full A-levels, or equivalent.
For this course all applicants must also hold GCSE Maths at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent). We may be able to consider a pass in OFQUAL regulated Level 2 Functional Skills Maths where you cannot meet the requirements for Maths at GCSE level. However, you are advised to try to retake GCSE Mathematics if possible as this will better prepare you for university study and future employment.
Mature applicants and non-traditional academic backgrounds:
We welcome applications from mature students (over 21) and students with non-traditional academic backgrounds (might not have gone on from school to take level 3 qualifications). We will consider your educational and employment history, along with your personal statement and reference, to gain a rounded view of your suitability for the course.
You will still need to meet our GCSE requirements.
International applicants:
Essex Pathways Department is unable to accept applications from international students. Foundation pathways for international students are available at the University of Essex International College and are delivered and awarded by Kaplan, in partnership with the University of Essex. Successful completion will enable you to progress to the relevant degree course at the University of Essex.
International & EU entry requirements
We accept a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. Get in touch with any questions you may have about the qualifications we accept. Remember to tell us about the qualifications you have already completed or are currently taking.
Sorry, the entry requirements for the country that you have selected are not available here. Please contact our Undergraduate Admissions team at ugquery@essex.ac.uk to request the entry requirements for this country.
English language requirements
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English
IELTS 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or specified score in an equivalent test that we accept.
If we accept the English component of an international qualification it will be included in the academic levels listed above for the relevant countries.
Pre-sessional English courses
If you do not meet our IELTS requirements then you may be able to complete a pre-sessional English pathway that enables you to start your course without retaking IELTS.
Additional Notes
If you’re an international student, but do not meet the requirements for direct admission to this degree or the first year of a degree at Essex, you could prepare and gain entry through a pathway course. Find out more about opportunities available to you at the University of Essex International College
Fees and funding
Home/UK fee
£10,050 per year
International fee
£22,575 per year
The standard undergraduate degree fee for international students will apply in subsequent years.
Fees will increase for each academic year of study.
If your course has the option to include a placement year or study abroad, and you choose to do so, you will pay the following:
Placement year
20% of your standard tuition fee for that year
Study abroad
Full year abroad
15% of your standard tuition fee for that year
Single term abroad
Standard tuition fee
Scholarships and financial support
There may be scholarships, bursaries or discounts available to help with the cost of this course.
Fees and funding guide
What's next
Open Days
Our events are a great way to find out more about studying at Essex. We run a number of Open Days throughout the year which enable you to discover what our campus has to offer. You have the chance to:
- tour our campus and accommodation
- find out answers to your questions about our courses, student finance, graduate employability, student support and more
- meet our students and staff
Check out our Visit Us pages to find out more information about booking onto one of our events. And if the dates aren’t suitable for you, feel free to book a campus tour here.
2026 Open Days (Colchester Campus)
Applying
Applications for our full-time undergraduate courses should be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full details on how to apply can be found on the filling in your UCAS undergraduate application web page.
Our UK students, and some of our EU and international students, who are still at school or college, can apply through their school. Your school will be able to check and then submit your completed application to UCAS. Our other international applicants (EU or worldwide) or independent applicants in the UK can also apply online through UCAS Apply.
The UCAS code for our University of Essex is ESSEX E70. The individual campus code for our Loughton Campus is 'L'.
You can find further information on how to apply, including information on transferring from another university, applying if you are not currently at a school or college, and applying for readmission on our How to apply and entry requirements page.
If you receive an undergraduate offer to study with us in October 2026 and live in the UK, you will receive an email invitation to book onto one of our Open Days. These events provide the opportunity to meet your department, join interesting taster sessions, tour our campus and accommodation, and chat to current students. You can visit our Open Days event page for more information, including terms and conditions.
Visit Colchester Campus
Set within 200 acres of award-winning parkland - Wivenhoe Park and located two miles from the historic city centre of Colchester – England's oldest recorded development. Our Colchester Campus is also easily reached from London and Stansted Airport in under one hour.
Virtual tours
If you live too far away to come to Essex (or have a busy lifestyle), no problem. Our 360-degree virtual tour allows you to explore our University from the comfort of your home. Check out our Colchester virtual tour to see accommodation options, facilities and social spaces.
At Essex we pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive student community. We offer a wide range of support to individuals and groups of student members who may have specific requirements, interests or responsibilities.
The University makes every effort to ensure that this information on its programme specification is accurate and up-to-date. Exceptionally it can be necessary to make changes, for example to courses, facilities or fees. Examples of such reasons might include, but are not limited to: strikes, other industrial action, staff illness, severe weather, fire, civil commotion, riot, invasion, terrorist attack or threat of terrorist attack (whether declared or not), natural disaster, restrictions imposed by government or public authorities, epidemic or pandemic disease, failure of public utilities or transport systems or the withdrawal/reduction of funding. Changes to courses may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will also keep students informed appropriately by updating our programme specifications. The University would inform and engage with you if your course was to be discontinued, and would provide you with options, where appropriate, in line with our Compensation and Refund Policy.
The full Procedures, Rules and Regulations of the University governing how it operates are set out in the Charter, Statutes and Ordinances and in the University Regulations, Policy and Procedures.
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