Cryptography – MSc

Why study this course?

Our Cryptography MSc course will give you the opportunity to explore a specialist area of study relating to information security that is based on mathematical theory and computer science.

The high demand for cryptography specialists in the business and technology industries offers defined and fulfilling career opportunities and facilitates entry into roles that require a master’s specialism.

More about this course

Whether you want to understand the potential of blockchain or examine how your identity and data is protected online, our Cryptography MSc course will give you the tools to examine and learn about information security in the digital age.

Cryptography is based on mathematical theory and computer science. It is the construction and analysis of protocols that prevent third parties or the public from reading private messages. Information security underpinned by cryptographic techniques is key to life in the digital age, with social media and e-commerce increasingly reliant on strong algorithms to protect sensitive personal data. This course is, therefore, an excellent starting point if you want to have a career in developing and applying information security algorithms.

The skills you’ll gain on this course will be applicable to the wider information security area, including:

• digital communication platforms (protecting calls and texts)
• banking (card technology and account protection)
• internet protocols (protecting transaction details using SSL, SSH)
• corporate computer security and the delivery of integrity confidentiality and authenticity

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Any university-level qualifications or relevant experience you gain prior to starting university could count towards your course.

Modular structure

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2022/23 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

Year 1 modules include:

Applications in Cryptography and Cryptanalysis (core, 20 credits)

Discrete Mathematical Structures (core, 20 credits)

Information Security (core, 20 credits)

MSc Project (core, 60 credits)

Number Theory for Cryptography (core, 20 credits)

Cybercrime and Cyber Security (option, 20 credits)

Machine Learning (option, 20 credits)

Semantic Technologies (option, 20 credits)

Statistical Modelling and Forecasting (option, 20 credits)

Where this course can take you

Cryptography applies in many areas of industry where extensive data processing, electronic communications or software development takes place. As a result, this cryptography qualification will provide wider employment opportunities than a traditional computer, software or network engineering degree.

Knowledge of cryptographic solutions will enhance your employment opportunities with large businesses, including online retailers, banks and companies in the financial technology industry, corporate enterprises, electronic entertainment vendors and network service providers.