Cyber and Infrastructure Security

30 credits

This module builds upon foundational computing knowledge to develop technical competencies in networks and operating systems. You will gain understanding of the infrastructure that underpins modern digital environments, cloud services, and enterprise IT operations. The module emphasises both theoretical principles and practical implementation skills essential for professional IT practice.

Building on introductory computing concepts from Level 4, this module is delivered through integrated theoretical instruction and extensive hands-on laboratory work.

You will develop professional-level skills in network design, configuration, and management, alongside comprehensive understanding of operating system architecture, administration, and security hardening.

The module prepares you to address complex real-world challenges in enterprise IT environments and positions you for advanced study in specialised areas such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, and systems engineering.

Teaching and learning

This module adopts a project-centred, active learning approach designed to foster technical problem-solving, critical evaluation of infrastructure solutions, and professional application of networking and systems administration principles. The teaching strategy integrates theoretical seminars with practical workshops, supported by structured independent study and comprehensive formative feedback opportunities.

Seminars introduce networking and operating systems concepts, principles, and industry best practices, whilst workshops provide hands-on experience with network configuration, system administration tasks, security implementation, and troubleshooting exercises.  

Assessment

This module will be assessed by laboratory-based coursework (60%) and a team-based network and systems integration project (40%).

30 credits

This module provides advanced knowledge and practical skills in operational security and network defence, with a strong focus on continuous monitoring, threat detection, and response activities. You will develop practical, hands-on skills in managing security operations centres (SOCs), implementing security information and event management (SIEM), and executing effective incident response and threat hunting procedures.

Through this module, you will gain proficiency in defensive cyber security strategies grounded in widely recognised industry frameworks and knowledge bases, including NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology), MITRE ATT&CK and risk management standards.

Through hands-on lab activities you will practice the application of security controls within realistic operational environments, enabling you to analyse network traffic, correlate security logs, model threats, and orchestrate automated security responses to real-world security challenges.

The module content has been carefully designed in accordance with NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre) requirements and is based on the Cyber Security Body of Knowledge (CYBOK), ensuring alignment with industry standards and best practices.

Teaching and learning

The module adopts a workshop-centred teaching and learning approach, designed to foster an active, collaborative, and student-led learning environment. The strategy integrates practical exercises, problem-based technical challenges, and bite-sized lectures, all supported by group discussions and guided independent study.

Active sessions and computing lab activities are used to introduce, develop, and consolidate understanding of new key topics while an accompanying carefully designed programme of directed study focuses on examples of application and opportunities to acquire deeper insight.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by group coursework, a security operations project (60%) and an in-class test (40%).

30 credits

This module introduces you with essential knowledge and practical skills for systematically assessing the security of a target system, as well as effectively communicating identified vulnerabilities to diverse stakeholders. You will learn the technical and procedural aspects of ethical hacking while developing competencies in security testing, and systems hardening practices using industry-standard frameworks and methodologies.

The module integrates theoretical security principles with hands-on implementation, covering four core domains Build Reviews, system hardening, web application testing, and infrastructure testing. Through structured laboratory exercises you will have progressively developed capabilities including vulnerability assessments, manual exploitation of web application flaws, defence-in-depth implementation and professional penetration testing report writing.

A critical component addresses the legal boundaries of security testing, examining legislation such as the Computer Misuse Act 1990, authorisation requirements, responsible disclosure practices, and professional codes of conduct. The module also aligns with multiple frameworks including OWASP (Top 10, Web Security Testing Guide) and NIST (Cyber Security Framework).

Through authentic case studies spanning web applications, enterprise networks, and IoT devices, you will develop professional competencies in balancing technical thoroughness with business impact, communicating findings to technical and non-technical audiences, and providing actionable remediation guidance.

Teaching and learning

This module adopts a workshop-centred, active learning approach designed to foster collaboration, problem-solving, and student-led engagement. The teaching strategy combines hands-on practical exercises, CTF-style challenges, and bite-sized lectures, supported by group discussions, and guided independent study.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by coursework (60%) and a practical in-class test (40%).

30 credits

This module provides both theoretical foundations and practical insights, preparing you to address current and emerging security threats in cloud environments and empowering you to develop resilient, compliant, and secure cloud systems.

This module is designed to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of security principles and practices specific to cloud computing environments. As organisations increasingly rely on cloud services to store, process, and manage critical data, ensuring the security and integrity of cloud systems has become paramount. Making this module an essential part of addressing security concerns in cloud design, implementation, and adoption 

You will explore the fundamental concepts of cloud security architecture, data protection, threat management, and compliance issues. you will analyse real-world security challenges, evaluate security frameworks and tools, and develop practical skills in designing, implementing, and assessing secure cloud solutions. 

Teaching and learning

The module adopts a workshop centred approach, integrating theoretical foundations with practical application. Teaching combines bite-sized lectures, problem-based technical challenges, and hands-on exercises, supported by group discussions and guided independent study. 

You will work with a cloud environment such as AWS through hands-on lab activities while adopting cloud-native tools such as Kubernetes, Terraform, and others that enable secure multiple cloud platforms, including Azure and Oracle. 

Assessment

This module will be assessed through lab activities-based coursework (60%) and in-class test (40%).

30 credits

Designing, building, deploying, and maintaining secure software in today’s digitally connected world presents significant challenges. Traditional software development often prioritises features and functionality over security, leaving systems vulnerable to exploitation. This module addresses these challenges by introducing you to the principles of security by design and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into secure development practices.

Throughout this module you will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to apply Secure Software Development Lifecycle (SSDL) frameworks across the entire development process, from requirements gathering and solution design to coding, testing, deployment, and implement secure coding practices to prevent common vulnerabilities. Emphasis will be placed on embedding security considerations at every stage.

The module covers both Static Application Security Testing (SAST) and Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST), enabling you to identify, analyse, and remediate security weaknesses at different stages of development. You will explore how AI and machine learning technologies are transforming vulnerability detection and security testing, while critically examining AI's dual role as both a security enabler and potential attack vector.

Teaching and learning

This module adopts a workshop focused teaching and learning approach, designed to foster an active, collaborative, and student-led learning environment. The strategy blends hands-on practical exercises, problem-based learning, and bite-sized lectures, all supported by group discussions and guided independent study.

Active sessions and computing labs are used to introduce, develop, and consolidate understanding of new key topics while accompanying carefully designed learning materials of directed study focuses on examples of application to acquire deeper insight.

Weekly workshops provide you with hands-on experience in secure software development. Working both individually and collaboratively in teams, you will use industry-standard tools and techniques to identify, assess, and mitigate vulnerabilities in software systems. Under the guidance of the lecturer, you will compare approaches, share insights, and develop strategies that directly support your coursework and project assessments.

Assessment

This module will be assessed through coursework, software security assessment video and written document (50%) and coursework on AI based software design and documentation (40%).

30 credits

The Capstone Project provides you with the essential opportunity to deeply explore a subject of high personal interest, situated within the context of your overall programme of study.

You are expected to apply and synthesise your professional practice and research capabilities throughout this project. By bringing these skills together, you will conduct a substantial investigation that extends and demonstrates your practical and academic knowledge. Upon completion, you will produce a significant technical artifact alongside a detailed report.

Building on the Professional Practice in Technology module, you will be able to critically engage with current literature and established research methodologies. Using the knowledge and feedback gained from this module, you will be equipped to develop your research question or problem statement. This work will lead you to systematically evaluate relevant sources, creating a strong foundation for your investigation.

Implementing knowledge gained from the earlier module will enable you to strengthen your methodological approach and demonstrate advanced research and problem-solving skills in your capstone project. You will be able to design and implement an evidence-based solution that addresses your research question and stated objectives. The project culminates in a critical evaluation and reflection on the impact of your solution in relation to your original research goals.

You will be assigned a named individual supervisor who will provide expert guidance throughout your project. While your supervisor is key, you are strongly encouraged to access the full range of academic and research support systems available across the university to enhance your work.

Collaboration is often a feature of the Capstone Project: you may either work with external stakeholders who provide a real-world project brief, or you may have the chance to work alongside an academic, contributing directly to their ongoing research. This project is not undertaken in isolation; peer support is fundamental, and your Capstone Project is developed within a strong, supportive learning community of both staff and fellow students.

Teaching and learning

The module is delivered via three modes of study:

• On-campus sessions that help you conform to the necessary timeline and project requirements
• One-to-one feedback from a named supervisor
• Independent study

The on-campus sessions provide practical activities which directly contribute to the students’ project deliverables.

Peer support via on-campus session activities and group supervisory meetings is strongly encouraged and rewarded via digital badges in Moodle.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by a feedback-feedforward and Q&A session (30%) and a report and artefact (70%).

30 credits

You will develop your core academic and integrated English language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. You will become familiar with key academic skills and concepts, such as referencing methods and awareness of academic integrity and tone. You will apply these skills and knowledge to both broad topics and also your chosen subject pathway.

Teaching and learning

You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.

You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.

You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.

Assessment

You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs.

30 credits

You will develop your core academic and integrated English language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. You will become familiar with key academic skills and concepts, such as referencing methods and awareness of academic integrity and tone. You will apply these skills and knowledge to both broad topics and also your chosen subject pathway.

Teaching and Learning

You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.

You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.

You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.

Assessment

You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs. 

30 credits

You will develop your research, numeracy and information technology skills. You will investigate the difference between primary and secondary research, conduct your own research project and demonstrate your findings through data analysis. You will also develop your awareness of equality, diversion and inclusion in the UK, through a real-world issue; discrimination in the workplace.

Teaching and learning

You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.

You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.

You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.

Assessment

You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs. 

30 credits

You will be taught about how the use of computing software impacts the environment from day-to-day activity through use of business and everyday jobs. This is through the excessive use of computing software as well as the changing way that society operates. You will be encouraged to engage in debates and discussions regarding energy consumption in the use of computing software, in terms of the amount of use as well as the type of materials utilised. You will be encouraged to look at responsible innovation and software impact and the long-term effects this may have.

You will look at how the increased use of IT and computing has contributed to the significant development of globalisation in the interconnectivity and internationalisation of the job market. Discussions on how globalisation has contributed to the international development of education, technology development and the emerging market economies through operating systems and internet operations. This is also linked to their assignment in the international platform of Linked In in developing their e-portfolio.

Teaching and learning

The teaching delivery for each module consists of one, one-three-hour lecture and one, two-hour lab session each week with pair and group work.

There will also be a 30-minute weekly virtual task and multiple-choice quizzes.

Assessment

This module will be assessed using a multiple-choice test and online portfolio.

40% - multiple choice test, which will take place online during a class.

60% - online portfolio, in this written task you will create a blog post, which reports on an individual data research and processing project. You will also create a LinkedIn profile and subject weekly learning journal entries.

30 credits

This module focuses on how to solve problems via program development. The module initially builds your understanding of logic, before teaching you how to develop algorithms. The latter half of the module focuses on programming using a Visual Programming Language (VPL) such as Android App Inventor or Google’s Blockly. The module ends with a discussion on the limits of computation, including data representation and physical limitations.

You will be taught about how the use of computing software impacts the environment from day-to-day activity through use of business and everyday jobs. This is through the excessive use of computing software as well as the changing way that society operates. You will be encouraged to engage in debates and discussions regarding energy consumption in the use of computing software, in terms of amount of use as well as type of materials utilised. You will look at responsible innovation and software impact and the long-term effects this may have.

The module explores how advancements in computing and IT have accelerated globalisation by enhancing interconnectivity, transforming industries, and expanding access to information. You will examine the role of computational thinking and problem-solving in a global context, including the impact of software development, and automation on international markets. Discussions will focus on how programming and algorithm design contribute to technological advancements, remote collaboration, and the evolving global job market. Additionally, you will be able to engage with international computing standards and digital platforms, such as LinkedIn, to develop your profile and understand the significance of global networking in the technology sector.

Teaching and learning

The teaching delivery for each module consists of one, one-three-hour lecture and one, two-hour lab session each week with pair and group work.

There will also be a 30-minute weekly virtual task and multiple-choice quizzes.

Assessment

This module will be assessed using programming coursework and a class test.

60% - coursework, you will design a simple algorithm to solve a problem using flowcharts and pseudocode.

40% - class test, you will construct a program to solve using a Visual Programming Language.