Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence

BSc (Single Honours)

You'll need:

2027/28 entry: 112–128 UCAS points (or equivalent)

2027/28 entry: Foundation Year: 64–80 UCAS points (or equivalent)

International Foundation Pathway:
64 UCAS (or equivalent)
IELTS: 5.5

UCAS codes:

I150

I15F (if choosing Foundation Year)

 

Start date(s):

September 2027

Do you want to understand how cyber threats are evolving and how artificial intelligence can be used to build stronger digital defences?

Our BSc Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence will give you the technical skills to identify vulnerabilities, test systems and respond to emerging cyber threats, while exploring the growing role of AI in modern cyber security.

You will build a strong foundation in computing before progressing to specialist areas including security testing, cyber defence, data analytics, critical infrastructure and IoT security. As you advance through the course, you will explore how AI can support security operations, intrusion detection and threat hunting.

Throughout your studies, you will learn how to:

  • Develop and apply programming, software and computing skills
  • Understand networks, operating systems and their security vulnerabilities
  • Use data analytics and AI within cyber security
  • Test systems, identify vulnerabilities and develop effective cyber defences
  • Explore the security challenges facing critical infrastructure and IoT technologies
  • Apply AI to security operations, monitoring, detection and threat hunting
  • Develop secure software and critically evaluate intelligent security systems

You will develop your skills through practical projects and real-world cyber security scenarios. The course takes you from understanding how systems work, to testing and identifying their vulnerabilities, and ultimately to using AI-enhanced approaches to help defend and monitor them.

In your first year, you will build a strong foundation in computing, including programming, software development, mathematics and algorithms. In your second year, you will move into specialist cyber security areas including networks and operating systems, security testing, cyber defence, data analytics and AI, and critical infrastructure and IoT security.

In your final year, you will develop advanced, industry-relevant skills in AI-enabled security operations and threat hunting alongside secure software development and professional practice. You will also complete a Capstone Project, giving you the opportunity to apply your knowledge to an area that interests you.

By the time you graduate, you will have developed an integrated understanding of cyber security and artificial intelligence, preparing you to work in increasingly complex, AI-enabled security environments.

Did you know?

Your learning follows a clear progression across the three years of the course. In Year 1, you’ll learn to build systems, developing your programming and systems knowledge. In Year 2, you’ll learn to break and test systems, identifying vulnerabilities and developing red team skills. By Year 3, you’ll focus on defending and monitoring systems using AI, developing blue team skills in areas such as monitoring and threat hunting.

30 credits

This module introduces Computer Science as a professional and academic discipline. You will learn the fundamentals of computer systems and networks and gain practical skills that will be essential for your future in academia and industry.

You will develop and apply your knowledge and skills through a series of practical 'challenges'. Through guided activities, you will be able to recognise and understand the building blocks of the computer-based systems that are prevalent today. Practical skills are complemented by industry case studies through which you will identify and analyse the social, legal, ethical, and environmental impact of computing.

You will have the opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge through activities including:

  • Using the command line interface.
  • Installing an open-source operating system.
  • Creating wired and wireless Local Area Networks (LANs).
  • Troubleshooting connected devices, including camera and sound modules.
  • Identifying and understanding the fundamental components of a computer (e.g., RAM, CPU, storage).
  • Undertaking performance measurement and benchmarking.
  • Developing your awareness of cyber security and the foundations of computer systems, including logic and assembly languages.

You will also investigate industry case studies, through which you will gain a breadth of understanding of the place of computer-based systems in industry and society and how professionals can influence issues such as environmental sustainability, equality and diversity, and the global economy.

Teaching and learning

The module is delivered via various activities that you will undertake in small groups in a carousel format. You will be able to prepare in advance for each activity, which will be supported by step-by-step instructions and background content in the form of videos and presentations. 

Lecturers and lab demonstrators will help you in class.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by a knowledge-based in-class test (40%) and a journal/reflection, either written or audio/visual presentation (60%).

30 credits

This module introduces you to foundational tools and processes required to develop software applications aimed at specific users. You will cover the basics of designing user interfaces, creating web pages, understanding databases, and linking 'frontend' and 'backend' code.

You will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge from software development to real-world problems and consider the needs of users and stakeholders.

There is a strong focus on databases, including database modelling and design. You will also further develop your programming skills and knowledge of industry best practices, including containerisation, version control, debugging, testing, and coding standards.

By the end of this module, you will have built your own fully functional, user-tested web application from scratch, integrating a database and secure backend logic.

Teaching and learning

The module is delivered via a series of practical lab sessions based on weekly tasks and supported by screencasts and online coding resources that develop your skills and knowledge.   

The module employs a project-based approach to build the foundational knowledge and practical skills students need. This structure ensures you not only understand the general importance of the material but also gain hands-on experience applying core concepts.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by coursework (40%) and web application (60%).

30 credits

Software development and programming form the foundation of all Computer Science studies, from web development to artificial intelligence. This module introduces you to the main concepts of computational thinking and their translation into the fundamentals of programming.

You will learn to create pseudocode and Python programs while exploring how programming languages provide essential resources such as documentation, libraries, integrated development environments (IDEs), and debugging tools.

The emphasis will be on core programming principles rather than language-specific details; however, Python will be the primary language for class examples, laboratory exercises, and coursework submissions. Python has been chosen for its popularity with employers, widespread use, and its syntax being particularly suitable for novice learners. The module is designed to future-proof your skills and provide a solid foundation in programming for the remainder of your studies.

In addition to technical skills, the module supports you in developing key academic and professional competencies for computing, including finding, evaluating, and using technical information, becoming resourceful, and building resilience as an independent problem-solver. You will also be introduced to the use and integration of artificial intelligence and AI-based tools in programming.

Teaching and learning

Lecturer-led sessions that deliver the key knowledge-based learning outcomes through explanations, live coding demonstrations, worked examples, and individual practice activities.

Hands-on laboratory practice in which you will apply the knowledge areas and develop practical programming skills through guided exercises and problem-solving tasks.

You'll also have 30 minutes of online learning to help you prepare for classes and revision. Material includes video tutorials, code walkthroughs, and interactive presentations.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by a computational problem-solving portfolio (60%) and a live programming challenge with code review (40%).

30 credits

This module introduces you to the mathematical and algorithmic foundations that power Computer Science. You will explore how mathematical reasoning shapes the way computers solve problems, learning to express real-world challenges in precise, logical, and computable forms.

Through an engaging mix of lectures, seminars, and practical labs, you will build confidence in key areas such as logic, set theory, proof techniques, and discrete mathematical structures. These ideas form the backbone of algorithm design, from creating efficient data structures to developing algorithms for optimization, automation, and data processing.

The module nurtures your computational thinking, analytical precision, and creative problem-solving skills, showing how mathematical concepts translate directly into the ability to design intelligent solutions for complex digital problems.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • Understand the core mathematical concepts that underpin Computer Science.
  • Recognise how discrete structures represent and organise data.
  • Design, analyse, and evaluate algorithms for real-world applications.
  • Apply logical and mathematical reasoning to develop reliable computational solutions.
  • Appreciate the importance of expressing problems mathematically so that they can be solved algorithmically.
  • Develop the confidence to approach computing challenges with creativity, structure, and precision.

Ultimately, this module bridges mathematical theory and algorithmic practice, helping you see how abstract ideas can drive innovation and problem-solving in today's digital world. You will develop an appreciation for and practical skills in the core logic and reasoning that underpins everything from encryption to artificial intelligence.

Teaching and learning

The module employs a problem-centric pedagogical approach, introducing mathematical concepts and methods through practical programming exercises and applied problem-solving.

This approach explicitly connects learning activities to assessment criteria, enabling you to recognise and apply your developing mathematical knowledge in computing contexts.

Assessment

This module will be assessed by an in-class test (50%) and a algorithm design project (50%).

These are the current planned modules on this course and may be subject to change.

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%).

 

Module details to be confirmed.

Module details to be confirmed.

Module details to be confirmed. 

These are the current planned modules on this course and may be subject to change.

30 credits

This module is designed to develop the professional skills and mindset needed to succeed in technology-related careers, alongside enhancing your research and academic skills.

Taking key emerging technologies and current professional issues within your chosen pathway as a starting point, you will define and develop your own area for enquiry. You will be supported to systematically find and analyse academic and industry research publications and review existing technical solutions relevant to your area.

You will return to key topics in professional practice, including project lifecycle management, professional frameworks, agile and traditional methodologies, technical communication, ethical and legal considerations with deeper understanding, and apply these to your own project.  You’ll also engage with global perspectives and inclusive practices relevant to your discipline.

Teaching and learning

Your learning will be active and applied. In class, you’ll participate in seminars, lab-based workshops, and project supervision sessions. Outside the classroom, you’ll conduct independent research, collaborate with peers, and use industry-standard tools such as Git, Trello, and JIRA to manage your work.  

Each week includes a four-hour teaching session, structured as:

  • Interactive keynote discussion - introducing key concepts, frameworks, and professional contexts.
  • Guided workshop activities - hands-on practice with tools, methods, and scenarios; individual and collaborative problem-solving.

You will begin to engage with outside stakeholders relevant to your project and apply your knowledge and skills in user research and requirements gathering.

Assessment

This module will be assessed through coursework, where you will prepare a literature review on a chosen topic (50%) and poster project proposal with a Q&A session (50%).

 

 

Module details to be confirmed.

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 (50%).

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%).

These are the current planned modules on this course and may be subject to change.

This course offers a foundation year, which takes place at the beginning of your studies. Studying a foundation year will give you academic and practical experience, and a strong introduction to your subject, ensuring you succeed on your undergraduate degree.

Find out more about foundation years

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.

These are the current planned modules on this course and may be subject to change.

This course offers all students the option of a one-year paid work placement, to boost your employability even further. If you choose this route, you will take the placement following year two of your course, and then return to complete your degree.

Why take a placement?

A placement year is the perfect opportunity to gain valuable work experience, to build on the career skills we will teach you on this degree. The connections you make on the placement will improve your career prospects further, and equip you with the skills you need to secure graduate-level employment.

How we support you

The University's Placement and Work Experience Team are experts at helping you to secure a placement. They will work closely with you from the start, helping you research potential employers, discover placement opportunities, create and pitch your CV, and will coach you to perform well in interviews. We aren't able to guarantee a placement, but our sector-leading advisors will give you the best possible chance of securing one.

Find out more about how we'll support you

We understand that your plans might change once you start your programme. If you decide not to do a placement, you will have the option of completing the three year version of your programme.

Whatever your choice, you will have access to many opportunities for work experience through our Placement and Work Experience Team, and access to face-to-face and 24/7 online careers support.

Careers

A degree in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence will prepare you to develop technical, analytical and problem-solving skills for a rapidly evolving cyber security sector.

You will develop experience across security testing, cyber defence, networks, data analytics, AI, IoT and critical infrastructure security, giving you a broad foundation for a range of cyber security and technology careers.

You could go on to roles such as:

  • Cyber security analyst
  • Security operations centre (SOC) analyst
  • Cyber security engineer
  • Security testing and vulnerability analyst
  • Threat intelligence analyst
  • Network security analyst
  • IoT security specialist
  • Cyber security consultant

The course's focus on AI-enabled security will also prepare you for emerging roles and working environments where artificial intelligence, automation and data analytics are increasingly used to identify threats, monitor systems and support cyber defence.

Learning and Assessment

How you’ll learn:

You will learn through a blend of lectures and hands-on experiences that allow you to put theory into practice. Core concepts are introduced through taught sessions and developed through practical activities, workshops, projects and collaborative learning.

Problem-based learning and real-world cyber security scenarios will help you develop practical solutions and apply your knowledge to realistic challenges. You will gain experience across programming, networks, security testing, data analytics, AI and cyber defence, developing your technical skills as the course progresses.

You will also undertake practical projects that develop your problem-solving, analytical and professional skills, culminating in your final-year Capstone Project.

Regular feedback and structured activities throughout each module will support your progress and help you develop the technical, analytical and professional skills needed for your future career.

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How you’ll be assessed:

You will be assessed through a range of practical and applied methods designed to demonstrate both your technical knowledge and your ability to solve problems.

Assessment may include practical projects, portfolios, technical reports, data analysis, presentations and individual and group work.

As you progress through the course, assessments will move from developing your fundamental computing knowledge towards applying advanced cyber security and AI skills to increasingly complex problems.

This approach will enable you to demonstrate not only your understanding of cyber security and artificial intelligence, but also your ability to apply that knowledge to practical and professional contexts.

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Entry requirements

Entry tariff

2027/28 entry: 112–128 UCAS points (or equivalent)

2027/28 entry: Foundation Year: 64–80 UCAS points (or equivalent)

Looking to work out your UCAS points or find out about our entry requirements? Find out more.

When we consider applications to study with us, we form a complete view of your achievements to date, and future potential, and can offer flexibility in entry requirements. Find out more about our Contextual Offer scheme.

GCSEs in English and Maths

Entry tariff

2026/27 entry: Call 0300 303 8320 to find out if you are eligible for this programme in Clearing

International Foundation Pathway:
64 UCAS (or equivalent)
IELTS: 5.5

Looking to work out your UCAS points or find out about our entry requirements? Find out more.

When we consider applications to study with us, we form a complete view of your achievements to date, and future potential, and can offer flexibility in entry requirements. Find out more about our Contextual Offer scheme.

Apply now

Applying to Roehampton is straightforward, and we're here to guide you through every step and answer any questions you might have.

If you currently live in the UK or Ireland, you can apply directly through UCAS. Check out our UCAS application guide for all the information you need.

If you live in the UK and already have all your exam results, you can apply to us directly.

If you’re an international student, you can apply to us directly or add Roehampton as a choice on your UCAS application. Check out our guidance for international students for more information.

If you have any questions or need some support, reach out to us.

UK students

Tuition fees

Entry date Undergraduate Year 1 Undergraduate Foundation Year
September 2027 £TBC £TBC

Prices shown are for the first year of your degree.

More information about tuition fee costs

International students

Tuition fees

Entry date Undergraduate Year 1 Undergraduate Foundation Year International Foundation Pathway
September 2027 £TBC £TBC £TBC

Prices shown are for the first year of your degree.

More information about tuition fee costs

Need help or advice before applying?

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