What will I learn on this module?
The aim of this module is to equip students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively analyse, defend, and respond to complex cybersecurity threats.
The module covers a range of topics and starts with building an understanding of the basics of Cryptography by exploring the fundamentals of encryption and decryption, the modern cryptographic algorithms, security protocols and their role in secure communication.. The module also discusses the mathematical functions used in these algorithms, such as Euclid’s algorithm, prime numbers and primitive roots. In the later weeks, the module discusses topics that aid students to learn how to think like an attacker to identify vulnerabilities, help develop skills in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and exploit mitigation to strengthen system defences. The module will also explore the inner workings of firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS). Students will learn how to configure, analyse, and optimize network defences to safeguard critical infrastructure and systems. This module helps the students to build the knowledge required to safeguard the modern day system. This knowledge is going to give the students an edge when applying for jobs that are related to ethical hacking and cyber security analyst. Students from all backgrounds will gain expertise in core concepts of cryptography, ethical hacking, network security, and risk assessment, utilizing industry-standard tools and technologies for comprehensive protection of digital assets in an inclusive and collaborative learning environment.
How will I learn on this module?
The module is supported with weekly lectures, practical labs/workshops, and independent learning. The lectures are going to equip you with essential theories and concepts with series of examples followed by practical labs/workshops where you will have the opportunity to apply the learned knowledge. The practical and hands-on sessions will take place in Northumbria CIS labs that are equipped with state-of-the-art industrial tools and equipment.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
There is various level of support available in this module. Weekly lectures during the timetabled sessions followed by hands-on workshops/labs where you will be given support and guidance to complete the practical work and feedback on your work. The Northumbria University VLE will be used to provide remote access support to all lectures, supported material and resources to reinforce learning. You will also have excellent electronic support provided by Northumbria library and you can access electronic copies of resources through University’s eLearning access.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
ML01 - Understand number systems, mathematical functions and basics of cryptography.
ML02 - Design and develop secure networks and systems, incorporating threat modeling and security testing throughout the development lifecycle.
ML03 – Practically test and implement security mechanism and protocols to safeguard the critical infrastructures of organisations.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
ML04 - Practically apply and validate various security protocols and system by identifying vulnerabilities, performing manual/automated penetration testing, and evaluating results using various tools
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
ML05 –Cultivate a curious mindset through independent exploration of emerging cyber security trends, technologies, and their potential impact on society.
How will I be assessed?
There will be two set of assessment in this module.
A summative assessment (5-minute narrative power point Presentation) comprises 20% of the module assessment weight. The presentation will outline the importance of cryptographic protocols in establishing a secure system. This assessment addresses module learning outcome ML01.
A summative assessment (practical research report, Video recording with audio commentary of the practical work- Maximum duration 45 minutes) comprises of 80% of the module assessment weight. The report will be report of maximum 2000 words which requires you to analyse a real-life case study related to cyber security incident and demonstrate your automated/manual testing of safeguarding measures (video with commentary) This assessment addresses all the Module Learning Outcomes ML02, ML03, ML04 and ML05.
Pre-requisite(s)
Introduction to Networking and Cyber security
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Intrigued by the ever-evolving world of cyber threats? This module will equip you with the knowledge and skills to safeguard digital assets.
You will delve deep into cutting-edge cryptography techniques, ethical hacking methodologies, and the latest network security measures used to protect critical systems. You will explore real-world case studies to understand how security professionals tackle complex threats. You will hone your practical skills through hands-on labs using industry-standard tools and methodologies such as snort, pfsense, parrot OS, OWASP Zap, Burp Suite etc.9
By the end of this module, you'll be a confident cyber security expert, prepared to tackle the challenges of the ever-changing digital landscape.
Course info
UCAS Code G417
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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