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Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Computer Science (Cyber Security)
Cyber security is in high demand globally. Explore key threats to data, including hackers, malicious coders, social engineers, viruses, worms, botnets, phishing, and more. Gain the skills to become an expert in designing and managing secure systems.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
Connect with industry
Benefit from the University's strong links with leading companies such as Microsoft, IBM, Oracle, Cisco, Intel, Apple, Nvidia, BBC, and the Met Office. We'll support you from your first year to secure high-quality placements and job opportunities, enhancing your career potential.
Real-world problem solving
Work on live industry projects and case studies, tackling current cybersecurity challenges to develop practical, job-ready skills.
Security and forensics lab
You'll use industry-standard agile development processes throughout your studies, collaborating with peers to design and deliver complete systems from concept to deployment, becoming expert in professional practices.
you're passionate about protecting data and systems from cyber threats
you enjoy problem-solving and have a keen interest in technology
you're eager to gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity practices
you aspire to work in roles such as secure software developer, penetration tester, or digital forensic examiner
Details
Year 1
Start your journey at the cutting edge of technology. In your first year, you’ll dive into the core principles of computer science—learning to code, solve problems algorithmically, and master the maths that powers modern computing.
From day one, it’s hands-on: you’ll design databases, explore how operating systems work under the hood, and start thinking like a developer.
Our industry-aligned curriculum sets you up for success, with practical workshops and early preparation to set you up for specialisation.
Core modules
BPIE111
Stage 1 Computing Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.
COMP1000
Software Engineering 1
20 credits
This module exposes students to the principles of software design and construction. The basics of constructing source code to solve a problem will be introduced, exposing students to common control structures alongside concepts such as types and generics. Major programming paradigms such as object orientation and functional programming are introduced. Additionally, key software development tools and methods are explored.
100% Coursework
COMP1001
Computer Systems
20 credits
This module provides students with an underpinning knowledge of how computers work. Topics include low-level systems and representation of data, operating systems, and an introduction to subjects such as virtualisation, parallelism, state and communications. Students will learn how operating systems manage processes and scheduling, and how memory management works.
100% Coursework
COMP1002
Cyber Security & Networks
20 credits
Modern computing relies upon networking and robust cyber security. This module provides an appreciation of their core enabling technologies, discussing how they can be applied. Key networking topics include routing and switching, as well as wireless networks. Key areas of security include underlying concepts and threats, and exploring security technologies that can be applied to enable defence in depth.
100% Coursework
COMP1003
Algorithms, Data Structures and Mathematics
20 credits
Data structures and algorithms lie at the heart of Computer Science as they are the basis for an 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 Mathematics for Computer Science.
100% Coursework
COMP1004
Computing Practice
40 credits
This module applies problem-based learning to provide students with the ability to identify problems and derive appropriate and considered solutions. A focus will be given to the early stages of the software development lifecycle to develop the skills of eliciting requirements whilst considering operational and technical trade-offs. The module will culminate in the creation of a simple yet complete software solution.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
Year 2
This year, you’ll dive deeper into the technologies and techniques that protect digital systems from real-world threats. From biometrics and cryptography to secure coding and vulnerability management, you’ll explore how to build secure systems from the ground up.
You’ll gain hands-on experience analysing malware, managing threats, and designing defences that hold strong. A dedicated security project gives you the chance to apply your learning in a practical, creative way - preparing you for an optional placement year and setting the stage for your professional journey.
Core modules
BPIE211
Stage 2 Computing Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed build on the Level 1 module (BPIE111) and to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.
COMP2000
Software Engineering 2
20 credits
Students’ understanding of software engineering is expanded by introducing a range of topics that instil best practice. Students will learn how to implement faster software using parallelism and consider aspects of human-computer interaction. Object-orientation and functional programming are revisited, while event-driven programming is introduced. Common design patterns used in the construction of software are introduced.
100% Coursework
COMP2001
Information Management & Retrieval
20 credits
This module introduces students to the fundamental concepts for graphical representation, information management, database systems and data modelling. The capture, digitisation, representation, organisation, transformation and presentation of information is explored using conceptual and physical data models.
100% Coursework
COMP2002
Artificial Intelligence
20 credits
This module provides students with an introduction to the principles of artificial intelligence and the methods used in that field. Topics covered include search and optimisation, knowledge representation and reasoning, and machine learning. Students will gain experience of modelling and simulation, and will apply analytical tools to evaluating results, and will consider the ethical implications of the introduction of AI.
100% Coursework
COMP2003
Computing Group Project
40 credits
Knowledge gained in earlier stages of the computing programmes is consolidated and integrated into a substantial project. Students work in teams, champion professional roles, design and develop a software solution for a given scenario. The project integrates and expands upon software development stages covered on the course (project management, analysis, design, construction, communication, security and/or networking).
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
COMP2006
Security Architectures & Cryptography
20 credits
The ability to design secure systems is critical to the successful operation of any system. This module will develop the knowledge and understanding of security architectures, design principles (such as least privilege, default deny) and elicitation of security requirements to enable the design of secure systems. Core to this knowledge is the role cryptography can have in addressing these requirements.
100% Coursework
Year 3
Step into the real world and put your skills to the test. During this 48-week industry placement, you’ll gain invaluable experience in a professional environment - applying everything you’ve learned so far to real projects, real teams, and real challenges.
Supported by our strong network of industry partners and dedicated placement team, you’ll build confidence, sharpen your technical and professional skills, and grow a network of contacts that can open doors after graduation. It’s your opportunity to stand out, gain a competitive edge, and graduate with more than just a degree - graduate with experience.
Core modules
BPIE330
Computing Related Placement (Generic)
A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich course, undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for you to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two years of study and to prepare for the final year and employment after graduation. Please note this placement is optional but strongly recommended.
Final year
In your final year, you’ll refine your expertise and become a cyber security specialist ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital world.
You’ll master ethical hacking, penetration testing, intrusion detection, and digital forensics - learning how to think like an attacker to protect like a professional.
You’ll also explore information security management, human factors, and legal frameworks, developing a 360° view of modern cyber defence. Your final-year project is your chance to go deep in an area you're passionate about, producing a standout piece of work that proves your readiness for the next stage - where you stop being a student and start becoming a professional.
Core modules
COMP3000
Computing Project
40 credits
The Computing Project provides an opportunity to tackle a major computing related problem in an approved topic area relevant to the programme of study.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
COMP3009
Information Security Management & Governance
20 credits
This module looks at the issues surrounding the management and governance of information security within an organisational context. Consideration is given to the need for related policy, analysis of risk, and the management of organisational assets. Coverage also includes legal and personnel aspects of security, giving an overview of the wide range of laws and regulations governing systems & information security.
100% Coursework
COMP3011
Ethical Hacking
20 credits
Understanding the security and vulnerabilities of IT systems is critical in their protection. This module seeks to develop the knowledge and skills to undertake penetration testing of systems. A range of passive and active offensive techniques will be taught, alongside an in-depth understanding of the legal and ethical issues surrounding such activity.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
COMP3003
Machine Learning
20 credits
This module introduces machine learning, covering unsupervised, supervised and reinforcement learning from a Bayesian perspective. This includes theory behind a range of learning techniques and how to apply these representations of data in systems that make decisions and predictions.
100% Coursework
COMP3008
Big Data Analytics
20 credits
The key objective of this module is to familiarise the students with the most important information technologies used in manipulating, storing and analysing big data. Students will work with semi-structured datasets and choose appropriate storage structures for them. A representative of recent non-relational trends is presented—namely, graph-oriented databases.
100% Coursework
COMP3010
Security Operations & Incident Management
20 credits
This module will examine the incident management and the role it plays within modern information security systems. It will introduce key concepts in the analysis of network traffic for signs of intrusions, as well as the process of responding to computer incidents including the identification and analysis of malicious code.
100% Coursework
COMP3012
Digital Forensics & Malware Analysis
20 credits
This module examines the procedures, tools and techniques utilised within the field of digital forensics. It will introduce an understanding of the methodology deployed in the handling of digital evidence, the volatility of data and maintaining the integrity of data. Knowledge and skills will be developed of tools and techniques to examine and analyse forensic data across differing computing platforms.
100% Coursework
Optional pathways
We offer a suite of computer science courses allowing you to choose your specialist field.
We also offer
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year
.
Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT
Academic Partner status by the Chartered Institute of Information Security
National Cyber Security Centre provisional certified degree
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
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Develop your computational theory and practice
Gather requirements
Understand the problem. Learn how to conceptualise and design solutions to real-world problems. Be more than a coder.
Collaborate within a team
Work on projects from week one. Develop workflows, processes and understanding that allows your team to innovate.
Manage the pressure of deadlines
Make something tangible. Ensure it works. Optimise and iterate. Be agile and ready to overcome challenges.
Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching
Our dedicated Computer Science hub will be ready to welcome students in September 2025, providing a dedicated space for our community of students, staff and technicians.
We also have dedicated artificial intelligence, games development, cyber security and software engineering labs to support our suite of specialist degrees.
Our purpose-built security and digital forensics laboratory, and cyber range, provides cutting-edge facilities to practice your skills.
The physical servers provide a cyber range capability to simulate and model industry-based IT infrastructure which subsequently provides the platform upon which students can learn to perform red-teaming in a safe and supportive environment.
The laboratories also support the delivery of digital forensics, where students have the opportunity to learn how to use Exterro’s Forensic Toolkit – industry leading computer forensic software used globally by Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) and law enforcement.
I chose to study at Plymouth because of the environment and the facilities offered. I like the fact that we are able to develop projects using Android Studio; you develop an Android application and host it at Play Store or the App Store.
Clara, BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security) student
Meet your expert teaching staff
Learn from researchers and lecturers who are developing applications
We have active research projects that are key to some of the industry's most pressing issues. Active core members of these research groups make up a large proportion of your lecturers and tutors, and you will be taught be some of the best academics in the field.
Our
technical staff
are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Dr Rory Hopcraft
Lecturer in Cyber Security
Programme Director
Dr Vasilios Kelefouras
Lecturer in Computer Science
Admissions Tutor
Dr Fatma Bouabdallah
Lecturer in Computer Science
Year 1 Tutor
Passionate about all things computing?
Explore, innovate, and connect with CompSoc; the University of Plymouth Computing Society. We offer a platform to:
- participate and learn together in collaborative coding sessions. Perfect for both improving your skills and helping others with their coding challenges
- gain insights from industry professionals through our guest speaker events, providing valuable industry connections and real-world perspectives on what it's like working in tech.
- build your professional network at our events. Meet peers, alumni, and professionals from the tech industry, opening doors to potential career opportunities and collaborations.
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Every year, there are students who get into big companies. Our cyber security students go into a number of intelligence services, large consulting firms and defence contractors. I’ve supervised students at Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, and GlaxoSmithKline.
Nathan Clarke
Professor of Cyber Security & Digital Forensics
Professor of Cyber Security & Digital Forensics
A wide variety of career opportunities exist within the field of cyber security in private and public sectors. As technology moves forward, and the threats evolve, the marketplace for cyber security jobs grows every year.
This course offers excellent career prospects and gives you the opportunity to help reduce the current shortage of cyber security skills in the marketplace. Typical career profiles can include: secure software developer, penetration tester, digital forensic examiner, intrusion analyst, information systems auditor, vulnerability assessment analyst, SOC Security analyst, security compliance analyst, cyber security risk auditor.
Optional placement year: preparing you for the future
Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects.
The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Our students have been highly successful in obtaining positions in top-class companies including well-known multinationals such as: IBM, Intel, HP and Microsoft; at national and government organisations and corporations such as BBC, Met Office, and Land Registry; and at local companies/organisations such as Delt Shared Services, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Marine Labs and University of Plymouth Technology Information Service (TIS) department.
We regularly have students securing placements and jobs at FTSE 100 companies. There is a perception that only students from red brick universities go to these places. It simply is not the case – our students are massively competitive and win these placements as well.
Professor Nathan Clarke
Professor in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
The placement year taught me how to interact with different people throughout the company at differing levels and how to approach conversations to get the maximum amount of information out of them.
Richard Imms
BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Senior Machine Learning Engineer at Just Eat.
BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Senior Machine Learning Engineer at Just Eat.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Tamar Engineering Project
The
Tamar Engineering Project
is open for applications to ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study. Successful applicants will receive:
- £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
- £1,500 fee waiver per annum
- one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Applications close on 30 June 2025
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Secure your place this September
Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the University of Plymouth.
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
English C/4 and mathematics grade B/5. If you have a grade C/4 in mathematics please contact admissions team.
A levels
104 points from minimum of 2 A levels in any subject
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DMM-DDM – science related subjects: IT, Humanities, Engineering, Software Development, IT Practitioners, Business, Computing, Science (GCSE English C/4 and Mathematics grade B/5. If you have a grade C/4 in mathematics please contact admissions team).
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
All Access courses
Pass Access to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant subject (e.g. Computing, IT, Science, Humanities, Engineering) with at least 33 Level 3 credits at Merit and/or Distinction.
T level
Merit to Distinction depending on the Mathematics units studying within the T level pathways.
International Baccalaureate
26-30 overall
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
I104
I104
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year
Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning computer science through an additional foundation year, gaining hands-on skills across a range of topics.
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
I104
I104
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes to this course
Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects.
The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Our students have been highly successful in obtaining positions in top-class companies including well-known multinationals such as: IBM, Intel, HP and Microsoft; at national and government organisations and corporations such as BBC, Met Office, and Land Registry; and at local companies/organisations such as Delt Shared Services, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Marine Labs and University of Plymouth Technology Information Service (TIS) department.
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.