Cybersecurity
BSc in Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity
Learning Mode
Full-time, On Campus
Duration
4 Years (Full-time)
Start date
September 2025
Qualification
Bachelor of Science with Honours
Fees
£14,000 per year*
Location
Dundee, Scotland
About the Course
Abertay University’s BSc (Hons) Ethical Hacking is the first undergraduate degree of its kind in the UK, designed to prepare you for a high-impact career in cyber security.
You’ll learn how hackers think, operate, and exploit systems—so you can stop them. The course equips you with deep technical knowledge in networking, digital forensics, cryptography, and penetration testing, while also developing your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
This is more than just theory—you’ll take part in real-world challenges, use industry-standard tools, and work in environments that simulate cyberattacks and security breaches.
Why choose Ethical Hacking at Abertay?
Industry Connected
Partnerships with cyber security leaders offer live projects, guest lectures, and employer collaboration, including NCC Group and Cisco.
Global Opportunities
Graduates work globally in finance and cybercrime. Exchanges and internships expand international career prospects significantly.
Professional Accreditation
BCS accreditation and NCSC alignment ensure professional recognition, industry relevance, and trusted cyber security standards.
Course Overview
The BSc (Hons) Ethical Hacking is a hands-on, technical cyber security degree that focuses on how security systems can be compromised and—more importantly—how to defend them.
You’ll develop practical skills in system security testing, malware analysis, intrusion detection, and forensic investigation. Abertay’s Hack Lab gives you the perfect environment to practise safely and legally. The degree also emphasizes professional ethics and legal frameworks, making you a responsible and employable cyber professional.
Course Duration
4 Years Full-Time Study
- Year 1: Foundations in computer systems, networking, and basic security.
- Year 2: Operating systems, programming, cryptography, and ethical hacking basics.
- Year 3: Advanced ethical hacking, malware analysis, digital forensics, and enterprise security.
- Year 4: Honours project, vulnerability research, advanced security techniques, and industry simulations.
You’ll also take part in Abertay’s annual cyber security competitions and team-based hacking scenarios.
Course Curriculum
Core areas of study include:
- Network Security & Infrastructure
- Operating Systems & Scripting
- Cryptography & Encryption
- Penetration Testing
- Digital Forensics & Incident Response
- Malware Analysis
- Legal, Ethical & Professional Issues in Security
- Individual Honours Project
Assessment methods combine practical projects, exams, and coursework to reflect real industry work environments.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements:
- Sri Lankan A/L: 3 passes including Mathematics or ICT
- UK A Levels: BBB including Computing or Mathematics
- IB Diploma: 28 points minimum with relevant subjects
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS 6.0 (no band less than 5.5) or an approved equivalent
Applicants with vocational or professional experience are also encouraged to apply and will be assessed individually.
Fees and Funding
International Tuition Fee:
£14,000 per year (subject to change)
Available Scholarships:
- Abertay International Scholarship: £3,000/year (automatic consideration)
- Additional merit-based or country-specific scholarships may be available
Career Opportunities
Abertay graduates are working at the cutting edge of cyber security in roles such as:
- Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
- Security Analyst
- Cyber Forensics Investigator
- Information Security Consultant
- Malware Researcher
- SOC (Security Operations Centre) Analyst
You’ll be prepared for roles across private companies, government security services, financial institutions, and global tech firms.
Our alumni have joined major employers including Dell SecureWorks, GCHQ, IBM, and Raytheon.
Contact Us
Reach out for any inquiries or assistance needed.
