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What Uni would you join for a MSc in Cyber Security. I have offers from :

I currently have offers from Southampton vs Lancaster vs Surrey vs Sheffield vs Newcastle vs Birmingham.

Which one of these should I join for cyber security?

Reply 1

PS Reviewer

Which of them is accredited?
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/information/ncsc-certified-degrees#section_4

Reply 2

Lancaster Student Ambassador

Official Rep

Original post by boubie

I currently have offers from Southampton vs Lancaster vs Surrey vs Sheffield vs Newcastle vs Birmingham.
Which one of these should I join for cyber security?

All of them are NCSC accredited degrees, and all of them are from well-respected universities. Unfortunately, I haven't studied MSc Cyber Security in all of these universities, so cannot provide a well-informed and unbiased advice, but can give an insight into Lancaster and its Computing and Communications department as a current Computer Science student. :smile:

Firstly, Lancaster's MSc Cyber Security degree is very well-established (it is one of the longest running ones in the UK), which has allowed the university to refine it, while building up a number of valuable connections across the industry and the academia. One of the strongest features is your ability to choose to do a more research-based dissertation project with an academic or to do a project with one of many industry partners.

Lancaster is also quite heavily focused on cyber security research, so your academics will be focused on and experienced in the field, rather than the degree being just a side branch of computer science. The courses within the Computing department tend to be quite hands-on and practical, so if you enjoy that, then Lancaster might be a good university to consider.

Another thing to highlight is the amazing career support provided by the department and the University, such as guest lectures, industry-led projects, 1-1 career planning meetings, CV and interview workshops, and the Employment and Recruitment Services (thanks to which I managed to get 3 internships and a couple of part-time roles on campus in my 2.5 years of being here, which has been helping a lot with the bills).

However, while I have greatly enjoyed my time here, that doesn't mean that it's the right option for everyone. I would urge you to visit the university's open day event (in-person if you can - as the campus and the facilities are beautiful, or digitally, if you can't make it). I would encourage you to attend Postgraduate open days or any insight or introduction events at all of the universities that you have offers from - to give you a better insight into what they can give you. 🙂

I believe that the most important aspect is your interest. If you are looking to focus on a specific area of Cyber Security, then make sure that the course structure and the university's research focus align with that. Consider employability and careers support as well, if you are looking to work upon completing your Master's. Course fees and cost of living might also be important to take into account. I know that Lancaster offers good scholarships to both International and Home students, and other universities might do the same.

Ultimately, identify your priorities and decide accordingly. Best of luck with making the choice and with your MSc studies!

Best wishes,
Polina,
Lancaster University Computing Student Ambassador.