Cyber Security Courses

I'm wanting to learn programming before i start my cyber security course at my uni choice. Is python a good place to start? And are there any others that you would recommend for me to learn to give me somewhat of a headstart.

I'm wanting to learn programming before i start my cyber security course at my uni choice. Is python a good place to start? And are there any others that you would recommend for me to learn to give me somewhat of a headstart.

I'm wanting to learn programming before i start my cyber security course at my uni choice. Is python a good place to start? And are there any others that you would recommend for me to learn to give me somewhat of a headstart.

I'd recommend Python easily as it is great for scripting and understanding of different systems (it's also used on the web).
An understanding of PHP, JavaScript and SQL can be particularly useful for web exploitation.
If you're more interested in low-level exploits, get an understand of C definitely.
After that, you'll definitely be confident enough for your course!
Where are you looking to apply?

Hey,
Starting some programming before your cybersecurity course is a fantastic idea, and honestly, Python is one of the best places you could start. It’s beginner-friendly, used heavily in security for things like scripting, automation, basic tooling, and data handling, and it gives you a solid foundation without overwhelming you. A lot of first-year modules in cybersecurity degrees actually start with Python anyway, so you’d be giving yourself a gentle head start.
Once you’re comfortable with Python, it can also be useful to dip your toes into a couple of other areas, but only if you feel ready. You don’t need to master everything before uni. A bit of Linux command-line knowledge goes a long way in cybersecurity, since most security tools run on Linux, and you’ll definitely use it during your course. Even just learning basic commands, navigation, and file permissions can put you ahead.
If you want to expand a little, looking at JavaScript or HTML/CSS is helpful for understanding how websites work, which becomes important when you get into web security. And later on, you’ll come across languages like C or C++ when learning about memory, low-level security, or exploit development, but that’s definitely not something you need to worry about before uni, that can come much later.
For now, focusing on Python and getting comfortable with logic, problem-solving, and the basics of coding is more than enough to give you a really strong start. It’s great that you’re thinking ahead, you’ll definitely thank yourself when your course begins.
Good luck 😊
Arslan – University of Salford Student Representative

Hi,
Yes, python is a great place to start! I would recommend focusing on a language or two and learning as many core concepts as you want and practising them. Programming is mainly about logic and problem-solving, so get used to doing so within python, and it will be a lot easier to pick up syntax from other languages and start programming, as the core concepts will be very similar throughout most languages.
Also, I believe most introductory aspects you would cover are likely to be in python and so would be very useful! If there are any other languages you know are on your course, then you could always have a look at them too.
Best of luck,
Zak (Computer Science Student)

Hi,
Yes, python is a great place to start! I would recommend focusing on a language or two and learning as many core concepts as you want and practising them. Programming is mainly about logic and problem-solving, so get used to doing so within python, and it will be a lot easier to pick up syntax from other languages and start programming, as the core concepts will be very similar throughout most languages.
Also, I believe most introductory aspects you would cover are likely to be in python and so would be very useful! If there are any other languages you know are on your course, then you could always have a look at them too.
Best of luck,
Zak (Computer Science Student)

Im looking to apply at Edgehill University in Ormskirk, near Liverpool. I would ask a student that I've been talking to but ive asked them so many questions im hesitant to keep pestering them that's why i came here.

Sorry for the 2nd reply, just of out curiosity though, do you HAVE to know or get familiar with programming languages before you do cyber security? I know most people that go and do cyber security at university have probably done Computer Science and therefore also done some programming languages along with it. I only do IT and haven't learning, plus the course doesn't require any computer science GCSE and A-levels.

Sorry for the 2nd reply, just of out curiosity though, do you HAVE to know or get familiar with programming languages before you do cyber security? I know most people that go and do cyber security at university have probably done Computer Science and therefore also done some programming languages along with it. I only do IT and haven't learning, plus the course doesn't require any computer science GCSE and A-levels.