You are here: / / BSc (Hons) Cyber Security 2027

BSc (Hons) Cyber Security

Apply now Book Open Day

Apply now for:

January or September 2027

Ways to apply:

UCAS, Common App or Direct

Location:

Chiswick, London, UK

Duration:

3 to 4 years

What is Cyber Security?

Protect what matters. Build a career in cyber security.

The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security with Combined Studies degree prepares you for an exciting career protecting people, organisations and digital systems from evolving cyber threats.

You’ll develop specialist expertise in ethical hacking, digital forensics, secure software development and threat hunting, while benefiting from a broad liberal arts curriculum that strengthens your critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills.

Cyber security is the practice of protecting computers, networks, software, cloud services, and data from unauthorised access, attack, damage, or disruption.

It combines technical safeguards and responsible processes to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from threats such as phishing, malware, ransomware, data theft, and network intrusion.

Key areas include:

  • Network and infrastructure security: securing devices, systems, and connections.
  • Secure software development: designing and testing software to reduce vulnerabilities.
  • Ethical hacking and penetration testing: legally testing systems to find weaknesses before criminals do.
  • Digital forensics and incident response: investigating attacks and restoring affected services.
  • Security operations and threat hunting: monitoring systems for suspicious activity.
  • Governance, risk, and ethics: managing security responsibly and within legal requirements.

In practice, cyber security helps protect personal information, business operations, and public services. The programme specification reflects these areas through modules such as Cyber Security Principles, Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing, Digital Forensics and Incident Response, Cloud and Infrastructure Security, and Malware Analysis.

What skills can I learn on the programme?

You can build practical cyber-security skills alongside the communication, research, and workplace skills employers expect.

Technical cyber-security skills

  • Programming and secure software development: writing code with security in mind and understanding how to reduce vulnerabilities.
  • Networks, systems, and infrastructure security: working with computer architecture, networks, operating-system principles, security controls, and cryptography.
  • Ethical hacking and penetration testing: identifying and testing security weaknesses in authorised environments.
  • Digital forensics and incident response: investigating security incidents, handling evidence, and supporting recovery.
  • Security operations and threat hunting: monitoring for suspicious activity and investigating potential threats.
  • Cloud security and malware analysis: protecting cloud and infrastructure environments and analysing malicious software.
  • Risk, governance, and digital ethics: assessing cyber risk and applying legal, professional, and ethical principles.

Professional and industry-ready skills

  • Research and evidence evaluation: finding, assessing, and using reliable data and sources through research methods and the senior project.
  • Communication and reporting: explaining technical information clearly in

What are the top reasons to study this subject?

  • High chances of employability to roles requiring technical skills
  • This is a practical and theoretical programme, so you’ll learn a wide range of knowledge and skills required for your career

Throughout the programme, you’ll have the opportunity to conduct your own senior research project, guided by our expert faculty, allowing you to dive deep into an area of your choosing.

Graduates of this programme are in high demand across diverse industries, with career paths ranging from governance, to security, to forensics.

Additionally, this degree serves as a strong foundation for further study at the Master’s level in various disciplines.

Work Ready

Personalise the final stage of your programme to your interests: AI, software, analysis, security operations, entrepreneurship, or leadership.

Facilities and Tools

Study in our well-equipped IT lab, where you’ll develop the cutting-edge technical skills and transferable knowledge that are in high demand across industries

Liberal Arts perspectives

Compliment your technical skills with liberal arts perspectives and real-word experience, boosting your CV and preparing you for work with non-technical professionals

Programme information

Use the tabs below to learn more about this programme.

What will I study on this programme?

Our BSc (Hons) Cyber Security degree equips you with the technical and professional skills to launch a career in tech.

  • Learn how attackers operate—and how to defend against them—through ethical hacking and penetration-testing approaches.

  • Investigate digital evidence and develop practical skills in digital forensics.

  • Build secure software and understand how to design systems that resist cyber attacks.

  • Explore threat hunting, helping organisations identify and respond to security risks before they cause harm.

  • Choose advanced options, including AI in Cyber Defence, to explore how artificial intelligence is shaping modern security operations.

In your final year, you’ll complete a senior project, giving you the opportunity to apply your skills to a substantial cyber security challenge and create evidence of your abilities for future employers.

You may also choose a credit-bearing internship, gaining valuable professional experience and building industry connections while you study.

For students starting September 2027-28 academic year, view full programme information.

Year 1 (LEVEL 3)

Core courses

  • LANG 3100 Fundamentals of English for Academic Writing and Oracy

    This course is designed to enable students to communicate effectively at university level. Students will be provided with input from a range of texts and audio from cross-cultural materials and practice fundamental research and writing and oracy skills. Students will become more familiar with the academic environment and its conventions through spoken and written production. With exposure to a range of academic texts, talks and digital skills, students will appreciate the role of academic integrity. The course gives students the opportunity to think, listen, talk and write with confidence and clarity, which will help them succeed in other courses.

  • LIBA 3101 Tools for Change

    In this course, students will be introduced to a range of foundational skills to aid in their progression and success at the University and allow them to begin the process of becoming collaborative and independent learners. These skills will be introduced through investigations of social and/or environmental issues in the local area, using group work and report writing. Students will be introduced to, and use, a range of digital platforms as aids to effective communication through professional academic oral presentations and written reports using secondary sources. In addition, students will be presented with reflective writing tools through a personal development portfolio that can aid in self-improvement, particularly in an academic setting.

  • LIBA 3102 Fundamentals of Research and Writing

    This course concentrates on developing the students’ ability to read and think critically, and to read, understand and analyse texts from a range of genres. How do you successfully negotiate a path through a sea of information and then write it up? Using essential information literacy skills to help with guided research, this course develops the ability to produce effective and appropriate academic writing across the curriculum.

  • COMP 3101 Fundamentals of Computing

    The Foundations of Computing course offers an introduction to the core principles and concepts of computing such as computer systems, algorithms, data representation, and basic programming. Throughout the course, students will develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are critical for further study for careers in computing and related fields, exploring how computers process and store information. Additionally, learners will gain hands-on experience in designing simple algorithms and writing programs using programming languages such as Python. Key ethical and societal issues surrounding the use of computing technology will also be examined, encouraging students to think critically about topics such as data privacy, security, and the impact of artificial intelligence.

  • MATH 3102 Fundamentals of Mathematics and Statistics

    This course is designed to be a foundation in mathematics and statistics that will provide students with the necessary knowledge for courses in probability and statistics, mathematics, and data analysis. The course will cover content from solving linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic equations, co-ordinate geometry analysis, function analysis, sequences and series to applied topics such as measures of central tendencies and measures of spread of data calculations with outliers, representations of data, probability calculations and discrete random variables.

Plus one of the following:

  • BUSM 3101 Fundamentals of Business

    This module introduces students to the exciting world of business. It explores what businesses are, why they exist, and how they work. Students learn about different types of businesses, from small local shops to huge global companies. The course also looks at the people involved in businesses, what they do, and the challenges they face. This module students gives students a solid foundation for further study in business and management

  • ARTS 3101 Fundamentals of Visual Thinking

    This course provides a grounding in the practice and theory of visual thinking. Through theoretical frameworks such as semiotics, the course explores the changing role of images in society from a range of cultures and contexts: the arts, politics, science, sport, design and technology. Students will consider digital forms of observation and image making through visual analysis and will build on this understanding through photographic practice. The course examines questions concerning curating, circulating and making public the images we all produce. It asks: What are the values and truths hidden in images? How can the practice of image production advance our thinking around images? How, in the context of a range of disciplines, can we learn to read and communicate ideas visually?

  • HIST 3101 London Cultures

    This survey of London’s history from the 17th century to the present foregrounds social and cultural history to help students engage with the metropolis as a catalyst for creativity, highlighting its evolving communities and global interconnectedness. Focusing on the lived experience of Londoners, students will examine how they shaped their city and forged new forms of expression related to identities of gender, race, social class and sexuality. Key areas of focus may include popular entertainment, from street theatre and public executions to the West End; Londoners’ responses to plague, fire and war; the formation of cultural institutions and social movements, as well as popular protests and changing social attitudes. Through personal testimonies and cultural products, such as literature, film, fashion, art, architecture, music and material culture, students will explore how we can understand both contemporary and historical London cultures.

Year 2 (LEVEL 4)

Core courses

  • COMP 4101 Introduction to Programming

    This course provides the fundamentals of object-oriented programming. This will include usage of variables, objects, classes; assignment and control through statements, loops, functions, procedures, interaction between objects and inheritance. This course may introduce any current specialists programming topics, eg. programming for mobile applications.

  • COMP 4104 Computer Architecture & Networks

  • COMP 4105 Cyber Security Principles

  • LIBA 4301 Academic Research and Writing

    This course is designed to develop students’ critical research and writing skills to be effective in the academic and professional world. It focuses on principles of good scholarship and academic practice that will be required throughout university study and in a future professional work environment. These skills are enhanced throughout the course. Upon completion of this course, successful students will become confident in using available resources to produce well-researched writing that demonstrates critical engagement with a self-selected research topic.

Choose one Arts/Humanities course from the following:

  • COMM 4103 Introduction to Intercultural Communication

    Reflecting strongly the University’s mission of unity in diversity, this course provides theoretical and practical understanding of the role communication plays within and between cultures to build cohesion and/or create division. It provides students with a strong sense of their own complex cultural identities before moving on to teach them the theories underlying the study of International Communication. There will be opportunities for practical applications of these theories in case studies, simulations, and project work.

  • ADPR 4101 Introduction to Advertising, PR and Media

    This course explores fundamental concepts, principles and tools in advertising and public relations, specifically in relation to the broader media industries and the professional contexts of both disciplines. It traces the history and evolution of advertising and public relations and how they interconnect, as well as investigating the political, economic, social and cultural contexts that they operate within. In examining advertising and PR in practice, it identifies key persuasive and creative aspects and techniques used in these fields, along with the planning and skills used to produce them. It also addresses advertising and PR practices in relation to contemporary issues and developments, including criticisms of the industries’ role and a range of ethical debates.

  • COMM 4102 Introduction to Content Creation

    This practical course introduces students to key aspects of contemporary media production through the creation of their own podcasts, short film and photographic essay. It focuses on the key skills of photography, audio and visual recording and editing using industry standard hardware and software. Students will learn and develop practical skills offering the opportunity to demonstrate creativity across a range of visual and sonic mediums. They will also be introduced to the history of visual and sonic media (alongside contemporary examples of professional work) and learn key strategies (such as media skills audits) to identify and plan practical work.

  • LANG 4101 Korean Language and Culture 1

    This is an introductory course to Korean language and culture with an emphasis on oral communication in everyday situations and contemporary South Korean culture and society. This course introduces fundamental communication skills including the Korean alphabet and character construction, pronunciation, vocabulary, and essential speech patterns. It also explores contemporary South Korean popular culture with the aim to develop a keen awareness and broad understanding of how the Korean culture relates to the language.

Choose one Social/Behavioural Science course from the following:

  • PSYC 4101 Introduction to Psychology

    This course introduces students to the major areas within the psychology discipline, through current empirical research and theoretical debate. Students discover how psychological research is conducted and how research findings can be applied to understanding human behaviour. Topics include scientific methodology in psychology, and key contemporary areas of research, such as biopsychology, brain functioning; sensation and perception; evolutionary theory, development, personality, memory, consciousness, stress, psychological disorders, language, learning and social psychology.

  • CRIM 4101 Introduction to Criminology

    The course immerses students in the fundamental theories and evidence that shape the field of criminology. It explores various approaches to understanding crime, criminal justice, and policing, engaging with a range of crime types including juvenile delinquency, white-collar crime, rioting, and crimes against women and minorities. Additionally, the course examines organised crime, addressing the unique challenges and complexities it presents. Finally, it highlights the increasing importance of cybercrime in contemporary society.

  • BUSM 4101 Introduction to Business Management and Marketing

    This module provides a foundational understanding of how businesses operate and effectively reach their target markets. Students will explore core management principles and marketing strategies, gaining insights into how organizations create value and build profitable customer relationships.

  • ENTR 4101 Introduction to Entrepreneurship

    This module is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of the entrepreneur as an ‘agent of change’ within business and society. Students will develop knowledge around the role of entrepreneurs, the history of entrepreneurship, and the personal dynamics that lead people to embark upon an entrepreneurial journey. Students will be introduced to key entrepreneurial processes such as idea generation, idea evaluation, and idea execution. They will then explore different types of entrepreneurships, such as: apprenticeship, innovative entrepreneurship, corporate entrepreneurship, franchisee entrepreneurship, and social entrepreneurship. The course will conclude by looking at the role of entrepreneurial ecosystems. This module will emphasise active learning involving case studies, simulations, and practical exercises. At the end of the course, students will be better placed to decipher whether they themselves wish to embark on an entrepreneurial path.

Choose one Data/Numeracy course from the following:

  • MATH 4102 Mathematics of Argument and Reasoning

    This course presents the mathematics of arguments and reasoning by introducing students to concepts in logic and discrete mathematics. It examines the nature of logic, propositional and deductive logic, tautologies and contradictions, algebra of sets, relations, Boolean functions, and graph theory. The topics covered will include propositional calculus, methods of deduction, and quantification theory, leading to an introduction to first order logic, proof by induction and recursive relations. Valid and invalid argument forms and their tests will be performed. Matrix algebra and determinants and their applications in solving systems of equations will be covered. Applications of these concepts to logical networks, switching circuits and network analysis will be investigated.

  • MATH 4101 Probability and Statistics

    This course in probability and statistics includes theoretical and applied approaches which are primarily designed for business, data science, social science and psychology majors. The course coverage will include: descriptive statistics, elementary probability theory, random variables and expectations, discrete probability distributions (Binomial and Poisson distributions), continuous probability distribution (Normal distribution), sampling distributions, estimation and hypothesis testing about the mean and proportions of up to two populations, Chi-square tests, One-way ANOVA and F Distribution, linear, multiple and non-linear regression and non-parametric methods. SPSS lab sessions will be included targeting applications of statistical concepts to business, data science, social science and psychology. All practical work will be produced using SPSS statistical software.

Choose one Science course from the following:

  • ENVR 4103 Introduction to Environmental Science

    This course covers environmental science topics such as global warming/climate change, ozone depletion, acid rain, pollution, population issues, energy issues, land and water issues, and an introduction to environmental ethics. All topics are addressed from scientific, economic, politico-sociological and ethical standpoints. An awareness and appreciation of global, local, and personal environmental problems are developed, together with the implications of possible solutions. The concept of interrelatedness is a unifying theme throughout the course. Students are encouraged to become aware of/develop an understanding of their own environmental identity.

  • ENVR 4101 Earth Systems Science

    This course introduces the major concepts studied in Earth System Science, addressing the Earth’s origins and evolution as an active planet within the solar system. The fundamental processes and interrelationships between the atmosphere, oceans, biosphere and lithosphere are investigated to serve as a basis for understanding natural systems, particularly near or at the Earth’s surface, and the ways in which human activities impact those systems. There is mounting concern about global warming, biodiversity, energy and sustainable development, all of which if not governed poses a threat to the delicate balance of the Earth system. Thus the need to understand the Earth as an interrelated system is more so than ever before.

  • ENVR 4102 Ecology and Conservation

    This course provides an examination of the principles of ecology and their application to conservation. Students will explore the complex relationships between organisms and their environments, including population dynamics, species interactions, ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural/anthropogenic causes of species’ decline and extinction. The course covers key topics such as habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species, and conservation strategies at local, regional, and global scales. Special emphasis is placed on understanding and addressing the threats to biodiversity and developing practical solutions for conservation. Through case studies students will gain the skills necessary to critically evaluate conservation challenges and design effective conservation strategies.

Year 3 (LEVEL 5)

Core courses

  • COMP 5105 Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing

  • COMP 5106 Digital Ethics, Risk, and Governance

  • SENG 5102 Secure Software Development

  • COMP 5107 Digital Forensics and Incident Response

  • COMP 5301 Research Methods in Computing

    Introduces students to key Data Science research methodologies and research practices. Students will learn skills, including using data science for computing, science and applied mathematics, that translate directly into a broad range of careers. This course also prepares students for their Senior Project by undertaking data science gathering, analysis and visualisation. Students are prepared to plan their Senior projects using suitable methodologies such as systems analysis and design and agile approaches. Students will also carry out an introduction to range of humanities methods (including textual analysis, interviews, surveys, focus groups, and ethnography) and students are introduced to widely used and newer modes of and approaches to research, including creative methods and participatory/reflexive approaches.

Choose one Service-Learning course from the following:

  • LIBA 5301 Service Learning: Global Citizenship and Migration

    This course helps students make a real difference in the world. Service Learning as experiential learning combines community service with academic study. This course will apply service-learning to the theoretical, political and sociological conceptions of citizenship and their limitations. Students will work on live projects and challenges to address real-world issues and critically reflect on their role as agents in communities and as legal and social citizens. Skills will be gained from working on a project with charities, NGOs, or non-profit organisations on citizenship concepts which will enable the student to critically reflect through service-learning. This course builds professional, entrepreneurial and personal skills to engage with a variety of stakeholders. This course is underpinned by JEDI approaches to justice, equality, diversity and inclusion across the global community.

  • LIBA 5302 Service Learning: Leadership in a Globalised World

    This course helps students make a real difference in the world. Service learning as experiential learning combines community service with academic study. This course will apply service learning to global challenges and how to be a leader that creates positive change. Students will work on live projects and challenges to address real-world issues. Students will learn how to lead and work with diverse teams to make a positive impact. Skills will be gained from working on a project with charities, NGOs, or non-profit organisations on citizenship concepts which will enable the student to critically reflect through service-learning. This course builds professional, entrepreneurial and personal skills to engage with a variety of stakeholders. This course is underpinned by JEDI approaches to justice, equality, diversity and inclusion across the global community.

  • LIBA 5303 Service Learning: Sustainability and Society

    This course helps students make a real difference in the world. Service learning as experiential learning combines community service with academic study. This course will apply service learning to the theoretical, political and sociological conceptions of citizenship and their limitations. Students will work on live projects and challenges to address real-world issues and critically reflect on their role as agents in communities and as legal and social citizens. Skills will be gained from working on a project with charities, NGOs, or non-profit organisations on citizenship concepts which will enable the student to critically reflect through service-learning. This course builds professional, entrepreneurial and personal skills to engage with a variety of stakeholders. This course is underpinned by JEDI approaches to justice, equality, diversity and inclusion across the global community.

  • LIBA 5304 Service Learning: Digital Collaboration

    This course helps students make a real difference in the world. Service-Learning as experiential learning combines community service with academic study. This course will apply service-learning to the production of digital work engaging with organizations and communities outside of the university. It equips students to identify the ranges of opportunities for innovation and employment that digital skills offer. Students will work on live projects and challenges to address real-world issues and critically reflect on their role as agents in communities and as legal and social citizens. Skills will be gained from working on a project with charities, NGOs, or non-profit organisations on citizenship concepts which will enable the student to critically reflect through service-learning. This course builds professional, entrepreneurial and personal skills to engage with a variety of stakeholders. This course is underpinned by JEDI approaches to justice, equality, diversity and inclusion across the global community.

Plus two Level 5 elective courses

Year 4 (LEVEL 6)

Core courses

  • COMP 6104 Security Operations & Threat Hunting

  • COMP 6105 Cloud & Infrastructure Security

  • COMP 6106 Malware Analysis

  • COMP 6110 Senior Project

    This course is a student identified project. It provides the setting for students to conceptualise, research, and propose a written brief that includes the identification and the establishment of an appropriate methodology. The instructor will facilitate the process through regularly scheduled class meetings. The research will be an opportunity to independently plan and execute a project via a literature review, project management and execution and the project will need to follow a methodology explored in Data Science Research Methods in Computing.

Plus either:

  • COMP 6401 Internship

    The Internship in Computer Science / Software Engineering is a student work placement for credit that aims to provide students with the experience of working within the IT industry. Students will develop the intellectual, professional, and personal skills that will enable them to function well in a culturally diverse working environment. All internships are supervised by faculty and last at least 6 weeks and are typically done full time Monday to Thursday/Friday. Each student will also complete a series of assessments throughout the internship, such as keeping a written journal of their experience, preparing an internship portfolio, and delivering a final presentation. These assessments have been designed to help the student reflect on the skills they are learning and the benefits gained from the internship experience, and also to help them determine if their current career goals are the correct fit for them. During the internship, the staff of the Internship Office and a faculty supervisor work closely with each student to ensure that the placement is a successful one. Students’ final grades are based on several factors including written assignments, presentation, and a report from their workplace supervisor which is taken into consideration.

Or two of the following Major Options:

  • SENG 6102 Generative Artificial Intelligence

    This course offers a progressive approach to generative AI (Gen AI), starting with essential machine learning and deep learning principles before delving into advanced generative models like GANs and transformer-based architectures. Students will build skills in model design, implementation, and evaluation, equipping them for applications such as image synthesis, language generation, and more. The course utilises Python and libraries like PyTorch and TensorFlow.

  • CRIM 6101 Counter-Extremism and Counter-Terrorism

    This course explores some of the main national and international efforts to counter terrorism, extremism and transnational crime. We examine types of terrorism and extremism and the theories and strategies underpinning state responses. We explore the phenomenon of transnational organised crime and consider where it intersects with terrorism and extremism. We discuss these phenomena from the perspectives of victims and perpetrators, processes of violent radicalisation, typologies of terror, and the strengths and weaknesses of strategies to counter and/or limit terrorism and extremism, including de-radicalisation. We also consider the capacity of institutions and international cooperations to thwart and restrict transnational crime, and explore the intersections between trafficking, terrorism and the commission of atrocities.

  • SENG 6103 Mobile App Development

    Enterprises regularly use mobile applications for focused activities that exploit features of smart phones. This course introduces how mobile applications can be designed and developed for different operating systems using different OS development frameworks.

  • COMP 6109 AI in Cyber Defence

  • COMP 6108 Startup and Innovation Lab

  • MATH 6103 Time Series Analysis and Forecasting

    This course introduces students to the fundamentals and advanced techniques of time series analysis and forecasting. Students will learn how to model, analyze, and forecast time-dependent data using both statistical and machine learning approaches. The course will cover classical time series models such as ARIMA, exponential smoothing, and state-space models, as well as more advanced techniques including neural networks and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models. The emphasis will be on practical applications in various fields, including finance, economics, and environmental sciences, using real-world datasets and computational tools like Python and R.

  • BUSM 6104 Leadership and People Management

    This module provides a critical exploration of leadership in the context of managing people and talent within organizations. Students will develop a deep understanding of contemporary leadership theories and their application to the challenges of attracting, developing, motivating, and retaining talent in a rapidly changing world. The module emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, ethical leadership, and social responsibility in creating a high-performing and sustainable workforce. Through real-life examples, case studies, and interactive discussions, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to lead effectively in today's complex and dynamic business environment.

And one Level 6 elective course

Are scholarships available for this programme?

Yes. Browse all scholarships.

When you apply for a degree programme at Richmond, we also review your application to see if you are eligible for any of our scholarships. Except for the Cyril Taylor Bursaries, you will not need to complete a separate application form.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Student Experience

Can I study abroad on this programme?

Yes. All undergraduate students have the option to study abroad for a semester or academic year with one of our academic partners, earning academic credit.

What can you get from studying abroad?

  • Learning and experiencing new cultures
  • Making friends and professional connections

Studying abroad through Richmond American University London’s partner institutions offers students an enriching educational experience that extends beyond the classroom. Immerse yourself in diverse cultures, enhancing your global awareness and cross-cultural communication skills. Additionally, studying abroad can bolster your CV, showcasing your adaptability and international perspectives to potential employers. Overall, the study abroad programme fosters personal growth, independence, and a deeper understanding of the global community.

The tuition fees and credits are part of the Richmond degree, therefore no tuition is paid to the host institution. Students must ensure a minimum GPA of 3.0 (B average) to succeed.

Richmond has partnerships all over the world, to learn more, visit our Overseas Study Partners webpage.

STUDY ABROAD

Careers and Graduate skills

How does the Cyber Security programme at Richmond help my career?

The University offers personal development seminars, leadership opportunities and access to work experience, volunteering and internships. There is also a dedicated, personalised service for assistance with CV writing, interview preparation tips and much more.

Throughout your studies, you will have the opportunity to build links with industry experts and Richmond alumni, connecting you to a vast and influential worldwide network.

Why is Liberal Arts important for professional development?

  • You’re not limited to one subject. You can take courses across areas such as business, humanities, sciences, media, technology, and data. Connect the dots between disciplines and ideas, and deepen your perspectives.

  • Develop transferable career skills. Our programmes expect critical thinking, clear written and oral communication, research, problem-solving, teamwork, information literacy, ethical decision-making, and adaptability as core outcomes.

  • Prepare for a changing job market. Employers increasingly value graduates who can communicate, solve unfamiliar problems, work across disciplines, and continue learning; Liberal arts graduates can adapt and move easily across sectors.

  • Grow personally and socially. The approach is designed to build confidence, self-understanding, empathy, cultural awareness, and a sense of social responsibility—not just employability.

  • Gain actual experience. Richmond embeds service learning into your programme, and encourages internships, community work, and study abroad, giving students practical experience and professional networks while you study.

What careers have Richmond graduates gone on to, and can apply to?

This programme prepares you for technical cyber-security roles, as well as broader IT and security-related careers in the private or public sector.

Direct cyber-security career paths

The programme specifically identifies these potential roles:

  • Ethical hacker / penetration tester — testing authorised systems for weaknesses and helping organisations improve their defences.
  • Digital forensic analyst — investigating cyber incidents, preserving digital evidence, and supporting incident investigations.
  • SOC analyst — monitoring security alerts, identifying suspicious activity, and escalating or responding to threats.
  • Malware analyst — examining malicious software to understand its behaviour, impact, and indicators of compromise.
  • AI security engineer — applying AI-related methods to cyber defence and security challenges.

Related roles supported by the curriculum

Your skills could also support entry-level or graduate roles such as:

  • Cyber-security analyst
  • Incident response analyst
  • Threat intelligence or threat-hunting analyst
  • Cloud-security analyst
  • Infrastructure or network-security analyst
  • Secure software developer
  • IT security consultant
  • Governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) analyst

How the programme supports these careers

The course combines programming, computer architecture and networks, ethical hacking, secure software development, digital forensics, security operations, cloud and infrastructure security, and malware analysis. The Senior Project lets you demonstrate a focused area of expertise, while the optional Level 6 internship provides supervised, credit-bearing workplace experience. Options such as AI in Cyber Defence, Generative AI, and Leadership and People Management can further shape your profile.

The degree develops both technical capability and the research, communication, ethical judgement, teamwork, and independent problem-solving needed for professional cyber-security work.

This programme can also provide a pathway into Masters level study in a variety of disciplines.

Can I do an internship on this programme?

Yes. We offer career support and advice through our Careers & Internships Office that will assist and guide you in your study choices to make sure you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Whether you are interested in gaining work experience in London or internationally, we will be here to help you find the best possible opportunities.

Through internships you can gain business acumen, beneficial work experiences and transferable skills which will give you a competitive advantage in a fast-paced working environment.

If you’re a degree students and thinking about completing an academic internship (Summer 2026 onwards), it is required that you complete a minimum of 70 UK academic credits, and your cumulative GPA is 3.00 or higher.
INTERNSHIPS

UK and US dual accreditation

What are the benefits of having UK and US accreditation?

A UK and US accredited (dual‑accredited) degree gives you formal recognition in both systems, which translates into wider mobility, stronger employer confidence, and more options for further study.

Along with our location in stylish Chiswick, internships and study abroad experiences for credit, and diverse cultural communities, Richmond is a great choice for both adventurous and ambitious students.

DEGREE RECOGNITION: Your qualification is recognised and accredited in both the UK and US, including QAA/degree-awarding powers and MSCHE regional accreditation, making it widely accepted by employers and universities across the Atlantic and beyond.

CAREER MOBILITY: Dual accreditation makes it easier to apply for jobs and further study in the UK, US, Europe, and other countries that recognise either system, while helping streamline credential checks for employers and immigration authorities.

EMPLOYER CONFIDENCE: A degree with two separate academic accreditations demonstrates rigour across UK specialisation and US breadth/liberal arts traditions, signalling strong adaptability, critical thinking, and communication skills that employers value.

TRANSFER OF CREDIT: Credits and coursework transfer more easily between institutions, supporting exchanges, transfers, and combined study routes that draw on both academic systems.

Study Cyber Security at Richmond

Register your interest ➝

Related programmes

Information Publishing and Regulation

The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course.