Cyber Security with Foundation Year

Cyber security is an increasingly important area to build a rewarding career in. On our practical BSc (Hons) Cyber Security degree programme, we will help prepare you for a successful future in this field. Thanks to our close involvement with the sector, you can be sure we’ll help you develop the skills employers are looking for. You'll benefit from our industry links and experienced and supportive staff. To help you achieve your goals we have also invested in a top-end Cyber Resilience facility at our Aylesbury Campus and well-equipped computer labs.

In the Foundation Year of this four-year course, you’ll build essential academic study skills. This year will help you gain confidence in your abilities. You’ll also identify your strengths and areas for development. Together, these will prepare you for progression to the undergraduate degree.

Why study Cyber Security at BNU?

Industry-Aligned Syllabus This degree is crafted to mirror current industry standards and employer needs, making sure you're equipped with up-to-date skills, that are highly valued in the cyber security sector. The course content evolves with advancements in technology, preparing you to tackle emerging cyber threats. Whether it's cryptography, ethical hacking, AI, or risk management, you'll cover it all.

Hands-on learning Engage in practical sessions in our specialised computer labs, designed to simulate the real-world, allowing you to develop and hone the skills essential for a successful career in cyber security. From penetration testing to forensic analysis, you'll have the chance to practice industry techniques on professional standard hardware and software, helping you to gain confidence in your abilities. We focus on learning by doing, so you’re prepared to step into the workplace.

Learn from industry experts Your lecturers aren’t just teachers - they’re seasoned professionals who’ve worked in the cyber security field. This means you’ll gain insider knowledge, practical tips, and real-world insights that textbooks can’t offer. They’ll show you how to apply what you’re learning to real challenges, so you graduate feeling confident and career-ready. Their close ties with the industry mean you'll have opportunities to engage with professionals, participate in networking events, gain exposure to the working world. These connections might open doors to placements, mentorships, and even future employment.

Committed to student success BNU is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals, offering personalized support and resources to ensure you thrive both academically and professionally in the cyber security realm. Whether you need study support, career advice, or mental health services, we’re here for you every step of the way.

What will I study? You will study software design and development, programming languages, technologies and applications which may include Python, Java, HTML, PHP, UML, database technologies, machine learning, algorithms and data structures, web and mobile computing, and Agile software development. Specialist modules allow you to further explore the areas of artificial intelligence, media programming, real-time systems, computer science, cloud computing and security.

You'll begin with the fundamentals in areas such as risk and information management, security auditing and network security before going on to apply what you have learned to various individual and team assignments. We'll help you to develop your ability to think strategically about real-world problems, whilst enhancing your transferable skillset to include analysis, design, research and leadership. In your final year, you'll work on a major project or extended written piece of work. The course provides, through the choice of research topic and via selection of particular advanced option modules, for you to tailor your studies to suit your own individual interest areas and future career ambitions.