Computer Science with Security and Forensics with a Year of Study Abroad

Computer science with a focus on security and forensics addresses one of the most pressing challenges of the digital age. As organisations and individuals become ever more dependent on digital systems, the threats to those systems, from cybercriminals, state actors and malicious insiders, have grown in sophistication and consequence. Security and forensics professionals work to prevent attacks, detect intrusions and investigate digital crime, applying a combination of deep computer science knowledge and specialist expertise in how attacks are carried out and how evidence of them can be recovered and analysed.

At Cardiff University, this four-year full-time programme includes a year of study abroad, giving you the opportunity to develop your computing and security expertise in an international academic environment. You will cover the core areas of computer science, including algorithms, programming, systems and software engineering, alongside specialist topics in cryptography, network security, malware analysis, digital forensics, incident response and the legal and ethical frameworks governing cybersecurity and digital investigation. The programme develops both technical depth and the analytical rigour needed to investigate complex security incidents and build systems that are resilient against attack.

Graduates move into careers in cybersecurity, digital forensics, information security management, network security, penetration testing, security operations and law enforcement with digital investigation responsibilities. The demand for qualified cybersecurity professionals significantly exceeds supply in the UK and internationally, and graduates with specialist academic training are well placed to enter a market where skills are scarce and salaries are competitive. The year abroad adds an international perspective that is useful in a field that operates without borders.

Postgraduate study in cybersecurity, information security or digital forensics is also a common pathway for those who want to specialise further or pursue research.