TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Computer Science (Cyber Security)

Cyber security is in high demand globally. Explore key threats to data, including hackers, malicious coders, social engineers, viruses, worms, botnets, phishing, and more. Gain the skills to become an expert in designing and managing secure systems.

Our typical offer

104 UCAS points

Connect with industry

Benefit from the University's strong links with leading companies such as Microsoft, IBM, Oracle, Cisco, Intel, Apple, Nvidia, BBC, and the Met Office. We'll support you from your first year to secure high-quality placements and job opportunities, enhancing your career potential.

Real-world problem solving

Work on live industry projects and case studies, tackling current cybersecurity challenges to develop practical, job-ready skills.

Security and forensics lab

You'll use industry-standard agile development processes throughout your studies, collaborating with peers to design and deliver complete systems from concept to deployment, becoming expert in professional practices.

About

What I enjoy most about my programme is the freedom that is given to us by our lecturers... I have been able to explore passions not only in cyber security, but also in web development and other areas of computing that are really going to help me moving forward in my career.

Tia, BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security) student

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about protecting data and systems from cyber threats
Three individuals below a globe, depicting community
you enjoy problem-solving and have a keen interest in technology
Jigsaw
you're eager to gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity practices
Padlock depicting cyber security
you aspire to work in roles such as secure software developer, penetration tester, or digital forensic examiner
Globe with arrow

Details

Year 1

Start your journey at the cutting edge of technology. In your first year, you’ll dive into the core principles of computer science—learning to code, solve problems algorithmically, and master the maths that powers modern computing.
From day one, it’s hands-on: you’ll design databases, explore how operating systems work under the hood, and start thinking like a developer.
Our industry-aligned curriculum sets you up for success, with practical workshops and early preparation to set you up for specialisation.
Cyber Security laboratory, Smeaton Building

Core modules

BPIE111
Stage 1 Computing Placement Preparation 0 credits

Undertaking a sandwich-year placement (also known as an industrial or work placement) offers many benefits, including valuable hands-on work-experience and enhanced employability. This module is for first-year students who may undertake a placement in their third year. It is designed to support students in exploring placement opportunities and developing the skills and knowledge required to successfully secure one.

COMP1000
Software Engineering 1 20 credits

In this hands-on module, you’ll explore how computers make decisions, repeat actions, and store data while building your own programs step by step to solve real-world problems using programming languages. Along the way, you'll use professional tools and techniques to write clean code, test, and debug. Whether you're dreaming of games, apps, or AI, this module is your first step into the world of software engineering.

100% Coursework

COMP1001
Computer Systems 20 credits

Explore the hidden machinery behind every computing device. In this foundational module, you'll uncover how computers really work - from digital logic to hardware architecture, operating systems, and assembly language. Build the understanding needed to work confidently across platforms and systems.

100% Coursework

COMP1002
Cyber Security & Networks 20 credits

Step into the world of secure digital infrastructure. You'll learn how devices connect, how data flows, and how to defend networks against cyber threats. From configuring routers to exploring malware and encryption, this module builds the skills to protect and manage today's interconnected systems.

100% Coursework

COMP1003
Algorithms, Data Structures and Mathematics 20 credits

Discover the logic that powers computing. This module dives into essential data structures and algorithms, showing how they solve real problems efficiently. From recursion to graph traversal, you'll combine theory and coding to develop analytical skills that form the core of computational thinking.

100% Coursework

COMP1004
Computing Practice 40 credits

Develop confidence in the day-to-day tools and workflows of modern computing. In this foundational module, you'll use real development environments, track code changes, write effective documentation, and collaborate on small projects. You'll gain essential habits that support software development, problem-solving, and teamwork from day one.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

Year 2

This year, you’ll dive deeper into the technologies and techniques that protect digital systems from real-world threats. From biometrics and cryptography to secure coding and vulnerability management, you’ll explore how to build secure systems from the ground up. 
You’ll gain hands-on experience analysing malware, managing threats, and designing defences that hold strong. A dedicated security project gives you the chance to apply your learning in a practical, creative way - preparing you for an optional placement year and setting the stage for your professional journey.
Computer SCience students using the high spec computing facilities

Core modules

BPIE211
Stage 2 Computing Placement Preparation 0 credits

A year-long work placement is a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enhance future career prospects. This module prepares students to begin their placement search by providing practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, and how to present themselves effectively to potential employers; featuring insights from students who have recently returned from their own placements.

COMP2000
Software Engineering 2 20 credits

Go beyond coding to master the craft of software development. This module builds on foundational skills by exploring agile practices, version control, test automation, and software quality. You'll learn how professionals deliver reliable, maintainable systems in dynamic real-world environments.

100% Coursework

COMP2001
Information Management & Retrieval 20 credits

In a world where data is everywhere, learn to find what matters. This module explores how to structure, store, and retrieve meaningful information using modern databases. You'll design queries, optimise search performance, and understand the backbone of intelligent data systems.

100% Coursework

COMP2002
Artificial Intelligence 20 credits

Unlock the foundations of machine intelligence. This module introduces core AI concepts including decision trees, neural networks, and heuristic search. You'll explore how machines learn, adapt, and solve problems, building intelligent systems that mimic human thinking.

100% Coursework

COMP2003
Computing Group Project 40 credits

Knowledge gained in earlier stages of the computing programmes is consolidated and integrated into a substantial project. Students work in teams, champion professional roles, design and develop a software solution for a given scenario. The project integrates and expands upon software development stages covered on the course (project management, analysis, design, construction, communication, security and/or networking).

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

COMP2006
Security Architectures & Cryptography 20 credits

Build secure systems from the inside out. In this module, you'll study cryptographic techniques, authentication mechanisms, and secure architectural design. You'll learn to evaluate risk, apply encryption, and design layered defences - gaining the skills to build systems that protect data, ensure trust, and withstand evolving threats.

100% Coursework

Year 3

Step into the real world and put your skills to the test. During this 48-week industry placement, you’ll gain invaluable experience in a professional environment - applying everything you’ve learned so far to real projects, real teams, and real challenges.
Supported by our strong network of industry partners and dedicated placement team, you’ll build confidence, sharpen your technical and professional skills, and grow a network of contacts that can open doors after graduation. It’s your opportunity to stand out, gain a competitive edge, and graduate with more than just a degree - graduate with experience.
Computing student Samuel H Holmes

Core modules

BPIE330
Computing Related Placement (Generic)

A year-long work-placement, undertaken with an approved placement provider and in a role relevant to the students programme. Students will leave with practical and relevant work experience, where they put theory into practice. This module is attached to the Placement and provides students with a single digital space to refer to for key reminders, FAQs, contact details, top tips and their Placement-year handbook.

Final year

In your final year, you’ll refine your expertise and become a cyber security specialist ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital world. 
You’ll master ethical hacking, penetration testing, intrusion detection, and digital forensics - learning how to think like an attacker to protect like a professional. 
You’ll also explore information security management, human factors, and legal frameworks, developing a 360° view of modern cyber defence. Your final-year project is your chance to go deep in an area you're passionate about, producing a standout piece of work that proves your readiness for the next stage - where you stop being a student and start becoming a professional.
Kaspersky Lab Cyber Security Day

Core modules

COMP3000
Computing Project 40 credits

This module provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to work independently on an in-depth project with an implementation element that builds on their established knowledge, understanding and skills to provide a problem solution. Self-management, innovation, creativity, ability to synthesise information, ideas and practices are key concepts, as is the ability to engage in critical self-evaluation.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

COMP3009
Information Security Management & Governance 20 credits

Lead the defence of digital systems with a strategic mindset. This module focuses on information security management, governance frameworks, risk assessment, and legal compliance. You'll learn how to develop policies, respond to threats, and align security initiatives with business goals- preparing you to protect information in complex organisational environments.

100% Coursework

COMP3011
Ethical Hacking 20 credits

Discover how systems are broken, so you can help secure them. In this module, you'll apply ethical hacking techniques and penetration testing strategies to expose vulnerabilities and assess risk. Learn how attackers think, so you can stay one step ahead.

100% Coursework

Optional modules

COMP3003
Machine Learning 20 credits

Dive into the world of machine learning, where data becomes insight and algorithms learn from experience. You'll explore supervised and unsupervised models, build neural networks, evaluate results, and apply industry-standard tools - gaining hands-on experience in one of the most transformative fields in computing today.

100% Coursework

COMP3008
Big Data Analytics 20 credits

Work with data that doesn't fit in a spreadsheet. In this module, you'll use big data frameworks to process, analyse, and visualise vast datasets. You'll learn a range of big data analytical techniques and technologies, explore distributed storage, and develop scalable analytics solutions - building practical skills for industries where data drives discovery, decision-making, and innovation.

100% Coursework

COMP3010
Security Operations & Incident Management 20 credits

Step into the frontlines of cyber defence. This module explores the workings of a Security Operations Centre, equipping you with the tools to detect threats, manage incidents, analyse logs, and respond to breaches. You'll develop critical skills for operating in high-pressure security environments.

100% Coursework

COMP3012
Digital Forensics & Malware Analysis 20 credits

Trace the digital footprints of cybercrime. You'll investigate forensic analysis techniques, unpack malware behaviours, and use real tools to gather evidence. This module prepares you to support law enforcement, corporate investigations, and incident response teams in the fight against cyber threats.

100% Coursework

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Develop your computational theory and practice

Gather requirements

Understand the problem. Learn how to conceptualise and design solutions to real-world problems. Be more than a coder.

Collaborate within a team

Work on projects from week one. Develop workflows, processes and understanding that allows your team to innovate.

Manage the pressure of deadlines

Make something tangible. Ensure it works. Optimise and iterate. Be agile and ready to overcome challenges.
 
 
 
Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching
Our dedicated Computer Science hub will be ready to welcome students in September 2025, providing a dedicated space for our community of students, staff and technicians.  
We also have dedicated artificial intelligence, games development, cyber security and software engineering labs to support our suite of specialist degrees.
Computer science student standing in a laboratory
 
Our purpose-built security and digital forensics laboratory, and cyber range, provides cutting-edge facilities to practice your skills.
The physical servers provide a cyber range capability to simulate and model industry-based IT infrastructure which subsequently provides the platform upon which students can learn to perform red-teaming in a safe and supportive environment.
The laboratories also support the delivery of digital forensics, where students have the opportunity to learn how to use Exterro’s Forensic Toolkit – industry leading computer forensic software used globally by Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) and law enforcement.
Kara Stewart - BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security).

I chose to study at Plymouth because of the environment and the facilities offered. I like the fact that we are able to develop projects using Android Studio; you develop an Android application and host it at Play Store or the App Store.

Clara, BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security) student
 
 
 

Meet your expert teaching staff

Learn from researchers and lecturers who are developing applications
We have active research projects that are key to some of the industry's most pressing issues. Active core members of these research groups make up a large proportion of your lecturers and tutors, and you will be taught be some of the best academics in the field.
Our technical staff  are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Dr Rory Hopcraft Lecturer in Cyber Security


Lecturer in Cyber Security

Programme Director
Dr Vasilios Kelefouras Lecturer in Computer Science


Lecturer in Computer Science

Admissions Tutor
Dr Fatma Bouabdallah Lecturer in Computer Science


Lecturer in Computer Science

Year 1 Tutor
Show all
 
 
 

Passionate about all things computing?

Explore, innovate, and connect with CompSoc; the University of Plymouth Computing Society. We offer a platform to:
  • participate and learn together in collaborative coding sessions. Perfect for both improving your skills and helping others with their coding challenges
  • gain insights from industry professionals through our guest speaker events, providing valuable industry connections and real-world perspectives on what it's like working in tech.
  • build your professional network at our events. Meet peers, alumni, and professionals from the tech industry, opening doors to potential career opportunities and collaborations.
Join CompSoc
Computing students huddled around a laptop
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Careers

Abstract computer code

Every year, there are students who get into big companies. Our cyber security students go into a number of intelligence services, large consulting firms and defence contractors. I’ve supervised students at Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, and GlaxoSmithKline.

Nathan Clarke
Professor of Cyber Security & Digital Forensics

A wide variety of career opportunities exist within the field of cyber security in private and public sectors. As technology moves forward, and the threats evolve, the marketplace for cyber security jobs grows every year.
This course offers excellent career prospects and gives you the opportunity to help reduce the current shortage of cyber security skills in the marketplace. Typical career profiles can include: secure software developer, penetration tester, digital forensic examiner, intrusion analyst, information systems auditor, vulnerability assessment analyst, SOC Security analyst, security compliance analyst, cyber security risk auditor.

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future

Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects. 
The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Our students have been highly successful in obtaining positions in top-class companies including well-known multinationals such as: IBM, Intel, HP and Microsoft; at national and government organisations and corporations such as BBC, Met Office, and Land Registry; and at local companies/organisations such as Delt Shared Services, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Marine Labs and University of Plymouth Technology Information Service (TIS) department.
 

We regularly have students securing placements and jobs at FTSE 100 companies. There is a perception that only students from red brick universities go to these places. It simply is not the case – our students are massively competitive and win these placements as well.

Nathan ClarkeProfessor Nathan Clarke
Professor in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics

The placement year taught me how to interact with different people throughout the company at differing levels and how to approach conversations to get the maximum amount of information out of them.

Richard Imms
BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate, Senior Machine Learning Engineer at Just Eat.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 
Tamar Engineering Project
The Tamar Engineering Project is open for applications to ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study. Successful applicants will receive:
  • £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
  • £1,500 fee waiver per annum
  • one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Applications close on 30 June 2025

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
104 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE

English C/4 and mathematics grade C/4. 

A levels

104 points from minimum of 2 A levels in any subject

18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma

DMM-DDM – science related subjects: IT, Humanities, Engineering, Software Development, IT Practitioners, Business, Computing, Science (GCSE English C/4 and Mathematics grade B/5. If you have a grade C/4 in mathematics please contact admissions team).
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses

Pass Access to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant subject (e.g. Computing, IT, Science, Humanities, Engineering) with at least 33 Level 3 credits at Merit and/or Distinction.

T level

Merit to Distinction depending on the Mathematics units studying within the T level pathways.

International Baccalaureate

26-30 overall

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
I104
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth

Other routes into this course

The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year

Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning computer science through an additional foundation year, gaining hands-on skills across a range of topics.

 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
 
UCAS course code
I104
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth

Other routes to this course

Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects. 
The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Our students have been highly successful in obtaining positions in top-class companies including well-known multinationals such as: IBM, Intel, HP and Microsoft; at national and government organisations and corporations such as BBC, Met Office, and Land Registry; and at local companies/organisations such as Delt Shared Services, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Marine Labs and University of Plymouth Technology Information Service (TIS) department.
 
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
 
Book your place
Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
 
 
 
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.