Overview

The programme blends theoretical foundations with applied knowledge to prepare professionals capable of navigating and responding to the complex and evolving nature of global and cyber threats.

By the end of the programme, depending on the selected courses, students will be able to:

• Develop a strategic understanding of cyber warfare and cybersecurity concepts, tools, and policies, enabling them to identify, assess, and respond to both state and non-state cyber threats.
• Apply telecommunications and information systems knowledge in security and defence contexts, focusing on the protection, resilience, and management of critical infrastructure.
• Conduct open-source intelligence (OSINT) gathering and analysis, transforming public domain data into actionable insights for security and defence applications.
• Critically evaluate asymmetric threats, including terrorism, hybrid warfare, and irregular tactics, and propose effective countermeasures within ethical and legal frameworks.
• Integrate ethical considerations and technoethics into the development and deployment of emerging technologies in military and defence settings.
• Utilize space-based technologies and satellite applications to enhance situational awareness, surveillance, and strategic decision-making in defence operations.
• Develop research capabilities through rigorous methodological training, enabling them to contribute to academic, technical, or policy-oriented discussions in the security and defence sector.
• Produce a substantive piece of independent research in the form of an MSc thesis, reflecting critical analysis, problem-solving skills, and the integration of core concepts covered throughout the programme.

This programme is tailored for individuals seeking careers in defence institutions, cybersecurity firms, intelligence agencies, think tanks, and international organisations focused on global security and digital threats.

Career

The Joint Master of Science Programme in Security and Defence is ideal for anyone seeking to advance their career in industries that require cyber security experts. This may include roles in network security, forensic, secure systems development, military intelligence, crime prevention, penetration testing (ethical hacking) and more.

As technology continues to advance, more professionals are needed in areas such as cyber security, creating a lot of potential opportunities. This programme is delivered by experts in the area and will equip students with the required knowledge and skills to excel in the cyber security industry, making this course ideal for professionals hoping to advance their existing careers or change careers into a profession within cyber security.

Accreditation

•  Accredited by The Cyprus Agency of Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Higher Education (CYQAA) - national authority.