Master of Cyber Security
Studying for the Master of Cyber Security allows you to develop the skills you'll need to become a specialist in this area. There's an increasing international demand for trained cyber security professionals, and graduates of this programme help meet the New Zealand Government's Cyber Security Strategy. This masters degree is the first of its kind to be offered in New Zealand.
As you work towards your Master of Cyber Security (MCS), you'll develop a thorough understanding of the technical, legal, policy and management aspects of cyber security. You'll learn about cloud computing technologies and computer infrastructure, as well as the law relating to cyber security.
You'll gain skills relating to detecting security breaches, preventative security and offensive security. This includes computer system penetration testing. You'll learn how to think innovatively and develop the ability to apply your knowledge so you can work at an advanced level as a professional in cyber security.
When you study cyber security at Waikato, you'll have the opportunity to work with, and learn from award-winning cyber security experts. Our academics also have strong international connections with industry and government, such as the National Cyber Policy Office and INTERPOL.
Computing facilities at Waikato
The computing facilities at the University of Waikato are among the best in New Zealand. You'll have 24 hour access to computer labs running the latest industry standard software.
The University of Waikato is also home to New Zealand’s first cyber security lab, where the Cybersecurity Researchers of Waikato (CROW) operate from – the creators of the annual New Zealand Cyber Security Challenge.
Build a successful career
Demand for trained professionals in cyber security is increasing globally at 3.5 times the rate of the overall job market. Once you've completed your training in this area, you'll be qualified to do a number of different types of roles in an industry with a 'near zero' unemployment rate.
Our graduates are in high demand and most of our alumni work in the top public and private organisations in New Zealand and internationally – like Sjoerd de Feijter, who is now a Junior Software Engineer for multinational corporation Gallagher.
Key information
| Years: | 1.5 |
|---|---|
| Points: | 180 |
| Study Locations: | Hamilton |
| Start Dates: | Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July) |
| Estimated Fees* (Domestic): |
$7,416 - $9,039 per year
See if you're eligible for fees-free study in your first year |
| Estimated Fees* (International): | $39,000 (120 points) or $58,505 (180 points) |
| Entry Requirements: | Postgraduate International |
| Area of Study: | |
| *Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. | |
Degree Planner
Degree planner — Master of Cyber Security
Part 1
One of
COMPX527 or COMPX529
One of
COMPX513, COMPX514 or COMPX515
500 Level
Elective
500 Level
Elective
Part 2*
- Compulsory
- Elective
- Report
Career opportunities
- Chief Information Security Officer
- Entrepreneurs of new security products and service
- Penetration Testers/ Security Assessment Consultants
- IT Security Consultant
Entry requirements
Expand to read entry requirements
For admission into the MCS, students will need to have completed a relevant bachelor's degree or postgraduate diploma, normally in Computer Science or Computer Engineering. You will need an average of at least B in your 300 level or higher Computer Science papers.
International students will need to have an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall (with no less than 6.0 in any band). International students can email [email protected] for more information or help with the application process.
Scholarships and prizes
Selected scholarships for MCS students.
New to Waikato? The International Excellence Scholarship is worth up to $10,000.
Sir William Gallagher Cyber Security Scholarship Not currently accepting applications
This scholarship is for students intending to enrol in the dissertation or thesis part of a Master of Cyber Security by the end of A Trimester 2023. Candidates must have gained a 'B+' average for their most recent 120 points of study. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to gain industry experience through a research project at Gallagher.
Looking for more scholarships?
Qualifications links
Contacts
School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
Phone:
Email: [email protected]
Website: cms.a-loan-calculator.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WUcms
Have a chat with one of our friendly advisers to help you plan your degree.
Phone: +64 7 838 4610
Email: [email protected]