Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Cybercrime, Terrorism and Security
This MSc programme examines major global threats and how technology reshapes crime and societal responses. Develop deep expertise in cybercrime, terrorism theory, strategy, tactics and professional security management.About
MSc Cybercrime, Terrorism and Security offers a dynamic and forward‑looking exploration of serious and emerging threats, examining how security organisations adapt and respond in an increasingly complex world. Through teaching delivered by leading experts in cybercrime, terrorism and security from both academic and professional sectors, you’ll gain deep insight into contemporary challenges and the strategies used to address them. Guest speakers from diverse industries enrich the learning experience, while access to a modern digital learning centre supports your development.
The programme strengthens your understanding of the commercial security landscape and equips you with the knowledge and skills needed for careers across the security field.
Expert-led learning
Teaching is delivered by leading cybercrime, terrorism and security specialists – giving you access to cutting‑edge knowledge and real‑world insight.
Immersive professional exposure
Regular engagement with guest speakers from diverse sectors strengthens practical understanding and builds valuable industry connections.
Career‑focused development with professional recognition
The programme develops commercial security expertise and contributes membership points toward the UK’s Security Institute, supporting professional progression.
Details
Year 1
You will study the risks faced by the professional security sector and how it is responding. Examine a range of topics including online environments and how digital infrastructure is exposed to, and protected against, attacks such as phishing, malicious software and distributed denial of service (DDOS). Gain an advanced understanding of terrorism theory as well as terrorist strategy and tactics. Study the overlapping threat posed by both cybercrime and terrorism to the commercial sector, and the role of the professional security manager and security function in combatting these and other business threats. You also study research methods to guide you through writing a dissertation
You will graduate with a critical understanding of cybercrime, terrorism and security, analysing threats and responses, and developing and conducting research.
Core modules
CTS700
MSc Cybercrime, Terrorism and Security Dissertation
60 credits
The dissertation module provides the opportunity for students to undertake a supervised, self-directed, research project of around 15,000 words on a subject related to cybercrime, terrorism, and/or security. The module also provides instruction and guidance in research methods and individual and group tutorials.
100% Coursework
CTS701
Security Management and Organisations
30 credits
This module examines the profession and practice of security management. The module provides a critical examination of the cross disciplinary theories, policies, procedures, and practices defining and informing the role of security management. It also examines the architecture of the security function within organisations and the contribution of the security function to commercial practice. The Module forms part of the Cert, Dip and MSc in Cybercrime, Terrorism and Security.
100% Coursework
CTS702
Terrorism and Counter Terrorism
30 credits
This module will critically examine a range of concepts and issues relating to global terrorism. Students will learn to identify, interpret, and analyse a range of problems relating to terrorism and counter terrorism. The module examines the threat of terrorism and political violence at group and state levels and looks at their threat to national and international stability. The challenges, approaches, and techniques of counter terrorism are also examined. The Module forms part of the Cert, Dip and MSc in Cybercrime, Terrorism and Security.
100% Coursework
CTS703
Cybercrime and Cybersecurity
30 credits
This module provides an examination of debates and issues relating to cybercrime and cybersecurity. Students will study cybercrime and cybersecurity from a national, policing, private security, and individual perspective. Students will identify, interpret, and analyse a range of cyber related issues and problems and examine their impact. The module considers the ethics of cybercrime and the use of legislation to control it, as well as the techniques employed by cybersecurity agencies to counter, mitigate and investigate attacks. The Module forms part of the Cert, Dip and MSc in Cybercrime, Terrorism and Security.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
CTS705
Security Risk and Resilience
30 credits
This module focuses upon three related ‘security projects’, namely urban security, counter-terrorism, and emergency management. It explores how the concepts of risk and resilience animate policy and practice in each of these areas, and considers their implications both in terms of effectiveness and wider socio-political impace.
100% Coursework
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Careers, industry and research
Exciting career prospects
Graduates of MSc Cybercrime, Terrorism and Security progress into a wide range of roles across the security sector. The programme equips you with the analytical, strategic and digital skills needed to thrive in an evolving threat landscape.
With recognition from the , the programme also supports your professional development and credibility within the wider security community.
Career paths include:
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]Security management
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]Policing and law enforcement
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]Intelligence and investigative services
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]Government and public sector security
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]Armed forces positions
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]Border Force and immigration security
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]Commercial security and risk consultancy
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]Research and academia
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Plymouth's security degree provides a really strong foundation for those looking for a career in the industry.
Ram Herkanaidu, Kaspersky Lab’s UK Education Manager
Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching
As well as accessing our standard
computing laboratories , you’ll be able to make extensive use of a 42-seat dedicated security and digital forensics laboratory, purpose-built to represent a range of network topologies and monitoring conditions.
Practical activities and tools used include: WebGoat, secure coding, analysis of honeynet challenges, Scapy, Nmap, Metasploit, Snort, and FTK.
Crime Suite
Learn through real‑world cyber investigations
On the programme, you’ll tackle scenarios inspired by genuine digital‑crime cases, allowing you to build practical skills in a controlled, supportive environment. Our state‑of‑the‑art Crime Suite, with its digital forensics tools and secure simulation environment, provide an immersive experience where you can investigate breaches, analyse digital evidence and understand offender behaviour.
Research-informed teaching
Learn from researchers and lecturers who are developing applications
Benefit from our industry expertise and study a course that is influenced by our innovative research.
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.
Learn from experts
Mr Ken Livingstone
Associate Head of School for Criminology, Sociology and Anthropology
Dr Fotios Moustakis
Associate Professor of Strategic Studies (Education)
Dr Kimberly Tam
Associate Professor in Cybersecurity
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the sa¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½ is about more than just getting a qualification — it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options — including part-time and January start dates — you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Your Plymouth community
At the sa¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½, you get the same access to support, sports, and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer — get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here.
Your societies
The is the perfect place for postgraduate students to explore, innovate, and connect. Join collaborative coding sessions to enhance your skills, learn from industry guest speakers, and build valuable connections with peers, alumni, and tech professionals — all opening doors to career opportunities and collaborations.
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Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£10,600 per year
£10,600 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£590 per 10 credits
£590 per 10 credits
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 .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£18,700 per year
£18,700 per year
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 .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for sa¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½ graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
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.
Apply
Entry requirements
A good honours degree (first or second class) or equivalent. Other qualifications accompanied by substantial experience in an appropriate field may also be considered.
Non-standard applications are considered on a case-by-case basis.
International students: IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
7548
7548
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Bsa¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½ entry requirements for your country
5
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the sa¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½ or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
7548
7548
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
International students
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
register your interest in studying with us in 2026.
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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