cyber security 1

Master of Cyber Security

Masters Degree MCS
cyber security 1

The Master of Cyber Security program prepares you to specialise in this field, meeting global demand and contributing to New Zealand's Cyber Security Strategy. It's the first of its kind in the country.

180 points, 1.5 years

Hamilton

Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

Why study the Master of Cyber Security?

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.

Career Opportunities

  • Cyber Security Analyst
  • Entrepreneurs of new security products and service
  • Penetration Testers/ Security Assessment Consultants
  • IT Security Consultant
  • Malware Analyst

180 points, 1.5 years

Hamilton

Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

Degree information

Plan your study Entry Requirements Fees and scholarships Graduate outcomes

Graduates will have:

  • An advanced understanding and knowledge of cyber security from the point of view of preventative security, detection of security breaches, and offensive security (such as computer system penetration testing)
  • An advanced understanding and knowledge of cloud computing technologies
  • An advanced understanding and knowledge of computer infrastructure
  • Immediately applicable theoretical and practical knowledge and skills
  • A capacity to think innovatively and be able to use research-led knowledge to understand and advance professional practice

Graduates will have had the opportunity to develop the ability to:

  • Design a well-structured, relevant and integrated plan of research
  • Carry out such research using appropriate methods of investigation and analysis
  • Carry out technical analysis and have report writing skills to an advanced level
  • Demonstrate a high standard of academic integrity and ethical awareness
  • Work both independently and as effective team members
  • Be intellectually flexible and adaptable
  • Demonstrate advanced analytical thinking skills and the skills needed for self-directed learning, including the ability to acquire, understand and assess information from a range of sources

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 in cyber security

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.

Scholarships and prizes

Sir William Gallagher Cyber Security Scholarship

Not currently accepting applications.

The Sir William Gallagher Cyber Security 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 2024. 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?

Visit our Scholarship Finder.

Contact us

International Enquiries

Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5pm

School of Computing & Mathematical Sciences

School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, The University of Waikato