Cybersecurity is critically important in our digital age, safeguarding sensitive data, personal privacy, and financial assets, while also playing a pivotal role in preserving national security and business continuity.

Our esteemed MSc Computer Science for Cyber Security programme at Heriot-Watt University offers you an extraordinary opportunity to cultivate advanced specialised skills and expertise, empowering you to safeguard the digital landscape with confidence.

Situated in the capital city of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University boasts unrivalled proximity to Scotland's growing technology sector, a hub of digital innovation at the frontline of cyber security. Our MSc Computer Science for Cyber Security programme is thoughtfully structured to grant you access to a rich tapestry of advanced topics within computer science, all with a resolute focus on security. These encompass both theoretical and applied knowledge in software engineering, programming, parallel technology, machine learning, systems programming, cryptography, network security and information security.

Enhancements for Your Success

At Heriot-Watt University, we've revamped our Computer Science for Cyber Security programme to empower you with the most cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills required for a thriving career in the world of cyber security. Here's what sets us apart:

• Excellence in Rankings: We take pride in our ranking as the 6th best in Scotland for Computer Science, according to The Complete University Guide 2022. This recognition speaks to the quality of education you can expect at Heriot-Watt.
• Industry-Driven Employability: To ensure your success, we've actively collaborated with industry experts to understand precisely what employers are seeking in cyber security professionals. We've meticulously integrated these insights into our programme, giving you a competitive edge during job interviews and setting you up for success from day one.
• Mastery of Essential Tools: In today's competitive job market, proficiency in key software tools like Python, cybersecurity technologies, and network defence strategies is essential.
• Streamlined Synergy: Our revamped course structure promotes a greater synergy between different subject areas within cyber security. This holistic understanding will empower you to tackle complex security challenges with ease, enhancing your problem-solving capabilities.

The National Robotarium

Located on Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh campus, in partnership with The University of Edinburgh, the National Robotarium creates innovative solutions to global challenges, working directly with industry to test and develop robotic, AI and automated technologies and rapidly move pioneering research from lab to market.

The National Robotarium fosters the teaching and development of the next generation of roboticists, producing highly-skilled graduates who are trained to conduct world-leading research with a market focus, and developing programmes to equip the current and future workforce with robotics, data and programming skills.

English Language Requirements

If your first language is not English, we'll need to see evidence of your English language ability.

The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

If you do not have IELTS 6.0, we offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement for this programme prior to commencing your studies.

Please see our detailed English language requirements.