MSc Digital Trust, Society and Security

The University of Manchester

United Kingdom, Manchester

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Home/United Kingdom/Manchester /The University of Manchester/MSc Digital Trust, Society and Security

The University of Manchester

United Kingdom , Manchester

Key Facts

Program Level

Master by Course Work

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Campuses

Main Site

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesJanuary-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 1 year(s)

Next Intake January-2026

MSc Digital Trust, Society and Security

About

Gain expertise in addressing digital society challenges, including digital trust, security threats, online harms, and digital inequalities.
Learn through interdisciplinary methods and innovative teaching, including technology-rich spaces, flipped classrooms, and expert guest speakers.
Equip yourself with skills for leadership roles in policy, government, private sector, and academia, with a comprehensive understanding of the digital environment.

Digital technologies are rapidly reshaping society, offering innovative opportunities for connection and efficiency, but also posing significant risks such as data exploitation, misinformation, and digital inequalities. The MSc Digital Trust, Society and Security introduces trust as a crucial factor in understanding and addressing these challenges.

Our programme combines theoretical perspectives on the digital society with practical responses to risks, drawing on expertise in criminology, computer science, and sociology. It leverages interdisciplinary knowledge from the Centre for Digital Trust and Society to provide a comprehensive understanding of digital transformation.

The course utilises innovative teaching methods, including technology-rich learning spaces, flipped classroom activities, and guest lectures from experts in academia, government, industry, and non-governmental organisations. By the programme's end, students will have developed a holistic understanding of the digital environment and acquired a range of academic, personal, and professional skills. These will prepare them for leadership roles across public, private, and third sectors in addressing the complex challenges of our digital age.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Typically, applicants should have a First or Upper Second class Bachelor's degree in Humanities or Social Sciences, with preference given to the latter. In rare cases, Engineering graduates with strong research skills may be considered. The programme welcomes students from various humanities backgrounds. When evaluating applications, we consider the degree subject, grades achieved, and the standing of the applicant's institution.

Full entry requirements

English Program Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should meet the following language requirements:

IELTS Academic test score of 7 overall, including 7 in writing and speaking with no further component score below 6.5

TOEFL IBT 100 with 25 in writing and speaking and no further score below 22 in each section. TOEFL code for Manchester is 0757

Pearson Test of English (PTE) score of 76 overall, with 76 in writing and speaking and no further score below 70

For students who require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, your test score is valid for 2 years preceding the course start date.

Pre-Sessional English Courses

We will consider applicants who do not meet these scores but you may be required to complete a pre-sessional English language course at the University of Manchester prior to the start of the course.

To be considered for a pre-sessional English language course for this programme we require the following minimum IELTS (Academic) scores:

6 Week Pre-Sessional Course : IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.5 in writing and no more than one sub-skill of 6.0.

10 Week Pre-sessional Course: IELTS 6.0 overall with 6.0 or above in each sub-skill

If you have not yet completed your current academic study and are interested in studying a pre-sessional course, you must hold an IELTS for UKVI (Academic) test certificate to ensure that you are eligible for a separate visa for the English language course.

Career

Career opportunities

As a graduate of the MSc Digital Trust, Society and Security, you'll be well-positioned to navigate the rapidly evolving labour market shaped by digital transformation. With traditional job profiles becoming obsolete and new fields emerging due to automation, artificial intelligence, and technological advancements, this degree will equip you with highly transferrable skills, analytical thinking, and knowledge crucial for success in the digital age. The unique combination of 'digital sociology' and 'cybersecurity' focus areas in your curriculum will prepare you for a diverse array of professional trajectories across private, public, and non-profit sectors.

Your career opportunities will be particularly promising in leadership roles across policy, government, digital business, and the third sector. The MSc's emphasis on both theoretical sociological topics and practical 'cybersecurity' areas will enable you to bridge the gap between technical expertise and social understanding, making you a valuable asset in roles that require a comprehensive grasp of digital trust, societal implications, and security concerns. As organisations across all sectors grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by digital transformation, you'll be well-equipped to take on roles that involve shaping policies, managing digital risks, and fostering trust in digital environments.