Master of Cyber Security and Forensics | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Master of Cyber Security and Forensics

Technology is expanding into every aspect of people’s lives – which means cyber security is a growing priority for governments, businesses and individuals. Develop the skills and understanding needed to lead a dynamic global field.

In this program you will:

  • Understand the social environment technology operates within, be guided through digital investigator methods and frameworks, gain expertise in digital forensic examinations, and receive mentoring from experts and innovators in the field while conducting your own cyber research project
  • Learn to undertake cyber forensics on current and emerging technologies
  • Understand ethical and legal issues associated with cybersecurity and develop decision-making tools to assess, evaluate and analyse digital data
  • Advance your leadership and critical problem-solving skills

Program to be rolled out at UniSC Adelaide first year from Trimester 3, 2024; full program available from 2025.

Location

CRICOS code

109236H

Duration

2 years 2 years Full-time or equivalent part-time Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.
Full-time or equivalent part-time Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.

Indicative fees

Indicative 2025 fees (A$)

A$9,866 / A$23,598 - 2024 Fees CSP / Fee-paying
CSP / Fee-paying
A$28,000 Annual fee
Annual fee

Start

  • Trimester 1
  • Trimester 2
  • Trimester 1
  • Trimester 2
  • Trimester 3
  • Trimester 1
  • Trimester 2
  • Trimester 3

This location is only available to
International students

Apply now

Career opportunities

  • Digital forensic examiner
  • Information security officer
  • Network investigator
  • Network security administrator
  • Network security analyst

Accreditation

This program has Professional Accreditation with the Australian Computer Society.

Start
  • Trimester 1
  • Trimester 2
  • Trimester 1
  • Trimester 2
  • Trimester 3
  • Trimester 1
  • Trimester 2
  • Trimester 3
Delivery mode
  • Blended Learning
  • Online
Total courses
14
Total units
192
Duration
2 years 2 years
CRICOS code
109236H
UniSC program code
SC705
Program structure
Required courses (14) 192 units

SEC601 Introduction to Cybersecurity
SEC602 Ethics in Digital Investigation and Cyber Security
SEC603 Introduction to Device & Network Security
SEC604 Cryptography, Blockchain and Security
BUS703 Evidenced Based Decision Making
ICT701 Managing Data
ICT703 Programming
PRM701 Project Management Principles
SEC701 Cyber Laws and the Rules of Evidence
SEC705 Digital Forensics 1
SEC706 Network Forensics
SEC707 Digital Forensics 2: Advanced concepts in Digital Forensics
SCI700 Research/Industry Dissertation 1(24 units)
SCI701 Research/Industry Dissertation 2(24 units)

Note: Program structures are subject to change. Not all UniSC courses are available on every UniSC campus.

Study sequences

This study sequence reflects the current program structure. Continuing students must follow their commencing structure, which can be found in the previous student handbooks.

To be considered for admission candidates would normally be required to possess an undergraduate degree from a recognised higher education institution with a technology-related course work component or equivalent.

Please note that offshore international students enrolling in this program can only study it fully online. Onshore international students on a Student Visa must study on campus.

Technology requirements

Students must also meet the computing requirements for cyber security programs.

English language requirements

You will also need to meet the English language requirements for this program. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, you may be able to enrol in our English Language Programs to reach the required level for most of UniSC’s programs (exceptions apply to non-standard English requirement programs).

Special selection criteria

Prior to any potential industry placement, a finger print national Criminal History Check may be required from students. Please contact the Program Coordinator prior to commencement for more information.

Program requirements
  • Successfully complete 192 units as outlined in the program structure.
Inherent academic requirements

Prospective students must consider the Inherent Academic Requirements before applying to study this program.

Refer to Cyber Programs - Inherent Academic Requirements

UniSC strongly supports the rights of all people to pursue studies. The University embraces diversity and endeavours to accommodate all students.

What are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs)?

The IARs of a program are those fundamental skills, capabilities and knowledge that students must be able to demonstrate in order to achieve the essential learning outcomes of the program, while maintaining the academic integrity of that program.

Students with a disability or chronic health condition may be able to have reasonable adjustments made to enable them to meet these requirements.

UniSC is committed to making reasonable adjustments to teaching and learning, assessment, placement and other activities to enable students to participate in their program.

Reasonable adjustments must not fundamentally change the nature of the IAR.

Consideration is given to a student's cultural and religious background/beliefs, which may impact on participation in their program or course. For further information contact Student Support.

Why are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs) important?

IARs ensure the academic integrity of a program is maintained and preserves the University's learning, assessment and accreditation processes. They must be met by all students.

How does this affect you?

To successfully complete a program at UniSC, you need to be able to meet all the Inherent Academic Requirements.

If you are applying for a program, you should read the IAR statement carefully to ensure you are able to meet them.

If you have a disability or chronic health condition, contact a UniSC Disability Advisor to talk about the adjustments that may be put in place so you can meet the requirements.

CSP estimate
A$9,866
Fee-paying estimate
A$23,598 - 2024 Fees
Annual tuition fee (A$, 2025)
A$28,000

Commonwealth supported places

Commonwealth supported places are substantially subsidised by the Australian Government so that students only pay 'student contribution" amounts. The student contribution amount will vary depending on the course you are studying and how much funding the Government provides.

If you accept a Commonwealth supported place you are a Commonwealth supported student. As a Commonwealth supported student you must make a contribution towards the cost of your education (unless you are enrolled in Enabling or Tertiary Preparation Pathway courses) with the majority of the cost met by the Commonwealth Government.

Commonwealth supported places are only available to domestic students. As a domestic student you are entitled to a Commonwealth supported place in an eligible program if you:

  • meet the citizenship and residency requirements
  • complete an electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form (eCAF)
  • meet the University's entry requirements for your chosen program.

International fee-paying places

Annual tuition fees are based on 2025 rates and the equivalent full-time student load as per the recommended study sequence in the relevant program.

Actual fees payable are based on the actual enrolment load in a teaching period (excluding Study Abroad and Postgraduate Qualifying Pathway).

All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars (A$).

Domestic applicants apply for admission direct to UniSC.

Find out about how to apply and key application closing dates.

No matter what kind of future you’re looking for, you can find it at UniSC. Our programs offer the choice and flexibility you need to get started on any career goal.

Visit How to apply for simple steps to submit your international student application and start your UniSC experience today.

Need help with submitting your application?

UniSC has appointed representatives to assist you with submitting your application and provide information about the steps you need to complete to begin your studies. You can contact a UniSC Representative in your area.

Any questions? Contact us.

Taught by industry experts
Flexible learning options
Become a leader in cyber security

Student story

“Accessing and analysing relevant data can be complex and time consuming, but the skills taught at UniSC have enabled me to rapidly sort complex data and access both encrypted and deleted data.”

Ash Harrison Graduate
Need advice on what to study or how to apply? 
Our Student Central team can help.

Call us +61 7 5430 2890
Email us information@usc.edu.au
For locations and opening hours, visit Student Central.

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