The university was the first in the world to offer courses in both computer games and ethical hacking.
Abertay University’s postgraduate course in ethical hacking has been awarded full certification by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
The MSc Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity course helps students develop the necessary skills to combat computer hackers and covers a broad range of subjects, including digital forensics, penetration testing and malware analysis.
Teaching staff on the MSc programme are at the forefront of new developments, allowing the programme to evolve to cover the latest techniques and guidelines.
Abertay University revealed the certification was awarded following an NCSC-convened assessment panel, which included experts from both the public and private sectors, as well as independent academics.
Commenting on the announcement, Dr Natalie Coull, head of Abertay’s Division of Cybersecurity, said: “I am delighted that this degree has gained full NCSC certification.
“With the current pandemic forcing more people than ever to work from home and the subsequent security concerns, the need to fill the UK’s skills gap in the cybersecurity sector has never been greater.”
Coull added: “Abertay is the only University in the UK to offer a Master’s programme in ethical hacking, teaching students relevant skills to equip them for a career in an industry which is actively searching for fresh talent.”
Based in Dundee, Abertay was the first in the world to offer degrees in computer games and in ethical hacking. Graduates from the Ethical Hacking course have gone on to work for a host of major organisations, such as GCHQ, NCR, Goldman-Sachs and Dell Secure Works.
Every year, the student-led Abertay Ethical Hacking Society organises Securi-Tay, one of Scotland’s largest cyber conferences.
Chris Ensor, NCSC’s Deputy Director for Cyber Growth, said the certification will help maintain a steady flow of cybersecurity talent from the university.
He said: “I am delighted that Abertay University has had its Master’s course in Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity fully certified by the NCSC. It demonstrates our shared commitment to responsibly developing the cybersecurity talent pipeline.”
Ensor added: “Offering an NCSC-certified degree helps prospective students make better-informed choices about the quality of courses available and employers can rest assured that graduates will be well-taught and have valued industry skills.”
Source: DIGIT