Why Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security)?
In the vast expanse of cyberspace, hidden dangers lurk – waiting to infiltrate company networks, steal sensitive data and disrupt operations. As threats become more common, the need for cybersecurity experts intensifies.
By 2030, Australia aims to lead the world in cybersecurity – a sector booming on a global scale (Australia’s Cybersecurity Strategy, 2023).
Our Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security) provides advanced knowledge in cybersecurity governance, risk and compliance (GRC). Master the technical and non-technical skills required by large firms and businesses. Implement a range of technology-based cybersecurity practices to defend against threats and attacks.
As job opportunities soar, your in-demand skills will ensure you’re ready to make an impact in the evolving tech landscape.
Overview
The Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security) builds fundamental IT and cybersecurity knowledge. Learn technical proficiencies to implement cybersecurity defences in evolving threats and attacks.
Engage in courses that will enhance your understanding of governance, risk management and compliance – as well as business practices, network security and cybercriminal behaviour. Develop the knowledge needed as a cybersecurity specialist to be adaptable and flexible in a variety of situations. You’ll put these skills into practice in purpose-built computer labs and engage with industry experts in a real-world project – gaining further insight into the types of technologies changing our world.
Studying a degree in cybersecurity opens opportunities in a range of sectors including defence, corporate and not-for-profits. You’ll graduate prepared to advise on the latest digital practices and protect companies from internal and external data breaches.
Key features
Acquire the skills to protect organisations from cyber threats.- Develop advanced knowledge in global cybersecurity practices.
- Build skills through real-world projects.
- Common first four courses in all Master of IT degrees provide flexibility to change specialisations.
- Gain practical skills in specialist computer labs.
What you'll learn
The Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security) starts with foundational IT practices before developing knowledge in governance, risk management and compliance (GRC), business practices, network security, and Australian Cyber Law.
Tackle advanced topics in security architecture engineering and cloud security. Develop practical skills with an internship, giving you an evidence-based approach to a real-world issue affecting one of Adelaide University’s industry partners.
This degree offers flexible hybrid delivery, which includes a mix of on-campus and online study. Put your new cybersecurity proficiency into practice with access to our on-campus networking and cybersecurity laboratories – also available to online students. This way, you can test out your newly acquired skills against fictional threats before you encounter them in the real world.
Specialisations
The Master of Information Technology is also available with specialisations in:
- Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Computing and Innovation
- Enterprise Management.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 78 units for all Core courses, and
- 18 units for all Work integrated learning
Complete 78 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Information Technology and Systems Concepts
|
Course code
COMP5031
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Security Principles
|
Course code
INFO5001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data in Information Technology Systems
|
Course code
COMP5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Problem Solving and Programming Foundations
|
Course code
COMP5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Computer Networking
|
Course code
COMP6022
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cyber Law, Ethics and Professional Practice in Cyber
|
Course code
INFO5007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Factors and Cyber Criminal Behaviour
|
Course code
INFO6001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Enterprise Security
|
Course code
INFO6002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Security Architecture and Engineering
|
Course code
INFO6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cloud Security
|
Course code
INFO6004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Critical Infrastructure and Control System Security
|
Course code
INFO6005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Security Operations and Risk Management
|
Course code
INFO6021
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Project Management for IT Professionals
|
Course code
PROJ5001
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Information Technology and Systems Concepts
|
Course code
COMP5031
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Security Principles
|
Course code
INFO5001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Data in Information Technology Systems
|
Course code
COMP5003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Problem Solving and Programming Foundations
|
Course code
COMP5002
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Project Management for IT Professionals
|
Course code
PROJ5001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Cyber Law, Ethics and Professional Practice in Cyber
|
Course code
INFO5007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Networking
|
Course code
COMP6022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Industry Research Project
|
Course code
COMP5800
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Human Factors and Cyber Criminal Behaviour
|
Course code
INFO6001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Cloud Security
|
Course code
INFO6004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Security Architecture and Engineering
|
Course code
INFO6003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Security Operations and Risk Management
|
Course code
INFO6021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Enterprise Security
|
Course code
INFO6002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Critical Infrastructure and Control System Security
|
Course code
INFO6005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 1
|
Course code
COMP6024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 2
|
Course code
COMP6000
|
Units
6
|
Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Industry Research Project
|
Course code
COMP5800
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 1
|
Course code
COMP6024
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 2
|
Course code
COMP6000
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Information Technology and Systems Concepts
|
Course code
COMP5031
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Security Principles
|
Course code
INFO5001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Data in Information Technology Systems
|
Course code
COMP5003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Problem Solving and Programming Foundations
|
Course code
COMP5002
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Project Management for IT Professionals
|
Course code
PROJ5001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Cyber Law, Ethics and Professional Practice in Cyber
|
Course code
INFO5007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Networking
|
Course code
COMP6022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Industry Research Project
|
Course code
COMP5800
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Human Factors and Cyber Criminal Behaviour
|
Course code
INFO6001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Cloud Security
|
Course code
INFO6004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Security Architecture and Engineering
|
Course code
INFO6003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Security Operations and Risk Management
|
Course code
INFO6021
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Enterprise Security
|
Course code
INFO6002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Critical Infrastructure and Control System Security
|
Course code
INFO6005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 1
|
Course code
COMP6024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
ICT Master Capstone Project 2
|
Course code
COMP6000
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
In Australia there is an IT skills shortage, with demand for quality cybersecurity specialists extending to non-traditional technology companies like banks, healthcare, and supermarkets.
You may find yourself as the primary security contact, building frameworks for government agencies to protect against foreign threats and attacks. You might help large retail firms implement strategies to prevent the stealing of personal customer data. Or you could become an ‘ethical hacker’, hired to test system weaknesses and find vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do.
With your professional qualification, you may find work as a:
- Cybersecurity analyst
- Cybersecurity consultant
- IT auditor
- Governance, risk and compliance analyst.
As your career advances, you could find yourself taking on a role as a:
- Senior cybersecurity analyst
- Cybersecurity manager
- Chief security officer
- Chief information officer.
You’ll be able to complete majority of first year common courses at either our Adelaide City or Mawson Lakes Campus with some potential cross-campus study required. Throughout your degree, you’ll gain access to cutting-edge facilities across both campus locations to enhance your overall learning experience.
Industry trends
Average salaries in the tech sector have remained high and strong over recent years. The average salary for an ICT professional is approximately $132,000 (p.a.) (Tech Council, 2023).
Accreditation
This program is provisionally accredited at the level of Cyber Security Professional by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). Graduates are eligible for membership with the ACS and are recognised internationally through the Seoul Accord.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
