Postgraduate Diploma in Cybersecurity
Course Overview
Managing and maintaining network and information security is an essential aspect for the development of the global economy and is crucial to the success of all companies, particularly in the current climate.
Managing and maintaining network security poses a huge challenge for businesses today and is forcing them to look for next-generation security solutions to contain cyber threats, with the result that there has been a 40% increase in cybersecurity vacancies over the past two years. Security is perceived as one of the key challenges of mobility, with a higher number of devices and connected endpoints increasing organisations' exposure to cyber threats.
This Postgraduate Diploma prepares students with computing backgrounds for employment in the IT industry with a specific focus on addressing these networking and information security challenges.
Why Study Cybersecurity at Griffith College?
Designed specifically to address a growing need in the industry, the Postgraduate Diploma in Cybersecurity at Griffith College is a fully-funded* one-year programme, delivered part-time over three semesters, which aims to enable students to develop robust and efficient network security plans, strategies and solutions. During the course, you will:
- All classes are available online with the opportunity of some face-to-face weekend workshops (pending social distancing restrictions).
- Obtain specialist knowledge and skills essential for a career in network security.
- Establish an analytical mindset necessary for independent academic and professional research.
- Gain a practical understanding of how to identify industrial requirements of computer network security and analyse security risks.
- Develop a team player attitude necessary to communicate problems, ideas and solutions to all levels of the industrial team.
- Build upon your knowledge of supporting topics in the area of network and information security.
- Delivered from Limerick but available to applicants nationwide.
Intake Dates
Course Details
Course Modules
This module serves to significantly deepen the learner's research skills, both in relation to the module related assignments and later in the completion of a dissertation/dissertation by practice. Specifically, it extends the ability of self- directed learners by equipping them with the appropriate vocabulary for reflecting on, critiquing and evaluating their own work and that of others. Throughout the module, learners are required to engage in a number of research methodologies and current research issues and trends in computing science. The module also addresses the need for good project management skills and techniques for the successful delivery of any project.
This module aims to provide the learner with a mastery of the core aspects of computer communication security. This module gives the learner a mastery of security models, policies and mechanisms, encryption and decryption, confidentiality, integrity, authentication, cryptography and secure communication, digital signatures, certificates and coding. The learner will gain in depth knowledge of the classical techniques as well as state of the art approaches of cryptography.
This module aims to give the learner an understanding of the issues relating to the management of information security in modern industry. It explores the roles, policies and procedure applied in information security. The module further explores the specific role that software systems play in the threat against information security.
This module introduces the learner to the concepts of computer forensics. They encounter various techniques used in digital forensic investigations and the tools required for these investigations. Learners also gain an exposure to the practical digital evidence gathering process. Current trends in Computer Forensics, such as network and cloud forensics are introduced through the use of academic papers.
This module develops a thorough understanding of modern data communications networks, from core principles and technologies to the design and implementation of network architectures. Learners engage in hands-on and simulated activities, assess network performance, and explore emerging trends and innovations. The module also covers common security vulnerabilities and protective measures, including firewalls, anti-malware tools, and other defensive technologies.
This module provides an in-depth understanding of IT infrastructure, its role in data transfer, and key protection mechanisms. With a practical focus on ethical hacking and penetration testing, learners explore tools, techniques, and methodologies to identify vulnerabilities and safeguard systems, gaining hands-on experience in securing modern IT environments.
This module examines secure software development through real-world case studies of exploited software, highlighting its role within a defence-in-depth security model. Learners explore vulnerability detection methods, reporting standards, and ethical disclosure practices, and apply secure design patterns to mitigate risks, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to defend against malware threats.
This module focuses on malware analysis, teaching learners to identify, analyse, and defend against malware threats. Topics include malware types, infection mechanisms, and analysis techniques such as static, dynamic, and black-box methods. Learners gain practical experience through hands-on projects and reverse engineering exercises, using industry-standard tools to develop real-world malware defence skills.
Course Contacts
- Limerick
Timetables
Timetables to be confirmed
How to Apply
Entry Requirements
Candidates applying for this course should have a 2.2 Level 8 Honours degree or above in Computing Science, or a 2.2 Higher Diploma in Computing or related discipline or international equivalent and/or relevant work experience.
English Language
Griffith College is accepting the online Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency. For more information, please visit here.
Non-EU/Non-EEA applicants please note:
These Irish Government-funded programmes are only available to Non-EU/Non-EEA applicants who are currently resident in Ireland with an Immigration Stamp 4/Stamp 4 EU FAM, who have been living in Ireland with a valid Stamp 4/Stamp 4 EU FAM for 3 out of the last 5 years. The period of residency for holders of Stamp 4/Stamp 4 EU FAM is calculated from the date of receipt of the Stamp 4/Stamp 4 EU FAM.
How to Apply
To apply for the MSc in Network and Information Security please submit an online application.
A member of our admissions team will then be in contact with you to request to following documents:
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A copy of your undergraduate degree transcripts
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A copy of your passport or driving licence
Fees
Please note that not all study modes may be offered at all times. For confirmation, refer to the intake dates in the Overview tab.
Tuition Fees
Study Mode: Full-Time & Part Time
Dublin
EUR 6,550.00
An Academic Administration Fee of EUR250.00 and a 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below. The fees below relate to Year 1 fees only.