Study with Us

Applications are now closed for entry September 2020. We will reopen our application portal from November 2020 for entry September 2021.

The programme will provide students with core skills and knowledge at the forefront of computing (systems security, cryptography, software security, network security), crime science (cybercrime) and policy (information security management, public policy).

It has long been recognised that cybersecurity is a ‘wicked problem’ – one that spills across disciplines, jurisdictions, and borders of all kinds. Our approach to multidisciplinary training will ensure that doctoral students achieve deep domain-specific expertise, while being trained in other areas.

We believe that by working side by side with students from other disciplines, PhD candidates in our CDT will emerge as individuals who can identify problems that can be resolved using a range of tools and methods, as well as being confident in their ability to work effectively with experts from across the socio-technical divide.

Joint taught modules, skills activities, and joint research projects involving multidisciplinary teams cements their ability to work effectively in such setting. This approach ensures we develop multidisciplinary experts, rather than generalists.

The CDT will provide a 4-year programme of training in cutting-edge disciplinary skills in computing, social sciences and humanities, as well as transferable skills relating to cross sector and cross disciplinary communication, teamwork, public dissemination and professional practice.

This is achieved through a combination of structured compulsory and elective taught modules and training activities, as well as an `apprenticeship’ model involving hands-on personal and team-based research under the supervision of a lead in the field of cybersecurity.

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Year 1

Students will complete a portfolio of training elements, which are a requirement of funding under the CDT.  In Year 1, students will audit five taught modules to develop their expertise in information security management, cybersecurity, and cybercrime, and will provide them with a solid grounding in research methods.  

This will equip them with the skills and perspectives to solve complex cybersecurity challenges. They will be assessed through the completion of a six-month research project and an integrated assessment that draws on the material delivered across the taught modules.

Years 2 and 3

Taught disciplinary and multi-disciplinary training will continue in years two and three, with students attending further elective modules. Throughout the programme, shorter training sessions and activities will be used to develop transferable skills, as well as broadening student exposure to world-class research practices, knowledge and skills in cybersecurity.  

Year 4

Year 4, students will receive training on grant writing and/or entrepreneurship but will largely focus on completing their thesis.  Training on issues such as responsible research and innovation, writing up scientific research and the peer-review process, will provided throughout the programme.