Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
Duration
Minimum of two (2) academic years and a maximum of four (4) academic years, offered in four academic semesters over two years.
Mode of study
Online
Academic school
School of Science & TechnologyProgramme overview
The Master of Science in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics is a specialized programme designed to address the escalating demand for cybersecurity experts in Kenya and beyond. This programme offers a flexible learning pathway making it accessible to a diverse range of learners including working professionals and those with other responsibilities.
Expected outcomes
- Describe the methods used for securing computing systems.
- Conduct research on cybersecurity and digital forensics to study, interpret and solve societal problems.
- Evaluate security systems using digital forensic tools and techniques to acquire data on breached systems.
- Develop Cybersecurity policies and strategies for organizations.
Entry requirements
A candidate must satisfy the general University admission criteria for Masters Programmes:
- A Bachelors degree in a relevant area of study or an equivalent qualification recognised by Senate.
- A Bachelors degree with at least a Pass or an equivalent qualification recognized by Senate and a relevant Postgraduate Diploma from the Open University of Kenya or an institution recognized by Senate.
Programme structure
The programme is offered in 4 semesters over a minimum of two (2) academic years and a maximum of four (4) academic years. In the first semester, students focus on introductory topics in Cyber Security, completing all core courses. The second semester delves into intermediate concepts in Cyber Security, requiring students to complete all core courses. The third semester is dedicated to advanced Cyber Security concepts, with students expected to take all core courses. The final semester is exclusively devoted to a comprehensive project, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills to a significant research or practical problem in Cyber Security.
Assessment methods
The course will be assessed through content embedded quizzes, online practical work, open book tests, project reports and end of course online examination.
The projects will be assessed through e-portfolios, and students will present their work to an evaluation panel.
The complete assessment of a taught unit shall consist of coursework (assignments, laboratory practicals, and continuous assessment tests) and a compulsory written examination, with the contribution towards the unit aggregate being 50% for course work and 50% for written examination.
Each course unit is marked independently out of a maximum of 100 marks and the pass mark is 50%.
A written examination for a course unit has a minimum duration of two hours and a maximum of three hours.
Each taught course is assessed as follows: Online self-assessment (content quizzes) 10%; Test (Online Open-Book Examination) 20%; Project-Based Computer Programming Task 20%; Performance Assessment (End of Course Exam) 50%; Total 100%.
The thesis is examined in accordance with the University Graduate Studies Policy and Guidelines.
Grading system: A (75-100, Excellent), B (60-74, Very Good), C (50-59, Good), F (Below 50, Reattempt).
Global careers
Career Prospects
Graduates are well-equipped to pursue a variety of high-impact careers in both the public and private sectors including:
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Digital Forensics Investigator
- Network Security Engineer
- Cloud Security Specialist
- Penetration Tester
- Information Security Manager
- Cyber Threat Analyst
- Incident Response Specialist
- Cyber Security Consultant
Application hub
Typical duration
Delivery mode
Online
Accreditation info
Fully accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) and recognised globally for digital-first excellence.
School of Science & Technology
Related programmes
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Location
Nairobi, Kenya