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Cybersecurity Risk Management (MSc)
Course Overview
Cybersecurity has become one of the world's most pressing challenges. It impacts societies, national security, critical infrastructure and the global economy. This overwhelming digital threat has ensured that cybersecurity skills are some of the world’s most in-demand.
The MSc Cybersecurity Risk Management focuses on the strategic deployment and implementation of cybersecurity within an organisation. Its aim is to develop strategic thinkers who can understand cyberthreats, manage resources, design solutions, and effectively communicate these to senior decision makers to support business continuity.
This MSc has been designed for those seeking a career in cybersecurity in a consultancy, strategic, business or management context. You will develop a clear understanding of the cyber threat landscape and how a cyber-incident may evolve. You will cover the key skills required to defend and protect organisational information infrastructures from threats and attacks, and how to manage and limit the impact an attack can have on a business.
As a graduate of the MSc Cybersecurity Risk Management you will be able to:
- Analyse the cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities and risks faced by an organisation
- Assess the cybersecurity posture of an organisation and recommend and implement appropriate solutions
- Test, monitor and continually improve the effectiveness of an organisation’s cybersecurity defence mechanisms
- Formulate business continuity and disaster recovery plans for an organisation
- Formulate cybersecurity and data protection policies and procedures for an organisation
- Communicate effectively to employees, managers and the general public about cybersecurity risks
Cyber Ireland’s report “Cyber Security Skills Report 2021: National Survey” concluded that:
- Cybersecurity teams are understaffed and there is evidence of very significant skills shortages
- 48% of the respondent organisations have unfilled cybersecurity roles
- 19% of organisations indicated that it takes 6 months or more to fill a cybersecurity role, often having to recruit staff from overseas because of a lack of suitably qualified persons in Ireland
- Despite the introduction of a number of new cybersecurity courses in Ireland since 2020, there remains a very significant shortage of graduates and a high demand for such skills
Applications and Selections
Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System.
Who Teaches this Course
Requirements and Assessment
Semester One exams: December. Semester Two exams: May.
A range of assessment methods are integrated and assessed throughout the programme. These include but are not limited to Flipped learning, simulations and case studies, E-learning materials and virtual machine laboratory exercises, Written and MCQ tests and collaborative activities.
Key Facts
Entry Requirements
Normally a H2.1 degree (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent). However, candidates with a H2.2 honours degree and who have a minimum of 2 years relevant work experience will also be considered.. IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, if applicable. It is expected that successful applicants will come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. Prior exposure to information technology is a requirement. The personal statement made on application is important to express your conviction that the programme is right for you and to explain how it fits into your career plans.
Additional Requirements
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Applicants who do not have the required academic qualifications for entry purposes, but have relevant work experience in cybersecurity or business risk management, may also be entitled to apply under the University’s Recognition of Prior Learning Policy. Further information is available on the University’s Recognition of Prior Learning website.
Duration
Full-time (1 year) and part-time (2 years)*
*Part-time version of this course is under review
Next start date
September 2024
A Level Grades ()
Average intake
30
QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes
Closing Date
Please view the offer rounds website.
NFQ level
Mode of study
ECTS weighting
90
Award
CAO
Course code
MSC-CSRM
Course Outline
Click here for detailed Modules List
Course Structure
Semester 1: Core modules
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MS5125 |
Cybersecurity Risk Management |
10 ECTS* |
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MS807 |
Information Systems Management |
5 ECTS |
|
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MS5107 |
Business Modelling & Analytics |
5 ECTS |
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Semester 1 electives: Choose two
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MS806 |
Business Applications Programming |
5 ECTS |
|
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MS805 |
Database Systems |
5 ECTS |
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LW383 |
Information Technology Law |
5 ECTS |
May move to Sem 2 |
|
MG557 |
Strategic Management |
5 ECTS |
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MS804 |
Systems Development & Project Management |
5 ECTS |
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Semester 2: Core modules
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MS5119 |
Ethical Hacking |
10 ECTS** |
|
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MS5118 |
Cloud Computing |
5 ECTS |
|
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MS5126 |
Philosophy of Information & Information Ethics |
5 ECTS |
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MS5124 |
Seminars in Cybersecurity |
5ECTS |
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Semester 2 electives: Choose one
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MS5114 |
Advanced Programming for Business Analytics |
5 ECTS
|
|
|
MS803 |
Business Data Communications |
5 ECTS |
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MS5129 |
Storytelling Through Data Visualisation |
5ECTS |
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Summer School: Core module
MS5127 Major Cybersecurity Project 30 ECTS
* This module is aligned with the curriculum of the internationally recognised CompTIA Security+ professional qualification.
** This module is aligned with the curriculum of the internationally recognised EC-Council “Certified Ethical Hacker” (CEH) professional qualification.
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme can find employment in the following roles:
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Information Security Analyst
- Cybersecurity Trainer
- Information Security Compliance and Risk Officer
- Data Protection Officer
- Systems Architect
- Systems Administrator
- Ethical Hacker / Penetration Tester / Vulnerability Assessor
- Technology Risk Auditor / IT Auditor
- IT Security Project Manager
- Helpdesk Manager
- Business Applications Developer
- Software Development/DevOps
Cybersecurity risk management is very challenging, requiring both technical insight into the security of digital systems and devices and also the management of people who interact with them. This programme will prepare you to manage cybersecurity within an organisation, from influencing the risk appetite of the board to managing incident response strategies during a cyber attack.
This MSc has been designed for those seeking a career in cybersecurity in a consultancy, strategic, business or management context. You will develop a clear understanding of the cyber threat landscape and how a cyber-incident may evolve. You will cover the key skills required to defend and protect organisational information infrastructures from threats and attacks, and how to manage and limit the impact an attack can have on a business.
Who’s Suited to This Course
Learning Outcomes
Transferable Skills Employers Value
Work Placement
Study Abroad
Related Student Organisations
Course Fees
Fees: EU
€10,290 p.a. 2023/24
Fees: Tuition
€10,150 p.a. 2023/24
Fees: Student levy
€140 p.a.2023/24
Fees: Non EU
€18,590 p.a. 2023/24
Find out More
Programme Director
Professor Tom Acton
E: tom.acton@universityofgalway.ie
Programme Administrator
Ms. Melissa O'Hea
E: bis@universityofgalway.ie
Quick Links
Bibin Babuji | MSc Cybersecurity Risk Management Scolarship Recipient
I was thrilled to be selected for the Business Postgraduate Merit Scholarship at the University of Galway. The Cybersecurity Risk Management program perfectly aligns with my interests in data security and the business aspects of cybersecurity. The university's reputation as one of the best in the world and Ireland's booming IT industry made it an easy choice for me. The application process was straightforward, with the admission office providing excellent support and clarifying any doubts promptly. The scholarship selection was automatic based on academic achievements, reducing my financial burden significantly. I feel honoured and motivated by the university's recognition of my potential and I'm excited to pursue my dream with confidence and contribute to the field of cybersecurity. The program will equip me with the necessary skills to succeed in the industry, and Ireland's thriving IT sector offers ample opportunities for growth. I'm grateful for this opportunity and excited for my studies at the University of Galway.
What Employers Say
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Regional Skills West | Partnerships for Skills
The West Regional Skills Forum (WRSF) has directly engaged in skills need analysis/development work in the area of Cybersecurity. It had a Cybersecurity Skills Working Group, driven by leading companies in the field throughout 2019 and has identified Cybersecurity as a priority skills need by companies in the region. In addition, at a Remote West Works event hosted by Regional Skills West in February 2021, 9% of approximately 100 participating business representatives indicated they had further skills needs in cybersecurity. Skills shortages have been identified in among others, ICT, Banking & Finance, Public Sector, Healthcare, Retail, Military.
Caroline Cawley | CEO, ITAG
ITAG’s Cyber Forum West Region in conjunction with Cyber Ireland have identified a number of skills shortages for both future technical staff, graduates and conversion candidates in the cybersecurity sector. Current skills shortages show gaps for dedicated cybersecurity and conversion programmes. There are upskilling opportunities across the board e.g. entry level, specialist, analysts, engineers, consultants, etc. Every company today is a technology company and therefore need to be cyber aware and compliant is crucial. Areas with skill shortages include Cyber Security, Risk & Compliance, Networks, CISSP / CompTiA / CISM / CEH certification, cloud-enabled security, Incident Response Management, Regulatory Compliance and the list goes on. We have a long time partnership with University of Galway and are delighted that they are offering a new MSc in Cybersecurity Risk Management in 2023.
