UiA launching new master's programme in cyber security

"There is a large demand for expertise in digital security and data protection that is not being met. This expertise is in demand in all sectors and industries, and it is important for the future. From Autumn 2019, we therefore offer a master's programme in cyber security. It will provide a solid technical and management expertise in digital security," Køien says. 

Large changes in society

Digitalisation of society has led to large changes. Better, less expensive and more efficient solutions in many areas, but also a vulnerability that is rapidly growing. 

"Digitalisation must come with good security. If not, we become very vulnerable. In the last ten years, we have seen that digitalisation has led to more cyber-attacks, a steady increase in organised digital crime, as well as influence on state level, espionage, sabotage and data collection," Køien says. 

Pleased minister

Programme coordinator for the master's programme is Professor Geir Køien.

Minister of Digitalisation Nikolai Astrup was present when UiA announced that it will offer new education in cyber security. 

"I am very happy that UiA is starting up a new master's programme in cyber security. Having secure data is very important in our digitalised world, and having a good education in this area is essential," Astrup said.

Expertise based on needs

Minister of Digitalisation Nikolai Astrup visited UiA, Campus Grimstad and was welcomed by Assistant University Director Solveig R. Svendsberget

The programme is a collaboration between the department of ICT at the Faculty of engineering and science and the department of Information studies at the Faculty of social sciences. 

A master's degree in cyber security qualify students for professional positions in both the public and private sector. Among other things, you will be able to work with security management, technologic management of security work, planning and implementing large-scale projects and operation of critical infrastructure. 

"The programme is especially adapted to working according to Norwegian needs. Those who attain a master's degree in cyber security from UiA will have a solid technical expertise, as well as the tools necessary to work in management of digital security. There is a large demand in the Norwegian job market that is not being met," Køien says.

The master's programme is a collaboration between the Department of ICT at the Faculty of Engineering and Science and the Department of Information Systems at the Faculty of Social Sciences. 

Two specialisations

The master's students in cyber security can choose between two programme options: either a specialisation in technology or a specialisation in management. 

The technology option has a clear technologic profile and is meant for those who want to work with organisation, integration and development of technologic security solutions. This option covers areas such as security of the Internet-of-Things (IoT), security for critical infrastructures, security in cloud solutions and ethical hacking. 

The specialisation in management is focused on management and organisational users and aspects. Here, students will gain important expertise within planning, management and implementation of and rolling out systems. 

Admission requirements

At UiA three study programmes will qualify for being accepted into the master's programme:  The bachelor's programme in IT and information systems, and the engineering bachelor's programmes in computer and electronics. 

Students with a background from information system programmes can choose the specialisation in management of cyber security. Students with a background from ICT engineering can choose both specialisations.