HND Cyber Security Foundation degree at Coventry University

This introductory module aims to provide knowledge of key networking and computer architectures. Focusing on the origins, structure and fundamental components of a computer network, you will gain foundational knowledge of relevant technologies including wireless, wired and optical computer networking. This includes access controllers, hubs, transceivers and more.

In this module, you will learn basic operating system concepts including processes, memory management, drivers and file systems, while examining security risks and security management strategies. You will also examine favored operating systems such as Microsoft Windows and Mac OSX, with a focus placed on the Linux operating system.

Here you will cover the prevalent issue of IT security and risk. You will critically analyse risks a computer may face, from viruses to computer hacking. Exploring the pros and cons of ethical hackers, website hacking and internet security, you'll aim to gain specialist knowledge of legal, social, ethical and professional issues associated with cyber security.

Basic problem solving and algorithm design techniques will be studied in this module, alongside programming and programming language concepts. You will learn the syntax and semantics of a high-level programming language (e.g. Python) and the basic principles of developing well engineered software and the supporting tools and techniques.

In this module you'll study the methods and use of cryptography at two levels. Firstly, you will be introduced to cryptographic primitives and their use in developing secure systems. Secondly, you will be given the opportunity to use current implementations of crypto-based security systems for applications such as signing websites and encrypting emails.

You will develop the skills necessary to gather, analyse and evaluate digital evidence by deploying digital forensic science techniques. The processes of forensic investigation and incident response will be studied, along with the application of digital investigation and evidence recovery techniques within a UK legal framework.

In this module, you will extend your programming and algorithm design skills and gain the ability to structure and manipulate intricate data sets through extensive work with complex programs. In addition, you will refine object-oriented analysis, design and implementation skills and learn to effectively utilise libraries, components and supporting tools.

In preparation for the final year project, this collaborative module aims to enhance your skillset by developing key skills such as communication, team working, co-operation and collaboration, project planning, commercial awareness, cultural awareness and distributed working. In addition, you should develop the critical thinking, research, academic and professional writing skills required as a reflective practitioner.

This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

In this module, you will study advanced programming techniques specifically aligned to developing secure software. A detailed understanding of potential security risks and flaws in software should be developed, along with knowledge on how these flaws and areas of exploitation can be mitigated via defensive means.

The underlying principles, technologies and architecture of wireless sensor networks will be examined in this module along with current practical applications and future trends. You will critically evaluate the security, privacy and trust implications of IoT technology and explore the approaches and mechanisms that mitigate security risks.

This unit focuses on a range of contemporary and emerging technologies, applications and professional issues in computing. Throughout the module, you will engage with research and advanced practice literature with the aim of extending and broadening your subject knowledge. There's a focus on professional, ethical, business and societal issues, through an international lens.

You have the opportunity to focus on an area of interest within the field of Cyber Security, which may be aligned to your future career interests. Throughout the project, you will need to demonstrate research, problem solving, design and development skills, through practical implementation, investigation (possibly including the gathering and analysis of secondary evidence) and evaluation.