Cyber Security - BSc Hons Degree (Top Up)*
Summary
Build on the foundations developed in the Foundation Degree in Cyber Security by progressing onto the BSc (Hons) Cyber Security top-up year. This final year is designed for students who want to deepen their understanding of cyber security, digital investigation, and information assurance while developing the advanced knowledge and professional skills expected of a graduate cyber security practitioner.
Throughout the course, you will explore topics such as cryptography, security analysis, distributed systems, and the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with modern computing. You'll also undertake a substantial independent project, allowing you to investigate a specialist area of interest while demonstrating the technical, analytical, and research skills expected of an honours graduate.
The programme combines advanced technical study with critical evaluation and independent research, helping you develop the expertise required to identify, analyse, and respond to modern security challenges. Upon successful completion, you'll graduate with a full honours degree and be well positioned for specialist cyber security roles or postgraduate study.
Entry Requirements
To apply for the BSc (Hons) Cyber Security top-up degree, you must have successfully completed the Foundation Degree in Cyber Security at Blackpool and The Fylde College.
Applicants must have:
- Successfully completed all Level 5 modules within the Cyber Security pathway
- Achieved the Foundation Degree in Cyber Security
This top-up year is available only to students progressing from the Foundation Degree in Cyber Security.
Next course dates
| Start date | Location | Duration / Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
11 Sep 2028
|
University Centre
|
1 Year
/
£0
|
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security top-up year prepares you for advanced technical and professional roles within the cyber security sector. Building on the knowledge gained during the Foundation Degree, you'll develop a deeper understanding of security analysis, digital protection, risk management, and the technologies used to defend modern organisations from cyber threats.
Graduates are well positioned for roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst, Information Security Officer, Security Consultant, Digital Forensics Investigator, or Cyber Risk Analyst. The combination of technical expertise, analytical skills, and independent research developed throughout the course is highly valued across both public and private sector organisations.
The honours degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study and professional development, supporting progression into specialist technical, leadership, or research-focused roles within the cyber security profession.
Next steps at B&FC
After completing the BSc (Hons) Cyber Security top-up year, you'll be prepared to enter professional roles within cyber security, digital forensics, security operations, and information assurance. You may also choose to continue your academic journey through postgraduate study, professional certifications, or specialist training in areas such as penetration testing, digital investigation, cyber defence, and security management.
Employment Opportunities
This course prepares you for a range of advanced roles within cyber security, digital investigation, and information assurance. Typical job titles include:
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst
- Information Security Officer
- Security Consultant
- Digital Forensics Investigator
- Cyber Risk Analyst
- Security Compliance Analyst
- Incident Response Analyst
These roles focus on protecting systems, investigating security incidents, managing cyber risk, and helping organisations maintain secure and resilient digital environments.
Key information
Extra costs and equipment
The software, tools, and technologies required for this programme are available through Blackpool and The Fylde College's specialist computing facilities. Students have access to the same platforms and resources used during taught sessions, workshops, and project work.
It is recommended that you have access to a PC or laptop to support independent study, although this is not a requirement. College facilities, specialist laboratories, and supported workshop sessions are available to ensure all students can access the resources needed to succeed.
There may be opportunities to attend optional industry events, conferences, exhibitions, or visits related to cyber security, digital forensics, and information security. Where these activities involve additional costs, details will be provided in advance, and support may be available depending on the activity.
What will I learn?
In this final year of the Cyber Security degree, you'll build on the knowledge and practical skills developed during your Foundation Degree to explore advanced security technologies, digital defence, and professional practice. The modules you study focus on the challenges facing modern organisations, helping you develop the technical expertise and critical thinking skills expected of a graduate cyber security professional.
Cryptography – Explore the principles and techniques used to secure information and communications. You'll investigate how cryptographic methods protect data, support privacy, and underpin modern digital security.
Security Analysis (CCNA CyberOps) – Develop your understanding of security monitoring, threat detection, and incident response. You'll explore how security professionals identify, investigate, and respond to cyber threats within organisational environments.
Distributed Systems – Examine how computing resources and services operate across multiple interconnected systems. You'll explore the security challenges associated with distributed environments and the technologies used to support them.
Cyber Ethics & Law – Consider the legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities associated with cyber security practice. You'll explore topics such as privacy, legislation, digital rights, and professional conduct.
Final Project – Undertake a substantial independent project focused on a specialist area of cyber security. This module allows you to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout your studies while developing your research, analytical, and project management abilities.
By the end of the honours year, you'll have developed advanced technical knowledge, professional confidence, and the ability to evaluate and respond to complex security challenges, preparing you for graduate employment or further study.
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security pathway builds upon the professional experience gained during your Foundation Degree, encouraging you to engage with current industry practices, emerging threats, and professional networking opportunities throughout your final year.
The programme benefits from guest speakers and industry professionals who share their experiences, insights, and advice, helping you understand current security challenges, industry best practice, and career opportunities within cyber security, digital forensics, and information assurance.
Where available, students may also have opportunities to attend conferences, exhibitions, and other industry events related to cyber security, threat intelligence, and digital investigation. These experiences provide valuable exposure to current technologies and professional practice, helping you build industry connections and develop a broader understanding of the sector. While the College will seek to support and promote these opportunities wherever possible, students should be aware that attendance at some external events may involve additional costs (for example, ticket fees or travel expenses).
Your Final Project also provides an opportunity to investigate an area of professional interest, allowing you to develop specialist knowledge and demonstrate your abilities through an extended piece of independent work.
How will I learn?
Your learning on the BSc (Hons) Cyber Security pathway combines advanced technical study with practical, project-based learning. You'll take part in a mix of workshops, laboratories, seminars, and tutorials, with opportunities to apply your knowledge to realistic cyber security and digital investigation challenges.
As an honours-level student, you'll be expected to take greater ownership of your learning through independent research, critical evaluation, and self-directed study. You'll investigate contemporary security challenges, explore specialist areas of interest, and develop the ability to assess complex technical and ethical issues using evidence-based approaches. This increased independence reflects the expectations of graduate-level study and helps prepare you for professional roles within the cyber security sector.
You'll also benefit from:
- Access to specialist cyber security laboratories and computing facilities
- One-to-one tutorials and project supervision
- Blended learning using platforms such as Canvas and Microsoft Teams
- Access to industry-standard security and investigation technologies
- Regular feedback and opportunities to refine your work throughout the year
This supportive and practical approach helps you develop both the advanced technical expertise and professional skills required for graduate roles within cyber security, digital forensics, and information assurance. The combination of guided teaching and independent study ensures you graduate with the confidence, knowledge, and analytical ability expected of an honours graduate.
Learning Methods
| Learning Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled | 0 | 0 | 288 |
| Independent | 0 | 0 | 912 |
| Placement | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 0 | 0 | 1200 |
How will I be assessed?
The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security pathway includes five modules designed to develop advanced technical knowledge, professional practice, and independent research skills. Assessments are designed to reflect the expectations of honours-level study, combining practical application with critical evaluation, analysis, and independent investigation.
In Cryptography, you'll explore the methods used to protect information and secure communications. Assessment focuses on your ability to evaluate cryptographic approaches and understand their role within modern security environments.
Security Analysis (CCNA CyberOps) develops your understanding of threat detection, security monitoring, and incident response. You'll investigate security events and demonstrate your ability to analyse and respond to cyber threats.
Distributed Systems examines how services and resources operate across interconnected environments. You'll explore the challenges of managing and securing distributed technologies through a combination of practical and written work.
In Cyber Ethics & Law, you'll critically evaluate the legal, ethical, and professional issues that influence modern cyber security practice. Assessment focuses on your ability to analyse complex scenarios and apply relevant legislation and professional standards.
The Final Project is the centrepiece of the honours year, allowing you to investigate a specialist area of cyber security through an extended independent project. You'll plan, research, develop, and evaluate a substantial piece of work, demonstrating the technical, analytical, and project management skills expected of a graduate.
By the end of the year, you'll have produced a portfolio of advanced technical work, research, and professional documentation that showcases your abilities and prepares you for graduate employment, professional certifications, or postgraduate study.
| Assessment Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 0% | 0% | 74% |
| Exam | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Practical | 0% | 0% | 0% |