Introduction to Cybersecurity

This module aims to introduce students to the fundamental principles of cybersecurity, focusing on how digital systems, data, and networks are protected from threats in an increasingly connected world.

Students will explore the nature of cyber risks, common attack methods, and the strategies used to defend against them, drawing on real-world examples from personal, organisational, and global contexts.

The module provides a foundation in key cybersecurity concepts, including threats, vulnerabilities, risk management, and digital safety. It also introduces the ethical and legal considerations associated with cybersecurity and data protection.

No prior knowledge of cybersecurity or computing is assumed.

Learning and teaching

Students will engage with teaching materials, including readings, videos, and guided activities, designed to introduce core concepts and provide practical examples.

Weekly live sessions will support understanding, provide opportunities for discussion, and allow students to ask questions.

Practical activities will be embedded throughout the module to reinforce learning, including identifying cyber threats, evaluating risks, and applying basic security practices.

Taught topics include:

• Introduction to cybersecurity: definitions, scope, and importance
• Types of cyber threats: malware, phishing, ransomware, social engineering
• Vulnerabilities and risk: how attacks exploit weaknesses
• Basic principles of defence: authentication, encryption, safe practices
• Personal and organisational cybersecurity
• Networks and system security (introductory concepts)
• Legal and ethical considerations (e.g. data protection, privacy, GDPR basics)

Emerging trends in cybersecurity

Coursework and assessment

Assessment will consist of a single coursework component designed to test understanding of key concepts and the ability to apply them in practical contexts.

Students will complete a structured assignment that may include:

• short-answer questions assessing knowledge of key concepts
• scenario-based questions requiring identification of risks and appropriate responses
• applied tasks such as analysing a cyber threat or proposing basic security measures

The assessment is designed to be accessible while covering the breadth of the module content.

Reading suggestions

• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – Cyber Aware guidance
• UK Government Cyber Security resources

Websites

• https://www.ncsc.gov.uk
• https://www.cyberaware.gov.uk

Library and computing facilities

As a student on this course you are entitled to join and use the University’s library and computing facilities. Find out more about using these facilities.

Accessibility

Our aim is access for all. We aim to provide a confidential advice and support service for any student with a long term medical condition, disability or specific learning difficulty. We are able to offer one-to-one advice about disability, pre-enrolment visits, liaison with tutors and co-ordinating lecturers, material in alternative formats, arrangements for accessible courses, assessment arrangements, loan equipment and dyslexia screening.