Master of Cyber Security (Canberra)
- Commencing Terms
- Semester 1 & 2
- Duration
- 1 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Distance (online with some face-to-face)
- Campus
-
Canberra
- Codes
- Program code 8628
-
2025 Indicative first year full fee
- $40,000*
-
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $40,000*
-
2025 Indicative first year full fee
- $48,000*
-
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $49,000*
Fees
Fees
-
Optional research project
-
One year full-time
-
Fully online
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
Secure systems and networks are a vital responsibility for all organisations in our increasingly connected world. Informed by global best practice and cutting-edge research, the Master of Cyber Security at UNSW Canberra provides you with the tools and techniques to detect, analyse and confront cyber challenges.
This one-year full-time program equips you with advanced technical skills to protect and secure digital infrastructures across a range of industries, including government, Defence and corporate sectors, in Australia and around the world.
Whether you choose to specialise in Digital Forensics or Advanced Tradecraft or follow the general program, you'll gain highly sought-after expertise in a field where demand is constantly growing. Graduate ready to take on roles like security analyst, penetration tester, or incident responder, and protect people, countries and businesses against the increasing risk of cyber threats.
Key features
Become a cyber security expert
Master specialised skills in Digital Forensics or Advanced Tradecraft, positioning yourself as a leader in the field. With niche expertise in high-demand areas, you’ll graduate with the tools and knowledge needed to stand out in competitive cyber security roles.
Access to cutting-edge facilities
If you’re located in Canberra, take advantage of UNSW’s state-of-the-art Cyber Range and Digital Forensics Labs, where you’ll gain real-world experience tackling simulated cyber attacks. Develop the skills to confront complex cyber threats head-on, preparing for the challenges of this dynamic field.
Flexible learning and support
Balance your studies with work, family and other commitments. The program is offered exclusively online, complemented by an online learning platform that allows you to receive support from your teachers and fellow students.
Why study at UNSW Canberra?
World-leading research
UNSW Canberra is home to the Institute for Cyber Security (IFCyber), a pioneering research hub delivering real-world solutions to complex cyber challenges. By leading cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research, IFCyber is positioning Australia as a global leader in cyber security innovation and commercialisation.
Leading cyber security expertise
Learn from faculty and industry professionals with up-to-the-minute expertise in cyber threats and technologies. You’ll gain critical insights from leaders who are shaping the future of cyber security.
Supportive, close-knit community
Benefit from a supportive learning environment with the best teacher-to-student ratio in Australia. Even when you study online, you’ll benefit from personalised support and a strong sense of community.
Want to see more from UNSW Canberra at ADFA?
Entry requirements
Please refer to the UNSW Handbook, opens in a new window for the Entry Requirements.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.
Please refer to the UNSW Handbook, opens in a new window for the Entry Requirements.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
Program structure
The Master of Cyber Security program at UNSW Canberra is delivered by the School of Engineering and Information Technology. Students will complete 48 Units of Credit (UOC), including four core courses and elective courses. You can choose whether to complete the generalist Master of Cyber Security program or specialise in Digital Forensics or Advanced Tradecraft.
Core courses cover key cyber security principles and practices, including Information Assurance and Security, Tradecraft, and Wireless, Mobile and Internet of Things Security. You'll then choose from electives in areas like Digital Forensics or Advanced Tradecraft. This blend of technical and practical learning ensures you develop in-depth knowledge across information systems, network security and cyber defence, preparing you for real-world challenges.
Full program structure
This program contains a total of 48 units of credit (UOC) and can be completed in one year of full-time study.
Future careers
The cyber security sector is rapidly expanding as organisations face increasing digital threats. Australia alone will need an extra 5000 cybersecurity workers each year* to meet the growing demand for experts in this area.
Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in high-demand roles such as security analysts, penetration testers and forensic investigators. Industries like government, Defence, finance and tech seek skilled professionals to protect sensitive data and secure networks. You’ll be prepared to take on key roles in defending against evolving cyber threats and ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructures.
*AustCyber
Potential roles
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Cyber Security Consultant
- Cyber Security Incident Responder
- Digital Forensic Investigator
- Information Security Manager
- Intrusion Detection Specialist
- Network Security Engineer
- Penetration Tester
- Security Architect
- Security Operations Centre (SOC) Manager
- Vulnerability Assessment Analyst
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and Faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date. Find out more.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online, opens in a new window service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.
Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the program. The indicative fees listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).
You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
QS World University Rankings, 2025
AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020-2025
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders
