The practice of safeguarding systems, programs and network from digital threats is called cyber security. These threats are called cyber-attacks and aim to access, destroy or alter sensitive data, extort money through ransomware or disrupt business operations. Digital attacks can come in many forms ranging from phishing emails, malware to even exploiting vulnerabilities. Hackers may target individuals, government organizations or businesses seeking data like financial details, personal information or trade secrets.
To counter these threats, cyber security relies on various protective measures like antivirus software or firewalls to help block malicious activities while encryption helps in protecting securing data by converting it into unreadable formats.
With growing reliance on technology, the importance of cyber security is increasing continuously. Organizations implement cyber security strategies which may include conducting security audits, monitoring network for unusual activity and developing incident response plans to handle potential breaches. From protecting personal privacy to ensuring the safety of critical infrastructure, cybersecurity is essential in today’s digital world.
Best Universities for masters in cyber security in New Zealand
- University of Waikato
- Auckland University of Technology
- Unitech institute of Technology
University of Waikato
A thorough understanding of technical, policy and legal management aspects of cyber security will be taught as the work towards master of cyber security progresses. Students study in New Zealand will learn about computer infrastructure, cloud computing technologies as well as the laws relating to cyber security.
Skills relating to detecting security breaches, offensive security and preventative security will be gained. This also includes computer system penetration testing. Students will cultivate creative thinking and hone their ability to apply their expertise, preparing them to operate at an advanced level as cybersecurity professionals. Students with New Zealand Study visa will also gain the opportunity to learn and work with award-winning cyber security experts.
Curriculum
The course study will be divided into two parts. Part one includes:
- Malware Analysis
- A choice between two electives
- Secure Cloud Application Engineering
- Choice between two electives
- Four different electives of 500 level
Part two includes Dissertation
(This information may be subject to change.)
Entry requirements
For admission into the Masters of Cyber Security, students will need to have completed a relevant bachelor’s degree or postgraduate diploma, normally in Computer Science or Computer Engineering.
Students must maintain a minimum average of B in their 300-level or higher Computer Science courses.
English language requirements
Students will need to have an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall (with no less than 6.0 bands in any module).
Auckland University of Technology
With the advent of technology that progresses day by day, malicious software deployments and cybercrime are on the increase. There is a need of security professionals who can protect information and assets by securing computer systems and their networks. The Master of Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics program equips students study in New Zealand with the expertise to uncover and document digital evidence related to cybercrime or malicious activities. Through hands-on training, students with New Zealand study visa learn to extract critical data from various digital devices—such as hard drives, smartphones, networks, and other electronic systems—enabling them to identify, investigate, and preserve forensic evidence essential for legal and security purposes.This programme is a mix of practical labs and academic study supported by workshop sessions with some elective courses available.
Dedicated specialist software and hardware is provided for students to use in these sessions and is available for students for research component of the qualification.
Curriculum
The course is divided into two years and here’s a comprehensive list of all the modules provided:
Year 1
Semester 1 courses
- Cybercrime and Cybersecurity
- Network Security and Forensics
- ESTEM Research Methods
- An elective course
Semester 2 courses
- Digital Forensics Tools and Techniques
- Plus two elective courses
Year 2
Semester 1 course
- Dissertation
Elective Courses:
Semester 1 course
- IT Strategy and Policy
Semester 2 courses
- Cryptography and Cryptanalysis
- Advanced Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
Entry requirements
Minimum entry requirements
- Students must maintain a minimum average of B in their 300-level or higher in level 7 courses
- May have to attend a selection interview and be required to supply references.
English language requirements
- An overall IELTS score of 6.5 with all bands no less than 6.0 in all modules or equivalent
Unitech Institute of Technology
It is a diploma, this level 6 programme is designed to equip the New Zealand student visa students with the core cybersecurity and technical skills and knowledge they need to manage and protect information and systems security. They will learn how to spot weaknesses of existing and emerging technologies and potential vulnerabilities. Perform cybersecurity risk assessments, communicate findings and results to support risk management processes, and apply relevant security incident-handling techniques to solve complex security problems. Students will also gain an understanding of how to work within established professional standards and best practices, both autonomously and as part of a team, preparing them to become highly skilled, innovative, and proactive contributors to the New Zealand workforce.
Curriculum
The course includes the following modules:
- Information System Security- focuses on fundamental information system security concepts and the impact of cyber law and regulations on organizations.
- Cryptography -Introduces cryptography concepts and mechanisms to manage access to sensitive data.
- Network Security –Analyses network security threats and mechanisms to defend against them.
- Cybersecurity Management – Examines cybersecurity management requirements and applies frameworks to mitigate security risks.
- Ethical Hacking and Testing- Teaches ethical hacking methods and security measures for protecting information systems.
- Cybersecurity Data Analysis –Covers incident handling and techniques to manage cybersecurity breaches.
- Cybersecurity Project –Provides research and practical experience in solving cybersecurity problems, including client-based projects.
- Cybersecurity Project (Semester A) –A research-driven project that applies cybersecurity tools and techniques, ideally for a client.
- Cybersecurity Project (Semester B) –Similar to the Semester A project, this course enables students to apply cybersecurity solutions in real-world scenarios.
Entry Requirements
- Completion of 120 credits from a Level 5 IT qualification or higher, or equivalent knowledge, skills, and experience.
- Consent to a Police Clearance or Criminal Record Check by Unitec, and inform Unitec of any current charges or ongoing court matters.
- At least 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English, including a minimum of 4 credits in Reading and 4 credits in Writing.
English Language Requirements
If English is not the student’s first language, one or more of the following criteria must be met:
- Completion of NCEA Level 2 and New Zealand University Entrance.
- Provide evidence of meeting the English proficiency requirements.
- Achieve an acceptable English proficiency score within the last two years, such as: IELTS (Academic): A minimum overall score of 6.5, with no band score below 6.0, or an equivalent qualification.
Career opportunities after Studying Cyber Security in New Zealand
In today’s digital and technology forward world, protecting our information from cyber threats is more important than ever. Many professionals work behind the scenes to keep our personal and business data safe. Diploma or degrees in Cyber security help students with New Zealand Student visa become professionals in the following fields. These are the basic career opportunities of students who have studied cyber security.
Computer Forensic Specialists or Technicians are like digital detectives. They collect and analyse evidence from computers, phones, and other devices to investigate crimes. If there’s a data breach or a cybercrime, these experts can track down what happened and who was responsible.
Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) jump into action during cyberattacks, helping to limit damage and fix problems. High-Tech Police Units focus on solving cybercrimes using advanced technology and law enforcement skills. Network and IT System Administrators ensure everything is running smoothly and securely, while Software Developers and Architects create programs and systems that are safe from attacks.
In big companies, there are IT Forensic and Security Personnel who focus on protecting the company’s data and systems. They look for vulnerabilities and investigate if any threats come from inside or outside the organization. Forensic Analysts and Technology Investigators use special tools to examine systems, figure out how an attack happened, and prevent it from happening again.
Some experts work independently as IT Forensic Consultants, helping law firms or businesses with expert advice in legal cases. Information Security Specialists design safe systems to protect sensitive data, while Information System Auditors check if those systems are working as they should.
Forensic Computer Examiners and Computing Specialists are experts at recovering and analysing data from digital devices to find out what’s been tampered with or deleted. Electronic Forensic Investigators do something similar, but their work may also involve devices like smartphones or GPS systems.
All these professionals work together to keep our digital lives secure, whether at work, home, or online.
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