Professional Degree in Network and IT Security
Online
Associate Degree
DURATION
4 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Jan 2026
TUITION FEES
NOK 62,000 / per semester *
STUDY FORMAT
Distance Learning, On-Campus
* oslo, bergen, stavanger: 62,000 NOK/semester | online studies: full time - 45,000 NOK/semester part time - 22,500 NOK/semester
Key Summary
Hands-on IT programme that teaches you how to combat hacking and cybercrime, while using AI tools to address security challenges. The growing demand for IT security offers excellent career opportunities.
Why Study Network and IT Security?
As society becomes increasingly dependent on digital technology, there is a growing need for expertise in network and IT security to prevent cyber-attacks and their consequences. The programme covers fundamental security tasks such as risk assessment and vulnerability analysis.
You will learn to become an independent system administrator capable of implementing effective security measures and conducting IT security investigations. Understanding how software is built and how network traffic can be monitored are key components. After completing the programme, you will be able to work with the installation, operation and optimisation of IT systems and provide support and advice on IT security.
According to SSB, IT security experts in Norway have an average annual salary of approximately 850,000 NOK.
One-year programmes are also available
The first year of this two-year programme is identical to the one-year program in Network and System Administration. However, you can apply directly to this two-year programme and secure your place for two years. Alternatively, you can apply for the one-year Cloud Foundations programme and then move straight into the second year of the two-year Network and IT Security programme.
AI in the study programme
How is AI used in the Network and IT Security programme?
You will learn to use AI responsibly to support both learning and research. AI helps you understand complex topics and improve your work, but we emphasize the importance of knowing when and how to use AI effectively.
For example, we allow AI tools like Grammarly for spelling and grammar checking during exams. This way, you develop skills that are directly applicable in the workplace, where AI is becoming an essential part of technological solutions.
How is AI being used in the workplace as a Network and IT Security expert?
AI plays a crucial role in predicting problems, detecting threats, and responding quickly to security challenges. Tools like Splunk, Darktrace, and IBM QRadar use AI to monitor and protect networks.
As a network and IT security expert, you will use such tools to streamline monitoring and manage complex threats. AI helps you tackle the increasingly sophisticated challenges in IT security and network operations.
Financing
All our study programs are approved for loans and grants from the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen). You can apply to the Loan Fund for basic support (loan and grant; NOK 151,690) and tuition fees (NOK 77,192).
As an adult student, you can receive loans and grants from the State Educational Loan Fund. This also applies if you work while studying.
As a main rule, you must be a Norwegian citizen to receive support from the Norwegian State Educational Fund. However, foreign citizens may also be entitled to financial support.
Course structure
First-year:
- IT Foundations
- Operating and File Systems
- Network Infrastructure
- Linux
- Microsoft Server Technologies
- Cloud Computing Foundations
- Introduction to Information Security
- Exam Project 1
Second-year:
- Security and the Law
- CyberOps
- Security in the Cloud
- Programming
- Databases
- Ethical Hacking
- Digital Forensics
- Exam Project
You will be challenged with authentic, practical, and relevant tasks throughout the program, providing invaluable insights into the challenges and issues prevalent in the field. The first year, mirroring the Network and System Administration program, offers comprehensive training in computer structure, operation, and performance optimization, alongside methods for tailoring technical network solutions.
The second year of the program delves comprehensively into all aspects of security. Students will gain insights into the legal framework surrounding cybersecurity and acquire proficiency in conducting preventive security measures through security routines and risk assessments. The focus then shifts to the utilization of tools for gathering information about networks and systems.
After completing the Network and IT Security program, you can pursue roles such as:
- Security Officer
- ICT Security Consultant
- ICT Coordinator
- Security Advisor
- Consultant in advisory agencies in ICT security, communication, and operations
- Information Security Analyst
- Ethical Hacker