Master of Cyber Security

Master of Cyber Security

Studying for the Master of Cyber Security allows you to develop the skills you'll need to become a specialist in this area. There's an increasing international demand for trained cybersecurity professionals, and graduates of this programme help meet the New Zealand Government's Cyber Security Strategy. This masters degree is the first of its kind to be offered in New Zealand.

As you work towards your Master of Cyber Security (MCS), you'll develop a thorough understanding of the technical, legal, policy and management aspects of cybersecurity. You'll learn about cloud computing technologies and computer infrastructure, as well as the law relating to cybersecurity.

You'll gain skills relating to detecting security breaches, preventative security and offensive security. This includes computer system penetration testing. You'll learn how to think innovatively and develop the ability to apply your knowledge so you can work at an advanced level as a professional in cybersecurity.

When you study cybersecurity at Waikato, you'll have the opportunity to work with and learn from award-winning cybersecurity experts such as Dr Ryan Ko. Our academics also have strong international connections with industry and government, such as the National Cyber Policy Office and INTERPOL.

Computing facilities at Waikato

The computing facilities at the University of Waikato are among the best in New Zealand. You'll have 24-hour access to computer labs running the latest industry standard software.

The University of Waikato is also home to New Zealand’s first cyber security lab, where the Cybersecurity Researchers of Waikato (CROW) operate from – the creators of the annual New Zealand Cyber Security Challenge.

Build a successful career

Demand for trained professionals in cybersecurity is increasing globally at 3.5 times the rate of the overall job market. Once you've completed your training in this area, you'll be qualified to do a number of different types of roles in an industry with a 'near zero' unemployment rate.

Our graduates are in high demand and most of our alumni work in the top public and private organisations in New Zealand and internationally – like Sjoerd de Feijter, who is now a Junior Software Engineer for multinational corporation Gallagher.

Career opportunities

• Chief Information Security Officer
• Entrepreneurs of new security products and service
• Penetration Testers/ Security Assessment Consultants
• IT Security Consultant

Admission and enrolment

For admission into the MCS, students will need to have completed a relevant bachelor's degree or postgraduate diploma, normally in Computer Science or Computer Engineering. You will need an average of at least B in your 300 level or higher Computer Science papers.

International students will need to have an IELTS score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 in the writing band. International students can email international@waikato.ac.nz for more information or help with the application process.