Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security)
Degree Level Postgraduate
Year 2024
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You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
LMIG
SATAC Code
4CM233 (Internal)
Study as
Full-time
or part-time
Mode
On-campus/Online
Fees
$AU 30,900 per 1.0 EFTSL for students enrolled in 2024
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View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements
Entry requirements
To be eligible for admission an applicant will be required to have one of the following:
- A completed bachelor degree in any discipline from a recognised higher education institution;
- A Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security, Graduate Diploma in Information Technology, or Graduate Diploma in Information Systems from a recognised higher education institution; OR
- A Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security, Graduate Certificate in Information Technology, or Graduate Certificate in Information Systems from a recognised higher education institution.
Degree overview
- No. 1 in SA for IT facilities1 and learning resources in IT2.
- Benefit from our well-established links with industry offering valuable opportunities to apply newly acquired skills in professional contexts.
- Develop advanced knowledge and skills in cyber security standards, frameworks and guidelines.
- Apply professional skills to organisational contexts with a focus on governance, risk management and compliance.
- Build your technical expertise with advanced topics in areas such as security operations, security architectures, and cyber law and digital evidence.
- Access networking and cyber security laboratories or online simulation tools to develop your skills in a virtual environment.
- Enjoy the flexibility to study full-time, part-time, online or on-campus.
1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Computing and Information Systems – Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate and Postgraduate). SA public universities.
2ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Computing and Information Systems (Undergraduate and Postgraduate). SA public universities.
Snapshot
Cyber security is one of the fastest growing sectors in Australia – and around the world – with rapid technological advancement and the evolving threat environment increasing demand that is set to see around 17,000 news jobs needed by 20261.
The Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security) aims to develop cyber security professionals with advanced knowledge in cyber security governance, risk and compliance (GRC). To ensure you graduate job-ready, significant consultation with industry has taken place to establish both the technical and non-technical expertise demanded by employers. In recent years, calls for cyber security professionals with a strong working-knowledge of GRC in complex organisational environments has significantly increased. As such, this program will build your professional proficiency, as well your ability to examine and implement a range of technology-based cyber security defences to address emerging threats and attacks.
This program is suitable for students from any background / discipline. You will develop technical expertise in information technology (IT); technical proficiency in cyber security; and, an understanding of GRC as it applies to information technology and cyber security.
Information technology professionals can use this program to gain specialist expertise and pursue a career in cyber security.
On-campus teaching for this program is based at the Mawson Lakes campus. Only 20 minutes from the city centre with easy parking. The Mawson Lakes campus is also accessible by bus and train with the Mawson Lakes train station only a short walk.
1Australia’s Cybersecurity Strategy 2020
What you'll learn
The Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security) has been designed to develop foundational, discipline specific knowledge in IT in your first semester of study. From there, you will complete courses that develop your knowledge in governance, risk management and compliance, business practices, network security and cyber criminal behaviour, before completing advanced topics in:
- security operations
- security architectures
- enterprise and cyber physical security, and
- cyber law and digital evidence.
In your final year, you will put your skills into practice through our Professional Practice Project, working with an industry client. You will enjoy access to dedicated learning hubs where you can connect and collaborate, giving you the full workplace and project experience.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums. So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies at UniSA will incorporate authentic assessment through professionally-focused, research-based learning and hands-on practical skills including:
- practical demonstrations
- reports and project documentation
- literature reviews and research reports
- group projects and presentations
- examinations
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Why Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security)
UniSA has partnered with Optus to establish a Cyber Security Research and Collaboration Hub. Based at Lot Fourteen, the Hub is set to drive new innovations in technology and provide the best education for Australia’s next cyber security professionals.
We are committed to excellence in IT education. Our educators are active researchers, with their findings directly linked to what is taught in the program. UniSA's research in information technology is rated as world-class1. You will draw on current research in cyber security in your coursework and projects, and learn from dedicated, experienced, and highly qualified teaching staff.
As a UniSA student, you will benefit from our well-established partnerships with industry. In your final year, you will work with an industry client through our Capstone Professional Project, providing you with the opportunity to apply your skills and expertise in a professional environment.
Students have the option to study full-time or part-time, on-campus, online, or a combination of both. Those studying on-campus will have access to networking and cyber security laboratories, where you can develop your skills in a simulated environment. Online students will be provided online simulation tools to ensure they too can develop the practical application of newly acquired knowledge and skills.
1Results in Information and Computing Sciences - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
Real-world connections
UniSA is home to several research institutes and centres with world renowned links and associations that provide a dynamic teaching and research base for our students, as well as state-of-the-art facilities. These include:
- Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments
- Industrial AI Research Centre
- Industry 4.0 Testlab
Further information about research at UniSA is available here.
You will also benefit from our culture of innovation – we’re helping IT entrepreneurs and innovators turn their ideas into startup enterprises. Through the Innovation and Collaboration Centre (ICC), the University’s startup incubator, you have access to programs (such as Venture Catalyst), services and expertise including:
- Workshops
- One-on-one mentoring
- Office space for startups and entrepreneurs
- Access to a global pool of expert advisers
- Small funding stipends
- Events to kick-start ideas and competitions like hackathons
We also host regular University-wide career expos and employment forums through our Career Service, as well as alumni events in Australia and overseas.
Online study
All or part of this degree can be studied online. With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle.
You can:
- study online, including accessing videos and course resources
- participate in an interactive online learning environment
- submit your assignments and get feedback online
- use discussion forums for teamwork and communication
Please note that for some degrees, some on-campus attendance (such as to attend seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements may apply. Any requirements like this are detailed on individual course pages.
Your career
Graduates will have the skills and expertise required for employment as cyber security professionals within both the public and private sector. You can expect to seek employment in roles such as:
- Cyber security analyst
- Cyber security consultant
- Governance, risk and compliance analyst
Career progression may see you take on roles such as:
- Senior cyber security analyst
- Cyber security manager
- Chief security officer
- Chief information officer
Professional accreditation and recognition
This program is accredited by the Australian Computer Society and is awarded to an institution and its programs after a rigorous evaluation of their capacity to produce graduates who have the knowledge and skills required of an ICT professional. ACS promotes quality in ICT-related higher education to meet future industry needs. ACS sets graduate standards, drives improvements and refinements, and gives recognition to quality programs. ACS also ensures that new specialist courses build key skills for critical emerging fields. Such accreditation is provisional until the program produces its first graduates.
Industry facts
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
Scholarship for student leadership
Available for students who are interested in undertaking specified activities with the aim of enhancing the overall student experience at UniSA.
International travel grants
Travel Grants are available to participate in our Study Overseas Programs. UniSA has agreement with over 80 institutions globally.
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Your study experience and support
Our campuses have fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, tech zones, and spaces that simulate real work environments. You’ll also find student gyms and campus sport activities to keep you active. We also offer flexible study options, with online resources available for accessing lecture recordings, virtual classrooms, library resources and learning support.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. You can access a full range of support services including academic and personal counselling, career advice, social support services, as well as those through our student association, USASA. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your program director
I completed my PhD at UniSA in high performance computing. My teaching passion is in networking and infrastructure concepts and one of my career highlights has been getting the Internship program with DXC Technology off the ground and ensuring it is a continuing success.
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How do I apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
Applications for admission into the University of South Australia’s undergraduate and most postgraduate degrees are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Visit satac.edu.au and follow the links.
For the MBA degrees please apply through the UniSA MBA Application Portal. Applications for a small number of degrees are submitted direct to UniSA through our Apply Online portal. It will be noted on the degree page if you need to apply via Apply Online.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Master of Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Undergraduate
Yes. The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be given equal consideration is in early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers (mid January). Some degrees will not make any offers after the main offer round. Please click here find all of the key dates for applications here.Postgraduate
Most postgraduate degrees do not have a closing date for applications. However, there are exceptions, so it is best to check – either on the SATAC website, Apply Online or the degree homepage. Postgraduate offers are normally ‘rolling’, meaning they may be sent out at any time up until the program starts. This also means that applications may close at any time without warning, if the quota is filled earlier. For this reason, postgraduate applications should be submitted without delay. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquiries team on (08) 8302 2376 or via the online enquiry form. -
What credit can I receive for previous studies?
Credit transfer or advanced standing
You may be eligible to receive a credit transfer or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving a credit transfer will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
Recognised prior learning
If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning for this experience. Receiving recognised prior learning will normally reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and can reduce the duration of the degree.
How do I get credit?
Credit transfer and recognition of prior learning is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Program Director who will discuss your prior learning and experience with you to ascertain what credit you may be eligible for.
Many of our credit transfer arrangements are listed on our online Credit Assessor.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
If you are interested in studying an MBA please contact admissions@unisa.edu.au and our Future Student Enquiries team will contact you regarding your enquiry.
Alternatively, you can complete a MyCareerMatch career profile. MyCareerMatch is an online career profiling tool that you can use free-of-charge through UniSA. MyCareerMatch specialises in career profiles and provides you with a personalised career report outlining information about your personality style and a list of career options, which are complementary to your natural strengths and talents.
We have many events throughout the year where you can speak with a lecturer or tutor about your degrees of interest. You can find out what is happening at UniSA by visiting our events page or by signing up to our mailing list, so you're the first to know about careers events, information sessions, degree requirements, scholarships and more!
There are also many career counsellors external to the University that you can discuss your career options with. If you are unsure where to start your search, you can contact the Government's Work Ready team (formally Skills for All). Visit skills.sa.gov.au or call 1800 506 266.
You may also find Job Outlook a helpful resource in your decision-making.
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Where can I get further information?
It can be difficult to decide what degree you would like to do and where. You might find information from government organisations will help to weigh up your degree and provider options.
Find a course or a provider
TEQSA is a regulatory body for higher education providers. Use the TEQSA national register of higher education providers to search for a course or a provider. Compare courses and providers for undergraduates and postgraduates using the Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) online comparison tool.
More information on university admission
Visit the SATAC website to find out important news, events and information on applying to university in South Australia. Visit Study with Us to find out everything you need to know about studying at UniSA, admissions and the application process.
Questions about your application
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your application you should contact the Future Students Enquiries team in the first instance.
