Cyber Security

Learn to outthink cyber criminals and defend the digital world. Develop hands-on expertise in cyber security and learn how to protect businesses from attacks.

With cyber threats growing in scale and sophistication, cyber security has become one of the most exciting and in-demand areas of computing. This hands-on degree combines core computing knowledge with specialist cyber security expertise, equipping you with the skills to identify, investigate, and defend against digital threats in an increasingly connected world.

You’ll learn how cyber-attacks happen, why they succeed, and how to stop them. From ethical hacking to secure systems design, this course blends theory with practical, real-world application so you’ll graduate ready to make an impact.

As part of this cyber security degree, you’ll:
• Build a broad knowledge of computing alongside in-depth cyber security expertise, applying your skills to real-world scenarios



• Apply your understanding of computer systems and networks to protect organisations and users from malicious attacks



• Explore key cyber security topics, including malware and vulnerabilities, secure coding, sandboxing, virtualisation, and penetration testing



• Develop practical investigative and ethical hacking techniques used by cyber security professionals



• Gain hands-on experience using our bespoke Hacktivity system, which replicates real business systems and cyber-attacks, giving you a safe space to test, attack, and defend systems like in industry



Find out more
Share insight to get ahead
Join our Ethical Hacking Society to explore the latest developments in cyber security, collaborate with like-minded students, and hear from industry experts. It’s a great way to deepen your knowledge, build confidence, and stay ahead in this fast-moving field.

Network with professionals
You'll gain experience preparing and presenting work for industry clients and, where appropriate, for use within courts of law. Attending conferences helps you build your professional network, while your final year project gives you the opportunity to tackle real cyber security challenges alongside local employers.

Cybercrime & Security Innovation Centre
As part of our Cybercrime and Security Innovation Centre, our teaching staff work closely with West Yorkshire Police to develop innovative ways of tackling cybercrime. This partnership gives you access to cutting-edge research, industry expertise, and real insight into how cyber security operates in live investigations and operational environments.

Experience life in industry
We work closely with organisations to identify placement opportunities, giving you the chance to put your learning into practice in a professional setting. Our strong links with the security industry and law enforcement help you build practical experience, confidence, and a standout CV.

Deepen your expertise
Want to take your learning further? You could choose to study BSc (Hons) Cyber Security & Digital Forensics, developing specialist digital investigation skills. Alternatively, our four-year MEng Cyber Security & Digital Forensics enables you to deepen your technical knowledge and prepare for senior or specialist roles within the industry, graduating at master’s-level.

Why study the BSc Cyber Security course at Leeds Beckett University?
• Professionally accredited by the British Computer Society and certified by the National Cyber Security Centre



• Access to specialist software, including Hacktivity and Hackerbot, bringing theory to life



- 91% of students on BSc (Hons) Cyber Security were positive about the way teaching staff explain things*


• Strong industry partnerships, including our collaboration with West Yorkshire Police



• Placement opportunities – gain valuable experience and boost your career prospects



*National Student Survey 2026

Curiosity needs thinkers, makers, and dreamers. It needs you!

Leeds Beckett believes that when unlike minds come together, incredible things happen. That’s why they don’t just teach; they collaborate, challenge and inspire.

Their courses are meticulously designed, combining practical experience through work placements with a vibrant location at the heart of one of the UK’s largest student communities. Boasting a top 10 UK ranking for both course quality and student life (Unicompare 2026) and a prestigious five-star QS rating, LBU sets the standard for excellence.

The university prioritises student wellbeing and stands among just seven universities nationwide to earn the University Mental Health Charter Award - proof of their unwavering commitment to advancing mental health and wellbeing.

All of this is why 98% of Leeds Beckett students and graduates would recommend studying at the university to a friend (Unicompare, 2024 reviews).