Content

The UK’s national cybersecurity strategy identifies software vulnerabilities as a key threat and makes building security into software from the start a national priority. But most software developers aren’t cybersecurity experts – and that’s what the industry really needs right now.

Working across desktop, mobile and embedded platforms, you’ll learn how to design and implement secure software systems that are resilient to cyberattack. Right from the start, you develop an in-depth understanding of programming and building secure systems through hands-on, practical experience. You’ll specialise in the design, implementation and analysis of secure software systems, covering both offensive and defensive techniques.

You’ll be prepared for the rapidly evolving cybersecurity work environment through our teaching expertise in ethical hacking, computing, secure software engineering and human-centred security. Using your grasp of programming and computer architecture, you’ll develop and implement systems with fewer vulnerabilities to help stop cyberattacks using offensive and defensive techniques.

Entry Requirements

2026 entry requirements

Standard entry: 4 Highers at BBBB including 1 from Maths, Computing Science, Geography or a science or technological subject plus National 5 Maths (if not held at Higher).

Widening access entry: 3 Highers at ABB including 1 from Maths, Computing Science, Geography or a science or technological subject plus National 5 Maths (if not held at Higher).

You can enter in year 2 with 3 Advanced Highers including 1 from Maths, Computing Science, Geography or a science or technological subject.