Forensic Investigation and Cyber Security
I205The cyber threat to all countries, companies and organisations is significant and growing. Since the creation of the National Cyber Security Centre in February 2017, the UK has been hit by more than 200 high-level attacks. Cyber criminals seek to exploit organisations and infrastructure for profit. Their technical sophistication varies from small-scale cyber-enabled fraud to persistent, advanced and professional organisations.
Course overview
Are you a computing enthusiast ready to lead the fight against cyber crime? Our dynamic Forensic Investigation and Cyber Security degree offers a multi-disciplinary perspective on the strategic deployment and implementation of cyber security within an organisational and forensic context. The programme prepares you to recognise the threats to an organisation and master key forensic investigation methodologies to aid the detection and evidence gathering of activities relating to cyber crimes.
As a cyber security and forensic graduate you will be equipped with the latest industry recognised skills to stay one step ahead of the cyber criminals who are constantly creating new ways to bypass security measures and challenging us to find new techniques and tools for security and investigation.
Led by a specialist team of research-active academics, this industry-informed three-year degree will enhance your knowledge of various computing disciplines, including software development, networking, database analysis and design and digital forensics. Employers in this sector are seeking graduates who can demonstrate an understanding of evidence documentation processes and principles. This programme allows you to develop these skills, from crime scene to courtroom, within forensic-based modules and in the review of real case examples.
In Year 1, you are introduced to the domain of information security including, viruses, botnets, hacking and cracking, phishing and social engineering. You develop fundamental core knowledge in forensic investigation, criminal justice systems and contemporary issues as well as legal and regulatory frameworks.
In Year 2, you explore topics in the latest developments in Forensic Investigation and Cyber Security. You are given the opportunity to apply your investigative knowledge to a range of forensic-based scenarios and to learn complementary forensic techniques.
An optional placement year allows you to enhance your employability, business understanding and professional skills through 12 months of relevant employment experience.
In Year 3, you develop an appreciation of the legal, ethical and regulatory frameworks together with the human aspects of information security assurance and forensic investigation. The Dissertation module helps you to develop specialist skills and expertise through the undertaking of a substantial body of work. You also learn how to successfully present your evidence in written format and orally within a mock trial.
Find out more about the Department for Applied Social Science, Forensics and Politics
What you need to know
Course start date
September
Location
Winchester campus
Course length
- 3 years full-time
- 4 years full-time (sandwich)
Apply
I205
Typical offer
112-120 points
Fees
From £9,250 pa
Course features
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Engage in and evaluate current critical debates surrounding the causes of cyber crime, forensic investigations and the methods and motivations of cyber criminals
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Gain a specialist degree in a rapidly growing field with a current skills shortage in the marketplace
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Benefit from a team of research-active academics and experts who work at the forefront of the field and who use interactive and practical teaching approaches to bring theory and practice to life
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Learn how to successfully present your evidence in written format and orally within a mock trial
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Develop an appreciation of the wider role information security plays in an organisational context
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Access a wide range of specialist software and tools including a dedicated Cyber Security and Forensics laboratory in a cutting-edge new development which houses the Department of Digital Futures and Applied Social Sciences
Course details
Our aim is to shape 'confident learners' by enabling you to develop the skills needed to excel in your studies here and as well as onto further studies or the employment market.
You are taught primarily through a combination of lectures and seminars, allowing opportunities to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups.
In addition to the formally scheduled contact time such as lectures and seminars etc., you are encouraged to access academic support from staff within the course team and the wide range of services available to you within the University.
Independent learning
Over the duration of your course, you will be expected to develop independent and critical learning, progressively building confidence and expertise through independent and collaborative research, problem-solving and analysis with the support of staff. You take responsibility for your own learning and are encouraged to make use of the wide range of available learning resources available.
Overall workload
Your overall workload consists of class contact hours, independent learning and assessment activity.
While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.
YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4): TIMETABLED TEACHING AND LEARNING ACTIVITY*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 264 hours
Independent learning: 936 hours
YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5): TIMETABLED TEACHING AND LEARNING ACTIVITY*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 384 hours
Independent learning: 816 hours
YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6): TIMETABLED TEACHING AND LEARNING ACTIVITY*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 204 hours
Independent learning: 996 hours
*Please note these are indicative hours for the course.
Location
Taught elements of the course take place on campus in Winchester.
Teaching hours
All class based teaching takes places between 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday during term time. Wednesday afternoons are kept free from timetabled teaching for personal study time and for sports clubs and societies to train, meet and play matches. There may be some occasional learning opportunities (for example, an evening guest lecturer or performance) that take places outside of these hours for which you will be given forewarning.
Assessment
Our validated courses may adopt a range of means of assessing your learning. An indicative, and not necessarily comprehensive, list of assessment types you might encounter includes essays, portfolios, supervised independent work, presentations, written exams, or practical performances.
We ensure all students have an equal opportunity to achieve module learning outcomes. As such, where appropriate and necessary, students with recognised disabilities may have alternative assignments set that continue to test how successfully they have met the module's learning outcomes. Further details on assessment types used on the course you are interested in can be found on the course page, by attending an Open Day or Open Evening, or contacting our teaching staff.
Percentage of the course assessed by coursework
The assessment balance between examination and coursework depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessed by different assessment modes is as follows:
YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)*:
- 75% coursework
- 25% written exams
- 0% practical assessment
YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)*:
- 75% coursework
- 25% written exams
- 0% practical assessment
YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6)*:
- 91% coursework
- 0% written exams
- 9% practical assessment
*Please note these are indicative percentages and modes for the programme.
Feedback
We are committed to providing timely and appropriate feedback to you on your academic progress and achievement in order to enable you to reflect on your progress and plan your academic and skills development effectively. You are also encouraged to seek additional feedback from your course tutors.
Further information
For more information about our regulations for this course, please see our Academic Regulations, Policies and Procedures.
Modules
Please note the modules listed are correct at the time of publishing. The University cannot guarantee the availability of all modules listed and modules may be subject to change. The University will notify applicants of any changes made to the core modules listed. For further information please refer to winchester.ac.uk/termsandconditions
Modules
This module will introduce students to important academic conventions, provide coverage of basic scientific concepts that will underpin work they do throughout the programme and to encourage students to think about how they can get the most from their time at university and beyond. Students will prepare a portfolio of exercises including critical thinking, personal development and CV writing. The portfolio is designed to help students identify and meet their learning needs relating to a range of key learning skills necessary for successful study at higher education level. During this module students will learn academic conventions associated with referencing, the importance of critical analysis of information, how to access and present Forensic Studies information and work in groups. An important part of the module are sessions dedicated to understanding scientific terms and concepts that students will need to engage with other modules. These activities and the portfolio students will develop students as independent learners and instil confidence in them going forward with the rest of their study.
This module will introduce students to forensic science as it applies to courts of law in the UK. In addition to highlighting what constitutes ‘forensic science’ and the scope of the discipline Forensic science in both criminal and civil courts will be considered, as will the growing role of informative forensic science in private and corporate investigations. The students will be introduced to some common types of evidence, both biological and non-biological, together with methods of recovery, packaging, preservation and analysis.
The module introduces the Criminal Justice System, with a focus on the UK, but also in the wider context of globalisation and internationalism. The historical context in which the modern system is based is considered, together with key developments. The role of different interdisciplinary agencies and institutions is considered, including government, policing, social services and the court system. The topic is considered from different perspectives – historical, legal, moral, criminological and victimological. Key developments such as major inquiries, reviews and legislation will be discussed. Emerging patterns and key themes of modernisation, the introduction of voluntary and private sectors, accountability and risk will also be covered.
The aim of this module is to introduce concepts of IT security in order to understand the security threats to an IT system and the operational impact of these threats on an organisation. The module will explore different protection methods for data and develop knowledge of security policies and procedures, including risk assessments, and how these procedures can be implemented and maintained. This module will introduce topical case studies of attacks on organisational information systems, highlighting the business consequences.
The forensic science sector is constantly innovating new ways to capture new evidence types as technology advances and endeavours to meet the evolving needs of criminal justice system. This module explores a range of contemporary issues facing the forensic science sector nationally and internationally. Students are introduced to the role of the forensic science regulator and the requirement for a forensic watchdog. The module also explores the legal, ethical, academic, and political challenges the system faces as it seeks to meet public expectations.
The police are one of the most important parts of the criminal justice system and also one of the most scrutinised. This module will introduce students to the work conducted by the police in England and Wales and focus on key debates on the role of the police with respect to the rest of society. The module will also examine and explore issues such as policing by consent, the arming of police and contemporary issues such as community policing and the policing of terrorism. Other issues will include the policing approaches to protests and demonstrations. Challenges around police and youth groups and policing culture will be further considered. There will also be some comparisons with police forces outside the United Kingdom.
This module will introduce technical students to programming and testing concepts. Students will develop an understanding of the general principles of how programs and projects are delivered within the IT services industry and the application of the concepts of testing and programming. The module will develop introductory skills using a specific but not defined programming language and platform. Undertaking the module will develop the student’s skills in developing and testing programmes using industry techniques.
Modules
This module will outline and examine the range of research processes associated with forensic and criminological disciplines: from the planning stage, literature review, through to data analysis and presentation of findings. The module will also critically examine the quantitative and qualitative approaches to research. It also considers the limitations of research. There will also be an evaluation of the main research methods employed within social and analytical sciences, including experimental design, questionnaires, case studies as well as a critical exploration of the ‘realities’ and ‘practicalities’ of research. An exploration of the ethical and political issues raised through doing social science research into issues and topics of a sensitive and illegal nature will also be included within this module. The module will develop the knowledge of the research process and the relevant research skills and understanding that will be utilised within the Dissertation.
This module provides opportunities for students to develop a practical skillset and it enables students to evidence their competency in several key applications in the laboratory and at the crime scene. The module places particular emphasis on enhancing transferable skills expected within graduate employment. The skills gained on this module provide an important foundation for students to apply and develop these skills further within Level 5 and at Level 6. Students will learn how to apply scientific methods to tackle problems in science, including how to construct a suitable hypothesis and how to design experiments to test this hypothesis. This module equips learner with basic scientific skills, skills specific to forensic contexts, and graduate skills as identified by prospective employers.
This module explores protection mechanisms appropriate to various information technology systems and architectures. Mechanisms and cryptographic protocols that help to provide confidentiality and integrity of data together with authentication and authorisation are explored in detail. The principles and fundamentals of system-level security are considered together with a contextual overview of the law and regulations relating to the use of security mechanisms. The practical application of these mechanisms in typical IT systems and architectures are incorporated.
The aim of this module is to further develop student understanding of Information System Security. The main focus of this module will be to explore key themes, trends and issues in cyber-security, policing and governance of the internet and business vulnerabilities. The module provides students with an opportunity to analyse risk management, information risk assessment, risk mitigation, management standards and methodologies, implementing a risk management strategy and business continuity planning.
- Forensic Imaging - 15 Credits
- Case Review - 30 Credits
- Forensic DNA Evidence - 15 Credits
- Volunteering for Forensic Studies - 15 Credits
- Crime Mapping and Geographical Information Systems - 15 Credits
Optional
This module will outline and examine the range of research processes associated with forensic and criminological disciplines: from the planning stage, literature review, through to data analysis and presentation of findings. The module will also critically examine the quantitative and qualitative approaches to research. It also considers the limitations of research. There will also be an evaluation of the main research methods employed within social and analytical sciences, including experimental design, questionnaires, case studies as well as a critical exploration of the ‘realities’ and ‘practicalities’ of research. An exploration of the ethical and political issues raised through doing social science research into issues and topics of a sensitive and illegal nature will also be included within this module. The module will develop the knowledge of the research process and the relevant research skills and understanding that will be utilised within the Dissertation.
This module provides opportunities for students to develop a practical skillset and it enables students to evidence their competency in several key applications in the laboratory and at the crime scene. The module places particular emphasis on enhancing transferable skills expected within graduate employment. The skills gained on this module provide an important foundation for students to apply and develop these skills further within Level 5 and at Level 6. Students will learn how to apply scientific methods to tackle problems in science, including how to construct a suitable hypothesis and how to design experiments to test this hypothesis. This module equips learner with basic scientific skills, skills specific to forensic contexts, and graduate skills as identified by prospective employers.
This module explores protection mechanisms appropriate to various information technology systems and architectures. Mechanisms and cryptographic protocols that help to provide confidentiality and integrity of data together with authentication and authorisation are explored in detail. The principles and fundamentals of system-level security are considered together with a contextual overview of the law and regulations relating to the use of security mechanisms. The practical application of these mechanisms in typical IT systems and architectures are incorporated.
The aim of this module is to further develop student understanding of Information System Security. The main focus of this module will be to explore key themes, trends and issues in cyber-security, policing and governance of the internet and business vulnerabilities. The module provides students with an opportunity to analyse risk management, information risk assessment, risk mitigation, management standards and methodologies, implementing a risk management strategy and business continuity planning.
- Forensic Imaging - 15 Credits
- Case Review - 30 Credits
- Forensic DNA Evidence - 15 Credits
- Volunteering for Forensic Studies - 15 Credits
- Crime Mapping and Geographical Information Systems - 15 Credits
Modules
Following two years of study the Dissertation is an extended independent study module that provides an opportunity for students to develop further study into an area or topic of their own choice and interest, including undertaking a piece of independent research. The student will:
- Identify a topic of interest.
- Provide a rationale for research their chosen topic.
- Devise and submit a research proposal.
- Conduct the research.
- Write up and present the project and main findings.
As part of the presentation of findings the student will prepare and present a poster outlining the research process, main findings and conclusions before addressing questions from peers and tutors. The Dissertation is a double module which spans Semesters 1 and 2 and provides the student with an opportunity to develop their interests in a specific aspect of cyber crime as well as developing their research and communication skills.
This module covers the four phases of digital forensic investigation including seizure, imaging, analysis and reporting. Technical knowledge and practical skills are developed using industry standard forensic software. Legal and regulatory processes are explored in detailed together with mobile forensic techniques.
This module will enable students to appreciate the various means by which scientific evidence can be presented. The module will cover written reports, the use of modern multi-media technology in evidence presentation, and issues regarding the presentation of evidence in the witness box. Students will consider whether popular media may affect the public perception of expert evidence and will be given training in presentation skills.
The law has often been required to adapt to new and emerging technologies. Recently, however, the pace and scale of technological change has far exceeded anything previously encountered. Data and data processing now underpins the global economy. Sophisticated surveillance and analytics pose a substantial threat to any concept of personal privacy, but also promise previously unattainable levels of crime detection and anti-terrorist security. In this module, we examine the response of lawmakers, regulators and the courts to the fundamental legal challenges posed by technology, ranging from ownership of online content to the attribution of liability for harm caused by artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles.
The law has often been required to adapt to new and emerging technologies. Recently, however, the pace and scale of technological change has far exceeded anything previously encountered. Data and data processing now underpins the global economy. Sophisticated surveillance and analytics pose a substantial threat to any concept of personal privacy, but also promise previously unattainable levels of crime detection and anti-terrorist security. In this module, we examine the response of lawmakers, regulators and the courts to the fundamental legal challenges posed by technology, ranging from ownership of online content to the attribution of liability for harm caused by artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles.
- Penetration Testing - 15 Credits
- Crime Scene Investigation - 15 Credits
- Document Analysis - 15 Credits
- Forensic Linguistics 15 Credits
- Advanced Forensic Examination - 15 Credits
- Criminological Psychology - 15 Credits
Optional
Following two years of study the Dissertation is an extended independent study module that provides an opportunity for students to develop further study into an area or topic of their own choice and interest, including undertaking a piece of independent research. The student will:
- Identify a topic of interest.
- Provide a rationale for research their chosen topic.
- Devise and submit a research proposal.
- Conduct the research.
- Write up and present the project and main findings.
As part of the presentation of findings the student will prepare and present a poster outlining the research process, main findings and conclusions before addressing questions from peers and tutors. The Dissertation is a double module which spans Semesters 1 and 2 and provides the student with an opportunity to develop their interests in a specific aspect of cyber crime as well as developing their research and communication skills.
This module covers the four phases of digital forensic investigation including seizure, imaging, analysis and reporting. Technical knowledge and practical skills are developed using industry standard forensic software. Legal and regulatory processes are explored in detailed together with mobile forensic techniques.
This module will enable students to appreciate the various means by which scientific evidence can be presented. The module will cover written reports, the use of modern multi-media technology in evidence presentation, and issues regarding the presentation of evidence in the witness box. Students will consider whether popular media may affect the public perception of expert evidence and will be given training in presentation skills.
The law has often been required to adapt to new and emerging technologies. Recently, however, the pace and scale of technological change has far exceeded anything previously encountered. Data and data processing now underpins the global economy. Sophisticated surveillance and analytics pose a substantial threat to any concept of personal privacy, but also promise previously unattainable levels of crime detection and anti-terrorist security. In this module, we examine the response of lawmakers, regulators and the courts to the fundamental legal challenges posed by technology, ranging from ownership of online content to the attribution of liability for harm caused by artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles.
The law has often been required to adapt to new and emerging technologies. Recently, however, the pace and scale of technological change has far exceeded anything previously encountered. Data and data processing now underpins the global economy. Sophisticated surveillance and analytics pose a substantial threat to any concept of personal privacy, but also promise previously unattainable levels of crime detection and anti-terrorist security. In this module, we examine the response of lawmakers, regulators and the courts to the fundamental legal challenges posed by technology, ranging from ownership of online content to the attribution of liability for harm caused by artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles.
- Penetration Testing - 15 Credits
- Crime Scene Investigation - 15 Credits
- Document Analysis - 15 Credits
- Forensic Linguistics 15 Credits
- Advanced Forensic Examination - 15 Credits
- Criminological Psychology - 15 Credits
Entry requirements
Our offers are typically made using UCAS tariff points to allow you to include a range of level 3 qualifications and as a guide, the requirements for this course are equivalent to:
- A-Levels: BBC-BBB from 3 A Levels or equivalent grade combinations (e.g. BBB is comparable to ABC in terms of tariff points)
- BTEC/CTEC: DMM from BTEC or Cambridge Technical (CTEC) qualifications
- International Baccalaureate: To include a minimum of 2 Higher Level certificates at grade H4
- T Level: Merit in a T Level
Additionally, we accept tariff points achieved for many other qualifications, such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma and WJEC Applied Certificate/Diploma, to name a few. We also accept tariff points from smaller level 3 qualifications, up to a maximum of 32, from qualifications like the Extended Project (EP/EPQ), music or dance qualifications. To find out more about UCAS tariff points, including what your qualifications are worth, please visit UCAS.
In addition to level 3 study, the following GCSE’s are required:
GCSEs in Mathematics and English Language at grade 4 or C, or higher. Functional Skills at level 2 is accepted as an alternative, however Key Skills qualifications are not. If you hold another qualification, please get in touch and we will advise further
If you will be over the age of 21 years of age at the beginning of your undergraduate study, you will be considered as a mature student. This means our offer may be different and any work or life experiences you have will be considered together with any qualifications you hold. UCAS have further information about studying as a mature student on their website which may be of interest.
If English is not your first language, a formal English language test will most likely be required and you will need to achieve the following:
- IELTS Academic at 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all four components (for year 1 entry)
- We also accept other English language qualifications, such as IELTS Indicator, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and TOEFL iBT
If you are living outside of the UK or Europe, you can find out more about how to join this course by contacting our International Recruitment Team via our International Apply Pages.
2025 Course Tuition Fees
UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland |
International |
|
---|---|---|
Year 1 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
Year 2 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
Year 3 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
Total | £27,750 | £50,100 |
Optional Sandwich Year* | £1,850 | £3,340 |
Total with Sandwich Year | £29,600 | £53,440 |
Additional tuition fee information
If you are a UK student starting your degree in September 2025, the first year will cost you £9,250**. Based on this fee level, the indicative fees for a three-year degree would be £27,750 for UK students.
Remember, you don’t have to pay any of this upfront if you are able to get a tuition fee loan from the UK Government to cover the full cost of your fees each year.
UK Part-Time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £77.08 and a 15 credit module is £1,156. Part-time students can take up to a maximum 90 credits per year, so the maximum fee in a given year will be the government permitted maximum fee of £6,935.
International part-time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £139.14 and a 15 credit module is £2,087.
* Please note that not all courses offer an optional sandwich year.
**The University of Winchester will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
Additional costs
As one of our students all of your teaching and assessments are included in your tuition fees, including, lectures/guest lectures and tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions and specialist teaching facilities. You will also have access to a wide range of student support and IT services.
There might be additional costs you may encounter whilst studying. The following highlights the mandatory and optional costs for this course:
Optional
Core texts
Core texts are available from the University Library. However some students prefer to purchase their own copies. Some core texts can be bought second-hand or as an ebook which can often reduce this cost. Indicative cost is £150 for whole course.
Mandatory
Laptop
Laptop/Device -Students are expected to have their own device to use on this course. Indicative cost is £200-£1,000. Although we recommend students purchase their own device, the University provides 240 laptops for loan across campus for students to use on a self-service basis, and a number of desktop computer spaces to use.
Clothing
For forensic practicals - the university will supply communal laboratory coats for practicals but students may wish to purchase their own. It should be white, with poppers - these can be around £15-30
Crime scene suit
One crime scene suit is provided per student. Students may need to buy additional crime scene suits. The students undertake practical work across the first two years of study for forensic practicals. Indicative cost between £3 - £8.
Undergraduate Dissertation Costs
Reasonable costs will be covered through a bidding process, but additional costs may have to be covered by students. It is wholly project dependent.
SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES AND AWARDS
We have a variety of scholarship and bursaries available to support you financially with the cost of your course. To see if you’re eligible, please see our Scholarships and Awards page.
CAREER PROSPECTS
This is an exciting and dynamic degree that gives you an excellent basis for a future career in the field. As a strategic thinking graduate you will have the critical skills required to move in to specialist graduate roles such as a digital examiner within the police and broader roles such as a forensic investigator.
Equipped with a wide range of technical computing knowledge and strong logical skills, you will also be able to pursue a variety of employment opportunities within criminal justice agencies, local government, businesses and charities as well as an increasing number of private and public industries.
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment or further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023, HESA.
Pre-approved for a Masters
If you study a Bachelor Honours degree with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester. To be eligible, you will need to apply by the end of March in the final year of your degree and meet the entry requirements of your chosen Masters degree.
OUR CAREERS SERVICE"At Winchester, you are truly valued as a student. I will graduate knowing that the University helped me become the best version of myself, and I have developed the tools and skills to continue learning and growing in my career and personal life."