KV6009 - Advanced Security

What will I learn on this module?

The aim of this module is to equip students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively analyse, defend, and respond to complex cybersecurity threats.
The module covers a range of topics and starts with building an understanding of the basics of Cryptography by exploring the fundamentals of encryption and decryption, the modern cryptographic algorithms, security protocols and their role in secure communication.. The module also discusses the mathematical functions used in these algorithms, such as Euclid’s algorithm, prime numbers and primitive roots. In the later weeks, the module discusses topics that aid students to learn how to think like an attacker to identify vulnerabilities, help develop skills in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and exploit mitigation to strengthen system defences. The module will also explore the inner workings of firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS). Students will learn how to configure, analyse, and optimize network defences to safeguard critical infrastructure and systems. This module helps the students to build the knowledge required to safeguard the modern day system. This knowledge is going to give the students an edge when applying for jobs that are related to ethical hacking and cyber security analyst. Students from all backgrounds will gain expertise in core concepts of cryptography, ethical hacking, network security, and risk assessment, utilizing industry-standard tools and technologies for comprehensive protection of digital assets in an inclusive and collaborative learning environment.

How will I learn on this module?

The module is supported with weekly lectures, practical labs/workshops, and independent learning. The lectures are going to equip you with essential theories and concepts with series of examples followed by practical labs/workshops where you will have the opportunity to apply the learned knowledge. The practical and hands-on sessions will take place in Northumbria CIS labs that are equipped with state-of-the-art industrial tools and equipment.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

There is various level of support available in this module. Weekly lectures during the timetabled sessions followed by hands-on workshops/labs where you will be given support and guidance to complete the practical work and feedback on your work. The Northumbria University VLE will be used to provide remote access support to all lectures, supported material and resources to reinforce learning. You will also have excellent electronic support provided by Northumbria library and you can access electronic copies of resources through University’s eLearning access.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
ML01 - Understand number systems, mathematical functions and basics of cryptography.
ML02 - Design and develop secure networks and systems, incorporating threat modeling and security testing throughout the development lifecycle.
ML03 – Practically test and implement security mechanism and protocols to safeguard the critical infrastructures of organisations.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
ML04 - Practically apply and validate various security protocols and system by identifying vulnerabilities, performing manual/automated penetration testing, and evaluating results using various tools

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
ML05 –Cultivate a curious mindset through independent exploration of emerging cyber security trends, technologies, and their potential impact on society.

How will I be assessed?

There will be one assessment in this module.

A summative assessment (practical research report with video recording) comprises 100% of the module assessment weight.
Assessment Structure:
Students will submit a practical implementation and testing work based on the Virtual Machine Instance that represent a real-life infrastructure. Students will capture their work through screen recording as they perform the tasks.
The submission consists of:
1. Live practical demonstration recording (Not more than 45 minutes induration) (50%): Students will demonstrate their automated/manual testing of safeguarding measures, recorded as they work through the cyber security scenario. This recording will document their real-time problem-solving approach, tool usage, and security testing methodologies.
2. Analytical report (maximum 2000 words) (50%): An analysis of a case study that contextualises cyber threat modelling, evaluates findings, and demonstrates understanding of the security principles applied.
This approach ensures the practical work represents the student's own authentic capabilities while allowing adequate preparation time for research and planning.
This assessment addresses all Module Learning Outcomes: ML01, ML02, ML03, ML04, and ML05.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

Intrigued by the ever-evolving world of cyber threats? This module will equip you with the knowledge and skills to safeguard digital assets.
You will delve deep into cutting-edge cryptography techniques, ethical hacking methodologies, and the latest network security measures used to protect critical systems. You will explore real-world case studies to understand how security professionals tackle complex threats. You will hone your practical skills through hands-on labs using industry-standard tools and methodologies such as snort, pfsense, parrot OS, OWASP Zap, Burp Suite etc.9
By the end of this module, you'll be a confident cyber security expert, prepared to tackle the challenges of the ever-changing digital landscape.

Course info

UCAS Code G411

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Computer Science

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2026

Fee Information

Module Information

Computer Science BSc (Hons)

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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