Ethical Hacking and Security Systems Design
| From | To | UK Fee | International Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 Sep 2009 | 31 Aug 2010 | £3225 | £8300 |
| 01 Sep 2010 | 31 Aug 2011 | £3290 | £8550 |
Introduction
This programme attracts a Sunderland Software City Undergraduate Scholarship for entry in September 2010. For more information please click here.
This course is for students who want to learn the fundamentals of computing and specialise in the fields of ethical hacking and forensic computing.
The objective of this new and exciting course is to develop knowledge, skills and techniques in the design of security systems using the theory and application of ethical hacking.
Ethical hackers are computer and network security professionals who have the skills which enable them to locate and then strengthen security weaknesses in computer systems. Ethical hacking uses a combination of processes to determine weaknesses in information and computer systems including ‘penetration testing' and red teaming. Ethical hackers work within the law to penetrate systems and then determine weaknesses of given system configurations and then design fixes or countermeasures to remove weaknesses through the design of secure systems.
Throughout the course professional and ethical responsibilities and duties are reinforced - with an emphasis on the objective of ethical hacking which is to protect and not exploit.
It is planned that the course will contribute to the Ethical Hacking CSTA (Certified Security Testing Associate) accreditation and also to CISSP (Certified Information System Security Professional) accreditation.
The department has links with Microsoft, IBM, SAP, Yahoo, CISCO and SUN Microsystems. These links ensure the course is relevant to today's industry and also enable you to become a graduate with the skills and knowledge employers want and need.
Course Content
Level 1
Core Modules:
- Fundamentals of Computing
- Foundations of Computer Forensics and Ethical Hacking
- Software Development and Theory: Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction, Formal Methods
- Programming: Microsoft C#. NET and Java programming for Robots
- Web Applications: Markup Languages (HTML, XHTML, CSS), Adobe Dreamweaver CS4, Adobe Flash CS4, & Actionscript, Adobe Photoshop, Javascript, Web APls (e.g. Google Maps, Yahoo APls)
- Database Systems: Database Design, Relational Databases & SQL, Database Integrity & Security, PHP & MySQL
- Computer Systems: Operating Systems, Networks & Computer Architectures
- Mini-project: Pick a project in the area of computing you know best and showcase your talents in the final term
Level 2
Core Modules:
- Network and Routing Fundamentals
- Computer Forensics and Ethical Hacking
- Real-World Group Project
Level 3
Core Modules:
- Computing Project
- Ethical Hacking
- Professional Issues in Computer Forensics
- LANs and WANs
The Programme is 3 years full-time with the option of a placement year after completion of year 2.
Entry Requirements
Applicants to computing programmes are not required to have previous experience with computers, but it may help you to decide how much you will enjoy the course.
The normal standard entry requirements for degree programmes in the Department of Computing are detailed below:
A typical offer will be in the region of 240 points from a minimum of 2 A levels/AVCE or equivalent (e.g. 1 x AVCE double award).
Level 3 Key Skills qualifications are accepted.
We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above which must include Mathematics and English Language or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.
Access Course: We would require successful completion of a Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education Access programme and that you would have a minimum of GCSE grade C Mathematics and English Language (or have obtained the equivalent as part of your course).
Scottish Highers: Our typical offer is for 240 points.
Irish Leaving Certificate: Our typical offer is for 240 points.
Mature Applicants: Tel: Helpline (0191) 515 3000.
Direct Entry to Level 2/3: Candidates wishing to be considered for direct entry to Level 2/3 of a programme should contact the Helpline, Tel: (0191) 515 3000, for advice on how to apply.
International Applicants: Tel: +44 191 515 3000.
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching methods across the three levels include lectures, seminars and discussion groups, resource based learning, open learning, project and group work.
Assessment methods include examinations, essays, multiple-choice tests, computer based assessment, seminars and group presentations.
The first year is based around two major projects: one computer based and the other problem based. This approach provides a stepping stone between the teaching, learning and assessment approaches used in schools/colleges and the methods used at university in years two and three.
You are assigned a personal tutor who you can turn to for personal and academic matters.
There is also a dedicated course team, a project leader and a programme co-ordinator, that will assist and guide you to successfully complete your studies.
Work Experience
This course is designed to be job market friendly. We know what skills and competencies potential employers are looking for, and course assessment, learning and teaching is designed to enable you to develop these skills.
To further inject realism into the course, you do a real world group project in Year 2. Here, you work in a team as consultants on a real business problem with a real company to provide a viable computer based business solution. In the final year, students are required to undertake a major individual project, often working with a company. Such aspects give a distinct advantage when you enter the job market. Many win jobs with their placement company even before they graduate.
We strongly recommend you to spend a year on work placement between Levels 2 and 3, taking the opportunity to put the knowledge and skills you have learnt into practice.
Career Opportunities
Graduates from this course will have the skills necessary to pursue a career in a wide range of computing but in particular many will become computer and network security professionals.
Supplemental Information
The department has links with Microsoft, IBM, SAP, Yahoo, CISCO and SUN Microsystems. These links ensure the course is relevant to today's industry and also enable you to become a graduate with the skills and knowledge employers want and need.
Facilities
World Class Web/Design Tools
The University of Sunderland have made a significant investment in providing students with access to the latest releases of Adobe products.
Selected PCs within the Murray Library and St Peter's have been pre-loaded with the Creative Suite 4 Adobe Design Premium Suite for your exclusive use. CS4 Creative includes key products such as Indesign, Illustrator, Dreamweaver as well as Photoshop and a range of many others! Further information is available from http://www.adobe.com/uk/products/creativesuite/design/
For information regarding locations of PC or Macs within your own faculty that have access to Adobe products please contact your Faculty IT Support for further information.
If you are interested in purchasing Adobe products for your own PC/Mac Adobe offer significant savings for Student purchases via any of its approved re sellers. To use the University's Adobe supplier please visit http://www.student-software.co.uk/ for more information.
