Master of Cyber Security
The Master of Cyber Security program prepares you to specialise in this field, meeting global demand and contributing to New Zealand's Cyber Security Strategy. It's the first of its kind in the country.
180 points, 1.5 years
Hamilton
Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)
Why study the Master of Cyber Security?
As you work towards your Master of Cyber Security (MCS), you'll develop a thorough understanding of the technical, legal, policy and management aspects of cyber security. You'll learn about cloud computing technologies and computer infrastructure, as well as the law relating to cyber security.
You'll gain skills relating to detecting security breaches, preventative security and offensive security. This includes computer system penetration testing. You'll learn how to think innovatively and develop the ability to apply your knowledge so you can work at an advanced level as a professional in cyber security.
When you study cyber security at Waikato, you'll have the opportunity to work with, and learn from award-winning cyber security experts. Our academics also have strong international connections with industry and government, such as the National Cyber Policy Office and INTERPOL.
Career Opportunities
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Entrepreneurs of new security products and service
- Penetration Testers/ Security Assessment Consultants
- IT Security Consultant
- Malware Analyst
180 points, 1.5 years
Hamilton
Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)
Degree information
Select a tile for more information. For admission into the MCS, students will need to have completed a relevant bachelor's degree or postgraduate diploma, normally in Computer Science or Computer Engineering. You will need an average of at least B in your 300 level or higher Computer Science papers.
International students will need to have an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall (with no less than 6.0 in any band). International students can email international@waikato.ac.nz for more information or help with the application process.
Estimated fees
$8,773 - $9,850 per year
Domestic tuition fees
Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
Domestic tuition costsScholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Scholarships Finder
Relevant as of 30 October 2024.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. View information about fees free study.
Computing facilities at Waikato
The computing facilities at the University of Waikato are among the best in New Zealand. You'll have 24 hour access to computer labs running the latest industry standard software.
The University of Waikato is also home to New Zealand’s first cyber security lab, where the Cybersecurity Researchers of Waikato (CROW) operate from – the creators of the annual New Zealand Cyber Security Challenge.
Build a successful career in cyber security
Demand for trained professionals in cyber security is increasing globally at 3.5 times the rate of the overall job market. Once you've completed your training in this area, you'll be qualified to do a number of different types of roles in an industry with a 'near zero' unemployment rate.
Our graduates are in high demand and most of our alumni work in the top public and private organisations in New Zealand and internationally – like Sjoerd de Feijter, who is now a Junior Software Engineer for multinational corporation Gallagher.
Scholarships and prizes
Sir William Gallagher Cyber Security Scholarship
Not currently accepting applications.
The Sir William Gallagher Cyber Security Scholarship is for students intending to enrol in the dissertation or thesis part of a Master of Cyber Security by the end of A Trimester 2024. Candidates must have gained a 'B+' average for their most recent 120 points of study. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to gain industry experience through a research project at Gallagher.
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What our Cyber Security students are saying
I came to Waikato to gain practical exposure and I have not been disappointed. I have learnt a lot of new skills here. Each and every assignment has been so helpful in improving my knowledge and I am so much more confident in my own abilities now.Amanjot KaurMaster of Cyber Security
