Computing (Security and Reliability) MSc

a female student working on a computer in a computer lab
  • Postgraduate taught
  • MSc

Computing (Security and Reliability)

Enhance your knowledge of IT security and reliability to prepare for a career in the computing industry.

Enhance your knowledge of IT security and reliability to prepare for a career in the computing industry

Develop expertise in the main threats, attack techniques and defences relevant to cybersecurity and network security

Course key facts

  • Qualification

    • MSc

  • Duration

    1 year

  • Start date

    September 2025

  • Study mode

    Full-time

  • Fees

    • £23,400 Home

    • £43,800 Overseas

  • Delivered by

  • Location

    • South Kensington

Minimum entry standard

  • First-class Honours in a subject with a substantial Computing component

View full entry requirements

Course overview

Specialise in security and reliability on this one-year Master's course.

You'll explore in detail the processes and mechanisms by which computer-based equipment, information and services are protected from unintended or unauthorised access.

The course examines emerging trends in computing and how these techniques can be adapted in industrial applications. Practical programming training using Prolog and Matlab will also be provided. 

You'll also enhance your project management and research skills on an individual project.

We also offer the following MSc Computing specialisms for those looking to advance their knowledge of other areas of computing: 

Structure

This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.

Find out more about potential course changes.

Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.

In addition to your core modules, you’ll choose nine optional modules: at least six modules from Group 1, and up to three modules from Group 2.

Group A

Group B

Demonstrate independence and originality on an individual project, specialising in an area of security and reliability.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning methods

  • Person at lectern giving speech
    Lectures
  • Four students sitting in a tutorial
    Tutorials
  • People collaborating and completing practical work.
    Practical work
  • Laboratory
  • A group of people interacting
    Group work
  • Research project

Assessment methods

  • A person completing a written exam
    Written exams
  • Person completing coursework
    Coursework
  • Lab work
  • Person making a presentation
    Presentations and demonstrations
  • Papers from a written report
    Technical report
  • Dissertation

Entry requirements

How to apply

Apply online

You can submit one application form per year of entry. You can choose up to two courses.

Tuition fees

Home fee

2025 entry

£23,400

Overseas fee

2025 entry

£43,800

How will studying at Imperial help my career?

IT shield in front of cloud

Get the advanced skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in IT security and reliability.

Computer screen with cog

A degree in Imperial Computing will open up a variety of career opportunities in other areas of IT and computing.

Robotic arm

Graduates are sought after in roles such as application/web development, networking, AI, media, finance, robotics, and computer games.

Man standing under a sign pointing different directions

Other potential career paths include chip design, cyber security, data management, bio-medical systems and transport.

Terms and conditions

There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.

Read our terms and conditions

You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.

Programme specifications