Applied Cyber Security (BSc)

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Cyber Security (ACS) program focuses on understanding, protecting, and defending digital systems. You will learn to analyze cyberattacks, secure IT infrastructures, and investigate digital incidents through practical exercises, projects, and case studies. The curriculum covers cyber security, ethical hacking, forensics, and security management, preparing you to become a specialist in shaping a secure digital future. The program emphasizes a blend of technical IT expertise with organizational, legal, and economic competencies, ensuring a holistic understanding of cyber security challenges.

Curriculum

The program is structured into seven semesters, divided into four progressive phases. It combines foundational computer science and IT systems knowledge with specialized technical IT security skills, alongside organizational, legal, and economic aspects relevant to cyber security. The curriculum also integrates modern technologies like AI and emphasizes management, communication, and interdisciplinary competencies. A significant portion of the program is dedicated to practical application, including lab exercises, industry projects, and a mandatory practical semester.

1. Semesters 1-2: Foundations and Orientation
   • Programming
   • Operating systems and networks
   • Databases and information systems
   • Software engineering and agile development methods
   • Introduction to computer architecture and IT infrastructure
2. Semesters 3-6: Specialisation and Application
   • Cryptography and secure communication
   • Penetration testing, vulnerability analysis, and forensics
   • Security engineering and secure coding
   • Network security and cloud security
   • Incident response and security operations (SOC)
   • Information security management (ISMS)
   • Risk and emergency management
   • Data protection, IT law, and regulatory requirements
   • IT governance, auditing, and certification
   • Security strategies, organisational, and economic protection measures
   • Fundamentals of entrepreneurial decision-making and operational value creation
   • Business English
   • AI-supported threat analysis and cyber threat intelligence
   • Anomaly detection and machine learning for security
   • Automation and security orchestration (SOAR)
   • Security in IoT, cloud, and Industry 4.0 environments
   • Digitalisation of business processes and their security implications
   • Project management and agile methods
   • IT service management
   • Communication in crisis and threat situations
   • Leadership and decision-making in security contexts
   • Economic thinking and ethical responsibility
   • Lab exercises, hacking challenges, real-world case studies
   • Team projects with partners from industry, administration, and research
3. Semesters 5-6: Practical Phase
   • Practical semester in a company or public authority
4. Semester 7: Completion Phase
   • Scientific working and Bachelor's thesis

Careers

Graduates of the Applied Cyber Security program are well-prepared for a high-demand field with excellent career and development opportunities. The combination of technical skills, practical experience, and management insight opens doors to various roles in IT services, industry, finance, healthcare, public administration, and consulting. The program equips students for specialist positions, leadership roles, and further Master's studies.

• Cyber Security Manager
• Cyber Security Architect
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Cyber Security Engineer
• Cyber Security Consultant / Auditor
• Chief Information Officer (CIO)
• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
• Security or Risk Manager
• Project or team leader in IT and security departments

Frequently asked questions

What are the tuition fees for the Applied Cyber Security program?

There are no tuition fees for the Applied Cyber Security program, neither for home nor international students. However, a semester fee covering administrative and solidarity fees is charged each semester.

What are the entry requirements for this program?

Applicants must possess a higher education entrance qualification equivalent to the German 'Hochschulzugangsberechtigung' (HZB). Specific requirements for international applicants should be verified on the university's admissions website.

How long does the Applied Cyber Security program take to complete?

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Cyber Security program has a standard duration of 7 semesters, amounting to 210 ECTS credits.

What is the language of instruction for the program?

The program is taught in both German and English, providing a bilingual learning environment for students.

When is the application period for the Applied Cyber Security program?

Applications for the winter semester are accepted from May 2nd to July 15th. All applications must be submitted through the university's online portal during this period.

What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?

Graduates are prepared for high-demand roles such as Cyber Security Manager, Architect, Analyst, Engineer, or Consultant. The program also opens doors to leadership positions like Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and opportunities in various sectors including IT services, industry, finance, and public administration.