Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Program Description

The program Master of Science in Cybersecurity at UoB aims to give the knowledge to the students in the area of computer systems, communication networks & systems, computer based security systems, cryptography, cybercrimes, digital forensics, optimization techniques, and research methodologies. It places special emphasis on developing the technical as well as generic skills so that the students are well qualified for immediate employment and can effectively contribute to the technological advances in network security, precisely cyber security. The program also seeks to prepare the students to develop the scientific research skills in their area of interest.

Admission Requirements

A. Regular Admission Requirements:

• Completion of a recognized baccalaureate degree in an appropriate discipline.

• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or its established equivalent, in the applicant’s baccalaureate degree program. Lower GPAs may be considered for exceptionally strong experience cases and these cases need to be reviewed by the Postgraduate Admission Committee.

• A minimum of IELTS 6.0 or its equivalent in the last 2 years or a graduate of an institution having English as the medium of instruction. However, as an exception to this requirement, an applicant with an undergraduate qualification will be exempted from this requirement given that he/she provides evidence of acquiring IELTS 6.0 or its equivalent at the time of joining his BSc program.

• Interview/Selection process with the Postgraduate Admission Committee.

  B. Conditional Admission Requirements:

A student with a recognized baccalaureate degree in a discipline appropriate with a cumulative GPA of 2.00 to 2.49 on a 4.0 scale, or its established equivalent and satisfied for English requirements, he/she needs to pass the personal interview with the Postgraduate Admission Committee and is recommended to take the required Pre-Master courses as per the committee.

Program Objectives

• Advance in their career in the area of cybersecurity.

• Contribute to the development of the society through research, and/or and professional practices.

Student Outcomes

• An ability to apply knowledge of computer systems, and security concepts.

• An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.

• An understanding of the impact of cybersecurity solutions in variety of context.

• An ability to design, simulate and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret secure systems.

• An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.

• An ability to design a computer based secure system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, and sustainability.

• An ability to identify, formulate, and solve security problems.

• An ability to function on multidisciplinary teams.

• An ability to communicate effectively.

• Recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning.

Career Path

International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs). This agency published in its website that Oman is ranked third in the world for countries best prepared for cyber-attacks, according to the Global Cybersecurity Index. In the report Oman was cited as a country with some of the best organizational practices thanks to its High Level Cyber Security Strategy and Master Plan, and Comprehensive Roadmap. Its strengths include the organizational structure, legal measures, capacity building, technical and procedural measures, and regional and international cooperation.

Cybersecurity became an attractive area in the last few years. The graduates with MSc in Cybersecurity will advance in their career in the area of cybersecurity. Also, will be able to contribute In addition, they will be also be able to contribute to the development of the society through research, and/or and professional practices.