Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security

On successful completion of the program students will be able to:

1. Critically analyse and evaluate the cyber security needs of an organisation to develop a suitable security architecture.
2. Apply technical skills to monitor and secure ICT environments.
3. Obtain an in-depth understanding of the factors that influence security breaches.
4. Design operational and strategic cyber security strategies and policies.

In today's interconnected world, foundational cyber security skills are indispensable across all industries. From finance to healthcare, these skills are crucial for ensuring data integrity and trust. Tailored for professionals with diverse backgrounds, the Graduate Certificate provides an entry point to this high-demand industry. 

You will develop an understanding of the core tenets of cyber security. Prepare yourself for roles pivotal in identifying, mitigating, and responding to digital threats. Gain a strategic edge with the unique human factors course, which explores the key interplay of human psychology in cyber security. 

Gain access to industry-leading cyber security labs, which offer a range of advanced technologies. The VMware-based virtualisation can run cyber hackathons and develop real-world applications in a safe and controlled environment. Completing this program not only equips you with essential cyber security skills. It also offers a pathway to our Master of Cyber Security. 

Recommended study pattern

With flexible study options, you can complete the program in a time that suits your professional and personal needs. You may complete the program within 1 to 3 years of part-time study.

This program consists of 40 units: 30 units of core courses and 10 units from a directed course list.

Award requirements

To meet the award requirements of this program you must successful complete 40 units of credit.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $18,560

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

The University of Newcastle is dedicated to outstanding education and research. Their degrees are shaped around global learning, work placements and entrepreneurial opportunities. The university is known as a champion of innovative approaches, striving for a dynamic teaching culture that delivers world-class outcomes. Welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, they focus on equity and developing the next generation of socially-oriented leaders.

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QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

16

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

19

AQF level 7 bachelor's degree or (or higher) in any discipline OR equivalent professional experience.

All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement:

• IELTS overall minimum - 6.5
• IELTS section minimum - 6.0.

If you have additional qualifications or experience above what is required for admission, you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning (RPL). This means you can complete your degree faster with less courses to complete. Different pathways are outlined on each degree page.