Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security

On successful completion of the program students will have:

• An advanced and integrated understanding of cyber security and related ICT disciplines.
• The capacity to independently: - critically appraise, reflect and synthesise information around problems, concepts and theories in ICT security - research and apply established theories in ICT security - interpret and transmit ICT security knowledge, skills and ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

There is a significant shortage of cyber security skill and expertise throughout the world. This program is designed to provide you with a working knowledge of important security standards, techniques to exploit the current systems and networks, and technical depth in terms of expertise in the design of secure systems and their application to real-world problems in different industry sectors. The University of Newcastle offers an advanced Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security which is a professional qualification for those who wish to specialise in safeguarding cyber security across a variety of industry sectors.

You will gain a thorough understanding of cyber security threats and attacks to enable you to identify, analyse and apply security techniques and mechanisms to develop secure protocols. You will also learn privacy concepts and techniques for privacy enhanced technologies, and be equipped to implement best practices for 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: 20 units of core courses and 20 units of directed courses.

You will study core courses in:

• Data Security
• System and Network Security

You will study directed courses in:

• Systems and Network Administration
• Security Attacks: Analysis and Mitigation Strategies

Award requirements

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

Students who complete this program may apply for entry to the Master of Cyber Security, for which they will receive 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 $15,325

The amount shown here is 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 2025, within Australia:

17

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

18

AQF level 7 bachelor's degree or (or higher) from a relevant discipline.

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.