Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security)

Build advanced, hands-on expertise in the cyber security discipline, while covering everything from cryptographic techniques and secure network design to the legal and ethical dimensions of data protection. Graduates will also strengthen their leadership potential and strategic thinking in cyber space, making informed decisions and communicating solutions effectively and concisely. With cyber security investment surging across industries, graduates are well-positioned for roles with IT service providers, consultancies, and vendors in both the public and private sectors.

Skills and tools in this course:

1. Advanced specialist knowledge in cyber security.
2. Critical analysis of complex cyber security issues.
3. Secure design principles.
4. Employ leadership and initiative.
5. Effective communication.
6. Develop and demonstrate business acumen.

Cyber threats are becoming increasingly frequent and sophisticated, making this master’s program more essential than ever. Our Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security) gets you out of theory and into impact. Designed for professionals ready to take on real-world threats, you will learn to think like an attacker so you can outthink them, too.

You will develop technical know-how and strategic insight to protect complex systems from cyber attacks. You will master tools like Python, Azure and Jupyter Notebook as you work on applied cryptography, software security and enterprise architecture. You will learn not just to respond but to anticipate, design secure networks, detect weaknesses and mitigate risks before they become threats.

You will graduate confident in your ability to communicate risks, advise leadership and coordinate security strategy, not just write code. Accredited by the ACS, so your qualification is recognised and trusted, this fully online course flexes to your life while keeping a laser focus on job readiness.

With this degree, you join the growing ranks of cyber security specialists, analysts, consultants and architects who are in demand across industries.

Recommended study pattern

You must complete a total of 192 credit points.

Foundation core units

Programming Fundamentals (IFQ581)

Rapid Web Development with Databases (IFQ582)

Computer Systems and Security (IFQ583)

Systems Innovation and Design (IFQ585)

Advanced core units

Complete 60 credit points of advanced core units

Machine Learning (IFQ580)

Cyber Security and Governance (IFQ635)

Software Lifecycle Management (IFQ636)

Human-Centred Design of IT Systems (IFQ637)

Introduction to Research (INQ700)

Capstone units

Select one capstone pathway (industry or research) and complete 36 credit points of study. Please note that the research pathway requires on-campus attendance.

Industry pathway

Industry Project (Phase 1) (IFQ735)

Industry Project (Phase 2) (IFQ736-1)

Industry Project (Phase 3) (IFQ736-2)

Research pathway

Complete 36 credit points of study. Please note, this is optional and provides a pathway to the PhD program. These units would be taken in place of the capstone units above (IFQ735, IFQ736-1 and IFQ736-2) and require on-campus attendance.

Industry Research Project (Phase 1) (IFN737)

Industry Research Project (Phase 2) (IFN738)

Core units – Cyber security major

Complete two (2) core units (24 credit points).

Networks and Security (IFQ658)

Human Factors in Cyber Security (IFQ694)

Core optional units – Cyber security

Choose two of the following (24 credit points of study):

Applied Cryptography (IFQ648)

Software Security (IFQ657)

Enterprise and Security Architecture (IFQ663)

Award requirements

To qualify for the award of the Master of Information Technology (Cyber Security), students must complete a total of 192 credit points.

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

Indicative total fee $19,400

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.

QUT Online is a leading Australian university known for practical, real-world learning, strong industry connections, and global recognition. QUT equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make an impact in their careers and communities. Wherever you are, through Open Universities Australia, you can study flexible online programs. You’ll earn a respected qualification, gain career-ready skills, and benefit from a university experience that combines academic excellence with practical, real-world applications.

Learn more about Queensland University of Technology.

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QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

15

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

12

• A completed recognised bachelor’s degree (or higher) in information technology with a minimum GPA of 4 (on a 7-point scale); or
• A completed recognised bachelor’s degree (or higher) in any discipline with a minimum GPA of 4 (on a 7-point scale) plus 3 years FTE of professional work experience in information technology.