phd topics in cyber security

Cybersecurity Guide

From scholar to expert: Cybersecurity PhD options

In this guide

• Industry demand
• 2024 rankings
• Preparation
• Considerations
• School listings

The cybersecurity landscape is not just growing—it’s evolving at a breakneck pace. And what better way to stay ahead of the curve than by pursuing a PhD in cybersecurity?

This advanced degree is no longer confined to the realm of computer science. Today, it branches into diverse fields like law, policy, management, and strategy, reflecting the multifaceted nature of modern cyber threats.

If you’re looking to become a thought leader in this dynamic industry, a PhD in cybersecurity offers an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your expertise and broaden your horizons.

This guide is designed to give prospective cybersecurity PhD students a general overview of available cybersecurity PhD programs. It will also outline some of the factors to consider when trying to find the right PhD program fit, such as course requirements and tuition costs. 

Industry demand for PhDs in cybersecurity

Like other cutting-edge technology fields, until recently, cybersecurity PhD programs were often training grounds for niche positions and specialized research, often for government agencies (like the CIA, NSA, and FBI),  or closely adjacent research organizations or institutions. 

Today, however, as the cybersecurity field grows to become more pervasive and consumer-oriented, there are opportunities for cybersecurity PhDs to work at public-facing companies like startups and name-brand financial, software, infrastructure, and digital service firms.

One trend that is emerging in the cybersecurity field is that cybersecurity experts need to be well-versed in a variety of growing threats. If recent headlines about cybersecurity breaches are any indication, there are a number of new attack vectors and opportunities for cybercrime and related issues. Historically, committing cybercrime took resources and a level of sophistication that required specialized training or skill.

But now, because of the pervasiveness of the internet, committing cybercrime is becoming more commonplace. So training in a cybersecurity PhD program allows students to become an experts in one part of a growing and multi-layered field.

In fact, this trend of needing well-trained, but adaptable cybersecurity professionals is reflected by the move by cybersecurity graduate schools to offer specialized master’s degrees , and many companies and professional organizations offer certifications in cybersecurity that focus on particular issues related to cybersecurity technology, cybersecurity law , digital forensics , policy, or related topics.

That said, traditional research-oriented cybersecurity positions continue to be in demand in academia and elsewhere — a trend that will likely continue. 

One interesting facet of the cybersecurity field is trying to predict what future cybersecurity threats might look like and then develop tools and systems to protect against those threats.

As new technologies and services are developed and as more of the global population begins using Internet services for everything from healthcare to banking — new ways of protecting those services will be required. Often, it’s up to academic researchers to think ahead and examine various threats and opportunities to insulate against those threats.

Another key trend coming out of academic circles is that cybersecurity students are becoming increasingly multidisciplinary.

As cybersecurity hacks impact more parts of people’s everyday lives, so too do the academic programs that are designed to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. This emerging trend creates an enormous amount of opportunity for students who have a variety of interests and who are looking to create a non-traditional career path.

The best cybersecurity PhD programs for 2024

Georgia institute of technology, northeastern university, marymount university, school of technology and innovation, nova southeastern university, college of computing & engineering, purdue university, stevens institute of technology, worcester polytechnic institute, university of illinois at urbana-champaign, mississippi state university, new york institute of technology.

These rankings were compiled from data accessed in November 2023 from the Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Navigator (both services National Center for Education Statistics). Tuition data was pulled from individual university websites and is current as of November 2023.

What is required to get a PhD in cybersecurity?

Good news first: Obtaining a PhD in a field related to cybersecurity will likely create tremendous employment opportunities and lead to interesting and dynamic career options.

Bad news: Getting a PhD requires a lot of investment of time and energy, and comes with a big opportunity cost (meaning you have to invest four to five years, or longer, or pursue other opportunities to obtain a doctoral degree. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of what is required to get a PhD in cybersecurity. Of course, specific degree requirements will vary by program. One growing trend in the field is that students can now obtain degrees in a variety of formats, including traditional on-campus programs, online degree programs , and hybrid graduate degree programs that combine both on-campus learning with online learning. 

Related resources

• Online PhD in cybersecurity – A guide to finding the right program
• Cybersecurity degree programs
• Podcast episodes and expert interviews

Preparing for a cybersecurity doctorate program

Cybersecurity is a relatively new formalized technology field, nonetheless, there are several ways that students or prospective PhD candidates can get involved or explore the field before and during a graduate school program. A few examples of ways to start networking and finding opportunities include: 

Join cybersecurity organizations with professional networks

Specialized professional organizations are a good place to find the latest in career advice and guidance. Often they publish newsletters or other kinds of information that provide insights into the emerging trends and issues facing cybersecurity professionals. A couple of examples include:

The Center for Internet Security  (CIS) is a non-profit dedicated to training cybersecurity professionals and fostering a sense of collaboration. The organization also publishes information and analysis of the latest cybersecurity threats and issues facing the professional community.

The SANS Institute runs several different kinds of courses for students (including certification programs) as well as ongoing professional cybersecurity education and training for people working in the field. The organization has several options including webinars, online training, and live in-person seminars. Additionally, SANS also publishes newsletters and maintains forums for cybersecurity professionals to interact and share information.

Leverage your social network

Places like LinkedIn and Twitter are good places to start to find news and information about what is happening in the field, who the main leaders and influencers are, and what kinds of jobs and opportunities are available.

Starting a professional network early is also a great opportunity. Often professionals and members of the industry are willing to provide guidance and help to students who are genuinely interested in the field and looking for career opportunities. 

Cybersecurity competitions 

Cybersecurity competitions are a great way to get hands-on experience working on real cybersecurity problems and issues. As a PhD student or prospective student, cybersecurity competitions that are sponsored by industry groups are a great way to meet other cybersecurity professionals while getting working on projects that will help flesh out a resume or become talking points in later job interviews.

The US Cyber Challenge , for example, is a series of competitions and hackathon-style events hosted by the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate and the Center for Internet Security to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Internships

Internships also continue to be a tried and true way to gain professional experience. Internships in technical fields like cybersecurity can also pay well. Like the industry itself, cybersecurity internships are available across a wide range of industries and can range from academic research-oriented to more corporate kinds of work. 

Things to consider when choosing a cybersecurity PhD program

There are many considerations to evaluate when considering any kind of graduate degree, but proper planning is essential to be able to obtain a doctoral degree. It’s also important to note that these are just guidelines and that each graduate program will have specific requirements, so be sure to double-check.

What you will need before applying to a cybersecurity PhD program:

• All undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• A statement of intent, which is like a cover letter outlining interest
• Letters of reference
• Application fee
• Online application
• A resume or CV outlining professional and academic accomplishments

What does a cybersecurity PhD program cost?

Obtaining a PhD is a massive investment, both in terms of time and money. Cybersecurity PhD students are weighing the cost of becoming an expert in the field with the payoff of having interesting and potentially lucrative career opportunities on the other side.

Degree requirements are usually satisfied in 60-75 hours, so the cost of a doctoral degree can be well into the six-figure range. Here’s a more specific breakdown:

Tuition rates

The Cybersecurity Guide research team looked at 26 programs that offer a cybersecurity-related PhD degree. Here’s a breakdown of tuition rates (all figures are based on out-of-state tuition).

$17,580 is the most affordable PhD program option and it is available at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

$86,833 is the average cost of a cybersecurity PhD and is based on tuition rates from all 26 schools.

$197,820 is the most expensive cybersecurity PhD program and is available at Indiana University Bloomington.

The good news is that by the time students get to the PhD level there are a lot of funding options — including some graduate programs that are completely funded by the university or academic departments themselves.

Additionally, funding in the form of research grants and other kinds of scholarships is available for students interested in pursuing cybersecurity studies. 

One example is the CyberCorps: Scholarships for Service program. Administered by the National Science Foundation, PhD students studying cybersecurity are eligible for a $34,000 a year scholarship, along with a professional stipend of $6,000 to attend conferences in exchange for agreeing to work for a government agency in the cybersecurity space after the PhD program. 

Frequently asked questions about cybersecurity PhD programs

Most traditional and online cybersecurity graduate programs require a minimum number of credits that need to be completed to obtain a degree. On average, it takes 71 credits to graduate with a PhD in cybersecurity — far longer (almost double) than traditional master’s degree programs. In addition to coursework, most PhD students also have research and teaching responsibilities that can be simultaneously demanding and great career preparation.

At the core of a cybersecurity doctoral program is a data science doctoral program, you’ll be expected to learn many skills and also how to apply them across domains and disciplines. Core curriculums will vary from program to program, but almost all will have a core foundation of statistics.  

All PhD candidates will have to take a series of exams that act as checkpoints during the lengthy PhD process. The actual exam process and timing can vary depending on the university and the program, but the basic idea is that cybersecurity PhD candidates generally have to sit for a qualifying exam, which comes earlier in the program (usually the winter or spring of the second year of study), a preliminary exam, which a candidate takes to show they are ready to start the dissertation or research portion of the PhD program, and a final exam where PhD students present and defend their research and complete their degree requirements. 

A cybersecurity PhD dissertation is the capstone of a doctoral program. The dissertation is the name of a formal paper that presents the findings of original research that the PhD candidate conducted during the program under the guidance of faculty advisors. Some example cybersecurity research topics that could potentially be turned into dissertation ideas include: * Policies and best practices around passwords * Ways to defend against the rise of bots * Policies around encryption and privacy * Corporate responsibility for employee security * Internet advertising targeting and privacy * The new frontier of social engineering attacks * Operation security (OpSec) strategy and policy * Network infrastructure and defense * Cybersecurity law and policy * The vulnerabilities of biometrics * The role of ethical hacking * Cybersecurity forensics and enforcement

A complete listing of cybersecurity PhD programs

The following is a list of cybersecurity PhD programs. The listing is intended to work as a high-level index that provides enough basic information to make quick side-by-side comparisons easy. 

You should find basic data about what each school requires (such as a GRE score or prior academic work) as well as the number of credits required, estimated costs, and a link to the program.

Arizona State University

Augusta university, boise state university, carnegie mellon university, colorado school of mines, dakota state university, george mason university, indiana university bloomington, iowa state university, louisiana tech university, marymount university, naval postgraduate school, new jersey city university, new york university, nova southeastern university, rochester institute of technology, sam houston state university, st. thomas university, the university of tennessee, university of california-davis, university of central florida, university of colorado-colorado springs, university of fairfax, university of idaho, university of missouri-columbia, university of north carolina at charlotte, university of north texas, university of texas at san antonio, university of tulsa, virginia tech.

Earning A Ph.D. In Cybersecurity: Everything You Need To Know

Updated: Jan 1, 2024, 3:30pm

A Ph.D. in cybersecurity prepares graduates for advanced, high-level job opportunities, including roles in research, education and management.

Cybersecurity Ph.D. programs allow students and professionals to build on their knowledge and skills. Candidates gain experience working with emerging technologies across artificial intelligence, data science and cloud computing to optimize organizational performance. This article overviews cybersecurity doctoral degree options, including standard admission requirements, common coursework and potential career paths.

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What to Expect From a Ph.D. in Cybersecurity

A Ph.D. in cybersecurity provides students with a comprehensive education encompassing technology, data science, leadership, management, ethics and policy. Requirements, course loads and curriculums for these programs vary by school. In most cases, students need to complete between 50 and 70 credits, which typically takes three to seven years.

Several components make up the Ph.D. curriculum, including professional research and theory, an extensive literature review and dissertation preparation. In addition to coursework, Ph.D. students must fulfill teaching and research responsibilities.

Core concepts and topics can include:

• Machine learning
• Information theory
• Applied cryptology
• Theory of computation
• Artificial intelligence
• Network security

Degree Finder

Doctor of philosophy vs. doctor of science vs. doctor of information technology.

When deciding which cybersecurity doctoral program to pursue, you can choose from the following degree options:

• Ph.D. in cybersecurity
• Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) in cybersecurity
• Doctor of Information Technology (DIT)

Ph.D. in Cybersecurity

In general, a Ph.D. in cybersecurity is a research-based degree program that prepares graduates for advanced roles in academia. This degree focuses on research and theory, catering to students and professionals looking to expand their teaching opportunities and become professors or researchers.

D.Sc. in Cybersecurity

A D.Sc. focuses on practical applications of theory in management and leadership roles. Students may research cybersecurity’s emerging theoretical and technical components. This degree suits students who are interested in policy development.

A D.I.T. program serves professionals who are looking to advance their knowledge and expertise in technology and computing. Learners may develop the skills needed to lead an organization. Students can choose a specialization, such as cybersecurity, computer science or data science.

What Kinds of Exams are Required During a Ph.D. Program?

In addition to coursework and a dissertation, students working toward their cybersecurity doctorate must complete exams. In most Ph.D. programs, learners must take three exams.

• A qualifying exam, which occurs during the early stages of the program
• A preliminary exam to demonstrate a candidate’s readiness to begin their dissertation and research
• The final exam, through which a candidate defends their dissertation and research work

Common Courses in a Cybersecurity Ph.D.

Coursework for cybersecurity Ph.D. programs varies among schools. Each program sets a unique curriculum. Below you’ll find just a few examples and variations of common course titles for cybersecurity doctoral programs.

Advanced Security Risk Management and Assessment

Courses on advanced security risk management and assessment provide an overview of methodologies for strategic decision-making. Students analyze various management techniques to develop cyber defense procedures to reduce and address breaches.

Research and Practice in Information Technology

In courses on research and practice in information technology, students analyze research across the spectrum of IT disciplines. Learners review concepts, methodologies and techniques used in computer science, information systems, information management and software engineering research.

This course introduces students to key research paradigms, including the principles of research ethics, design and methods of data collection and analysis as relevant to IT research.

Law, Policy, Ethics and Compliance

Courses on law, policy, ethics and compliance provide an overview of legal, ethical and policy-related cybersecurity issues. Students analyze domestic and international security law, compliance issues and legal principles. Learners critically evaluate policy documents across business sectors to understand how to comply with varying laws and regulations while addressing cybersecurity challenges.

Dissertation

Each doctoral candidate must write a dissertation, or a formal research paper, that presents findings from original research carried out during the duration of the program under the guidance of faculty advisors. Students create the documentation for their dissertation topic, obtain approval from advisors and submit any required information to their institution’s research board.

How to Get Admitted to a Cybersecurity Doctoral Program

The admission requirements for a cybersecurity doctoral program can differ depending on the school. Typically, applicants must have at least an undergraduate degree, such as a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity . However, some programs require a master’s in cybersecurity or a related subject.

Ph.D. students coming from undergraduate programs may earn their master’s degrees as they complete their doctoral requirements. Those coming from master’s programs may have to complete fewer credits to earn their doctorate.

In addition to submitting a completed application and paying any application fees, standard admission requirements typically include the following.

• Submit undergraduate transcripts.
• Meet a minimum GPA requirement.
• Submit GRE scores.
• Submit letters of recommendation.
• Write an admissions essay or personal statement.
• Submit a résumé or CV with relevant professional experience and educational accomplishments.

What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Cybersecurity?

Is this cybersecurity degree worth it? A Ph.D. in cybersecurity can help you qualify for various management positions, teaching jobs, research roles and other career opportunities in the information security field.

Below we list some potential careers for cybersecurity doctoral graduates. Cybersecurity job requirements vary widely depending on the specific title and organization. While the main responsibilities for each role are generally consistent across the field, details may vary among industries and workplaces.

We sourced the below salary data from Payscale .

Chief Information Security Officer

Average Annual Salary : Over $174,000 per year Qualifications : At least a master’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, IT or a closely related field Job Description : A chief information security officer (CISO) is a C-suite management role. These professionals oversee information and data security for an organization, along with IT. CISOs offer strategic oversight on the design, development, implementation and maintenance of security solutions. They ensure organizations are adhering to necessary regulations, protocols and legal obligations.

Director of Operations

Average Annual Salary : Over $100,000 per year Qualifications : A master’s degree is the minimum educational requirement. Certifications and extensive experience can give you an advantage. Job Description : A director of operations oversees an organization’s cybersecurity operations and incident responses. They are responsible for building and cultivating integrated teams to address cyberattacks and threats. These professionals are accountable for timely and strategic responses to risks and security threats.

Education Program Director

Average Annual Salary : Over $68,000 per year Qualifications : At least a master’s degree and relevant work experience Job Description : Education program directors design and implement educational programs for the public or members of an organization. These professionals oversee all aspects of organizational initiatives, budgets and hiring staff. Education program directors develop various educational materials, including the curriculum for classes and content for conferences and lectures.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cybersecurity Ph.D.s

Is it worth getting a ph.d. in cybersecurity.

Earning a Ph.D. in cybersecurity can expand your career opportunities, increase your earning potential and help you qualify for high-level management positions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment opportunities for information security specialists, including cybersecurity professionals, to grow by 32% from 2022 to 2032.

What can I do with a Ph.D. in cybersecurity?

A Ph.D. in cybersecurity is the highest academic credential available in the field. Depending on your degree option, you can qualify for positions in the education sector to teach, apply for leadership positions and pursue other high-level positions in the field.

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105 Latest Cyber Security Research Topics in 2024

Home Blog Security 105 Latest Cyber Security Research Topics in 2024

The concept of cybersecurity refers to cracking the security mechanisms that break in dynamic environments. Implementing Cyber Security Project topics and cybersecurity thesis topics helps overcome attacks and take mitigation approaches to security risks and threats in real-time. Undoubtedly, it focuses on events injected into the system, data, and the whole network to attack/disturb it.

The network can be attacked in various ways, including Distributed DoS, Knowledge Disruptions, Computer Viruses / Worms, and many more. Cyber-attacks are still rising, and more are waiting to harm their targeted systems and networks. Detecting Intrusions in cybersecurity has become challenging due to their Intelligence Performance. Therefore, it may negatively affect data integrity, privacy, availability, and security. 

This article aims to demonstrate the most current Cyber Security Research Topics for Projects and areas of research currently lacking. We will talk about cyber security research questions, cyber security topics for the project, latest research titles about cyber security.

List of Trending Cyber Security Research Topics in 2024

Digital technology has revolutionized how all businesses, large or small, work, and even governments manage their day-to-day activities, requiring organizations, corporations, and government agencies to utilize computerized systems. To protect data against online attacks or unauthorized access, cybersecurity is a priority. There are many Cyber Security Courses online where you can learn about these topics. With the rapid development of technology comes an equally rapid shift in Cyber Security Research Topics and cybersecurity trends, as data breaches, ransomware, and hacks become almost routine news items. In 2024, these will be the top cybersecurity trends .

A. Exciting Mobile Cyber Security Research Paper Topics

• The significance of continuous user authentication on mobile gadgets. 
• The efficacy of different mobile security approaches. 
• Detecting mobile phone hacking. 
• Assessing the threat of using portable devices to access banking services. 
• Cybersecurity and mobile applications. 
• The vulnerabilities in wireless mobile data exchange. 
• The rise of mobile malware. 
• The evolution of Android malware.
• How to know you’ve been hacked on mobile. 
• The impact of mobile gadgets on cybersecurity. 

B. Top Computer and Software Security Topics to Research

• Learn algorithms for data encryption 
• Concept of risk management security 
• How to develop the best Internet security software 
• What are Encrypting Viruses- How does it work? 
• How does a Ransomware attack work? 
• Scanning of malware on your PC 
• Infiltrating a Mac OS X operating system 
• What are the effects of RSA on network security ? 
• How do encrypting viruses work?
• DDoS attacks on IoT devices

C. Trending Information Security Research Topics

• Why should people avoid sharing their details on Facebook? 
• What is the importance of unified user profiles? 
• Discuss Cookies and Privacy  
• White hat and black hat hackers 
• What are the most secure methods for ensuring data integrity? 
• Talk about the implications of Wi-Fi hacking apps on mobile phones 
• Analyze the data breaches in 2024
• Discuss digital piracy in 2024
• critical cyber-attack concepts 
• Social engineering and its importance 

D. Current Network Security Research Topics

• Data storage centralization
• Identify Malicious activity on a computer system. 
• Firewall 
• Importance of keeping updated Software  
• wireless sensor network 
• What are the effects of ad-hoc networks
• How can a company network be safe? 
• What are Network segmentation and its applications? 
• Discuss Data Loss Prevention systems  
• Discuss various methods for establishing secure algorithms in a network. 
• Talk about two-factor authentication

E. Best Data Security Research Topics

• Importance of backup and recovery 
• Benefits of logging for applications 
• Understand physical data security 
• Importance of Cloud Security 
• In computing, the relationship between privacy and data security 
• Talk about data leaks in mobile apps 
• Discuss the effects of a black hole on a network system. 

F. Important Application Security Research Topics

• Detect Malicious Activity on Google Play Apps 
• Dangers of XSS attacks on apps 
• Discuss SQL injection attacks. 
• Insecure Deserialization Effect 
• Check Security protocols 

G. Cybersecurity Law & Ethics Research Topics

• Strict cybersecurity laws in China 
• Importance of the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act. 
• USA, UK, and other countries' cybersecurity laws  
• Discuss The Pipeline Security Act in the United States 

H. Recent Cyberbullying Topics

• Protecting your Online Identity and Reputation 
• Online Safety 
• Sexual Harassment and Sexual Bullying 
• Dealing with Bullying 
• Stress Center for Teens 

I. Operational Security Topics

• Identify sensitive data 
• Identify possible threats 
• Analyze security threats and vulnerabilities 
• Appraise the threat level and vulnerability risk 
• Devise a plan to mitigate the threats 

J. Cybercrime Topics for a Research Paper

• Crime Prevention. 
• Criminal Specialization. 
• Drug Courts. 
• Criminal Courts. 
• Criminal Justice Ethics. 
• Capital Punishment.
• Community Corrections. 
• Criminal Law.

Cyber Security Future Research Topics

• Developing more effective methods for detecting and responding to cyber attacks
• Investigating the role of social media in cyber security
• Examining the impact of cloud computing on cyber security
• Investigating the security implications of the Internet of Things
• Studying the effectiveness of current cyber security measures
• Identifying new cyber security threats and vulnerabilities
• Developing more effective cyber security policies
• Examining the ethical implications of cyber security

Cyber Security Topics For Research Paper

• Cyber security threats and vulnerabilities
• Cyber security incident response and management
• Cyber security risk management
• Cyber security awareness and training
• Cyber security controls and countermeasures
• Cyber security governance
• Cyber security standards
• Cyber security insurance

Top 5 Current Research Topics in Cybersecurity

Below are the latest 5 cybersecurity research topics. They are:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Digital Supply Chains
• Internet of Things
• State-Sponsored Attacks
• Working From Home

Research Area in Cyber Security

The field of cyber security is extensive and constantly evolving. Its research covers a wide range of subjects, including: 

• Quantum & Space  
• Data Privacy  
• Criminology & Law 
• AI & IoT Security
• RFID Security
• Authorization Infrastructure
• Digital Forensics
• Autonomous Security
• Social Influence on Social Networks

How to Choose the Best Research Topics in Cyber Security?

A good cybersecurity assignment heading is a skill that not everyone has, and unfortunately, not everyone has one. You might have your teacher provide you with the topics, or you might be asked to come up with your own. If you want more cyber security research topics, you can take references from Certified Ethical Hacker Certification, where you will get more hints on new topics. If you don't know where to start, here are some tips. Follow them to create compelling cybersecurity assignment topics. 

1. Brainstorm

In order to select the most appropriate heading for your cybersecurity assignment, you first need to brainstorm ideas. What specific matter do you wish to explore? In this case, come up with relevant topics about the subject and select those relevant to your issue when you use our list of topics. You can also go to cyber security-oriented websites to get some ideas. Using any blog post on the internet can prove helpful if you intend to write a research paper on security threats in 2024. Creating a brainstorming list with all the keywords and cybersecurity concepts you wish to discuss is another great way to start. Once that's done, pick the topics you feel most comfortable handling. Keep in mind to stay away from common topics as much as possible. 

2. Understanding the Background

In order to write a cybersecurity assignment, you need to identify two or three research paper topics. Obtain the necessary resources and review them to gain background information on your heading. This will also allow you to learn new terminologies that can be used in your title to enhance it. 

3. Write a Single Topic

Make sure the subject of your cybersecurity research paper doesn't fall into either extreme. Make sure the title is neither too narrow nor too broad. Topics on either extreme will be challenging to research and write about. 

4. Be Flexible

There is no rule to say that the title you choose is permanent. It is perfectly okay to change your research paper topic along the way. For example, if you find another topic on this list to better suit your research paper, consider swapping it out. 

The Layout of Cybersecurity Research Guidance

It is undeniable that usability is one of cybersecurity's most important social issues today. Increasingly, security features have become standard components of our digital environment, which pervade our lives and require both novices and experts to use them. Supported by confidentiality, integrity, and availability concerns, security features have become essential components of our digital environment.  

In order to make security features easily accessible to a wider population, these functions need to be highly usable. This is especially true in this context because poor usability typically translates into the inadequate application of cybersecurity tools and functionality, resulting in their limited effectiveness. 

Cyber Security Research Topic Writing Tips from Expert

Additionally, a well-planned action plan and a set of useful tools are essential for delving into Cyber Security research topics. Not only do these topics present a vast realm of knowledge and potential innovation, but they also have paramount importance in today's digital age. Addressing the challenges and nuances of these research areas will contribute significantly to the global cybersecurity landscape, ensuring safer digital environments for all. It's crucial to approach these topics with diligence and an open mind to uncover groundbreaking insights.

• Before you begin writing your research paper, make sure you understand the assignment. 
• Your Research Paper Should Have an Engaging Topic 
• Find reputable sources by doing a little research 
• Precisely state your thesis on cybersecurity 
• A rough outline should be developed 
• Finish your paper by writing a draft 
• Make sure that your bibliography is formatted correctly and cites your sources. 

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Studies in the literature have identified and recommended guidelines and recommendations for addressing security usability problems to provide highly usable security. The purpose of such papers is to consolidate existing design guidelines and define an initial core list that can be used for future reference in the field of Cyber Security Research Topics.

The researcher takes advantage of the opportunity to provide an up-to-date analysis of cybersecurity usability issues and evaluation techniques applied so far. As a result of this research paper, researchers and practitioners interested in cybersecurity systems who value human and social design elements are likely to find it useful. You can find KnowledgeHut’s Cyber Security courses online and take maximum advantage of them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Businesses and individuals are changing how they handle cybersecurity as technology changes rapidly - from cloud-based services to new IoT devices. 

Ideally, you should have read many papers and know their structure, what information they contain, and so on if you want to write something of interest to others. 

Inmates having the right to work, transportation of concealed weapons, rape and violence in prison, verdicts on plea agreements, rehab versus reform, and how reliable are eyewitnesses? 

The field of cyber security is extensive and constantly evolving. Its research covers various subjects, including Quantum & Space, Data Privacy, Criminology & Law, and AI & IoT Security. 

Mrinal Prakash

I am a B.Tech Student who blogs about various topics on cyber security and is specialized in web application security

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Cyber Security Research Group

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Suggested PhD Projects

This page lists indicative research areas/topics for prospective PhD applicants to identify supervisors and research topics for their PhD project. Potential research students are encouraged and welcome to produce their own suggestions in cyber security that broadly meet the general interests of the Group’s Core Members.

PhD Scholarships

From time to time, we offer funded PhD scholarships. Such scholarships are normally funded via the Institute of Cyber Security for Society (iCSS) , School of Computing , Division of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences (CEMS) , the University of Kent or external funders. Please note that the 2025 PhD scholarships are to be announced.

Our Group’s Core Members can supervise PhD students under two different programmes and their suggested PhD topics are listed below. To find out more topics, visit each member’s website and study their recent research publications, projects they are working on and any further guidelines for PhD applicants.

PhD Computer Science

Security and privacy in IoT and Industrial IoT : proof-of-concept attacks and countermeasures, IoT honeypot, specific application domains

Human aspects of security : understanding stakeholders involved, protecting vulnerable people (e.g. victims of child sexual abuse/exploitation and survivors of domestic violence), cybercrime, socio-technical solutions

Malware and ransomware : detection, containment and recovery

Opportunities and challenges related to emerging technologies : for instance, the use of LLM and AI in security research, countering the negative impact of these technologies

Sanjay Bhattacherjee

Post-quantum cryptology : Algorithms for finding short vectors in a lattice; theoretical bounds on the runtime, correctness and output quality; precision-handling in computations; design and security analysis of lattice-based cryptographic protocols; implementations

Algorithmic game theory : Design of new voting games, their efficiency analysis, and implementation

Blockchain : Design and analysis of blockchain protocols for different layers, their security analysis and implementations

Virginia Franqueira

Cross-sector sharing of cyber security incidents data : Numerous initiatives are in place to promote sharing of information and lessons learned about cyber incidents but they tend to focus on a specific sector, region or network of professionals in a non-structured manner therefore not prone to automated analysis. Sharing of this type of information is also regarded as problematic for many reasons. This project aims to propose a framework to support expressing and exchanging of cyber incident information and lessons learned on a standardised and anonymous way.

Detection of illegal videos : Detection of illegal videos is complex and different solution directions have pros and cons, e.g., in terms of the ability to cope with video manipulations and performance. Approaches include video similarity detection algorithms that produce a fingerprint for an entire video, frame selection followed by image similarity matching, and aggregation of local image descriptors. This project aims to evaluate existing algorithms for detection of manipulated videos (using legal datasets) against reference videos (akin to illegal videos), and to propose an optimal combination that improves detection rate, implemented in a toolkit.

Automated age estimation : Online platforms, such as social media, have age restrictions for access to functionalities and/or creation of accounts. However, the enforcement of minimum age (e.g., 13) tends to be weak, mainly based on self-reported date of birth or peers endorsement. This project aims to explore possible alternatives and sources of information that could be used to build confidence about age in a bottom-up and privacy-preserving manner, and implement a proof-of-concept mechanism to allow or deny access based on the inferred age.

Forensics of computer-generated media : The surge of AI-based platforms and techniques to generate or manipulate media and text has resulted in different types of emerging computer-generated Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) – images, videos and text. This project aims to assess a large pool of (legal) media and text from such platforms/techniques and the existence of evidence of forensics value (e.g., related to provenance), as well of their reliability and robustness.

Özgür Kafalı

All projects will typically involve some element of knowledge engineering (knowledge graph, ontology) and simulation.

Cyber risk assessment and mitigation for socio-technical systems : – synthesise security and privacy requirements based on organisational risk profile – generate explanations for risk factors – incorporate human security decision-making – develop simulation tool to evaluate mitigation plans

Interactive methods to support cyber security leadership and culture in organisations : – explore serious games and simulation for threat modelling – design visual threat model representation, e.g. attack graphs, attack/defense trees – conduct human subject studies to evaluate effectiveness of developed methods

Normative ethics simulator for autonomous systems : – explore normative ethical theories and accountability – design customizable scenarios based on domain – develop multi-agent simulation tool for experimentation

Rogério de Lemos

Visit  his University of Kent web page for more information about his research interests and publications.

Visit  his dedicated web page on his personal website  for indicative research areas and topics suggested for PhD applicants. More research interests and recent publications can also be found on  his personal website .

Jason Nurse

Visit  his University of Kent web page  and  his personal web site  for more information about his research interests and publications.

Carlos Perez-Delgado

Quantum Cybersecurity : Various quantum technologies – for computation, communication and encryption among others – continue to be developed from hypothetical systems to real-world devices. Quantum cybersecurity studies applications of quantum technologies to cybersecurity, both offensive and defensive. The student will join an existing vibrant research group already exploring such applications–a notable recent example is the vulnerability of Bitcoin  and other  cryptocurrencies to quantum attacks .

The goal of the student will be to identify new potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities that can be exploited using quantum technologies, and/or to research new ways to bolster the security of systems using nascent quantum technology. Some examples of the former include quantum-technological attacks against various online systems, cloud computing, cryptocurrencies and blockchains, banking systems, and other networking systems. Some examples of the latter include quantum key-distribution and quantum cryptography, quantum secure computation, and other quantum online collaboration protocols. The research can be narrowed down within this area, depending on the applicants background and interests. The applicant should have a first degree in CS, physics, mathematics, or other related STEM field.

Quantum Software Engineering : In an effort to stave off a repeat of the “software crisis” of the 1960s, researchers have recently begun developing the field of quantum software engineering (QSE). If software engineering is, as defined by the IEEE, “the application of a systematic, disciplined, quantifiable approach to the development, operation, and maintenance of software, as well as to the study of these approaches; that is, the application of engineering to software,” then quantum software engineering is the application of engineering to the development, operation, and maintenance of quantum software.

The goal of the student will be to help develop tools, techniques, and methodologies for the development, operation and maintenance of quantum software. The student will join a world-leading research group in QSE, behind the development of the  Q-UML quantum software modelling language , and the  Q-COSMIC standard metric for quantum software sizing .

Vineet Rajani

Verification methods like type systems, program logics and runtime monitoring for enforcement of properties related to data confidentiality, causality and fairness.

Type-based verification for differential privacy : Enormous amount of data is collected every day, this data could be extremely useful in making several automated decisions. However, often this data cannot be released/used because of privacy concerns. Prior work has already shown that simple aggregation and anonymization is not sufficient to prevent privacy loss of individuals. Differential privacy is a promising approach to this problem which offers a statistical guarantee to an individual’s privacy. Intuitively, a mechanism is differentially private if the probability of obtaining a result with (or without) an individuals data is almost the same. This limits the amount of information that can learned about that individual. The aim of this project is to develop a type-theoretic framework for analysing differential privacy. We will use ideas from cost analysis and information flow control, two well studied but very different domains in formal verification.

Algorithmic fairness: theory and practice (jointly with Shujun Li): Algorithmic decision-making (for instance, using machine learning) is increasingly being used to make socially relevant decisions like university admissions, credit rating, user profiling, and even in more sensitive areas such as HR recruitment and digital policing. While most of these approaches are often designed and calibrated with accuracy and human intervention in mind, increasingly questions of fairness of such algorithmic decision making approaches are getting more and more relevant. This raises a fundamental question: when can we call a program or an automated computational model fair? Questions of this kind are difficult to answer without having a formal definition of what is meant by fairness. The goal of this project will be to understand fairness from a formal perspective and to build methods for enforcing it. There are several directions to pursue here, including connections to security, privacy and big data analytics, depending on the interest of the applicant.

Visit  his University of Kent web page  for more information about his research interests and publications.

PhD Electronic Engineering

Sanaul hoque, interdisciplinary phd projects.

We encourage PhD applicants to consider working on interdisciplinary research topics with an interface with subjects such as Psychology, Criminology/Sociology, Business, Law, and Arts. You can have a principal supervisor from the School of Computing and a secondary one from a different academic school (discipline).

Cyber Security PhD Degree in Other Disciplines

If you are interested in a cyber security PhD degree not in the subject of Computer Science or Electronic Engineering, please visit the website of the Institute of Cyber Security for Society (iCSS) , where you can find supervisors from other academic schools (disciplines) as the principal supervisor. In this case, you may want to consider one of the academics from the Cyber Security Research Group as a secondary supervisor.

If you are interested in pursuing a PhD degree in cyber security and need any help, please feel free to contact Professor Shujun Li , the Group Head and the iCSS Director, for advice.

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Top 10 Best Programs for a PhD in Cyber Security

Technology is becoming more and more integrated with our daily lives — with it comes threats from hackers that make your information vulnerable. Indeed, cybersecurity threats  are expected to grow even more in the next few years, making cybersecurity professionals sought-after in the hiring market. Already have an extensive computer science  background? Why not take it to the next level with a PhD in cyber security?

A doctorate degree in cyber security gives you a valuable qualification and in-depth knowledge of cybersecurity challenges. Not only will you be equipped to help organizations protect their crucial information, but you’ll also be qualified to develop strategies for better data security and even teach the subject in university.

Ready to unlock unlimited career potential in the cybersecurity space? Let’s jump into our top programs for cybersecurity PhD programs, including common requirements and costs and future career potential.

Table of Contents

Best Programs for a PhD in Cyber Security

Arizona state university, ira a. fulton schools of engineering.

Ph.D. Computer Science (Cybersecurity)

Arizona State University is certified as a National Center of Academic Excellence for Information Assurance Research and Education (CAEIAE). Its doctorate of cyber security program helps students master key theories and algorithms to apply to a modern computer science realm.

• Courses:  Data and information systems , information assurance and security, applied Cryptography, and advanced computer network security.
• Credits:  84
• Delivery: On-campus
• Tuition :  $11,720 per year
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, grants, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 88.4%
• Location:  Phoenix, Arizona

Capitol Technology University

Doctorate (DSc) in Cybersecurity

Capitol Technology University is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. The school’s doctorate in cybersecurity program is a low-residency online program and was the first of its kind  in the USA.

• Courses : Situation awareness analysis & action plan processes, information assurance strategic management, information assurance implementation
• Credits : 54-66
• Duration : 3 years (8 semesters)
• Delivery : Online (low residency)
• Tuition : $933 per credit
• Financial aid: Loans, Grants, scholarships, work-study
• Acceptance rate:  84.4%
• Location : Laurel, MD

Northcentral University, School of Technology

Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY)

Northcentral University is a regionally accredited university that offers many educational programs for students all over the world with one-on-one mentorship. Its PhD cybersecurity degree has a special emphasis on global security issues and covers international laws and multicultural elements.

• Courses : Global cybersecurity demand, securing globally distributed infrastructure & support, and governance, audit, compliance & risk
• Credits : 60
• Duration : 40-44 months
• Delivery : Online
• Tuition : $1,094 per credit
• Financial aid : Grants, loans, veteran benefits, and third-party scholarships.
• Acceptance rate : 93%
• Location : San Diego, CA & Scottsdale, Arizona

University of Colorado – Colorado Springs, College of Engineering and Applied Science

Ph.D. in Security

University of Colorado, Colorado Springs has partnerships with several defense departments, semiconductor manufacturers, and other prominent institutions, thanks to its strategic location. Though students must conduct the majority of the coursework for this doctorate degree in cyber security on-campus, a provision permits some online courses.

• Courses : System administration & security, applied cryptography, and advanced system security design.
• Delivery : On-campus
• Tuition : $918.83 per credit
• Financial aid : Scholarships, student employment, and loans.
• Acceptance rate:  89.6%
• Location : Colorado Springs, Colorado

Northeastern University

Cybersecurity, Ph.D.

Northeastern University promotes a co-operative education philosophy with a blend of classroom learning and professional experience. This cybersecurity PhD program offers the opportunity to conduct research in specialized facilities and labs, including the Cybersecurity & Privacy Institute and International Secure Systems Lab.

• Courses : Software vulnerabilities & security, computer hardware security, and machine learning in cybersecurity & privacy.
• Credits : 48
• Tuition : $1,532 per credit hour
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, and company sponsorships.
• Acceptance rate : 20.5%
• Location : Boston, Massachusetts

Dakota State University

Cybersecurity, DSc

Dakota State University is known for its specialization in computer education-related programs. Its doctorate in cyber security is delivered through a combination of various distance education methods and a handful of on-campus seminars. You can apply for the program even if you don’t have a master’s degree, but you’ll need to complete an additional 27 credits.

• Courses : Full scope security testing, cyber security research, and security software engineering.
• Credits : 61
• Duration : 3 years
• Delivery : Online (plus on-campus seminars)
• Tuition : $210.80 per credit hour
• Financial aid:  Grants, work-study, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 83%
• Location:  Madison, SD

Purdue University, The Center for Education and Research in Information Assurance and Security (CERIAS)

Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Program in Information Security

Purdue University was ranked in the top 10  most innovative universities in 2022 by the US News & World Report. This interdisciplinary cybersecurity PhD program covers ethical, political, and philosophical courses, to provide insight into technology policy issues and information ethics.

• Courses include:  Information security, advanced network security, and modern ethical theories.
• Credits: 60
• Delivery:  On-campus
• Tuition:  Refer tuition calculator
• Financial aid:  Fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships.
• Acceptance rate: 67.2%
• Location:  West Lafayette, IN

Nova Southeastern University, College of Computing and Engineering

Ph.D. in Cybersecurity Management

NSU is considered one of the National Centers of Academic Excellence (NCAE) in cybersecurity. To qualify for this school’s PhD program in cybersecurity, you’ll need to have either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field. The school also offers a direct BS to PhD pathway.

• Courses : Fundamentals of cybersecurity, information security governance, and human-computer interaction.
• Credits : 51 minimum
• Delivery : Hybrid
• Tuition : $1,282 per credit hour
• Financial aid:  Fellowships, scholarships
• Acceptance rate:  76.2%
• Location : Fort Lauderdale, Florida

St Thomas University

Doctor of Business Administration in Cyber Security Management

St. Thomas University is a non-profit Catholic university that emphasizes global and cultural diversity. Its doctorate of cybersecurity program lets you choose one of three research options: traditional dissertation, action research, and article dissertation.

• Courses : Cyberlaw, policy & security, cyber security risk management, and information ethics.
• Duration : 1.5 years plus dissertation
• Delivery : On-campus, online, and hybrid options
• Tuition : $1,029 per credit hour
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study.
• Acceptance rate: 59.6%
• Location : Miami Gardens, FL

George Mason University, Volgenau School of Engineering

Information Technology Ph.D. (Information Security and Assurance (ISA) Concentration)

George Mason University is a public research university with an emphasis on sustainability that was ranked the most diverse university  in Virginia by the US News & World Report 2018. Its PhD program in Information Technology offers a concentration in Information Security Assurance (ISA) covering cybersecurity subjects.

• Courses : Secure software development, security protocol analysis, and security experimentation.
• Credits : 72 minimum
• Tuition : $663 per credit
• Financial aid : Grants, work-study, and loans.
• Acceptance rate:  89.2%
• Location : Fairfax, Virginia

What are the Prerequisites for a PhD in Cybersecurity?

Most PhD programs in cybersecurity require a master’s in computer science or a related field. Other specific requirements vary depending on the program, but you’ll typically need to submit the following in your application:

• Personal Statement  and/or research proposal
• Academic resume
• Letters of recommendation

Check individual requirements for each school you’re considering well in advance of the application cut-off date. These programs can be competitive, so give yourself plenty of time to put together the strongest application you can!

Preparing for a Cybersecurity Doctorate Program

The best cybersecurity doctorate programs can be intensive and competitive. Therefore, it’s a good idea to prepare before the program even starts – this can give you the edge you need to excel in the program!

Of course, your previous studies provide the foundation for your doctorate. An internship in the field can also help you to build useful skills and knowledge, especially when it comes to the latest trends  Likewise, participating in cybersecurity competitions or getting a cybersecurity certification can be highly advantageous.

However, the best thing you can do to prepare for a cybersecurity doctoral program is to build your network  in the sector. Join professional organizations and mingle with industry folks to gain insights into the field. You can also use social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to enhance your networks.

Related Reading:  Best Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs

Why Get a Doctorate in Cybersecurity?

A doctorate in cybersecurity allows you to develop high-level skills and knowledge on preventing and analyzing security breaches, as well as formulating strategies to manage them. It is a valuable qualification that will qualify you for top jobs at some of the best organizations, with attractive remuneration.

When choosing the best cybersecurity PhD program for you, consider the school’s reputation and its accreditation. Also, look at the courses offered, as cybersecurity involves various specializations. You should also consider your budget in the context of each program’s tuition, fees, and financial aid offered.

Finally, where is the program located? Is it offered on-campus, offline, or in a hybrid program? These factors will affect your ability to balance your study with work and personal commitments.

Jobs and Salary Prospects for Doctors of Cybersecurity

Some of the common roles and median annual salaries  for graduates with a PhD in cybersecurity include:

• Cybersecurity Engineer – $125,816
• Information Security Manager – $96,406
• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) –  $124,405
• Security Architect –  $111,433
• Security Director  – $105,907

Key Takeaways

You may not find as many options for a PhD in cyber security as other fields. After all, it’s a specialized program. However, you’ll find a few solid top cybersecurity PhD programs that give you the opportunity to learn from top research institutions and faculty.

If you’ve found this round-up of the best PhDs in cybersecurity helpful, take a look at our guides to the best online Master’s in Computer Science  and online PhD Computer Science programs .

PhDs in Cybersecurity FAQs

What is the average cost of a phd in cybersecurity.

Costs vary depending on the school, program length, and delivery (on-campus or online). Usually, a PhD in cybersecurity can be anywhere between $30,000 to $100,000.

Is a PhD in Cybersecurity Worth it?

A PhD in cybersecurity is valuable because it will qualify you for some of the most in-demand and well-paid jobs available today. According to the BLS , jobs for information security professionals are estimated to grow by 33% over the next decade, significantly more than the national average.

Can You Get a PhD in Cybersecurity?

A PhD in cybersecurity is a specialized degree, but today, many universities offer it. Several programs are delivered on-campus, online, or in hybrid formats.

How Long is a PhD in Cybersecurity?

A PhD in cybersecurity can take from 3-7 years to complete. This will depend on the program, as well as individual factors such as whether you choose to study part-time or full-time.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Cybersecurity?

A PhD in cybersecurity will equip you to work for leading organizations as a CISO (Chief Information Security Officer), information security manager, or security architect. You’ll also be qualified to conduct research or work as a professor in cybersecurity or a related field.

How Many Credits are Required for a PhD in Cybersecurity?

You’ll typically need 60 credits to complete a cybersecurity PhD. However, this varies depending on the specific program or university.

What Kinds of Exams are Required During a PhD Program?

Unlike most undergraduate programs, a PhD degree relies heavily on coursework and, in particular, a main dissertation or thesis. However, you’ll still have to complete some exams.

Usually, there are three kinds of exams:

• A qualifying exam  that occurs earlier in the program.
• A preliminary exam  that proves the candidate’s readiness to start the dissertation/research.
• The  final exam  for the candidate to defend their dissertation/research work.

How Do You Choose a PhD in Cyber Security Program?

You should consider faculty experience, networking opportunities, available funding, accreditation, and alumni statistics before choosing a PhD in cyber security program.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Research Topics & Ideas: Cybersecurity

50 Topic Ideas To Kickstart Your Research

If you’re just starting out exploring cybersecurity-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research by providing a hearty list of cybersecurity-related research topics and ideas , including examples from recent studies.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . These topic ideas provided here are intentionally broad and generic , so keep in mind that you will need to develop them further. Nevertheless, they should inspire some ideas for your project.

To develop a suitable research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan to fill that gap. If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Cybersecurity-Related Research Topics

• Developing machine learning algorithms for early detection of cybersecurity threats.
• The use of artificial intelligence in optimizing network traffic for telecommunication companies.
• Investigating the impact of quantum computing on existing encryption methods.
• The application of blockchain technology in securing Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
• Developing efficient data mining techniques for large-scale social media analytics.
• The role of virtual reality in enhancing online education platforms.
• Investigating the effectiveness of various algorithms in reducing energy consumption in data centers.
• The impact of edge computing on the performance of mobile applications in remote areas.
• The application of computer vision techniques in automated medical diagnostics.
• Developing natural language processing tools for sentiment analysis in customer service.
• The use of augmented reality for training in high-risk industries like oil and gas.
• Investigating the challenges of integrating AI into legacy enterprise systems.
• The role of IT in managing supply chain disruptions during global crises.
• Developing adaptive cybersecurity strategies for small and medium-sized enterprises.
• The impact of 5G technology on the development of smart city solutions.
• The application of machine learning in personalized e-commerce recommendations.
• Investigating the use of cloud computing in improving government service delivery.
• The role of IT in enhancing sustainability in the manufacturing sector.
• Developing advanced algorithms for autonomous vehicle navigation.
• The application of biometrics in enhancing banking security systems.
• Investigating the ethical implications of facial recognition technology.
• The role of data analytics in optimizing healthcare delivery systems.
• Developing IoT solutions for efficient energy management in smart homes.
• The impact of mobile computing on the evolution of e-health services.
• The application of IT in disaster response and management.

Cybersecurity Research Ideas (Continued)

• Assessing the security implications of quantum computing on modern encryption methods.
• The role of artificial intelligence in detecting and preventing phishing attacks.
• Blockchain technology in secure voting systems: opportunities and challenges.
• Cybersecurity strategies for protecting smart grids from targeted attacks.
• Developing a cyber incident response framework for small to medium-sized enterprises.
• The effectiveness of behavioural biometrics in preventing identity theft.
• Securing Internet of Things (IoT) devices in healthcare: risks and solutions.
• Analysis of cyber warfare tactics and their implications on national security.
• Exploring the ethical boundaries of offensive cybersecurity measures.
• Machine learning algorithms for predicting and mitigating DDoS attacks.
• Study of cryptocurrency-related cybercrimes: patterns and prevention strategies.
• Evaluating the impact of GDPR on data breach response strategies in the EU.
• Developing enhanced security protocols for mobile banking applications.
• An examination of cyber espionage tactics and countermeasures.
• The role of human error in cybersecurity breaches: a behavioural analysis.
• Investigating the use of deep fakes in cyber fraud: detection and prevention.
• Cloud computing security: managing risks in multi-tenant environments.
• Next-generation firewalls: evaluating performance and security features.
• The impact of 5G technology on cybersecurity strategies and policies.
• Secure coding practices: reducing vulnerabilities in software development.
• Assessing the role of cyber insurance in mitigating financial losses from cyber attacks.
• Implementing zero trust architecture in corporate networks: challenges and benefits.
• Ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure: case studies and defence strategies.
• Using big data analytics for proactive cyber threat intelligence.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of cybersecurity awareness training in organisations.

Recent Cybersecurity-Related Studies

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual studies in the cybersecurity space to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of recent studies to help refine your thinking. These are actual studies,  so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

• Cyber Security Vulnerability Detection Using Natural Language Processing (Singh et al., 2022)
• Security for Cloud-Native Systems with an AI-Ops Engine (Ck et al., 2022)
• Overview of Cyber Security (Yadav, 2022)
• Exploring the Top Five Evolving Threats in Cybersecurity: An In-Depth Overview (Mijwil et al., 2023)
• Cyber Security: Strategy to Security Challenges A Review (Nistane & Sharma, 2022)
• A Review Paper on Cyber Security (K & Venkatesh, 2022)
• The Significance of Machine Learning and Deep Learning Techniques in Cybersecurity: A Comprehensive Review (Mijwil, 2023)
• Towards Artificial Intelligence-Based Cybersecurity: The Practices and ChatGPT Generated Ways to Combat Cybercrime (Mijwil et al., 2023)
• ESTABLISHING CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS OF TECHNICAL SECURITY MEASURES THROUGH A SERIOUS GAME (Harding et al., 2022)
• Efficiency Evaluation of Cyber Security Based on EBM-DEA Model (Nguyen et al., 2022)
• An Overview of the Present and Future of User Authentication (Al Kabir & Elmedany, 2022)
• Cybersecurity Enterprises Policies: A Comparative Study (Mishra et al., 2022)
• The Rise of Ransomware: A Review of Attacks, Detection Techniques, and Future Challenges (Kamil et al., 2022)
• On the scale of Cyberspace and Cybersecurity (Pathan, 2022)
• Analysis of techniques and attacking pattern in cyber security approach (Sharma et al., 2022)
• Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Information Security in Business (Alawadhi et al., 2022)
• Deployment of Artificial Intelligence with Bootstrapped Meta-Learning in Cyber Security (Sasikala & Sharma, 2022)
• Optimization of Secure Coding Practices in SDLC as Part of Cybersecurity Framework (Jakimoski et al., 2022)
• CySSS ’22: 1st International Workshop on Cybersecurity and Social Sciences (Chan-Tin & Kennison, 2022)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest.  In the video below, we explore some other important things you’ll need to consider when crafting your research topic.

Get 1-On-1 Help

If you’re still unsure about how to find a quality research topic, check out our Research Topic Kickstarter service, which is the perfect starting point for developing a unique, well-justified research topic.

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PhD in Cybersecurity

A research-based, interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in  Cybersecurity  combines a strong security technical foundation with a security policy and social sciences perspective.   It seeks to prepare graduates to advance the state of the art of security in systems networks and the internet in industry, academia, and government.   The interdisciplinary nature of the program distinguishes it from traditional doctoral degree programs in computer science, engineering, or social sciences and makes it unique in the Boston area.

Innovative Curriculum - Cybersecurity PhD

Students who choose the PhD in  Cybersecurity  program have a strong desire to purse academic research solving critical cybersecurity challenges facing today’s society.   The PhD program is a natural path for students in the  Master of Science in Cybersecurity program who want to pursue research and students with bachelor’s degrees and an interest in research-focused careers.   Students who pursue careers in advancing the state of the art of cybersecurity have an opportunity to gain:

• A strong technical foundation in cybersecurity and an interdisciplinary perspective based on policy and social science
• A path to a research-focused career coupled with depth in information assurance research at a leading institution, one of the earliest designees by NSA/DHS as a   National Center of Academic Excellence   in Information Assurance Research, Information Assurance/Cyber Defense, and Cyber Operations
• The opportunity to work with and learn from faculty who are recognized internationally for their expertise and contributions in information assurance from Northeastern’s  Khoury College of Computer Sciences , the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities
• The   Institute of Information Assurance (IIA) , an interdisciplinary research center overseen by both the  Khoury  College of Computer  Sciences  and the department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the College of Engineering and the recipient of a National Science Foundation grant to train the country’s next generation of cybercorps
• The   International Secure Systems Lab , affiliated with Northeastern, a collaborative effort of European and U.S. researchers focused on web security, malware and vulnerability analysis, intrusion detection, and other computer security issues
• The   ALERT Center , where Northeastern is the lead institution, a multiuniversity Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence involved in research, education, and technology related to threats from explosives
• Learn more.

Experiential Learning

Northeastern combines rigorous academics with experiential learning and research to prepare students for real-world engineering challenges. The Cooperative Education Program , also known as a “co-op,” is one of the largest and most innovative in the world, and Northeastern is one of only a few that offers a Co-op Program for Graduate Students. Through this program students gain industry experience in a wide variety of organizations, from large companies to entrepreneurial start-ups, while helping to finance their education. Students also have the option to participate in the university’s Experiential PhD program .

Academic Advising

The Academic Advisors in the Graduate Student Services office can help answer many of your questions and assist with various concerns regarding your program and student record. Use the link below to also determine which questions can be answered by your Faculty Program Advisors and OGS Advisors.

• Graduate Student Services

Admissions & Aid

Ready to take the next step? Review degree requirements to see courses needed to complete this degree. Then, explore ways to fund your education. Finally, review admissions information to see our deadlines and gather the materials you need to Apply.

• Degree Requirements
• Degree Requirements - Advanced Entry
• Tuition & Financial Aid
• Admissions Information

• Doing a PhD in Cyber Security

What Does a PhD in Cyber Security Focus On?

A PhD in Cyber Security equips students with expert knowledge in computing, cybercrime and digital technology policy. A PhD involves original research into a specific field of cybersecurity and can allow cyber security graduate students to work with emerging technologies and tools to tackle issues society faces as technology rapidly advances.

According to the UK National Cyber Security Strategy 2016-2021 , there will be an estimated shortage of 350,000 cybersecurity professionals by 2022. There is therefore a high demand for cyber security graduates and doctorates. A PhD in Cyber Security could lead to a career in an emerging industry.

A list of Cybersecurity topics at doctorate level is provided below:

• Cryptography
• Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
• Systems Security and Testing
• Cryptocurrency and Blockchains
• Privacy, Confidentiality and Ethics
• Software Security
• Digital Forensics
• Security Risk Management
• Network Security
• Digital Technology Policy
• Quantum Computing

Minimum Entry Requirements for A PhD in Cyber Security

UK Doctoral Cyber Security programmes usually require graduate students to possess, or expect to achieve, as a minimum a 2:1 upper second class bachelor’s degree in computer science, or related subject such as Mathematics. It should be noted that due to the interdisciplinary challenges in cyber security, related subjects can vary depending on the focus of research and may include areas such as Electrical Engineering , Civil Engineering, Social Sciences, Psychology and Law. A lower second class (2:2) bachelor’s degree may be accepted if the graduate student has a master’s degree or graduate cyber security work experience. Applicants with international equivalent qualifications are also considered.

Another requirement for research projects is proof of English Language ability. Universities will expect international students to provide English Level Qualifications, for example IELTS, TOEFL (iBT) or Pearson PTE scores.

Browse PhDs in Cyber Security

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In the UK, a full time cybersecurity research project lasts around 3 to 4 years. The first year is usually probationary and will be used to develop a thesis proposal that outlines your research degree. The remaining time will be used to carry out your research, produce and submit your thesis and undertake the Viva . Part-time cybersecurity projects may take 6 to 7 years to complete. A full-time cyber security MPhil usually lasts for 1 to 2 years.

In addition to developing your thesis proposal, the first year is also used to allow your supervisor to identify additional cybersecurity training that would assist in your research project. This may come in the form of online PhD cybersecurity training modules, online doctorate lectures, or placement opportunities to give you an insight into the cyber security industry and real world applications in your chosen field.

Costs and Funding

A UK doctoral student can expect to pay around £5,500 per year in tuition fees for a 2021/22 PhD programme in Cyber Security. Typical tuition fees for EU and overseas students are around £25,000 per academic year. Part-time tuition fees are normally proportioned according to the research programme length.

Most institutions have Centres for Doctoral Training in Cyber Security, which offer a number of Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) studentships to eligible applicants. These studentships and grants cover tuition fees, and can provide a maintenance stipend and research travel expenses.

You may also be eligible for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan which helps with course fees and living costs associated with a cyber-security research project.

PhD in Cyber Security Salary and Career Paths

As companies become more reliant on technology, the risk of cyber-attacks and other compromises in security becomes more pressing. In fact, according to The Annual Crime Survey in 2017 , two thirds of UK businesses were hit by cyber-attacks. Because of this, and the recognised shortage of cybersecurity professionals and graduates/doctorates, companies, both public and private, are investing large amounts of money into developing their cyber security. These companies look to a PhD student with a cyber security degree as someone who can help develop this. A PhD in Cyber Security reflects the demand for security specialists.

Typical employers for cybersecurity doctorates include Intel, NASA, Microsoft, Google and Lloyds TSB, though the full list of employers is extensive due to the increasing reliance on technology in almost all industries, and the overlap with other disciplines such as computer science and information science. The doctoral degree also allows for international reach, as it is a highly applicable field of knowledge for any country. Many of the employers are based in the US, for example, NASA and Google. Common jobs for Cyber Security PhD students include:

• Cyber Security Analyst – Perhaps the most logical career path for cybersecurity doctorates is to become a cyber-security analyst. Doctorates in this role are responsible for detecting, managing and preventing cyber-attacks, and developing cyber defences to protect a company’s IT infrastructure. Senior cyber security analysts in the UK can earn around £50,000. Those with managerial duties or expert knowledge can earn over £80,000. As such, the PhD in cyber security salary tends to be higher than counterparts with similar levels of experience.
• Penetration Testing – In this role, cybersecurity PhD students carry out controlled cyber-attacks on a company’s IT infrastructure to find weak points in security. This will then be used to advise the company on how to manage cyber risk and prevent such attacks from real cyber criminals in the future. One of the advantages of penetration testing is that it lends itself to freelance work. With experience, freelance penetration testers can earn over £500 a day. Again, a cybersecurity doctoral degree is a valuable qualification to hold as it demonstrates your credibility and expertise.
• Teaching – Some doctoral students use their cybersecurity degree to stay in Higher Education. Here they can continue their study as a researcher working in a University School or Faculty alongside other researchers, or transition into a teaching role as a professor or lecturer. As a lecturer, you can tailor your study content and also supervise a doctorate in cybersecurity in your field of interest.

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The Center for Education and Research in Information Assurance and Security (CERIAS)

Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Program in Information Security

Page content.

Last updated: 2021-07-13

This is not an official document and it is placed here for the potential applicants’ convenience. It is subject to constant change, especially in Areas B and C, as the participating departments change their offerings and/or the Program’s Graduate Committee modifies the requirements to meet the ever-developing needs of the field. One’s mileage can vary but one can always double check on the availability of a particular course in a particular session by visiting the websites of the appropriate departments.

Program Requirements

Students shall complete 90 credit hours of graduate course work beyond their Bachelors’ degrees, of which up to 30 credits can be earned in individual thesis research with the major professor (XXX 69900, with the designator of the department which will graduate the student—currently, COMM 69900, TECH 69900, or LING 69900).

The preliminary examinations, as negotiated with the student’s Thesis Advisory Committee, and the prospectus (proposal) should then be defended. Typically, the examinations will consist of two research papers supervised by a Committee Chair or member. The papers are research papers, and they are anything negotiated with the committee within the usual range. The idea behind the papers is to help the committee determine that the student is ready for candidacy. The papers can also be used to help advance the student’s progress professionally — by being publishable, being part of the dissertation, etc. Each paper is read by at least two members of the committee and approved or not. The thesis proposal is a synopsis of the dissertation that the whole committee needs to approve usually through an oral defense.

When it is apparent that the committee is generally in favor of what has been prepared, and at least 2 weeks prior to the proposal defense, a Form 8 is to be completed and submitted to the graduate school. The prelims and proposal defense are components of the Graduate School’s total prelim/qual requirements.

A minimum of 3 examiners are required for the proposal defense, 4 examiners for the dissertation defense. We prefer to have 4 throughout. A simple majority decides, and both in the cases of 3 or 4 members, it means that only one negative vote is allowed. The graduating program, (COM, LING, PHL, TECH) must have a faculty member, as Chair or Co-Chair. Any other faculty member, as approved by the Program’s Admission/Management committee may be a co-chair. We expect at least 50% of the students’ dissertation advisory committees to be Fellows or affiliated faculty of CERIAS to ensure a strong commitment to InfoSec in any Ph.D. dissertation we approve.

The student’s thesis must be completed and defended in a public oral examination administered by the Advisory Committee. A minimum of 2 academic semesters of research and writing must elapse between preliminary and doctoral examinations. For example a prelim in Spring 2022 would allow a doctoral defense in Spring 2023.

Students’ Masters’ degrees, if completed by admission time, count for 30 credits, and many of the credits, especially from degrees in related areas, will be approved by the Admission Committee for coverage credits. All the credits from the Purdue Masters’ Program in Information Security will count towards the Ph.D. requirements.

General requirements:

• Eight (8) required courses from Area A below: four (4) technical courses, two (2) political/social courses, and 2 philosophical/ethical course;
• A 5-course sub-concentration selected from the Areas A, B, and C below by the student in consultation with his/her advisory committee. Graduate courses taken prior and/or outside of the program may be approved to satisfy this requirement;
• Sufficient electives to complete the credit requirements. These courses are also to be selected from the following list by the student and his/her advisory committee. At least three of the courses must be seminars;
• Equivalents may be substituted upon approval of the student’s committee. Transfer courses may be used to satisfy up to two of the above courses, as per Purdue University’s rules, with approval of the student’s committee;
• Prerequisites: Students are responsible for meeting all prerequisites and/or obtaining permissions, as per departmental regulations.
• In addition to the courses listed in the requirement areas, the various departments and programs occasionally offer new courses and courses on specific topics that may meet area requirements, especially when they are taught by CERIAS principals and fellows. These include TECH 621 (when content is appropriate), CNIT 623 and 499 ( Prof. Julia (Taylor) Rayz), CNIT 581, LING 689 (Prof. Raskin), some CS 590 offerings, and others. The INSC program administration will announce such courses when they are available, but students are welcome to ask about any courses that might not be otherwise listed.”
• Courses listed for graduation must total to a GPA of 3.0. or better . Any 300 or 400 course must be completed with a B- or better .

Area A. Required courses

Take 8 courses:

Four technical courses:

• CS 52600 or CNIT 55500 , and
• CS 55500 or CS 35500 and
• CS 62600 or CS 52800 , or CS 52900 or a graduate course from Area B approved by the student’s committee.
• CS 65500 or special topics course in theoretical or applied cryptography beyond CS 55500, or a graduate course from Area B approved by the student’s committee—or equivalents

Two philosophical/ethical courses:

PHIL 52400 or PHIL 41100 or PHIL 42400 or PHIL 62400 † or TECH 62100 IAE †

*PHIL 58000 is no longer available, but if you have already taken PHIL 58000, it will be recognized as meeting your requirements.

Two political/social courses:

POL 62000 † and TECH 62100 TAP † , CS 52300 (CS52300 Cannot be taken for both Area B and Area A)

Area B. Recommended courses

Any six courses not taken in Area A:

• AGEC 60800 , 69100 †
• ASM 59100 †
• CNIT 42100 , 42200 , 45500 , 45600 , 47000 , 47100 , 49900 † , 51100 , 51200 , 55600 , 55700 , 55800 , 58100 † , 62300 †
• COM 51200 , 51800 , 55800 , 55900 , 57400 , 59000 † , 63200 †
• CS 50300 , 52300 , 52700 , 52800 , 52900 , 53600 § , 53700 , 55600 , 56500 , 57700 , 58000 , 59000 † , CS 62600 , 63600 , 65500 , 69000 †
• ECE 56500 ,
• ECON 60600 , 61000
• IE 53000 , 53200 , 57700 § , 65900 , 67400
• IT 53000 , 54000 , 54500 , 58100 †
• LING 50000 , 52100 , 53100 , 68900(=ECE 66900) †
• MGMT 54700 § , 59000 † , 68400
• OBHR 68100 , 68300
• PHIL 49000 , 52400 * , 53500 , 62400 †
• POL 43000 , 62000 †
• PSY 57700 §
• STAT 50200 , 51200 , 51300 , 51400 , 51700
• TECH 58100 † , 62100 †

§ Note: May take one or the other of the following but not both: * Unless Taken Under Area A

• CS 53600 or MGMT 54700
• PSY 57700 or IE 57700

† When content is appropriate

Area C. Elective Courses

Any four courses:

• CNIT 62300RMC ( replaces TECH 64600 ), 62300 NLIAS (Natural Language in Information Assurance and Security) when not taken as Area B
• * * COM 59000F , 59000G , 60000 , 60100 , 61000 † , 63200 † , 67400 † , 67600 †
• CS 50200 , 54100 , 54200 , 57300
• ECE 54400 , 56200 , 56500 , 57000 , 57300
• ECET 58100 †
• LING 50000 , 53100 , 53200 , 68900 †
• MGMT 50500 , 50600 , 54400 , 54500 , 56100 , 59000 † , 60000 , 60100 , 63000 , 68300
• OBHR 64200 , 64300
• STAT 69500 †

Any course from Area B above, not taken to satisfy Area B requirement, can be taken in Area C.

* * Note that COM 59000F and 59000G as well as COM 60000 and 60100 are restricted to only COM Ph.D. students.

Courses from at least five different graduate programs should be taken among Areas A, B, and C. Five graduate courses must constitute a declared and approved meaningful sub-concentration.

Specific Departmental Requirements

• Students graduating via the Department of Communication must satisfy that department’s requirements for the Masters’ degree in Information Security, take COM 60000 and COM 60100 and make sure that they earn a minimum of 12 graduate credits in Communication;
• Students graduating via Polytechnic Institute must satisfy that department’s requirements for the Masters’ degree in Information Security;
• Students graduating via Linguistics must take LING 53100 and LING 68900 : Natural Language Processing.

Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Requirement

All graduate students are required to complete the CITI RCR training module within 120 days of starting a graduate program and every five (5) years thereafter. More Information

Our annual security symposium will take place on April 7 & 8, 2020. Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN More Information

Academic Catalog 2024-2025

Cybersecurity, phd.

A research-based, interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cybersecurity combines a strong security technical foundation with a security policy and social sciences perspective. It seeks to prepare graduates to advance the state of the art of security in systems, networks, and the internet in industry, academia, and government. The interdisciplinary nature of the program distinguishes it from traditional doctoral degree programs in computer science, engineering, or social sciences and makes it unique in the Boston area.

Students who choose the PhD in Cybersecurity program have a strong desire to pursue academic research solving critical cybersecurity challenges facing today’s society. The PhD program is a natural path for students in the college’s  Master of Science in Cybersecurity  program who want to pursue research and students with bachelor’s degrees and an interest in research-focused careers. Students who pursue careers in advancing the state of the art of cybersecurity have an opportunity to  gain:

• A strong technical foundation in cybersecurity and an interdisciplinary perspective based on policy and social science

A path to a research-focused career coupled with depth in information assurance research at a leading institution, one of the earliest designees by NSA/DHS as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Research, Information Assurance/Cyber Defense, and Cyber Operations

The opportunity to work with and learn from faculty who are recognized internationally for their expertise and contributions in information assurance from Northeastern University’s Khoury College of Computer Sciences, the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities

Access to research projects at Northeastern’s research centers focused on security:

The Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute :  The mission of Northeastern's Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute is to safeguard critical technology. Forging partnerships with experts in industry, government, and academia worldwide, the Institute’s faculty and students develop, protect, and enhance technologies on which the world relies—from mobile devices and “smart” IoT applications to tomorrow’s self-driving cars and delivery drones. Their expertise spans algorithm auditing; cloud security; cryptography; differential privacy; embedded device security; internet-scale security measurements; machine learning; big data; security, malware, and advanced threats; network protocols and security; web and mobile security; and wireless network security.

The International Secure Systems Lab , affiliated with Northeastern, a collaborative effort of European and U.S. researchers focused on web security, malware, and vulnerability analysis; intrusion detection; and other computer security issues.

The ALERT Center , where Northeastern is the lead institution, a multiuniversity Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence involved in research, education, and technology related to threats from explosives.

The benefits of the Boston area:

• World-renowned for academic and research excellence, the Boston area is also home to some of the nation’s largest Department of Defense contractors and government and independent labs such as MIT Lincoln Lab, MITRE, and Draper Lab.

Degree Requirements

The PhD in Cybersecurity degree requires completion of at least 48 semester semester hours beyond a bachelor’s degree. Students who enter with an undergraduate degree will typically need four to five years to complete the program, and they will be awarded a master’s degree en route to the PhD.

Doctoral Degree Candidacy

A student is considered a PhD degree candidate after completing the core courses with at least a 3.500 GPA, with no grades lower than a B in the core courses, and either publishing a paper in a strong conference or journal or passing an oral exam that is conducted by a committee of three cybersecurity faculty members and based on paper(s) written by the student.

One year of continuous full-time study is required after admission to the PhD candidacy. During this period, the student will be expected to make substantial progress in preparing for the comprehensive examination.

Teaching Requirement

All cybersecurity PhD students must satisfy the teaching requirement in order to graduate. This requirement is fulfilled when the student works as a teaching assistant or instructor of record for one semester and during this semester:

• Teaches at least three hours of classes
• Prepares at least one assignment or quiz or equivalent

PhD students are expected to satisfy the teaching requirement some time after completing their first year and at least one semester prior to scheduling their PhD defense. 

Dissertation Advising

The doctoral dissertation advising team for each student consists of two cybersecurity faculty members, one in a technical area. When appropriate, the second faculty advisor will be from the policy/social science area.

Dissertation Committee

With the help of the advisor, a student selects the committee, consisting of at least four members, to be approved by the PhD cybersecurity curriculum committee. The four members must include the advisor, two internal members, and an external member.

Comprehensive Examination

A PhD student must submit a written dissertation proposal and present it to the dissertation committee. The proposal should identify the research problem, the research plan, and the potential impact of the research on the field. The presentation of the proposal will be made in an open forum, and the student must successfully defend it before the dissertation committee after the public presentation.

Dissertation Defense

A PhD student must complete and defend a dissertation that involves original research in cybersecurity.

Awarding of Master’s Degrees

Students who enter the PhD in Cybersecurity program with a bachelor’s degree have the option of earning a master's degree from one of the departments participating in the program. To do so, they must meet all of the department’s degree requirements.

• Concentrations and course offerings may vary by campus and/or by program modality.  Please consult with your advisor or admissions coach for the course availability each term at your campus or within your program modality.  
• Certain options within the program may be  required  at certain campuses or for certain program modalities.  Please consult with your advisor or admissions coach for requirements at your campus or for your program modality. 

Bachelor’s Degree Entrance

Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.

Teaching Qualifying exam and area exam Annual review Dissertation proposal Dissertation committee Dissertation defense

Core Requirements

A grade of B or higher is required in each core course. A cumulative 3.500 grade-point average is required for the core requirement.

Electives and Tracks

Dissertation

Program Credit/GPA Requirements

48 total semester hours required Minimum 3.000 GPA required

Incoming PhD in Cybersecurity students who have already completed a Master of Science in an adjacent field may petition to the graduate program administration for advanced entry. Advanced entry petitions are reviewed by the program administration on a case-by-case basis. Please note that advanced entry does not waive by itself any part of the PhD coursework requirements. As a degree conferral requirement, a minimum of 16 semester hours of coursework beyond the 32 semester hours of the master’s degree is required of advanced entry PhD students (48 semester hours is required of standard entry PhD students). A grade of B or higher is required in each course. A cumulative 3.500 GPA is required for the core requirement.

Refer to the PhD Cybersecurity overview for admission to candidacy requirements.

Refer to the PhD Cybersecurity  overview  for residency requirements.

Refer to the PhD Cybersecurity  overview for teaching requirements.

Refer to the PhD Cybersecurity  overview for dissertation advising requirements.

Refer to the PhD Cybersecurity  overview for dissertation committee requirements.

Refer to the PhD Cybersecurity  overview  for comprehensive examination requirements.

Refer to the PhD Cybersecurity  overview  for dissertation defense and completion requirements.

Core Requirement

Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.500 as well as earn a grade of B or better in each core course.

Minimum 16 semester hours required Minimum 3.000 GPA required

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Doctor of Philosophy   in Cybersecurity   (PhD-CY)

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Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY)

In today’s data-dependent world, every organization needs senior-level experts with the knowledge and training to monitor its networks for vulnerabilities and security breaches and use tools like firewalls and data encryption programs to protect sensitive information. National University’s online Doctor of Philosophy of Cybersecurity (PhD-CY) degree program takes an applied approach to cybersecurity theory and research. 

NU’s curriculum challenges you to explore advanced topics, learn the very latest concepts, and prepare for anticipated risks in the field of cybersecurity. The Cybersecurity doctorate is designed to prepare researchers with technology strategies that are applicable to leading positions in both the private and public sectors. Our program offers four specializations that allow you to tailor your studies and research to match your interest in a specific area of cybersecurity.

Prepare for a Leadership Role Protecting an Organization’s Computer Networks and Systems

In this rigorous curriculum, you’ll explore governance, compliance, leading frameworks, models, and standards to reduce threats and vulnerabilities. You’ll also create a portfolio of valuable capabilities, addressing internal and external issues through the intelligent manipulation of data while completing your doctoral studies.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Course Details

Degree and course requirements.

The PhD program requires a minimum of 60 credits. Additional credit hours may be allowed as needed to complete the dissertation research. If granted, additional courses will be added to the student degree program in alignment with the SAP and Academic Maximum Time to Completion policies. Students who do not complete their program in accordance with these policies may be dismissed.

The PhD in Cybersecurity requires eight foundation/core courses, five specializations, two research, a pre-candidacy prospectus, and four dissertation courses for a total of 60 credit hours. 

*Students select one pair of research methods and directed research courses based on their own research proposal. 

The PhD in Cybersecurity requires the following courses for every specialization:

Course Name

In this course, students are prepared for an understanding of networks and related theory to support computer science, cybersecurity, and technology management needs. Students will learn network concepts, as well as designing networks for reliability, availability, confidentiality, and network monitoring. Content will include high-level design of networks, evaluation of service providers, and strategies to prepare an organization for future communication needs (such as multi-cloud, satellite, 5G & 6G, and quantum data communications, plus related security techniques). Students will learn network design, planning, the role of network data communication devices, global access, and safe third-party data exchange.

This course will consolidate a foundation of concepts relating to security and cybersecurity, enabling the successful examination of greater detail and complexity in later courses. You will examine the full range from governance through compliance with laws, through people risks, to technology. Various mitigation options are considered to reduce vulnerabilities, counter threats, and to protect an organization’s data and system assets. You will study the need to protect organizations from future exposures and apply critical thinking and synthesis to motivate the resources needed to defend an organization.

Cybersecurity has the primary objective of averting losses and restoring proper operations should there be a loss. During this course you will study the foundations of risk and the opportunities to reduce cybersecurity losses for organizations. Risk assessment abilities and research options form the base of cyber defenses and determine the need for subsequent resources. The course continues with measuring risk and events leading to the identification of potential incidents and solutions. Learning about contingencies consider the needs of the organization, maintaining operations, and preparing for the best recovery should there be a loss.

Tracking and responding to cyber events requires massive databases integrating content from all devices at every location. Cyber threat analysis and response implies long term access and complex manipulation of event databases. In this course you will learn techniques to capture and display relevant data and leverage automation to reduce losses. Data manipulation, automated sense-making, appropriate fast reactions, machine learning, data analysis, and presentation are rapidly developing cybersecurity techniques. You will also leverage required capabilities for the defense of the organization, respond to enhanced threat complexity and capabilities, and address the need to counter data poisoning by threat actors.

Risk management is the foundation of defending organizations from information security, cyber threats, compliance, audit, and privacy exposures. To address risk and assurance, this course builds an integrated approach solution leading to the prioritization of resources for an organization. You will extend your knowledge and skills for global protection within and beyond the perimeter. This course positions the importance of risk management within a cybersecurity program and its role within Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). You will also assess theories and practices concerning risk management, compose a risk strategy, and leverage maturity models to improve the protection of organizations.

This course serves as an extensive exploration of statistics for the technology leader. Included in the course, is an advanced examination of statistical analyses commonly used for information systems and technology research. During this course, you will use different statistical tools to enhance your advanced analytical skills. These statistical analysis skills are required to plan, conduct, and interpret quantitative data to inform enterprise decisions. You will also learn to illustrate and produce technical output reports.

Global integration and broad alliances between criminal elements and nation-states frequently lead to rapidly changing and significant threats to all nations, organizations, and citizens. During this course, you will study current and predictable threats, target critical infrastructure, and determine risks implied in new technology. You will also learn to recognize the risks originating from cybercriminals, terrorism, hacktivism, and nation-state, and other significant threat actors. You will devise and work to get funding for viable strategies to defend critical infrastructures, organizations, and the citizens of the nation.

This course provides a survey of the different methods used to conduct technology-based research. During this course, you will learn about the research principles and methodologies that guide scientific inquiry in order to develop an understanding of the effects of research on individuals and organizations. Specifically, you will study the scientific research lifecycle, data collection methods, and research design methodology. You will finish the course by selecting a research design methodology to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.

The results of technical research are frequently used to support informed management decisions. This course provides technology leaders and professionals with the skills needed to design and conduct quantitative research studies to support specific types of data. During this advanced course in research, you will explore and apply different types of quantitative research methods and statistical techniques. You will also explore instrumentation, data collection, and data analysis tools and techniques to create aligned, ethical, and substantive research designs.

A quantitative research design includes objective analysis using experimental, quasi-experimental, and related techniques. Technical quantitative research involves statistical analysis of data collected from a larger number of participants to determine an outcome that can be applied to a general population. During this course, you will work through the scientific research process and apply your knowledge of quantitative research design to develop a technical research proposal in which you can use to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.

The results of qualitative research are frequently used to support informed management decisions. This course provides technology leaders with an in-depth introduction to qualitative methods for studying human behavior, including grounded theory, narrative analysis, and case studies. During this advanced course in research, you will apply qualitative research methods to an information technology-based study. You will also deepen your research knowledge and skills by conducting interviews, collecting and coding data, producing ethical data conclusions, and creating objective research reports.

A qualitative approach to research of a technical nature integrates theoretical, conceptual, and empirical constructs with common practices and experience to gain an understanding of performance and functionality, develop an applied and testable model for improvement, or provide insights into problems to develop new ideas. During this course, you will work through the scientific research process and apply your knowledge of qualitative research design to develop a technical research proposal to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.

The results of technical research are frequently used to develop new products and services. This course provides technology leaders and professionals with the skills needed to design and conduct constructive research studies based on theory. During this advanced course in research, you will examine the methods and measurements used to design constructive research studies to develop sound technical solutions or prototypes. You will also explore software and security testing tools and user acceptance testing methods in order to create aligned, ethical, and substantive research designs.

Technical constructive research focuses on models, frameworks, tools, and software used by industry to improve value creation. A constructive approach to research of a technical nature integrates theoretical and empirical constructs with common practices and experience to develop an applied and testable model to improve the fields of computer science and information technology. During this course, you will work through the scientific research process and apply your knowledge of constructive research design to develop a technical research proposal in which you can use to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.

The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus course is intended to ensure students have mastered knowledge of their discipline within cybersecurity prior to doctoral candidacy status and are able to demonstrate the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. During this course, you will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer-reviewed research to prepare for the dissertation sequence of courses. This course should be completed only after the completion of all foundation, specialization, and research courses.

Students in this course will be required to complete Chapter 1 of their dissertation proposal including a review of literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach,  and the significance of the study. A completed, committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 is required to pass this course successfully. Students who do not receive approval of Chapter 1 to minimum standards will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of Chapter 1.

Students in this course will be required to work on completing Chapters 1-3 of their dissertation proposal and receive committee approval for the Dissertation Proposal (DP) in order to pass the class. Chapter 2 consists of the literature review. Chapter 3 covers the research methodology method and design and to includes population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. In this course, a completed, committee-approved Chapters 2 and 3 are required and, by the end of the course, a final approved dissertation proposal (against the minimum rubric standards). Students who do not receive approval of the dissertation proposal will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of these requirements.

Students in this course will be required to prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application, collect data, and submit a final study closure form to the IRB. Students still in data collection at the end of the 12-week course will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to complete data collection and file an IRB study closure form.

In this dissertation course students work on completing Chapters 4 and 5 and the final Dissertation Manuscript. Specifically, students will complete their data analysis, prepare their study results, and present their findings in an Oral Defense and a completed manuscript. A completed, Committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Dissertation Manuscript and successful Oral Defense are required to complete the course and graduate. Students who do not receive approval for either or both their Dissertation Manuscript or defense can take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of either or both items as needed.In this dissertation course students work on completing Chapters 4 and 5 and the final Dissertation Manuscript. Specifically, students will complete their data analysis, prepare their study results, and present their findings in an Oral Defense and a completed manuscript. A completed, Committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Dissertation Manuscript and successful Oral Defense are required to complete the course and graduate. Students who do not receive approval for either or both their Dissertation Manuscript or defense can take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of either or both items as needed.

Program at a Glance

Total Credit Hours:  60 Credit Hours Courses:  20 Courses Recommended Completion Time:  40-44 Months Next Start Date:  Every Monday Classroom Size:  One

Specializations

General and technology, phd-cy.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY), General and Technology specialization degree builds on the core computing principles and cybersecurity best practices, frameworks, and models. The degree provides a broad overview, adding governance and strategic views to compliment forensic, software development cloud, and systems certification content. Students use firsthand experience, explore advanced topics, learn the latest and anticipated concepts, consider the evolution of risks and mitigation, learn advanced threat detection, and propose their own research. The degree is designed to prepare researchers, consultants, and technology strategists capable of leadership roles and executive positions in private and public sectors. 

Specialization Courses – 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.

Global Strategy and Operations, PhD-CY

The Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY), Global Policy and Operations specialization builds on the core program general principles, best practices, frameworks, and models. The specialization adds specific global solutions through an integrated strategy and leadership capabilities to establish global operations. 

The focus is on solving challenges of multi-time zone, multi-continent, and a range of laws, languages, and cultures. Specific considerations include diverse technologies, challenging support structures, and cyber target domains. The complication of widely distributed infrastructure, diverse political influences, and complex supply chains form part of the predictive strategy and the creation of operational excellence.

Governance, Risk, and Compliance, PhD-CY

The Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY), Governance, Risk, and Compliance specialization combines the four knowledge areas to complete research or synthesize cybersecurity solutions for enterprises subject to national exposures and global threats. The combined resolution of risk, compliance, audit, and privacy will enable graduates to create enhanced solutions while limiting the need for resources. 

The specialization investigates current and anticipated needs and solutions within all four areas, addressing key issues for larger organizations while providing improved strategic alignment. It includes important access control, and threat discovery across complex environments. The specialization includes an emphasis on preempting future losses.

Secure Cloud Computing, PhD-CY

The Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY), Secure Cloud Computing specialization builds on best practices, frameworks and models to synthesize unique solutions that optimize organization outcomes. The specialization investigates current and anticipated needs and solutions emphasizing the cloud computing. Learning and research adds practical and strategic insights to enable reduced risks for cloud computing and multi-cloud cybersecurity solutions. 

The degree is designed to prepare researchers, consultants, and technology strategists capable of leadership roles and executive positions in private and public sectors where advanced or complex cloud computing is important. Competencies include complex secure data communications, identity management, and access controls.

Program Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of National University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY), you’ll be able to:

• Advance theory and practical  applications of cybersecurity
• Formulate cybersecurity governance, policy, risk, and compliance
• Assess internal and external threats and vulnerabilities to reduce organizational cyber risk
• Evaluate tools, data, and processes  to enhance protection and foster resilience
• Facilitate the protection of critical information resources from current and future loss

The most demanding jobs in the field of cybersecurity require experienced professionals with advanced, industry-current knowledge and skills to develop security standards and best practices for their organization. It’s also a career that’s in high demand. For example, about 16,300 openings for information security analysts are projected each year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and they’ll be well compensated for their expertise – the BLS also states the median annual wage for IS analysts was $102,600 in May 2021, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $165,920.*

NU’s online PhD in Cybersecurity incorporates technical and organizational strategy, architecture, and data science, as well as important areas within artificial intelligence (including machine learning and deep learning). Our curriculum also offers a choice of career-focused specializations, allowing you to focus your studies on a specific area of interest, including:

• General and Technology 
• Global Strategy and Operations 
• Governance, Risk, and Compliance 
• Secure Cloud Computing

*SOURCE:  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm#tab-1

NU’s Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity opens the door to a wide range of important, in-demand careers for dedicated professionals with polished skills in communication, management, operations, leadership, and infrastructure. Some of the top job titles* posted in this field include:

• Information Security Analysts
• Systems Engineers
• Security Engineers
• DevSecOps Engineers
• Cloud Security Engineers
• Solutions Architects
• Systems Administrators 
• Postsecondary Teachers
• Postsecondary Administrators

Employers of senior-level cybersecurity professionals are spread across every industry, including: professional, scientific and technical services, finance and insurance, manufacturing, information services, healthcare, and administrative support services.

*Positions may require additional experience, training, and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Depending on where you reside, many positions may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met. We encourage you to also review program-specific requirements with an NU advisor. Any data provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee that completion of any degree program will achieve the underlying occupation or commensurate salary.

**SOURCE :  Emsi Labor Analyst- Report. Emsi research company homepage at  https://www.economicmodeling.com/company/  (Report viewed:  May 13, 2022 ). DISCLAIMER: The data provided is for Informational purposes only. Emsi data and analysis utilizes government sources to provide insights on industries, demographics, employers, in-demand skills, and more to align academic programs with labor market opportunities. Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.  Current and prospective students should use this data with other available economic data to inform their educational decisions.

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Useful Links

• Essential Skills for Cybersecurity Professionals
• Why Consider a Career in Cybersecurity
• Earning Your Cybersecurity Degree Online Related Programs:

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PhD in Cybersecurity Program FAQs

A PhD dissertation is a scholarly documentation of research that makes an original contribution to the field of study. This process requires care in choosing a topic, documenting its importance, planning the methodology, and conducting the research. These activities lead smoothly into the writing and oral presentation of the dissertation. At National University, faculty members assist every doctoral student with a systematic process designed to ensure the completion of a high-quality dissertation. 

A doctoral candidate must be continuously enrolled throughout the series of dissertation courses. Dissertation courses are automatically scheduled and accepted without a break in scheduling to ensure that students remain in continuous enrollment throughout the dissertation course sequence. If additional time is required to complete any of the dissertation courses, students must re-enroll and pay the tuition for that course. Continuous enrollment will only be permitted when students demonstrate progress toward completing dissertation requirements. The Dissertation Committee determines progress.

National University is dedicated to assisting students in the achievement of their academic aspirations and helping them become valuable contributors to their community and profession. To accomplish this, we now offer a dissertation completion pathway for students who have successfully completed their doctoral coursework and achieved doctoral candidacy at a previous institution but were unable to complete their dissertation.  

Our Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP) offers a unique opportunity for students to complete their doctorate in one of the doctoral programs offered at NU (excluding the PhD in MFT, DMFT, DNP, and DHA). Students successfully meeting the entrance and application requirements will complete a minimum of 23 credit hours to earn their doctorate.

The vision for the Dissertation Completion Pathway is to provide “all-but-dissertation” or ABD students a structured approach for completing their dissertation and help them achieve their academic goals in obtaining their doctorate. This pathway provides a student-centered, high touch, and structured pathway that recognizes past academic coursework while providing the student with the preparation and guidance to earn their doctoral degree.

National University allows 7 years to complete all doctoral programs of 60 credits or less. The median time to completion for this program is 44 months.

Time to completion varies depending upon the pace in which a student completes courses and the number of transfer credits accepted. As most NU students are working adults, balancing educational, professional, and personal commitments, our academic and finance advisors will work with you to develop a program schedule that works best for your needs.

Students following the preferred schedule designed by the Dean for this program, and applying no transfer credits, can expect to finish in as little as 40 months.

The highest degree for cybersecurity is typically a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cybersecurity or a related field. This degree typically requires several years of advanced coursework and research, and is designed for individuals who want to pursue careers in cybersecurity research, academia, or leadership positions.

Whether a PhD in cybersecurity is worth it depends on your career goals and personal interests. If you want to pursue a career in cybersecurity research or academia, a PhD can be a valuable asset that can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries. However, if you’re primarily interested in working in industry, a PhD may not be necessary or worth the time and cost.

The salary for someone with a PhD in cybersecurity can vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s job title, experience, and location, but you can expect to earn a comfortable living in this field. According to payscale.com, the average base salary for someone with a PhD in Cybersecurity is around $172,000 per year in the United States. However, some positions such as chief security officer or director of operations could earn more.

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Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

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GW Online Engineering Programs

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Cloud Computing Management
• Cybersecurity Analytics
• Cybersecurity Policy & Compliance
• Electrical Engineering
• Engineering Management
• Systems Engineering
• Policies & Procedures
• On-Site International Programs
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (D.Eng.)
• Cybersecurity Analytics (D.Eng.)
• Engineering Management (D.Eng.)
• Systems Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Degrees Offered
• Tuition & Financial Aid
• Student Resources
• Application Process

Apply for Admission

Online Doctor of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics

We are now accepting applications for the cohort beginning in January 2025.

The application deadline is November 1, 2024.

Sign up for a Webinar 

Program flyer, program description .

The Doctor of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics grants students extensive knowledge of cutting-edge cybersecurity techniques, tools, and their real-world applications. Graduates  are well-equipped to conduct research and lead cybersecurity projects and teams in various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and more. Graduates will be able to effectively communicate complex cybersecurity concepts to diverse audiences, making them well-suited for leadership positions and academic teaching roles.

GW is federally designated as a National Center of Excellence for Cyber Defense Research. The GW Cyber Security and Privacy Research Institute ( CSPRI ) is the home for major information assurance and cybersecurity scholarship programs. The CSPRI is funded by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation.

The degree requires completion of eight graduate-level courses (listed below) and a minimum of 24 credit hours of Praxis Research (SEAS 8188). During the research phase, the student writes and defends a research praxis on a topic related to Cybersecurity Analytics. The topic is selected by the student and approved by the research advising committee.

CSCI 6015 Cyber Forensics:  Acquiring, preserving and analyzing digitally stored information while ensuring that this information is admissible as evidence in a court of law. Principles and techniques for cyber forensics investigations using industry-standard forensic process.

SEAS 8400 Challenges in Cybersecurity:  Introduction to most common types of attacks, e.g., ransomware attacks, IoT attacks, cloud attacks, phishing attacks, blockchain and cryptocurrency attacks, software vulnerabilities, BYOD policies, and insider attacks, as well as analytical techniques of their mitigation.

SEAS 8405 Cybersecurity Architectures:  Introduction to traditional network-centric cybersecurity (i.e., Defense in Depth) and emerging cybersecurity architecture models including DevSecOps, Cloud-native, and risk adaptive (Zero Trust Architecture) structures. Discussion of the benefits and challenges of these models, alignment with MITRE frameworks, and how they support the business/mission outcomes of an organization.

SEAS 8410 Security Data Analysis & Visualization:  Visualization aspect of security data, including study of data analytics and scaling up information security, security metrics and security monitoring techniques focusing on industry applications. Tools for security data visualization and analytics.

SEAS 8414 Analytical Tools for Cyber Analytics:  Survey of analytical tools for analyzing cybersecurity data with particular attention to the use of data analytics procedures in supporting appropriate cybersecurity policy decisions

SEAS 8415 Applied Cryptography and Data Protection:  Introduction to cryptographic techniques, case studies for real-life applications of modern crypto-graphic solutions, classical cryptographical algorithms (AES, RSA, RC4) and techniques (symmetric, asymmetric-public key cryptography, hash functions), digital signatures, key management, and distribution. Advanced topics such as zero-knowledge proofs and zero-trust architectures.

SEAS 8416 Python Tools for Cybersecurity:  Learning Python & and its role in cybersecurity. Perform secure coding, network analysis, cryptography, malware analysis, and automation of cybersecurity tasks using Python.

SEAS 8499 Praxis Development for Cybersecurity:  Overview of research methods. Aims and purpose of the praxis. Development of praxis research strategies, formulation, and defense of a praxis proposal. Praxis proposal defense must be passed before the student is admitted to degree candidacy to undertake praxis work.

SEAS 8188 Praxis Research for Doctor of Engineering in Cyber Analytics:  Independent applied research in cybersecurity culminating in the final praxis report and final examination for the degree of Doctor of Engineering.

Classroom courses last 10 weeks each and meet on Saturday mornings from 9:00 AM—12:10 PM and afternoons from 1:00—4:10 PM (all times Eastern). All classes meet live online through synchronous distance learning technologies (Zoom). All classes are recorded and available for viewing within two hours of the lecture. This program is taught in a cohort format in which students take all courses in lockstep. Courses cannot be taken out of sequence, live attendance at all class meetings is expected, and students must remain continuously enrolled. Leaves of absence are permitted only in the case of a medical or family emergency, or deployment to active military duty.  Please see below for the dates of our upcoming cohort.

No classes on  Memorial Day and Fourth of July weekends 

To proceed to the research phase, students must earn a grade point average of at least 3.2 in the eight classroom courses, and no grade below B-. Students are then registered for a minimum of 24 credit hours of SEAS 8188 Praxis Research: 3 ch in Fall 2025 (Session 2), 9 ch in Spring 2026, 3 ch in Summer 2026, and 9 ch in Fall 2026. Throughout the research phase, students develop the praxis under the guidance of a designated faculty advisor. Faculty research advisors are assigned by the program office and meet individually with students every two weeks.

Sample research areas are listed below:

• Addressing the Cybersecurity Malicious Insider Threat
• Exploring Cybersecurity Requirements in the Defense Acquisition Process
• Internet of Things Device Cybersecurity
• Cybersecurity of Networked Home Medical Devices
• Cybersecurity Challenges in Healthcare Industries 

Tuition is billed at $1650 per credit hour for the 2024-2025 year. A non-refundable tuition deposit of $995, which is applied to tuition in the first semester, is required when the student accepts admission.

Admissions Process

• Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, applied science, business, computer science, information technology, or a related field from accredited institutions.
• Applicants with other majors are encouraged to apply. However, they may have to take EMSE 4197 as a prerequisite course if they have not completed two college-level calculus courses.
• A minimum graduate-level GPA of 3.2
• Capacity for original scholarship.
• TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or PTE scores are required of all applicants who are not citizens of countries where English is the official language.  Check our  International Students Page  to learn about the SEAS English language requirements and exemption policy. Test scores may not be more than two years old.

Note: GRE and GMAT scores are not required.

Please note that our doctoral programs are highly selective; meeting minimum admissions requirements does not guarantee admission.  

• Attach up-to-date Resume
• Attach Statement of Purpose – In an essay of 250 words or less, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study at The George Washington University. Describe your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Discuss your qualifications including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not mentioned.
• Online Engineering Programs  The George Washington University 170 Newport Center Drive Suite 260 Newport Beach, CA 92660

Normally, all transcripts must be received before an admission decision is rendered for the Doctor of Engineering program. 

You will receive emails from us updating you as your application goes through the admissions process.

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Cybersecurity MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

It has long been recognised that cybersecurity is a ‘wicked problem’ – one that spills across disciplines, jurisdictions, and borders of all kinds. Our programme breaks with disciplinary tradition to rethink how we develop people equipped to deal with the cybersecurity challenges of the future.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Applications closed

• Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

If you are intending to apply for a time-limited visa to complete your UCL studies (e.g., Student visa, Skilled worker visa, PBS dependant visa etc.) you may be required to obtain ATAS clearance . This will be confirmed to you if you obtain an offer of a place. Please note that ATAS processing times can take up to six months, so we recommend you consider these timelines when submitting your application to UCL.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

This programme provides you with core skills and knowledge at the forefront of computing, cybercrime, and digital technology policy. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that you achieve deep domain-specific expertise, while developing into individuals who can resolve problems using a range of tools and methods and confident in your ability to work effectively with experts from across the socio-technical divide.

We offer supervision in computing (systems security, cryptography, software security, network security), crime science (cybercrime and policing issues) and in domestic and international policy (digital tech policy, global cybernorms, international peace and security).

You will develop a level of expertise in your topic that incorporates the dimensions covered in our Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) and you will leave with a network of colleagues working in and across these domains.

Who this course is for

This MPhil/PhD is for applicants with a strong interest or background in cybersecurity issues who would like to undertake multidisciplinary research to solve today’s societal problems and explore innovative solutions. It is suitable for both Master's graduates as well as early or mid-career professionals.

What this course will give you

UCL is ranked 9th globally and 5th in Europe in the QS World University Rankings 2024 , giving you an exciting opportunity to study at one of the world's best universities.

UCL is one of the UK's elite Academic Centres of Excellence in Cyber Security and hosts the UK Research Institutes in Science of Cyber Security (RISCS). The team is led by UCL Computer Science , a department ranked first in England and second in the UK for research power in Computer Science and Informatics in the most recent Research Excellence Framework ( REF2021 ).

Over 40 members of faculty with internationally recognised expertise across all aspects of cybersecurity run a diverse and ambitious portfolio of projects, working closely with industry and policy partners. You will learn from leading academic experts with an outstanding reputation in the field.

Acknowledging that technology alone cannot address the challenges of cyber insecurity, the Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy focuses on improving knowledge exchange between technical and policy stakeholders. Providing advice and support to both industry and government around the world, STEaPP runs a portfolio of funded projects that explore how cybersecurity impacts at the societal level as well as on international peace and security.

The foundation of your career

Depending on your research agenda, the programme will provide you with core skills and knowledge at the forefront of computing (systems security, cryptography, software security, network security), crime science (cybercrime) and policy (information security management, public policy). Suitable careers will include technology R&D, intelligence and policing, international and domestic public policy, cyber diplomacy and digital infrastructure project implementation.

Employability

Investing in people and skills and deepening the partnership between government, academic and industry is the first pillar of the UK National Cyber Strategy. To help address this, you will be trained in how to work with evolving cybersecurity challenges through multidisciplinary means. By developing a holistic understanding of how technology, policy, industry and law enforcement interact, you will be equipped for high-level leadership positions that will help to shape the future through secure digital technologies.

The CDT is conveniently located in the heart of London and subsequently has strong links with both industry and policy stakeholders. The three partner departments in the CDT between them host the Information Security Group, the Jill Dando Institute of Security and Crime Science, the Dawes Centre for Future Crime, the Research Institute for Science of Cyber Security, the Digital Technologies Policy Lab and the PETRAS National Centre of Excellence for Cybersecurity of the Internet of Things. All of these offer exceptional networking platforms for the CDT candidates who become part of our research community .

Teaching and learning

You are   assigned a first and second supervisor who  you  will meet regularly.  You  will have a choice of research groups which you can assign yourself to. These research groups meet regularly for seminars and related activities in the departments.

In year 1, you are a ssessed through the completion of a literature review, a six-month research project, a systematic literature review group project, and an integrated assessment that draws on the material delivered across the taught modules.

You will go on to participate in an upgrade viva (MPhil to PhD) between months 15 and 24.

During your research degree, you will have regular meetings with your primary supervisor, in addition to contact with your secondary supervisor and participation in group meetings. Full-time study should comprise of 40 hours per week.

Research areas and structure

Supervision within this programme is available in an extensive range or research areas including:

• artificial intelligence (AI)
• applied cryptography
• on-line propaganda / hate speech / fake news
• authentication and verification
• financial technology and cryptocurrencies
• blockchains
• global politics of cybersecurity, cyberwar, cyber norms
• national cyber security strategies
• systems modelling
• security economics
• smart contracts
• distributed systems security
• network security
• the Internet of Things
• security testing
• secure software engineering methodologies
• malware and binary analysis
• watermarking and copyright protection
• cybercrime, child protection, and dark marketplaces
• cyber risk and cyber security policy
• standards and regulation of digital and telecommunications
• connected autonomous vehicles
• gender issues and tech abuse
• hacking and hacktivism
• privacy, censorship, surveillance
• applications to secure communications
• quantum computing, quantum information theory

Research environment

The departments are very well-connected with research groups across the university, and are involved in many exciting multi-disciplinary research projects.

The CDT provides a 4-year programme of training in cutting-edge disciplinary skills in computing, social sciences and humanities, as well as transferable skills relating to cross sector and cross disciplinary communication, teamwork, public dissemination and professional practice.

This is achieved through a combination of structured compulsory and elective taught modules and training activities, as well as an `apprenticeship’ model involving hands-on personal and team-based research under the supervision of a lead in the field of cybersecurity.

Find out more on our CDT website.

This programme is not currently running a part-time option.

Some projects will call for fieldwork and you will be able to apply to the Research Training Support Grant for funding to support this. Supervisory teams provide contacts and introductions where needed to help you maximise the value of your fieldwork.

All CDT candidates will undertake a placement as part of their programme. Supervisory teams work with candidates and with our industry and policy partners to devise an appropriate placement for each case. These are integrated into the research project to support and enhance it while also offering valuable insights into `real world' cybersecurity problems and work environments.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

Your research degree may be subject to an Additional Fee Element (AFE). The AFE (also known as bench fees) is an additional cost, incurred by yourself or your sponsor. It is levied to cover the costs related to consumables, equipment and materials etc. which are not included in the tuition fee. As each research project is unique in nature, the AFE is calculated on a student-by-student basis and is determined by your academic supervisor.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

The Cybersecurity CDT does not have UKRI-funded studentships available for the 2024/25 academic year. Potential candidates who may have other sources of funding available to them — such as from industry, non-UK governments, or their own resources — should consult the CDT’s website where advice will be posted as it becomes available.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

CSC-UCL Joint Research Scholarship

Value: Fees, maintenance and travel (Duration of programme) Criteria Based on academic merit Eligibility: EU, Overseas

All applicants are asked to identify and contact potential supervisors before making an application.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

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Information Science Ph.D. With a Concentration in Cybersecurity

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Why Earn an Information Science Ph.D. With a Concentration in Cybersecurity?

The UNT Information Science Ph.D. program with a concentration in Cybersecurity responds to the varied and changing needs of an information age, increasing recognition of the central role of information and information technologies in individual, social, economic and cultural affairs.

The mission of UNT's Information Science Ph.D. program is to provide a center of excellence in graduate education and research. Its primary goals are to:

• Nurture critical and reflective thinking on the fundamental issues and elements of problems of utilization of information
• Foster an environment of substantive and productive mentoring and apprenticeship
• Prepare scholars passionate about the role of information in human affairs
• Foster cross-disciplinary thinking and research.

Students are recruited to the program from a wide range of disciplines and encouraged to expand and refocus their expertise and skills in cutting-edge areas of information science that cross disciplinary boundaries. The multifaceted nature of information science warrants the focusing of resources, courses, and faculties from a broad range of academic units.

• Research and publication
• Pedagogical practices
• Critical thinking
• Leadership ability
• Data analysis

Cybersecurity Information Science Ph.D. Highlights

What can you do with an information science ph.d. with a concentration in cybersecurity.

Graduates of the program are prepared to contribute to the advancement and evolution of the information society in a variety of roles and settings as administrators, researchers, and educators.

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• Schools & departments

Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust PhD

Awards: PhD

Study modes: Full-time

Funding opportunities

Placements/internships

Programme website: Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust

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Research profile

The increasing reliance of systems and services on information technology in the public, private and third sector has significantly raised the impact of cyber attacks in the last two decades.

This PhD programme in Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust is a response to the growing need for highly specialized research and training in these topics. Cyber security and resiliency is a complex problem that requires designing and understanding underlying technologies but also how business processes, cost, usability, trust and the law play a role for effective technology deployment.

The aim of this PhD programme is to provide students with research training in specialised topics of security, privacy and trust, helping produce the next generation of world-leading experts of the field.

Programme structure

The PhD in Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust trains you as a researcher and allows you to develop advanced techniques and in-depth knowledge in a specialist area. You will develop an all-round knowledge of your discipline, and a broad range of transferable skills.

You will carry out independent research, resulting in an original contribution to knowledge in your chosen area, working under the guidance of your supervisors.

The prescribed period of study is 36 months if studying full-time, or between 48 and 72 months if studying part-time.

Year 1 of PhD studies is probationary. Your supervisor will identify your training needs, if any, and invite you to attend lectures relevant to your research topic. These lectures may be selected from those offered to MSc students or may be specialist courses and seminars organised by the School's various research groupings.

Towards the end of Year 1, you will be expected to submit a thesis proposal which identifies a specific research topic, reviews the relevant literature, outlines a plan of research to address the topic, and describes progress made so far.

Progress during your PhD is assessed by annual reviews, which formally determine whether you can progress with your PhD. You will be required to complete and pass a PhD annual review at the end of each year of study and thesis is expected to be submitted at the end of Year 3. Following thesis submission, you will be required to attend an oral examination (or viva) which will be conducted by an external and internal examiner.

Find out more about compulsory and optional courses

We link to the latest information available. Please note that this may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.

Work placements/internships

Many postgraduate research students in the School of Informatics undertake at least one optional internship during their PhD, gaining important transferable skills whilst working with companies, public or third sector organisations.

The School of Informatics maintains a range of connections to potential employers in the cyber security and other sectors. Work placements or internships are considered a valuable aspect of research training as they expose students to an applied research culture, and can provide valuable contacts for future job searches.

Training and support

As a research student in the School of Informatics, you will have access to a highly respected academic staff community, including staff who have won prizes for their research and who are Fellows of learned societies.

The University of Edinburgh has been recognised as a UK Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research. This is based on the amount and quality of its research output, as well as its level of PhD training.

Within the School of Informatics, the Security, Privacy and Trust Group includes academic staff who lead research in a range of technical and socio-technical areas of cyber security. Staff also supervise PhD students on this programme.

• Security, Privacy and Trust Group

You will carry out your research under the guidance of a primary supervisor and at least one other secondary or co-supervisor. You will be expected to attend seminars and meetings of relevant research groups and may also attend lectures that are relevant to your research topic. Periodic reviews of your progress will be conducted to assist with research planning.

A programme of transferable skills courses will be offered, which facilitates broader professional development in a wide range of topics, from writing and presentation skills to entrepreneurship and career strategies.

The award-winning Informatics Forum is an international research facility for computing and related areas. It houses more than 400 research staff and students, providing office, meeting and social spaces.

The Forum also contains several robotics labs, an instrumented multimedia room, eye-tracking and motion capture systems, and a full recording studio amongst other research facilities. Its spectacular atrium plays host to many events, from industry showcases and student hackathons to major research conferences.

Nearby teaching facilities include computer and teaching labs with more than 250 machines, 24-hour access to IT facilities for students, and comprehensive support provided by dedicated computing staff.

There are further specific facilities to support aspects of cyber security research, including an Internet of Things Lab and a Network Security Lab. The Blockchain Technology Lab is a research lab supporting investigations into distributed ledger technology.

Among our wider entrepreneurial initiatives is Informatics Ventures, set up to support globally ambitious software companies in Scotland and nurture a technology cluster to rival Boston, Pittsburgh, Kyoto and Silicon Valley.

Career opportunities

There is high demand for security and privacy experts in industry, academia, and the public sector. Commercially, there is also a large variety of opportunities in both small and large companies.

Previous PhD graduates associated with the Security and Privacy Group have gone on to employment in industry with companies including:

• ION Geophysical
• Disney Research
• Deutsche Bank.

Students have also gone on to be employed within academia, at institutions, to name a few, including:

• University of Oxford
• University of Bristol
• University of Oldenburg
• University of Auckland
• University of Birmingham
• University of Surrey
• University of Munich
• Cambridge University
• Queen’s University Belfast
• Tsinghua University
• Lancaster University

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in computer science, mathematics, linguistics, or a related discipline. A Masters degree or equivalent, in information security, cyber security or a closely related discipline is recommended.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 169 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 59 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

• Academic Technology Approval Scheme

If you are not an EU , EEA or Swiss national, you may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance certificate in order to study this programme.

Fees and costs

Scholarships and funding, featured funding.

• Security, Privacy and Trust Group PhD topics (some with scholarships)
• School of Informatics scholarships for research students
• Research scholarships for international students

Please note that some University and School scholarships require separate applications via the Scholarships portal.

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• IGS Admissions Administrator
• Phone: +44 (0)131 651 5635
• Contact: [email protected]
• School of Informatics Graduate School
• Office 3.42
• Informatics Forum
• Central Campus
• Programme: Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust
• School: Informatics
• College: Science & Engineering

Select your programme and preferred start date to begin your application.

PhD Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust - 3 Years (Full-time)

Application deadlines.

Applications for 2024/25 entry are now open and can be submitted all year round.

Please submit your completed application at least three months prior to desired entry date.

If you want to be considered for School funded PhD scholarships you must apply by one of two rounds:

(Revised 25 October 2023 to update application deadlines)

(Revised 15 February 2024 to extend the round 2 application deadline)

• How to apply

You must submit two references with your application.

You must submit an application via the EUCLID application portal and provide the required information and documentation. This will include submission of:

• a Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• research proposal (2-5 pages long)
• degree certificates and official transcripts of all completed and in-progress degrees (plus certified translations if academic documents are not issued in English)
• two academic references

Only complete applications will progress forward to the academic selection stage.

Read through detailed guidance on how to apply for a PGR programme in the School of Informatics:

• School of Informatics PGR Application Guidance

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

• Schools & departments

Suggested PhD topics in Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust.

If you are interested in one of these topics, please read the application guidance first and then contact the named supervisor to discuss.

Privacy-preserving interactive technologies.  Interactive technologies in smart homes, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) automate our daily routines and create an immersive reality. The new experiences, however, accompany unprecedented risks to consumers as these advanced Interactive technologies expose numerous attributes of their users that must be kept private. This project will advance the understanding of user perceptions, operational and regulatory requirements for the privacy of these technologies and develop practical privacy control and enforcement systems for them. Contact: Jingjie Li .

Safety of interactive artificial intelligence (AI) agents. With rapidly developing AI technologies, we live in a world with more embodied and human-like AI agents. These agents are more than our next human-computer interface but companions for productivity, entertainment, and mental support. Given the agents’ capabilities to make decisions and take action, their safety, security, and privacy issues raise increasing concerns. This project will establish a framework to evaluate the safety issues of interactive AI agents and develop mechanisms to address these gaps. Contact: Jingjie Li .

Internet culture of privacy and security. Privacy and security are products of human culture and have become cultural phenomena on the Internet. Online communities, where people exchange massive amounts of information, incubate such cultures of privacy and security. These Internet cultures can influence people’s privacy, security, and even adversarial behaviors. By measuring and understanding online communities, this project will study the interplay between cultural factors and people’s privacy and security behaviors. Contact: Jingjie Li .

• Deep Threats in Autonomous Vehicles . From self-driving cars to delivery drones, autonomous vehicles are becoming everyday.  But the blackbox or greybox nature of deep learning potentially undermines the required safety criticality and in the wrong hands could pose severe cyber security threats. Using vehicle perception and navigation as case studies, this project will systematically study threats arising from deep learning to autonomous vehciles and look at effective and generic mitigations. Contact: Chris Xiaoxuan Lu
• Internet of Safe Things . With billions of connected devices deployed, Internet of Things (IoT) based cyber-physical systems (CPS) bring unprecedented risks due to the unexpected interaction between systems and the larger number of attack vectors. These arise in medical devices, smart home appliance control, digital twin development or conflicts in policy execution at a societal scale. PhD topics will focus on the security, privacy and safety issues and investigate solutions that integrate hardware and software components, particularly those that have humans in the loop. Contact: Chris Xiaoxuan Lu

Cyber risk analysis and modelling of  uncertainties related to potential data/privacy breaches and the economic costs . Optimal decision models among the costs of managing cyber security, users satisfaction and cyber risks faced by organisations. Contact: Tiejun Ma

Human factors modelling related to cyber risk taking and decision making.  Particularly in relation to fintech applications (e.g. mobile, transactions, fraud and AML).  Contact: Tiejun Ma

Design and analysis of electronic voting protocols . Many countries have or plan to conduct legally binding elections using electronic voting systems. Such systems need to provide security guarantees, e.g., fairness, privacy, and verifiability. These are tricky to establish and can be in conflict with one another. Several proposed electronic voting systems have been found to fail to achieve their intended security goals, demonstrating the need for formally verified electronic voting systems. Contact: Myrto Arapinis

Verification of Security of the mbed OS uVisor (with ARM). The mbed OS uVisor is a core security component for ARM's mbed IoT platform. It creates isolated security domains M7 microcontrollers with a Memory Protection Unit (MPU). On top of these the uVisor provides a flexible compartmentalisation using separate security domains ("Secure Boxes"), configured with ACLs. This project will apply theorem proving methods to help define and then verify correctness and security properties of the uVisor implementation, building on previous work on instruction set models and decompilation techniques. Contact: Ian Stark .

Formal Specifications and Proofs for TrustZone (with ARM). Increasing complexity and connectivity in microcontroller devices motivates new protection mechanisms to improve reliability and security. ARM's TrustZone for ARMv8-M provides a separate "secure world" execution mode to enable features such as secure firmware updates, safe integration of code from multiple suppliers and controlled access to privileged peripherals. This project will study the low-level instruction set design of TrustZone for ARMv8-M, devising formal specifications describing the security properties that hold at the instruction level and proofs that these provide the intended protection against low-level attacks. Contact: Ian Stark

Quantum-enhanced Cloud . The security of the cloud could be obtained through Fully Homomorphic Encryption schemes. However these schemes are potentially breakable in a post-quantum regime and require huge overhead and hence despite intensive efforts from all the major players in the information industry, they remain mainly infeasible. The primary goal of this project is to develop quantum enhanced protocols where both efficiency and security are boosted. Implementations of plug and play solutions for these new protocols will be also pursued in realistic scenarios. Contact: Elham Kashefi .

Mobile Crowdsensing with Location Privacy . Using sensor data from mobile phones for better understanding of users and fine-grained monitoring of the environment is a major current research topic. From point of view of privacy, the challenge is to infer important features from collective data, without compromising location and other sensitive information of any individual. Contact: Rik Sarkar .

Security of Blockchain protocols. Study the underpinnings of blockchain based distributed protocols, including the mechanisms behind Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrency systems. Contact: Aggelos Kiayias or Tariq Elahi .

Privacy in communication systems. Study the concept of privacy in communications and data sharing and design and analyze systems that facilitate it using suitable cryptographic and statistical methods. Contact: Aggelos Kiayias .

Applied and Theoretical Cryptography. Study cryptography from both applied and theoretical angles and apply it to solve problems such as secure channels, identification systems, cloud storage, secure digital content distribution and others. Contact: Aggelos Kiayias , Michele Ciampi or Markulf Kohlweiss .

Secure Remote Authentication via Game Playing . This project investigates a new approach to secure remote authentication which frames the problem as an interactive game between client and server, in which the server has to reason about the complex behaviour of the client based on observed game moves.  Contact: Stefano Albrecht.

Consensus in a world with quantum technologies.  The goal is to explore consensus protocols, such as Blockchain and Byzantine Agreement, in the presence of quantum technologies. Quantum technologies can be used either by adversaries in order to break existing classical protocols, or by honest parties to achieve better performance as far as efficiency or level of security provided.  In this project both directions will be considered. In the first direction (quantum adversaries) full security analysis of classical consensus protocols against quantum adversaries will be carried out, including: (i) ensuring that for all subroutines if hard problems are used to guarantee security, then these problems remain hard when the adversary has a quantum computer (e.g. base security on lattice crypto), (ii) the security definitions and the proof techniques are compatible with quantum adversaries. As far as the second direction is concerned, it is known that (simple) quantum technologies can be used to achieve enhanced Byzantine Agreement protocols.  The investigation will take into account (i) realistic constraints and (ii) proper security analysis that includes hybrid quantum-classical subroutines by addressing the issue of composability of quantum and classical protocols.  Contact: Petros Wallden or Elham Kashefi .

Tactics for Attacks; Safety and Security models.   One idea is to extend of attack trees with ways to reason about, and generate, traces of actual attacks, using "tactics" (a notion from interactive theorem proving).  Another idea is to study combined structural models for capturing safety and security together.   Contact: David Aspinall .

Automatic Vulnerability Predicition and Discovery . Software vulnerabilities continue to plague the industry. Tools help find problems, but current technology is limited. Future systems will be proactive, searching for possible problems and deploying work-arounds or repairs automatically.  PhD topics may investigate AI methods such as program synthesis, critics and abstraction-refinement, or reinforcement learning.   You need a background in software security, ideally also program analysis, logic and reasoning, AI methods.  Contact: David Aspinall

Economics of Security and Privacy.   Many security and privacy outcomes are driven by the economic incentives surrounding firms and individuals. These problems can be studied with a mixture of economic theory and technical measurement. Potential PhD topics include risk quantification, security control selection, cyber insurance, crisis response, exploit broking and many other topics in security and privacy.   These topics are also open to students without computer science training.  Contact: Daniel Woods .

• Foundations for composable security . Study how to formally reason about the composition of cryptographic systems, both on paper and using proof assistants. The focus is on laying foundations, e.g. by finding a category theory based language for cross discipline communication and investigating programming paradigms for modeling protocols as pseudocode.  Contact: Markulf Kohlweiss .
• ZKML and ZKAI . Study how to make machine learning and artificial intelligence verifiable in an as trust-less as possible manner. This allows answering questions such as: Was the query result really derived from the claimed model using the claimed prompts? How does the model change over time? Is ChatGPT getting worse? What data is being used to train the model?  Contact: Markulf Kohlweiss .  

Staff listed here may also be interested in other PhD research proposals on other topics, contact them to discuss.

[ Note for staff: please contact David Aspinall with updates/additions to this list. ]

We have 44 cyber security PhD Research Projects PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

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cyber security PhD Research Projects PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

Investigating quantum machine learning for cyber security, phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Self-Funded PhD Students Only

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

Digital Twins in Cyber Security Analysis of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (DTCS-CAV)

Design, implementation and evaluation of non-cooperative game theoretic models for cyber security, cyber security, artificial intelligence, machine learning and blockchain technology: mitigating cyber attacks and detecting malicious activities in network traffic, privacy violation and cyber security issues in digital media misinformation during environmental and health crises, secure code generation with foundation models, blockchain technology and smart contracts for the security of internet of things and wireless communications, ai-driven cloud security: advancing sustainable and zero trust frameworks through automation, towards an evolving approach to evaluate security monitoring tools, detection and prevention of ransomware attacks targeting iiot (industrial internet of things) devices and networks, phd in post-quantum cryptography, funded phd project (students worldwide).

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

An experimental cybersecurity study of human factors in phishing attack susceptibility

Cybersecurity risk assessment and mitigation in artificial intelligence life cycle, 1 year - mres project - microwave simultaneous wireless power and data transfer (swpdt) for wireless ev charging applications., information leakage control in machine learning models for privacy assurance.

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• PhD Projects in Cybersecurity

PhD projects in cybersecurity aim to break all the walls in the PhD/MS scholars’ study trip. We have got  18+ years  of skills and did  1500+ superb projects  in this broad field. “ Cybersecurity is a vital part to shield the intern internet-based from cyber threats.”  By and large, you can learn a lot when you work with us.

SOME OF THE CYBER THREATS IN PRESENT DAY

• Social Engineering (Password Hacking)

Do you want to know about cyber security attacks topics ? Then, visit our online page fast. Indeed, our research work will lure you into doing your project in this field. To pledge with the cybersecurity projects, look at the following research areas.

RESEARCH TOPICS IN CYBERSECURITY

• Cyber issues & solutions for fog-edge computing
• Trust and reputation systems for cloud-based applications
• Anti-forensics techniques
• Network security (Adhoc networks, CRN, underwater acoustic network)
• Attack resilience for heterogeneous clouds
• Cybersecurity for mobile-based applications
• Web security & cyber monitoring approaches
• Privacy-preserving public auditing systems
• Access control & authorization for cloud services
• Secure internet of things

Besides, you can also access us to craft your project with your own concepts. Despite the issues in your project, we will get the best results for you.  PhD projects in cybersecurity  will devise your projects in other valid areas as well. We have a list of areas that get along with this field.

OTHER IMPLEMENT AREAS

PhD Projects in cybersecurity

If you need further reviews, then call us for a fast reply. You can only survive on the shore of the study ocean on your own. In order to swim across, you will certainly need help from the PhD projects in cybersecurity . If you face any hurdles in your research, then just bond with us.

An effective method for Cybersecurity of healthcare IoT-based systems

An inventive mechanism for Identifying Core Concepts of Cybersecurity based on Two Delphi Processes

An inventive method for Measuring Stakeholders’ Perceptions of Cybersecurity in Renewable Energy Systems

A Novel approach designed for cybersecurity workforce development system

A Design Framework function of Application based on  Rank-Weight Methods into Blockchain Cybersecurity Vulnerability Assessment

The fresh method for Developing collaborative and cohesive cybersecurity in legal principles scheme

An effective method for Evaluating and Ensuring for Cybersecurity of Power Line Remote Monitoring Systems

An innovative method for University and Government Uniting to Address Homeland CyberSecurity Issues system

The new-fangled method for Computer Simulation of Discrete Human-Machine Interaction to Providing Reliability and Cybersecurity of Critical Systems

On the use of Primitive Cognitive Network Process Towards on Cybersecurity Investment Assessment method

The novel approach for Advancing Cybersecurity for Cyber-Resiliency Workforce system

An innovative function of Contactless Smart Card Experiments in a Cybersecurity  scheme

A Flexible Laboratory Environment Supporting Honeypot Deployment for Teaching Real-World

On the use of Cybersecurity intended for fiscal devices with GPRS terminals system

An inventive method for Implementation of Cybersecurity Procedures in Remote Calibration for PNT Services

An innovative method for Intelligent System aimed at Risk Identification of Cybersecurity Violations in Energy Facility system

The new method for Cognitive Cybersecurity used for CPS-IoT Enabled Healthcare Ecosystems

An innovative method for Determining Viability of Deep Learning based  on Cybersecurity Log Analytics system

An inventive approach for Cybersecurity of Connected Autonomous Vehicles practice

An inventive mechanism for Fuzzy Probability Bayesian Network Approach intended for Dynamic Cybersecurity Risk Assessment in Industrial Control Systems

MILESTONE 1: Research Proposal

Finalize journal (indexing).

Before sit down to research proposal writing, we need to decide exact journals. For e.g. SCI, SCI-E, ISI, SCOPUS.

Research Subject Selection

As a doctoral student, subject selection is a big problem. Phdservices.org has the team of world class experts who experience in assisting all subjects. When you decide to work in networking, we assign our experts in your specific area for assistance.

Research Topic Selection

We helping you with right and perfect topic selection, which sound interesting to the other fellows of your committee. For e.g. if your interest in networking, the research topic is VANET / MANET / any other

Literature Survey Writing

To ensure the novelty of research, we find research gaps in 50+ latest benchmark papers (IEEE, Springer, Elsevier, MDPI, Hindawi, etc.)

Case Study Writing

After literature survey, we get the main issue/problem that your research topic will aim to resolve and elegant writing support to identify relevance of the issue.

Problem Statement

Based on the research gaps finding and importance of your research, we conclude the appropriate and specific problem statement.

Writing Research Proposal

Writing a good research proposal has need of lot of time. We only span a few to cover all major aspects (reference papers collection, deficiency finding, drawing system architecture, highlights novelty)

MILESTONE 2: System Development

Fix implementation plan.

We prepare a clear project implementation plan that narrates your proposal in step-by step and it contains Software and OS specification. We recommend you very suitable tools/software that fit for your concept.

Tools/Plan Approval

We get the approval for implementation tool, software, programing language and finally implementation plan to start development process.

Pseudocode Description

Our source code is original since we write the code after pseudocodes, algorithm writing and mathematical equation derivations.

Develop Proposal Idea

We implement our novel idea in step-by-step process that given in implementation plan. We can help scholars in implementation.

Comparison/Experiments

We perform the comparison between proposed and existing schemes in both quantitative and qualitative manner since it is most crucial part of any journal paper.

Graphs, Results, Analysis Table

We evaluate and analyze the project results by plotting graphs, numerical results computation, and broader discussion of quantitative results in table.

Project Deliverables

For every project order, we deliver the following: reference papers, source codes screenshots, project video, installation and running procedures.

MILESTONE 3: Paper Writing

Choosing right format.

We intend to write a paper in customized layout. If you are interesting in any specific journal, we ready to support you. Otherwise we prepare in IEEE transaction level.

Collecting Reliable Resources

Before paper writing, we collect reliable resources such as 50+ journal papers, magazines, news, encyclopedia (books), benchmark datasets, and online resources.

Writing Rough Draft

We create an outline of a paper at first and then writing under each heading and sub-headings. It consists of novel idea and resources

Proofreading & Formatting

We must proofread and formatting a paper to fix typesetting errors, and avoiding misspelled words, misplaced punctuation marks, and so on

Native English Writing

We check the communication of a paper by rewriting with native English writers who accomplish their English literature in University of Oxford.

Scrutinizing Paper Quality

We examine the paper quality by top-experts who can easily fix the issues in journal paper writing and also confirm the level of journal paper (SCI, Scopus or Normal).

Plagiarism Checking

We at phdservices.org is 100% guarantee for original journal paper writing. We never use previously published works.

MILESTONE 4: Paper Publication

Finding apt journal.

We play crucial role in this step since this is very important for scholar’s future. Our experts will help you in choosing high Impact Factor (SJR) journals for publishing.

Lay Paper to Submit

We organize your paper for journal submission, which covers the preparation of Authors Biography, Cover Letter, Highlights of Novelty, and Suggested Reviewers.

Paper Submission

We upload paper with submit all prerequisites that are required in journal. We completely remove frustration in paper publishing.

Paper Status Tracking

We track your paper status and answering the questions raise before review process and also we giving you frequent updates for your paper received from journal.

Revising Paper Precisely

When we receive decision for revising paper, we get ready to prepare the point-point response to address all reviewers query and resubmit it to catch final acceptance.

Get Accept & e-Proofing

We receive final mail for acceptance confirmation letter and editors send e-proofing and licensing to ensure the originality.

Publishing Paper

Paper published in online and we inform you with paper title, authors information, journal name volume, issue number, page number, and DOI link

MILESTONE 5: Thesis Writing

Identifying university format.

We pay special attention for your thesis writing and our 100+ thesis writers are proficient and clear in writing thesis for all university formats.

Gathering Adequate Resources

We collect primary and adequate resources for writing well-structured thesis using published research articles, 150+ reputed reference papers, writing plan, and so on.

Writing Thesis (Preliminary)

We write thesis in chapter-by-chapter without any empirical mistakes and we completely provide plagiarism-free thesis.

Skimming & Reading

Skimming involve reading the thesis and looking abstract, conclusions, sections, & sub-sections, paragraphs, sentences & words and writing thesis chorological order of papers.

Fixing Crosscutting Issues

This step is tricky when write thesis by amateurs. Proofreading and formatting is made by our world class thesis writers who avoid verbose, and brainstorming for significant writing.

Organize Thesis Chapters

We organize thesis chapters by completing the following: elaborate chapter, structuring chapters, flow of writing, citations correction, etc.

Writing Thesis (Final Version)

We attention to details of importance of thesis contribution, well-illustrated literature review, sharp and broad results and discussion and relevant applications study.

How PhDservices.org deal with significant issues ?

1. novel ideas.

Novelty is essential for a PhD degree. Our experts are bringing quality of being novel ideas in the particular research area. It can be only determined by after thorough literature search (state-of-the-art works published in IEEE, Springer, Elsevier, ACM, ScienceDirect, Inderscience, and so on). SCI and SCOPUS journals reviewers and editors will always demand “Novelty” for each publishing work. Our experts have in-depth knowledge in all major and sub-research fields to introduce New Methods and Ideas. MAKING NOVEL IDEAS IS THE ONLY WAY OF WINNING PHD.

2. Plagiarism-Free

To improve the quality and originality of works, we are strictly avoiding plagiarism since plagiarism is not allowed and acceptable for any type journals (SCI, SCI-E, or Scopus) in editorial and reviewer point of view. We have software named as “Anti-Plagiarism Software” that examines the similarity score for documents with good accuracy. We consist of various plagiarism tools like Viper, Turnitin, Students and scholars can get your work in Zero Tolerance to Plagiarism. DONT WORRY ABOUT PHD, WE WILL TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING.

3. Confidential Info

We intended to keep your personal and technical information in secret and it is a basic worry for all scholars.

• Technical Info: We never share your technical details to any other scholar since we know the importance of time and resources that are giving us by scholars.
• Personal Info: We restricted to access scholars personal details by our experts. Our organization leading team will have your basic and necessary info for scholars.

CONFIDENTIALITY AND PRIVACY OF INFORMATION HELD IS OF VITAL IMPORTANCE AT PHDSERVICES.ORG. WE HONEST FOR ALL CUSTOMERS.

4. Publication

Most of the PhD consultancy services will end their services in Paper Writing, but our PhDservices.org is different from others by giving guarantee for both paper writing and publication in reputed journals. With our 18+ year of experience in delivering PhD services, we meet all requirements of journals (reviewers, editors, and editor-in-chief) for rapid publications. From the beginning of paper writing, we lay our smart works. PUBLICATION IS A ROOT FOR PHD DEGREE. WE LIKE A FRUIT FOR GIVING SWEET FEELING FOR ALL SCHOLARS.

5. No Duplication

After completion of your work, it does not available in our library i.e. we erased after completion of your PhD work so we avoid of giving duplicate contents for scholars. This step makes our experts to bringing new ideas, applications, methodologies and algorithms. Our work is more standard, quality and universal. Everything we make it as a new for all scholars. INNOVATION IS THE ABILITY TO SEE THE ORIGINALITY. EXPLORATION IS OUR ENGINE THAT DRIVES INNOVATION SO LET’S ALL GO EXPLORING.

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I ordered a research proposal in the research area of Wireless Communications and it was as very good as I can catch it.

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It really good platform to get all PhD services and I have used it many times because of reasonable price, best customer services, and high quality.

My colleague recommended this service to me and I’m delighted their services. They guide me a lot and given worthy contents for my research paper.

I’m never disappointed at any kind of service. Till I’m work with professional writers and getting lot of opportunities.

- Christopher

Once I am entered this organization I was just felt relax because lots of my colleagues and family relations were suggested to use this service and I received best thesis writing.

I recommend phdservices.org. They have professional writers for all type of writing (proposal, paper, thesis, assignment) support at affordable price.

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Cyber Security PhD Topics

Introduction to Cyber Security

Cyber security is represented as the state protecting and recovering the networks , programs, and devices based on all types of cyber-attacks and digital attacks. The attacks are used to develop the endangerment of consumers, organizations, and employees. The main objective of a cyber-attack is to interrupt business processes, squeeze money from users,  etc.In addition, cyber security mentions the confirmation of ICA (integrity, confidentiality, and availability) data. Now let’s discuss the importance of research directions used in the selection process of cyber security PhD topics in the following. It includes the process such as

• Creating the finest practices to protect the programs, networks, and devices from attacks
• Technologies
• Developing the set of tools

When we talk about research projects, the research methodology is the major phase in that research because that explains the research process. Thus, our research experts have listed down some important points based on the research methodologies in cyber security .

Key Directions for Cyber Security Projects

• Private email usage
• News has watermarked content
• Fraud and interfere detection
• Copyright protection
• Content management in social networks
• Unlock using face detection
• Source location tracking
• Invention intruder and insider threats and mount an effective defense
• Network topologies
• Protocols and strategies design
• Protect remote access and secure devices
• Security monitoring and surveillance
• Multifactor

The research scholars have to know about the central functioning point in any stream of the research work. So, the following statement summarizes the core functions of cyber security that scholar wants to acquire in this research field.

How does it work?

• Its foremost objective is to result in the degree of protection with activity measurements
• It includes the set of activities such as hardware and software, technical and non-technical, computer networks based on the components in cyberspace

Today, we examine all potential applications in various research areas and technologies in cyber security. Great research is successful when knowing all the topical technologies. From us, you can get such applicable technologies on every research idea that you picked in cyber security Phd Topics. For instance, we have enlisted some technologies in cyber security.

Technology for Cyber Security

• It is utilized to acquire the security level among the websites and web browsers
• Tools are used to detect the infected system
• It is deployed to perform the traffic block
• Code and chippers are used for the data transformation
• It is providing additional protection for attack detection

Therefore, our research professionals are developing their research up to date in the modern cyber security field to guide research scholars in all aspects. And below, we have spotlighted some current and ongoing research components in cyber security.

Components of Cyber Security

• Cryptography methods
• Steganography
• Blockchain technology
• Firewall policies

Applications in Cyber Security

Multi-factor authentication is one of the authentication methods in that the computer users are enabling access with knowledge and hindrance. This process includes physical objects such as a digital certificate, secret key, smartcard, and USB stick with a secret token.

Password, PIN, PAN, and OTP are the knowledge that the user only knows. Mouse dynamics, pattern in key press intervals, typing speed, voice, eye iris, and fingerprint are the physical characteristics of the user. Digital prints, pseudo IDs, channel characteristics, PUF, and locations are the additional factors in cyber security applications.

Research Challenges in Cyber Security

• Public Wi-Fi
• Working remotely
• Mobile device security
• Physical security
• Passwords and authentication
• Removable media
• Phishing attacks

Above mentioned are the significant research challenges that occurred in the cyber security research field. To overcome all these issues we have enlisted some research solutions in designing cyber security phd topics.

Research Solutions for Cyber Security Challenges

• Risk and compliance management
• Web filtering
• Anti-virus and anti-malware solutions
• Access management
• Data loss prevention

Generally, the objectives of cyber security are attacked through the network security measures in board array created to protect the systems, data, and networks. In the following, we have stated the list of types and taxonomy of cyber security.

Types / Taxonomy

• Antivirus or anti-malware
• Intrusion prevention systems
• Data loss prevention (DLP)
• Identify and access management use

The following is about the significance of the research process in the cyber security process.

Machine learning is one of the notable research fields and it utilizes computational algorithms for the empirical data shorts for functional models . It includes the artificial intelligence community and traditional statics in the process. The functions of machine learning algorithms are

• Anomaly behavior detection
• Feature value prediction
• Nonrepresentational consideration
• Collection of cyber occurrence

The models based on cyber security machine learning have to include the following capabilities.

• Infer system properties
• Adapt and learn the expert knowledge
• Characterization of a real-world system

The cyber security risks are quantified through the probabilistic graphical models including the comprehensive applications. Our research professionals in cyber security have listed out some significant research areas in cyber security.

Top Interesting Research Areas in Cyber Security

• Circuits and systems
• Renewable energy
• Sentiment analysis
• Text mining
• Q/A systems
• Opinion mining
• Frequent item set mining
• Digital and medical image processing
• Video processing
• Multi-resolution imaging
• Machine learning
• Deep learning
• Artificial intelligence
• Network security
• MANET VANET
• Fog computing
• Parallel computing
• Big data analytics
• Resource visualization

Consistently, our research teams are more passionate to produce first-class research ideas through their smart work. To advance their technical skills, they habitually update their knowledge with the current trends by referring to recent articles,cyber security phd topics magazines, research papers, etc. Through that knowledge, we have provided the list of notable cyber security PhD topics in the following.

Research Topics in Cyber Security

• Research on safety and reliability of intelligent oilfield monitoring system based on cyber-physical system
• Cyber security framework for vehicular network based on a hierarchical game
• Security of cyber-physical systems: design of a security supervisor to thwart attacks
• A machine learning approach for combating cyber-attacks in self-driving vehicles
• Sanitizing the IoT cyber security posture: an operational CTI feedbacked up by internet measurements
• A systematic review of bio cyber interface technologies and security issues for the internet of bio Nano things
• Proactive measures to mitigate cyber security challenges in IoT-based smart healthcare networks
• Threat actor type inference and characterization within cyber threat intelligence
• Designing a security platform for collaborating autonomous systems an experience report
• Cyber security named entity recognition using bidirectional long short-term memory with conditional random fields

For your reference, our research professionals in cyber security have listed out the contemporary research trends in the field of cyber security.

Research Trends in Cyber Security

• Privacy-enhancing computation techniques
• “Remote work” now just “work”
• Managing machine identities becoming a critical security capability
• Vendor consolidation
• Cyber security mesh
• Breach and attack simulation
• Identity first security
• Cyber savvy boards

Using the aforementioned research trends in this field we have highlighted the research direction that might be preceded in future research in this cyber security research field.

Future Research Direction

The research based on cyber security is advanced in the classification model for the security threats to take a broad view of the threat impacts. In the future, the cyber security models can be enhanced through situational awareness to avoid conflicts in the significance and benefits. It is followed by the list of algorithms and methods that are used in the cyber security process.

• Virtualized cyber security for cloud and fog computing
• SDN and NFV based secure cloud environment
• Trust management for e-healthcare
• Cyber-physical system
• SD firewall and industry 4.0 security
• Digital forensics architecture
• Collection of data provenance and evidence in the cloud
• Data structures in IoT solutions
• Blockchain and bitcoin security
• Smart contract and distributed ledger
• Security for 5G

Network protocols have some types such as the network security protocol and that confirm the security and integrity of the data transmission through the network connection. The protocols based on network security are defined as the methodology and processes used to protect the network data and the protocols are highlighted below.

Protocols in Cyber Security

• OSPF authentication
• Application transparent transport layer security
• TLS and SSL

To validate any research work, novelty and worthy publications are significant which becomes simpler to collect from our research experts. Our service for cyber security PhD topics offers all the required assistance in the research process. Now, let’s look at below to know more about data about the simulation models in cyber security.

Simulation Models

• Cyberbullying prevention in social networks
• Trust-based scheduling through MapReduce
• Secure and privacy-aware auditing in hybrid cloud
• Security ontologies for access control
• Botnet detection through behavior modeling
• Digital forensics and data provenance using SDN

We ensure that we provide 100% plagiarism-free research reports and timely delivery of research projects. We also provide you with all the necessary research help such as review-solving, editing, formatting, etc . Thus you can rely on us for all your research needs. If you are looking for a reliable research service contact us. Now, let us look into some of the required simulation tools used in cybersecurity research projects.

Tools for Cyber Security Projects

As a fact, performance metrics are essential to analyze the experimental research results. Thus, we have highlighted the metrics used to analyze the results based on cybersecurity research projects.

Performance Metrics

• Data points
• Operational metrics
• Tactical metrics
• Strategic metrics

Further, we can help you in the initial stage of the research process and which starts from the topic selection, research proposal writing, and end with our service by thesis writing. You can know the dynamics in our work by presenting novel research ideas and numerical experiments for the research cyber security Phd topics . We welcome you all for a comfortable research journey and we change over all your research issues into research success with more positive thoughts. Now, let us have a look at the datasets based on cyber security.

Datasets in Cyber Security

• ISOT botnet and ransomware detection datasets
• ADFA intrusion detection datasets

From our current knowledge of cyber security, in the following, we provide some in-depth research conversations about the types, research topics, and threats in cyber security . The research scholars gather all research ideas and finalized any research concept through detailed discussions with our technical experts. Therefore, you can gain wide knowledge with remarkable research solutions from us.

What are the Different Types of Cyber Security?

• Application security
• Cloud Security

What are the Trending Research Topics in Cyber Security?

• BCT in networks and cyber defense
• Malware detection and cyber threats
• Cyber ethics and crime
• Network intrusion and IoT security
• Web data mining and online data analytics

What is the Greatest Cyber Threat Today?

• Weak passwords
• Malware attacks

So far, every researcher in graph-based cyber security is aimed to answer the abovementioned questions. These above questions are very crucial yet inflexible to be widely explored. The research scholars, who are trying to attempt the questions, can make use of this article “cyber security PhD topics”. Our research professionals are great at finding the solution for any type of question despite research hurdles. The research scholars can generate thoughts on any of the above topics and precede your PhD research with our experts. Importantly, your ideas are most welcome and our research team aids you in the implementation of the idea. We provide 100% plagiarism-free research proposals, papers, thesis writing, etc. So, join hands with our experts to shine better.

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Unlimited Network Simulation Results available here.

PhD Research Topics in Cybersecurity

PhD Research Topics in Cybersecurity will infuse whiz factors in all the research works for you.  “In general, cybersecurity is the act of protecting digital records from attacks. It has its outlets in the wireless networks to defend against any threats.”

In reality, we will be with you till you hold your degree high. Our experts will support you in all the ways for your work. Our team has listed out precise research topics in this field for you.

Decentralized cybersecurity using Blockchain technology

• Smart contract and distributed ledger
• Blockchain and Bitcoin security
• Security for 5G
• Data structures and also in IoT solutions
• Collection of data provenance and evidence in cloud

Software defined cybersecurity

• Digital forensic architecture
• SD firewall and also in industry 4.0 security
• Cyber-physical system
• Trust management for e-healthcare
• SDN and NFV based secure cloud environment
• Virtualized cybersecurity for cloud and also fog computing

Cryptography techniques

• Optical cryptography techniques
• ML and DL for IDS
• Quantum schemes
• Hybrid cryptography and steganography schemes

PhD Research Topics in Cybersecurity  will work in so many areas to give full support for you. Thus, it helps us to stay updated in diverse research fields. Up to the present time, many vital journals show the worth of cybersecurity. Moreover, we have given some of those journals for your view.

REPUTED RESEARCH JOURNALS

• Taylor & Francis

PhD Research Topics in Cybersecurity will look deep into your area to find what you expect. Because of research progress, we will allot a distinct team to mentor your works. In fact, this team will tell you the updates in the field of your work. If you want to be on track, then approach us. We will also hold you back and inspire you as well.

In the final analysis, we have a set of new ideas for you to know,

An effectual method for Wideband Antennas and Phased Arrays for Enhancing Cybersecurity in 5G Mobile Wireless

Novel mechanism for Test and Evaluation System designed for Automotive Cybersecurity scheme

An effectual framework for Exploratory Analysis based on Cybersecurity Ecosystem Utilizing via NICE system

The new-fangled method for Cybersecurity assurance control baselining designed for smart grid communication systems

The new method for Data-Driven Cybersecurity Incident Prediction system

The new mechanism for Flow Context and Host Behavior Based on Shadowsocks’s Traffic Identification system

A novel function of Maximizing Secrecy Rate and Payoff Through Wireless Virtualization in HWNs

An effectual mechanism for Structured Policy-Based on Design Method for Cybersecurity of Automotive E/E System

The new method for VANET/ITS cybersecurity threats based on Analysis, categorization and forecasting scheme

A novel function for Cybersecurity Metrics designed for Enhanced Protection of Healthcare IT Systems

An effective mechanism for Analysis of Protection Mechanisms in a Cloud-centered Environment

The novel mechanism for Blockchain intended for Supply Chain Cybersecurity, Optimization and Compliance practice

The firsthand function of Moving Target Defense Against based on Advanced Persistent Threats intended for Cybersecurity Enhancement

Design an effective function of Combine method for forecasting VANET cybersecurity used for application of high priority way

The new system for Enhancing Cloud-Based on IoT Security Through Trustworthy Cloud Service and Integration Approach

The novel mechanism for Ontology based on Cybersecurity Operations Centre Analysis Process

A novel research mechanism intended for Anomaly and Automation from a Cybersecurity Perspective method

An innovative method for Smart Grid based on Cybersecurity Countermeasures scheme

An innovative method for Measuring and Assessing Cybersecurity Risk of Support Equipment to Complex Systems

An inventive  Systems for Engineering Approach To Appraise Cybersecurity Risks Of CNS/ATM and Avionics Systems

Why Work With Us ?

Senior research member, research experience, journal member, book publisher, research ethics, business ethics, valid references, explanations, paper publication, 9 big reasons to select us.

Our Editor-in-Chief has Website Ownership who control and deliver all aspects of PhD Direction to scholars and students and also keep the look to fully manage all our clients.

Our world-class certified experts have 18+years of experience in Research & Development programs (Industrial Research) who absolutely immersed as many scholars as possible in developing strong PhD research projects.

We associated with 200+reputed SCI and SCOPUS indexed journals (SJR ranking) for getting research work to be published in standard journals (Your first-choice journal).

PhDdirection.com is world’s largest book publishing platform that predominantly work subject-wise categories for scholars/students to assist their books writing and takes out into the University Library.

Our researchers provide required research ethics such as Confidentiality & Privacy, Novelty (valuable research), Plagiarism-Free, and Timely Delivery. Our customers have freedom to examine their current specific research activities.

Our organization take into consideration of customer satisfaction, online, offline support and professional works deliver since these are the actual inspiring business factors.

Solid works delivering by young qualified global research team. "References" is the key to evaluating works easier because we carefully assess scholars findings.

Detailed Videos, Readme files, Screenshots are provided for all research projects. We provide Teamviewer support and other online channels for project explanation.

Worthy journal publication is our main thing like IEEE, ACM, Springer, IET, Elsevier, etc. We substantially reduces scholars burden in publication side. We carry scholars from initial submission to final acceptance.

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Master of science in cyber security (odl) - 100% online.

MORE THAN JUST A CYBER SECURITY MASTER PROGRAMME

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

PROGRAMME OUTLINE

This programme is specifically designed to provide:

• Opportunity for professional development at an advanced level within the area of Cyber Security.
• Ability to further develop specialisation gained in taught modules through an extensive research-based and/or technical based dissertation, to prepare a subject matter expert in the field.
• APU is also poised to become a frontrunner in cyber security research through the establishment of the Forensics and Cyber Security (FSEC) Research Centre, through which research activities will be undertaken to challenge boundaries in the application of cyber security.

• The curriculum covers a wide range of industry relevant subject areas in Security Operations Centre (SOC) and Incident Response, Security Auditing and Assessment, Advanced Ethical Hacking, E-Investigation, Data Analytics in Cyber Security etc.
• External reviews conducted by Cyber Security Malaysia (CSM), KPMG and F-Secure during the development of the programme curriculum.
• Programme Support by an Industry Advisory Panel involving cyber security experts from Cyber Intelligence, Cyber Test Systems, Akati Consulting Group and Cyber Security Malaysia (CSM).
• A fully-functional Security Operations Centre (SOC) that allows students to have handson cybersecurity operations platform to monitor live data which allows them to perform real-time cyber security monitoring to fortify network defense with global threat intelligence and launching faster response on cyber security incidents.
• A full-fledged Cyber Threats Simulation and Response Centre – Cyber Range is also included within the Cyber Security Talent Zone in APU. Cyber Range incorporates latest technologies and a military grade cyber-defence system, enabling students to understand and formulate defence strategies, and practice the entire chain of cyber defence, while preparing them to deal with real cyber threat attack when it happens.
• A technical project related to Cyber Security as dissertation in the final semester.
• Research opportunities for students via APU’s Forensic and Cyber Security Research Centre - FSEC.

This programme is geared towards practicing IT/Computing professionals within industry who seek further formal qualifications in Cyber Security. In addition, professionals and managers who wish to enhance themselves with Cyber Security knowledge and skills to postgraduate level will find this programme attractive. Fresh undergraduate students from Cyber Security / Digital Forensics background will also find this programme worthwhile as a path to further enhance their academic qualifications.

The programme comprises of 10 coursework modules and a Project. There are 7 compulsory Core Modules (including Research Methodology module) and you will have to choose 3 electives from those listed.

As part of this course, you are expected to complete an extensive project paper in relation to Cyber Security for both academic and industry purposes. This project paper will be supervised by a member of academic staff as the main supervisor. It may involve working with an external organisation (probably directly relevant to your work or organisation or any of our industry partners). You are given considerable flexibility in choosing any Cyber Security related topics to base your project paper. As for the deliverables, you are required to come up with a prototype / simulation / framework etc. (the list is just an example and not limited to only these) and to produce one project paper and a publishable conference / journal paper consists of summary of the work.

ROCHESTON CERTIFIED PENETRATION TESTER

The  Rocheston Certified Penetration Tester (RCPT)  program stresses research, live labs and interactive sessions on emerging security findings, offering the scope for defining the information security requirements while finding options to enhance existing methodology assets. The RCPT certification is designed and embedded as part of  Advanced Ethical Hacking  module in the Master of Science in Cyber Security programme, to allow the students to have an industry-standard exposure towards penetration testing as well as an opportunity to upskill themselves in real-life scenarios and simulations through the offered CyberLabs. As such, every student in the programme is given equal opportunity in getting their hands on the certification as part of the syllabus learn in the module without the need of taking up additional training resources. Studen can opt for the Rocheston certification which is valid for 2 years and subject to a renewal process to ensure all Penetration Testers are updated with the current scope of Penetration Testing.

Certified Hacker Forensics Investigator (CHFI)

Certified Security Operation Centre Analyst (CSOC)

APU WINS CYBER SECURITY INNOVATION (EDUCATION) OF THE YEAR 2024 BY CYBERSECURITY MALAYSIA

CAREER OPTIONS

DEMAND INCREASING FOR SKILLED PROFESSIONALS

“As digital transformation agendas continue to dominate, a bigger cybersecurity budget is necessary. Almost all companies are looking at technologies such as robotics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, blockchain and so on. All of that change will come with additional cyber risks and necessary investments.”

COURSE FEES

​*  Fees stated above do not include Enrolment Fees, Registration Fees and other Miscellaneous Fees. Please refer to Fee Guide for details.

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