Plymouth University chosen to launch cyber security bursary

Plymouth University has been chosen to launch a major new scheme aimed at developing the cyber security skills needed to protect the nation’s commerce and infrastructure.

The Cyber Security Skills Alliance (CSSA) has teamed up with four leading universities to offer sponsorship that will support those studying for Masters-level degrees in cyber security.

The aim is to equip students with skills that they can apply in their current job, or to give them the opportunity to develop a career in a cyber security role.

The scheme is being launched through existing MSc courses at Plymouth University, De Montfort University, Lancaster University and University of Warwick, with a view to it being expanded in the future.

Professor Steve Furnell, Director of the Centre for Security, Communications and Network Research at Plymouth University, said: "We are delighted to be part of the select group of institutions chosen to receive this accolade. We feel it provides clear recognition of our MSc Computer & Information Security course, and an excellent opportunity for students to join a relevant and exciting programme. Moreover, the scheme as a whole provides a valuable opportunity to help address the shortage of qualified staff that currently exists in the cyber security domain."

The scheme is being overseen by the CSSA, which comprises the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), British Computer Society, the Chartered Institute for IT, The Institute of Information Security Professionals (IISP), e-skills UK and the Information Assurance Advisory Council (IAAC).

It complements the Government’s 2011 Cyber Security Strategy, in which ministers identified the problem of maintaining an adequate supply of relevant skills and declared its intention to reverse the shortage so that the UK retains its leading position.

It is set to be up and running in time for the 2013/14 academic year, with a number of bursaries made available to each chosen university, and will also promote the sharing of the latest cyber security research to students, graduates and sponsors.

Hugh Boyes, the IET’s cyber security expert, said: "Plymouth was chosen for this scheme as its Computer and Information Security MSc is accredited by the British Computer Society. The  CSSA felt this demonstrated a commitment to quality education provision that they were keen to engage with. Cyber security threats affect both major UK employers and their supply chains, and through this scheme we are encouraging major employers to develop the skills both amongst their own staff and those employed in their supply chain. This will increase the ability of industry and commerce to address these threats.”