Master of Cyber Security

Master of Cyber Security

POSTGRADUATE

Become a leader in the fight against cyber threats, safeguarding the digital future for businesses, communities, and nations.

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Part-time 4 years
Fees:

Commonwealth supported places

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Fees:

AU$41,280 (2025 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

This course arms you with advanced competencies, knowledge and socio-technical skills essential for safeguarding digital information in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.

As cyber threats continue to evolve and escalate, the demand for skilled professionals who can protect critical digital assets has never been higher.

With RMIT's Master of Cyber Security, you'll be equipped with the essential expertise to be at the forefront of defending against digital threats and ensuring the resilience of information infrastructures.

Whether you're drawn to ethical hacking, digital forensics, cryptography, or cyber security risk management, this meticulously designed course provides a comprehensive education that combines strong theoretical foundations with hands-on, practical experience.

You'll be introduced to computer security, encryption standards and cryptosystems, authentication mechanisms and risk and controls mechanisms. Using advanced technologies, you'll learn cutting-edge methodologies and techniques to combat emerging digital threats and uncover the latest trends.

RMIT's strong connection with industry allows you to engage in realistic simulations and work on capstone projects that mirror the challenges faced by cyber security professionals. This prepares you to enter the workforce with the necessary skills and competencies to address cyber threats effectively, enhancing your job-readiness and employability.

Why study the Master of Cyber Security at RMIT?

Real-world scenarios

Use state-of-the-art cyber security software and simulated exercises to gain hands-on experience and develop your skills.

Industry engagement

Connect with industry through work-integrated learning experiences, giving you the chance to apply what you learn in a professional setting.

Holistic approach

Get a 360-degree view of cyber security, mastering advanced technical skills while gaining insight into people and ethics.

Details

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The Master of Cyber Security is offered through a flexible combination of lectures, tutorials and computer laboratory classes.

There are also opportunities for you to participate in team-based projects while engaging with industry.

State-of-the-art cyber security software and work-simulated exercises used in your subjects will provide you with hands-on experience and skills required by organisations.

Learning at RMIT

The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.

Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional practice.

In this course, you'll complete specific courses that focus on work-integrated learning (WIL).

You'll be assessed on your professional abilities in a real or simulated workplace setting.

The subjects in the course will give you the opportunities to work on real-world problems, where you'll gain hands-on experience and skills in analysing, creating, reporting, and presenting your findings.

You'll also have the opportunity to work on industry-focused projects to develop innovative solutions to combat evolving cyber threats with industries like Australia Post, PwC, KPMG, Telstra, Deloitte, EY, Jemena, Australian banks and government departments.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

This degree consists of 192 credit points. The curriculum is designed to provide a holistic understanding of cyber security, encompassing technical and socio-technical, managerial, legal, ethical, and policy dimensions.

Foundational knowledge

The course has 10 core subjects, through which you will acquire proficiency in areas such as software security, network security, cryptography, digital forensics, ethical hacking, penetration testing, cyber security risk management, human factor security, and more.

Specialist options

You'll then undertake electives and specialise in one of these areas:

  • Threat Analysis
  • Cryptanalysis
  • Security Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance
  • Blockchain

Capstone experience: Industry project OR Minor thesis

The capstone experience is your opportunity to critically reflect on and consolidate all your skills and knowledge acquired throughout the course. You can choose to undertake an industry-focused project or undertake research. Both options are designed to provide you with hands-on practical experience.

  • Project: This option allows you to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in a cyber security topic of your choice through planning and executing an industry-sponsored project. The types of projects you will undertake may include critical infrastructure systems vulnerability evaluation, log file analysis for threat hunting, and security controls design and analysis for organisations.
  • Research: This option gives you the opportunity to engage in a real-world cyber security problem. You will generate research ideas through extensive literature review for applied cyber security research, test research ideas through research methodology, and validate and present outcomes. The minor thesis will encompass research, design, implementation, and evaluation of a cyber security solution.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Master of Cyber Security
Program code: MC159
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Master of Cyber Security
City Campus
Four semesters full time, Eight semesters part time
MC159P18
055526D
Location
City Campus
Duration
Four semesters full time, Eight semesters part time
Plan code
MC159P18
CRICOS
055526D
View plan
Master of Cyber Security
City Campus
Four semesters full time
MC159P18
055526D
Location
City Campus
Duration
Four semesters full time
Plan code
MC159P18
CRICOS
055526D
View plan
Master of Cyber Security
City Campus
2 years full-time; 4 years part-time
MC159P25
116688K
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years full-time; 4 years part-time
Plan code
MC159P25
CRICOS
116688K
View plan
Master of Cyber Security
City Campus
2 years full-time
MC159P25
116688K
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years full-time
Plan code
MC159P25
CRICOS
116688K
View plan

Please note: MC159P18 is not available for new/commencing students.

New applicants should apply for MC159P25.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

Graduates of the Master of Cyber Security will be well-prepared for a variety of roles in the cyber security field, including:

  • cyber security risk manager
  • security consultant/manager
  • cyber security risk and compliance analyst
  • cyber security auditor
  • network security engineer
  • secure software engineer/architect/consultant
  • digital forensics investigator
  • ethical hacker
  • penetration tester
  • cloud security specialist
  • cybersecurity policy advisor

Our past RMIT graduates have successfully managed to secure various roles in cyber security both government and private organisations. 

Cyber security continues to offer promising job prospects, particularly if Australian industries - especially those at higher risk such as banking, defence, health, and education - elevate investment. Research by Deloitte shows a greater focus on cyber security across the Australian economy could lead to a 5.5% rise in business investment, and an additional 60,000 people employed by 2030.

Jobs and Skills Australia projects that work opportunities for ICT security specialists are set to increase by 12.9% to 2028.

Entry requirements and admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

  • An Australian bachelor degree in any discipline with a GPA of at least 2.0 out of 4.0, or equivalent

    OR

  • A minimum of 5 years relevant work experience in information security, programming (web, application, database); software engineering; system, functional or business analysis; information, system or enterprise architecture; ICT management; administration (network, systems); support (desktop, helpdesk, system); web design/media; business information systems or information systems.

If you wish to have industry or employment experience assessed as part of meeting the entry requirements you will need to provide a detailed CV/resume listing previous positions, dates of employment and position responsibilities; a statement from your employer confirming these details (or contact details of employer so RMIT can seek confirmation); and evidence of any relevant professional development undertaken.

International qualifications are assessed for comparability to Australian qualifications according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

Additional information

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Non-academic abilities you’ll need to complete this program

The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.

The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.

If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.

By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:

  • understand more about the program
  • determine if you may need support during your studies
  • make an informed decision about whether the program is suitable for you

If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.

To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service

The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

  • You must have successfully completed an Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) in any discipline with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (out of 4.0).

    OR

  • You may also be considered if you have a minimum five years' relevant work experience in information security, programming (web, application, database); software engineering; system, functional or business analysis; information, system or enterprise architecture; ICT management; administration (network, systems); support (desktop, helpdesk, system); web design/media; business information systems or information systems.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

Pathways

You may be eligible for advanced standing based on your previous studies.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this masters degree, you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs at RMIT University, including postgraduate research programs, subject to the program's entrance requirements.

You can gain entry into this degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs.

Credit

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this degree, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Fees

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Entry for this program is primarily through Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs).

Government financial assistance is available to eligible students regardless of the type of place you enrol in.

2025 indicative fees

Commonwealth supported places

  • 2025 Commonwealth supported places (CSP) range from AU$4,627 to AU$16,992*. 

Full-fee places

  • AU$32,640 (2025 annual fee)*.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025*.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment*

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

*Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

  • You may be eligible to apply for a HELP loan, which can be used to defer payment of up to the full amount of your student contribution fees. You may also be eligible to apply to defer payment of your SSAF through the SA-HELP loan scheme.
  • For more information and to learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees see postgraduate study fees.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government.

Your share of the fee (student contribution) is set on an annual basis by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual enrolled courses, not the overall program.

How much can I expect to pay for my Commonwealth supported place?

The Australian Government has introduced changes to university funding and student contribution fees under its Job-ready Graduates Package. 

The fees in the table below apply to students who commence their program in 2025. Fees for continuing students are available at fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Each course (subject) falls into a band. The band determines the student contribution amount for the course.

Amounts listed in the table below are based on a standard, full-time study load (96 credit points per year) with all courses in the same band. A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load or for enrolment in courses (subjects) from a combination of bands.

You can learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees for units from different bands at Fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Maximum student contribution amount for Commonwealth supported places in 2025 for commencing students

Student contribution band by course (subject)

Maximum annual student contribution amount (per EFTSL) in 2025
Education, Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Nursing, Indigenous and Foreign Languages, Agriculture $4,627 per standard year
$578 per standard (12 credit point) course
Allied Health, Other Health, Built Environment, Computing, Visual and Performing Arts, Professional Pathway Psychology, Professional Pathway Social Work, Engineering, Surveying, Environmental Studies, Science, Pathology $9,314 per standard year
$1,164 per standard (12 credit point) course
Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science $13,241 per standard year
$1,655 per standard (12 credit point) course
Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Communications, Society and Culture $16,992 per standard year
$2,124 per standard (12 credit point) course

Student Learning Entitlement

On 1 January 2022, the Government implemented the Student Learning Entitlement (SLE).

  • The SLE allows students 7 years of full-time subsidised study in Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP).
  • Your total SLE amount will be reduced in accordance with your overall study load in a CSP. 
  • Once you have utilised all your SLE, you can not longer study in a CSP.

For more information about SLE, visit Study Assist.

If you are offered a full-fee place, you will need to pay the full tuition costs of your program. However, eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your course, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from course to course.

HECS-HELP Loans

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the HECS-HELP loan scheme, which allows eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) to defer payment of up to the full amount of their student contribution.

FEE-HELP loans

Eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

You may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to your employment.

See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Student services and amenities fee (SSAF)

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365. 

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information