Cyber Security and Forensics

Major overview

Develop in-demand cyber security and digital forensics skills with our specialised IT major

As technology becomes more embedded in everyday life, the need to protect data, systems and networks has never been greater. The Cyber Security and Forensics major within our Bachelor of Information Technology prepares you to defend digital infrastructure and investigate cyber incidents in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.

During your cyber security studies, you’ll explore areas such as network security, ethical hacking, digital forensics and information security management. You’ll develop the technical and analytical skills needed to detect vulnerabilities, respond to cyber threats and support cybercrime investigation through the analysis of digital evidence.

Developed with input from industry advisers, our specialised major reflects current cyber security and forensics challenges and practices. You’ll learn from experienced IT academics and professionals, applying your knowledge through hands-on, project-based units and real client scenarios. You’ll also complement your studies with access to our IT Innovation Hub – a 24/7, state-of-the-art facility where you can experiment, collaborate and work with advanced cyber security and networking technologies – alongside our dedicated data centre featuring enterprise-level infrastructure.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your skills in professional environments through internships or work placements, gaining real industry experience and building valuable industry connections.

You can broaden your IT career opportunities by combining the Cyber Security and Forensics major with other majors in our flexible IT degree, including Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Systems, Business Information Systems, Computer Science, Games Design and Development, Games Technology or Internetworking and Network Security.

IT students working together in a computer lab

3 reasons to study cyber security and forensics at Murdoch University

Experiment and build solutions in our IT Innovation Hub, using advanced labs and technologies to simulate and respond to real-world cyber threats.
Gain hands-on experience through internships or work placements in professional environments while building industry connections.
Benefit from opportunities like the $20,000 Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship Program to support your pathway into a technology career.

What you’ll learn

Identify and assess security vulnerabilities across systems and networks.
Apply ethical hacking techniques to test and strengthen cyber defences.
Investigate cyber incidents using digital forensics tools and methods.
Examine and apply information security policies and governance strategies to manage risk.
Design secure server environments and IT systems that support reliable and safe digital operations.
Develop communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills for IT environments.

My time at Murdoch University was instrumental in preparing me for the workforce. Through real-world projects and supportive tutors, I gained hands-on experience and valuable knowledge in various aspects of my field.

Kevin, Cyber Security and Forensics & Computer Science

Information technologies students in server room with device

Your future career in cyber security and forensics

Our major in cyber security and forensics equips you with the technical expertise and investigative skills to pursue a career in one of the most in-demand areas of technology. Cyber security professionals are in high demand across government, finance, defence, consulting and global technology organisations.

Potential roles include:

Cyber security analyst
Digital forensics investigator
Information security analyst
Security consultant
Penetration tester
Cyber threat analyst

For more details about our Cyber Security and Forensics major, download our information pack.

Professional accreditation

This major is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) when completed as part of the Bachelor of Information Technology (B1390) or Bachelor of Laws/ Bachelor of Information Technology (B1398).

Professional recognition

Graduates who complete this major as part of the Bachelor of Information Technology (B1390) or the Bachelor of Laws/ Bachelor of Information Technology (B1398) are eligible to apply for membership of the Australian Computer Society (ACS) at the Professional level.

Start dates

Starting period	Location	Face to Face	Online	Mixed mode
Semester 1, 2026	Murdoch	Yes	Yes	No
Semester 2, 2026	Murdoch	Yes	Yes	No
Semester 1, 2027	Murdoch	Yes	Yes	No
Semester 2, 2027	Murdoch	Yes	Yes	No

View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.

Starting period	Location	Face to Face	Online	Mixed mode
Semester 1, 2026	Murdoch	Yes	No	No
Semester 2, 2026	Murdoch	Yes	No	No
Semester 1, 2027	Murdoch	Yes	No	No
Semester 2, 2027	Murdoch	Yes	No	No

View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.

Start dates (Transnational)

Starting period	Location	Face to Face	Online	Mixed mode
Trimester 1, 2026	Kaplan Higher Education Academy Pte. Ltd	No	No	Yes
Trimester 1, 2026	Murdoch University Dubai, UAE	Yes	No	No
Trimester 2, 2026	Kaplan Higher Education Academy Pte. Ltd	No	No	Yes
Trimester 2, 2026	Murdoch University Dubai, UAE	Yes	No	No
Trimester 3, 2026	Kaplan Higher Education Academy Pte. Ltd	No	No	Yes
Trimester 3, 2026	Murdoch University Dubai, UAE	Yes	No	No
Trimester 1, 2027	Kaplan Higher Education Academy Pte. Ltd	No	No	Yes
Trimester 1, 2027	Murdoch University Dubai, UAE	Yes	No	No
Trimester 2, 2027	Kaplan Higher Education Academy Pte. Ltd	No	No	Yes
Trimester 2, 2027	Murdoch University Dubai, UAE	Yes	No	No
Trimester 3, 2027	Kaplan Higher Education Academy Pte. Ltd	No	No	Yes
Trimester 3, 2027	Murdoch University Dubai, UAE	Yes	No	No

View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.

Major Structure

Visit the Course Handbook - Get detailed information on units, prerequisites, and pathways.

To help plan the structure of your course, search for our suggested course plans.

Unit code	Unit name	Credit points

How to Apply

Majors are part of a degree and can't be applied on their own. Apply for a related degree first, then choose your major once enrolled.

Undergraduate Course

Bachelor of Laws

Bachelor of Information Technology

Study law and IT at Murdoch University. Gain legal expertise and in-demand tech skills in a five-year double degree designed with industry. Apply today.

Code: B1398

Selection rank: 90

Undergraduate Course

Bachelor of Information Technology

Study information technology at Murdoch University and build skills in software, data and cyber security. Apply today.

Code: B1390

Selection rank: 70