Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security

Defend the digital domain

Cyber attacks are a serious threat—for governments, law enforcement agencies, companies and NGOs alike. Digital system breaches can have disastrous, even life-threatening impacts and cybercrime costs the world trillions a year. As a result, cyber security skills are in high demand worldwide, with thousands of jobs added yearly in Australia.

What will you do?

You will gain:

  • critical foundations on complex cyber security needs and considerations across multiple industries
  • high-level technical skills and the ability to apply them in real-world contexts, including in your intended or existing domain
  • the ability to critically analyse and evaluate relevant data and technology
  • the necessary foundation of skills and understanding to embark on work or further study in cyber security

Supporting the certificate’s alignment with real-world workplace practice, all assessment will be project and assignment-based.

How will you study?

This program is able to be studied in either part-time, standard full-time or accelerated mode—enabling you to undertake your studies at a pace and level of commitment that suits you. For further information, see the Degree Structure section.

Where could it take you?

You could help secure border protection authorities’ surveillance plans. Keep large companies safe from industrial espionage. Or ensure online voting systems are tamper-free. For students without relevant experience or prior studies, the Graduate Certificate provides the perfect introduction to cyber security principles while also laying a strong foundation for further advanced study in the area.

Successful completion of the graduate certificate enables you to gain credit towards our Graduate Diploma and Master in Cyber Security.



Advance your career in Cyber Security

South Australia is becoming the cyber hub of Australia. Make your mark in the industry and develop your technical capabilities in securing the future for businesses and individuals.



  • Ranked #50 in the world for computer science and engineering^
  • Ranked #7 in the world for Artificial Intelligence*
  • Home of the world-leading Australian Institute of Machine Learning

* US Global Rankings, 2023
^ ARWU, 2022

Entry Requirements

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
I am a:

Before applying make sure you understand the eligibility and entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Look out for any prerequisites or assumed knowledge subjects. Some degrees also have additional entry requirements like interviews and auditions.

Domestic applicants

SATAC Code 3GC113, 3GC120
Deferment Yes - 2 year
Intake January, May and September
Selection Criteria
Graduate entry

Higher Education Study A completed Bachelor's degree OR relevant work experience of at least 3 years in Computer Science/Cyber Security or cognate roles OR Diploma or above in Networking and IT plus 2 years relevant work experience in Computer Science/Cyber Security or cognate roles.

  • Admissions Transparency Data
    Student Profile
    Applicant background Semester one/Full year intake 2023
    Number of students Percentage of all students
    International students N/A N/A
    All students 1 100.0%

Ready to Apply?

Find out more about the application process and start your studies at the University of Adelaide.

Be sure to check the critical dates to avoid missing application deadlines.

Apply

Fees and Scholarships

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Domestic applicants

Indicative annual tuition fees
Commonwealth-supported place: $8,945

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

Successful domestic applicants to the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security will have access to a limited number of Commonwealth Supported Places, meaning a reduction of up to 80% off the course fees due to government subsidies. Offer subject to change.

Scholarships

Scholarships are not only for high achievers—they are also available to provide students with an equal opportunity to study at university, no matter where they live or what their financial situation might be.

Scholarships are available to both new and continuing students. We encourage students to apply for any scholarships for which they may be eligible.

To browse scholarships offered by the University, visit: University Scholarships

To explore scholarships offered by organisations external to the University, visit: External Scholarships

Careers

Professional Accreditation

The Master of Cyber Security degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

Potential careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Cloud Architect ;  Computer Programmer;  Computer Scientist;  Cyber Defender;  Information Analyst

Degree Structure

The Graduate Certificate of Cyber Security is ideal for those students who have a background/qualifications in another field and are looking to upskill in this exciting, high-demand area. The curriculum has been designed to include all of the necessary computer science foundations for students to succeed. Students with relevant qualifications or experience in computer science can apply for advanced standing*.

To qualify for the degree of Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security, students must satisfactorily complete a program of study consisting of the following requirements with a combined total of no less than 12 units comprising:

  • Two core courses to the value of 6 units

  • Two elective courses** to the value of 6 units

*For further information, please contact one of our friendly program advisors.

**Unless exempted international students are required to take ENG 7057 Communication & Critical Thinking in lieu of an elective.



Study mode
This program is able to be studied in either part-time, standard full-time or accelerated mode—enabling you to undertake your studies at a pace and level of commitment that suits you.

  • Accelerated mode – 12 units (4 courses) per trimester
  • Standard full-time mode – 24 units (8 courses) per year
  • Part-time mode – 3 or 6 units (1 or 2 courses) per trimester
You can even choose the study load that works best for you at different times of the year.

Whatever mode you choose, our interactive blend of online and face-to-face learning supports you in fitting your study around other commitments—without compromising on authentic and immersive learning experiences.

*International students please note: accelerated study modes are subject to visa conditions. Please contact one of our friendly program advisors for more information.

Example Study Plan

Core course (6 units total)
Students must complete all of the following
Electives (6 units total)
Students must choose two* of the following courses

*Unless exempted international students are required to take ENG 7057 Communication & Critical Thinking in lieu of an elective.

Related Degrees

Further Study

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Tuesday, 31 Oct 2023