Our specialist Computing BSc (Hons) course focuses on Web Development and Cyber Security, equipping you with the skills and knowledge you need to be able to develop robust online applications. On the BSc in cyber security, you will manage the challenges faced in the designing, developing, and maintaining the secure online applications that are needed to run on computing devices to include, laptops, smartphones.
Cyber Security continues to dominate the headlines and has a major influence on the privacy and confidentiality of millions of people. It plays a pivotal role in society, where secure and reliable software is needed to hold our personal information and valuable business data assets. There is a growing demand for those with the expertise to create reliable, robust, and secure online applications.
During this web development course, you will learn about the design and development of Web-based Software. You will also learn the importance of putting Cyber Security at the heart of your design considerations. Our web developer degree will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to embrace the interesting challenges faced in Cyber Security and web-based software applications development. You will be given real life industry examples to reinforce your theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Progression courses available
- Emphasis on practical learning
- Up-to-date workstation hardware and software in dedicated laboratories
- Exclusive 24/7 access to a specialist laboratory
- Student Support Initiative
- HP laptop and software included with this course for eligible students* (*see Eligibility criteria and Terms and Conditions)
- Guaranteed paid internship with the Northampton Employment Promise
- Entry RequirementsA typical offer could be:
- BCC at A-Level or,
- DMM at BTEC or,
- Pass (C and above) at T Level
- DEE at A Level or,
- MPP at BTEC or,
- Pass (D or E) at T Level
- IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
for study at undergraduate level.
- Fees and Funding2023/24 Tuition FeesFees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 23/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.
- UK – Full Time: £9,250
- UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
- UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250
- International – Full Time: £14,750
- International – Integrated Foundation Year: £14,750
- UK – Full Time: £9,250
- UK – Part Time: £1,500 per 20 credit module
- UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
- International – Full Time: £14,000
- International – Integrated Foundation Year: £14,000 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
- Student PerksAt the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.If you join this full time Web Development and Cyber Security degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your web developer course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.*UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).COLLAPSE
- Integrated Foundation Year (IFY)The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.
Is Cyber Security Better Than Web Development?
To determine whether cyber security is better than web development, we first need to understand the fundamental differences between these two fields. Web development primarily focuses on creating and maintaining websites and web applications. Web developers work on the front-end (the user interface) and the back-end (the server-side) of websites, and their work revolves around designing and developing the functionality and aesthetics of web content.
On the other hand, cyber security professionals are responsible for safeguarding digital assets, systems, and networks from various cyber threats. Their role is to identify vulnerabilities, protect data, and respond to security incidents. While both fields are vital, they cater to different aspects of the tech industry.
The choice between web development and cyber security largely depends on your interests and career goals. If you’re passionate about creating user-friendly websites and applications, web development may be the better choice for you. However, if you’re more inclined to protect these applications and the data they handle from malicious actors, cyber security could be your calling.
Should I Learn Web Development Before Cyber Security?
The order in which you learn web development and cyber security is a common question among aspiring tech professionals. While there is no strict requirement to learn web development before diving into cyber security, having a foundational knowledge of web development can be advantageous.
Understanding web development can provide you with insights into the inner workings of web applications and the vulnerabilities they may possess. This knowledge can help you become a more effective cyber security professional, as you’ll be better equipped to assess and secure web-based assets.
If you’re planning to make the transition from web development to cyber security, you may want to consider taking courses or gaining experience in web development first. However, it’s not an absolute necessity, and many successful cyber security experts have backgrounds in various IT fields.
Web Developer vs. Cyber Security Salary
Salary is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a career path. Both web development and cyber security offer competitive salaries, but they can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific job role.
Web developers generally earn a decent income, with junior developers starting at around $50,000 to $80,000 per year, while experienced developers can earn well over $100,000 annually. In contrast, cyber security professionals often command higher salaries due to the specialized nature of their work. Entry-level cyber security positions typically start at $60,000 to $90,000, and experienced professionals can easily earn six-figure salaries.
It’s important to note that salary should not be the sole factor in your decision-making process. Job satisfaction, personal interest, and long-term career prospects are equally important considerations.
Cyber Security or Developer?
Ultimately, the choice between a career in cyber security and web development comes down to your interests, skills, and career goals. Here are a few key factors to consider when making your decision:
- Interest: Are you more interested in creating web applications and websites or in protecting them from cyber threats?
- Skillset: Evaluate your current skills and determine which field aligns better with your strengths. Web development requires strong programming and design skills, while cyber security demands knowledge of network security, cryptography, and threat detection.
- Job Outlook: Both fields have strong job prospects, but the demand for cyber security professionals is growing faster due to the increasing frequency and complexity of cyber threats.
- Salary Expectations: Consider your financial goals and the earning potential in both fields.
- Learning Curve: Understand that cyber security may have a steeper learning curve and require certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
In conclusion, whether you choose web development or cyber security, you’re embarking on a rewarding and dynamic career path in the tech industry. The key is to align your choice with your interests and strengths, and continuously invest in your professional development to stay current in your chosen field. Both web development and cyber security are essential components of the digital world, and skilled professionals are in high demand in both arenas. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your passion and where you see yourself making the most significant impact in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
