Course overview
Cyber security threats are a rapidly growing global challenge for individuals and businesses alike. Secure technology is not only pivotal to business, but to everyday life. As a result, cyber security professionals are in high demand around the world. Deakin’s Bachelor of Cyber Security equips you with the essential skills to investigate and combat cybercrime and cyber terrorism. You will graduate with the expertise to tackle one of the fastest-growing criminal threats to modern-day society.
Gain practical and theoretical knowledge with an emphasis on assessing cyber security in a working environment, as well as the business, ethical and legal implications of risk management. You will cover areas such as computer crime and digital forensics, and gain the skills to identify, diagnose and manage the challenges of cyber security. As a graduate, you will be well prepared for an exciting career in one of the most in-demand global industries.
Are you ready to join the fight against cybercrime?
Launch your cyber security career with a world-class degree from Victoria’s #1 university for graduate employment.
This course focuses on developing skills in digital forensics, information security, penetration testing, security operations, threat intelligence and vulnerability assessment. These skills are in high demand across a diverse range of industry and government sectors, covering areas such as:
- computer crime and digital forensics
- evaluating software for security vulnerabilities
- designing secure databases
- securing operating systems
- assessing and reinforcing the security of websites
- integrating security requirements into new developments
- designing secure network architectures
- performing risk assessments and responding to cyber security incidents.
With access to our specialised capstone project and co-working space, you will collaborate with your teammates on your capstone project, develop solutions to real-world industry problems, and learn agile project management methods widely used across the industry. Our past students have collaborated on capstone projects such as:
- is my smart home secure enough?
- virtual penetration testing lab
- one-time pad (OTP) VPN
- voice activated password security
- secure Australian online voting system.
This course also includes a core IT placement unit, where you will undertake professional work experience with an approved host organisation. You may also have the opportunity to apply for a placement with partner organisations, including NAB and ANZ, where you will work on industry projects and acquire valuable business skills before you graduate.
This experience ensures you will be well-prepared to apply your learning in the workplace and deal with imminent threats and challenges emerging in the digital space.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
VTAC entries are closed.
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Cyber Security
- Year
2026 course information
- VTAC code
1400314201 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400514201 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400614201 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- S334
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 091336M Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Paige's experience in cyber security
Paige shares her experience studying cyber security at Deakin, where ethical hacking, forensics and investigation come together. She reflects on how industry relevant learning helped shape her career direction and passion for protecting others.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Cyber Security, you must pass 24 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- 13 credit points of core units
- 3 credit points of cyber security capstone units
- 1 minor (4 credit points)
- 4 credit points of open elective units
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3.
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Year 1 -Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Plus 2 minor or open elective units (2 credit points)
Year 2 - Trimester 1
Plus 2 minor or open elective units (2 credit points)
Year 2 - Trimester 2
Plus 2 minor or open elective units (2 credit points)
Year 3 - Trimester 1
Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)
Year 3 - Trimester 2
Plus 1 minor or open elective unit (1 credit point)
Plus 2 credit points from the following capstone options:
OR
^ Offered in Trimester 1, Trimester 2, Trimester 3.
+ Students must have completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit) and SIT223 Professional Practice in Information Technology.
# Corequisite of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit).
It is important to ensure your course plan meets the course rules detailed above. Students should contact Student Central for assistance with course planning, choosing the right units and understanding course rules.
Select from a range of elective units offered across many courses. You may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).
Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
More skills, more careers
Earn two degrees, faster, at the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment. With a double degree, you can combine a cyber security degree with criminology or laws. Save time, reduce costs and unlock more career opportunities.
Equipment requirements
The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course require that students have access to a range of technologies beyond a desktop computer or laptop. Students will be required to purchase minor equipment, such as small single board computers, microcontrollers and sensors, which will be used within a range of units in this course. This equipment is also usable by the student beyond their studies. Equipment requirements and details of suppliers will be provided on a per-unit basis. The indicative cost of this equipment for this course is AUD$500.
For information regarding hardware and software requirements, please refer to the Bring your own device (BYOD) guidelines via the School of Information Technology website in addition to the individual unit outlines in the Handbook.
Combined courses
The Bachelor of Cyber Security is also available as the following combined courses
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
This course includes a compulsory work placement with an approved host organisation to take your learning beyond the classroom and prepare you to be work and career ready. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) units offered in this course provide you with the opportunity to develop your professional networks and work practices while completing your degree.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
For more information visit SEBE Work Integrated Learning.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any English, any Information Technology or any Mathematics equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$9,071 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options on our Current students fees website or estimate your tuition fees.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply through VTAC
Applications for Trimester 1, 2027 will open on 3 August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Cyber Security with our pathways finder.
Articulated courses:
GAIN VITAL INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE AT THE #1 VICTORIAN UNI FOR GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT
Career outcomes
Graduate with the skills needed to thrive in a booming industry and help secure our digital future. Information communications technology (ICT) professional roles in Australia are projected to grow by 24.7% or 100,100 new jobs by 2034 – including 15,700 new roles for ICT security specialists.* Take advantage of this huge demand for cyber security specialists with the Bachelor of Cyber Security at Deakin.
As a graduate you may find employment in one of the following roles:
- cyber security operations analyst
- network security analyst
- cyber threat analyst
- incident responder
- operations coordinator
- penetration tester
- cyber security specialist
- cyber security adviser
- vulnerability researcher
- cyber security consultant
- information security auditor
- IT security engineer
- digital forensics analyst
- project manager
- cyber security system developer or programmer
- cyber security system manager.
* 2024 Employment Projections – for the ten years to 2034, Jobs and Skills Australia.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Cyber Security is professionally accredited with the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and is recognised for specialist cybersecurity accreditation. This course is also recognised internationally for entry to professional practice by other accrediting bodies through the Seoul Accord.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Develop a broad, coherent knowledge of the IT discipline including its dynamic environment, with detailed knowledge of project management principles and in depth knowledge in IT Security. Design, develop and implement IT systems and software, and associated policies and procedures for optimal use and apply industry standards and best practice in one or more specialised areas of IT. Acquire in-depth knowledge and skills to develop, implement and manage security solutions for systems, networks, and data according to industry-accepted standards and best practice. |
| Communication | Communicate in a professional context to inform, explain and drive sustainable innovation through cyber security, utilising a range of verbal, graphical and written methods, recognising the needs of diverse audiences. |
| Digital literacy | Use digital technologies, platforms, frameworks and tools from the field of cyber security to generate, manage, process and share digital resources and solutions. |
| Critical thinking | Critically analyse information provided to inform decision making and evaluation of plans and solutions associated with the field of cyber security. |
| Problem solving | Apply cognitive, technical, and creative skills from cyber security to understand requirements and design, implement, and operate solutions to real-world and ill-defined computing problems. |
| Self-management | Work independently to apply knowledge and skills to new situations in professional practice and/or further learning in the field of cyber security with adaptability, autonomy, responsibility, and personal accountability for actions as a practitioner and a learner. |
| Teamwork | Work independently and collaboratively to achieve team goals, contributing knowledge and skills from cyber security to advance the teams objectives, employing effective teamwork practices and principles, and comprehending distinct workplace roles and their functions. |
| Global citizenship | Apply professional and ethical standards and accountability in the field of cyber security, and engage openly and respectfully with diverse communities and cultures. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
