School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

MRes Maritime Cyber Security

Programme code 7909
Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location Plymouth
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This is a research-based degree for those interested in cyber-physical security related to marine and maritime technology. This includes policy, penetration testing, forensics and human-in-the-loop research on current and future issues. This programme offers opportunities for both technical and non-technical research approaches. It is a low residency degree with full and part-time routes available.

Join this programme in September 2025

Key features
  • The University of Plymouth has a world leading group of maritime cyber security specialists and facilities which the course will take full advantage of. Students will have access to CROWN – Cyber-Resilience of Offshore Wind Networks , Cyber-SHIP Lab and the Marine Station .
  • This is a low residency programme, meaning students will only be required on campus for a short, but full, few weeks of induction. The majority is done remotely. This is same for both part-time and full-time, with the part-time primarily extending the period of remote work.
  • Students will be embedded within a multi-disciplinary research team who regularly engage with key stakeholders within the sector (national/international governments, navies, defence primes, commercial shipping companies, maritime equipment manufacturers etc).
  • Build the skills required to assimilate knowledge from multiple disciplines related to cyber-physical security in the maritime sector and apply them to the research area of your choice (autonomy, decarbonisation, offshore structures, ships, ports).

Course details

  • Year 1

  • The course offers modules for students with a general cyber security (or equivalent) background and those with a maritime (or equivalent) background.
    Students will attend two weeks of modules in block mode at the start of the year, ending with two assessments that are a small part of the final mark. Students then are allowed to attend follow up meetings and discussion remotely for the remainder of the degree, submitting module assessments remotely as well.
    The two mandatory modules are COMP5016 and COMP5017.
    COMP5016 Maritime Cyber Risk: This module introduces cyber risk for the maritime domain, covering maritime operations for ships and ports. It discusses and analyses current/future roles and responsibilities of personnel, cyber risk assessment practices and approaches, and regulation and standards. We will use realistic scenarios to contextualise this content alongside current research to identify appropriate research methods and practices.
    COMP5017 Cyber-Physical Security Tools and Methods: Introducing tools and methods in maritime cybersecurity, covering conceptual understanding of approaches and roles, hands on experience, and examples of tools. Current research is examined with appropriate methods and practices for undertaking research on this topic. This module looks at developing the necessary skills and techniques for analysing, critiquing, and designing secure cyber-physical systems in maritime.
    Finally, each student’s year culminates in a research project, whereby students will be expected to take their taught knowledge and apply this within their area of interest within the University labs (Cyber-SHIP, CROWN, etc) or in industry. Those without a background in either are able to discuss with the lead to determine if their background is appropriate, and if there is a possible pathway through this degree.

    Core modules

    COMP5016
    Maritime Cyber Risk

    This module introduces Cyber Risk for the Maritime Domain, covering maritime operations for ships and ports. It discusses and analyses current/future Roles and Responsibilities of personnel, cyber risk Assessment practices and approaches, and Regulation and Standards. We will use realistic scenarios to contextualise this content alongside current research to identifying appropriate research methods and practices.

    COMP5017
    Cyber-Physical Security Tools and Methods

    Introducing tools and methods in Maritime Cybersecurity, covering conceptual understanding of approaches and roles, hands on experience, and examples of tools. Current research is examined with appropriate methods and practices for undertaking research on this topic. This module looks at developing the necessary skills and techniques for analysing, critiquing and designing secure cyber-physical systems in maritime.

    PROJ521
    Research Project and Dissertation

    Students will develop a methodical approach to research that helps propose research projects that are practically realistic and academically worthwhile. A substantial project will be planned and carried out using ethically suitable quantitative and qualitative research methods. The project will be reported through a high quality, scholarly and professional write-up, either as a formal dissertation or journal paper.

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Entry requirements
Typically, a first-class honours degree or equivalent in a cybersecurity, computing-related or a marine/maritime-related subject (technology, operations, navigation), or a 2:1 honours degree with a 1st class grade or equivalent in a research project or dissertation. Applications considered from well-qualified graduates in other disciplines with relevant experience or interests – contact us for advice.
Applicants with a wealth of relevant work experience but no degree may also be considered – contact us for advice.
Applicants are encouraged to include in their personal statement a paragraph describing what aspect of their background provides a useful foundation for this degree.
International students
IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent is highly encouraged.
If you have overseas qualifications you can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through Ecctis, who provide an advisory service.
If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. For further advice on the appropriateness of overseas qualification and proficiency in the use of English, please contact our International Office .
We are unlikely to accept an IELTS score for English below 6.5.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

Fees, costs and funding
New student 2024-2025 2025-2026
Home N/A £11,350
International N/A £20,400
Part time (Home) N/A £630
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

How to apply

Apply online

When to apply

Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.

Before you apply

Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance.

Disability Inclusion Services

If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides .

International students

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application

Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply' icon on this page).

What happens after I apply?

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Admissions policy

More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.

Academic staff