Network Security Programme

180 credits

Trojans, ransomware, phishing and other threats to both individuals and businesses demand ever more attention. If you want to learn how to stop these threats, this programme is the right one for you!

Sensitive and confidential information, such as credit card numbers and medical records, is sent between computers around the world. How can we ensure that this information only reaches those it is meant for?

To become an expert in IT security, particularly network security, a series of competencies are required. You have to be good at handling a computer, of course, and at understanding how the different parts of a computer system interact. In particular, you also need to be able to program computers.

Computer science includes a number of other areas as well, such as operating systems and databases. You will, however, primarily focus on the network and security areas. This means that you will study courses such as administration of networks, mobile and wireless security, and digital forensics. In order to achieve IT security, encryption is required and to help you understand such tools, courses in mathematics are also included.

Learn more about Network Security Programme

Career

The programme gives you qualifications for a variety of professions. Examples of jobs that this education may lead to are programmer, network administrator and security consultant, in small as well as large companies. The IT world is global, so work abroad may be just as likely as work in Sweden.

Degree

Bachelor of Science with specialization in Network Security. Main field of study: Computer Science.

My dream job would be to work as an ethical hacker

Dalya has always been interested in learning more about security, particularly in the areas of cyber threat hunting and complex technical puzzles. She is now studying the last semester on the programme Network Security and will soon be ready to look for her dream job.

Read the interview with Dalya

The Network Security programme offers many interesting and relevant courses within IT security, which means you get a global overview and training in the latest technologies and methods for preventing cyberattacks.

"One of my favorite courses was Digital Forensics. The opportunity to learn about the methods and techniques that are used to track and analyze digital evidence in criminal investigations was both challenging and exciting. The course features guest lectures with industry experts offering real-world perspectives that are relevant for my future career".

There is a high demand for IT security specialists in Sweden. During her studies, Dalya has gotten many opportunities to connect with companies, trough guest lectures and fairs, for example.

"One of the biggest fairs at Linnaeus University is Career Day that takes place in the autumn. The event brings together companies and students within the technology and IT sectors, providing good opportunities for networking and building your career".

"My dream job would be to use my knowledge and skills to secure sensitive information and prevent cyberattacks, such as working as an ethical hacker or a network administrator".

Växjö is surrounded by beautiful lakes and forests, making it a cozy and peaceful place for students to live in, according to Dalya.

"My favorite place is the university library: it is designed in a way that makes the study environment interesting and calm, you can book group rooms, and you have access to computers and printers".

Dalya’s best advice to new students is to stay organized and always ask for help when needed.

"Enjoy the experience!"

Today, I work as a consultant, thanks to the broad knowledge I acquired during my studies

A few months ago, Nikolaos graduated from the programme Network Security and today he works as a cybersecurity consultant at Zacco Digital Trust. During his time at Linnaeus University, he met a lot of key people from companies, who then facilitated his employment after graduation.

Read the interview with Nikolaos

Nikolaos began to work as a consultant at Zacco Digital Trust directly after his graduation.

“I chose to start as a consultant to get to work with many different tasks, projects, and customers. It can be everything from providing advice to customers on security issues to helping implement and harden new systems”.

During the programme Nikolaos had courses covering many topics, from computer science to cybersecurity or digital forensics.

“We also conducted labs in many different areas and had access to network hardware that we cannot have at home. All this prepared me well for working life and my current job”.

One of Nikolaos main interests is network security, which is why he chose first to study this program. In addition, he liked that the university was in Växjö.

“It gives me a feeling of harmony as I am from Gothenburg. The campus in Växjö is like a living organism, there is always something fun going on and everyone is welcome to be part of it. I don’t think I have ever been to a new place and felt so much at home before.”

Nikolaos got involved with the student organization Wädur, which organizes parties of course but also corporate events that allowed me to develop contact with companies.

“This helped me to get a job directly after graduation. Being part of an organization or nation is also an excellent way to make new friends and create memories for life.”

Nikolaos’s best advice to a new student is to get started with a study routine as early as possible.

“In that way, you will get the most out of your studies while still having plenty of time for other fun activities.”

I travel all over the world

Michael works as a IT-Security consultant at Combitech, and he describes it as an exciting and rewarding profession. He appreciated the courses that were practical and that the students got in contact with different companies and organizations during the education.

Read the interview with Michael

"I work as an IT-Security consultant and visit companies all over the world to test their products. It could be websites, medical equipment or smart units".

It´s an interesting and rewarding profession.

"It´s exciting, interesting and rewarding to have a profession where you get to evaluate all these different IT-systems. The most exciting part is quite often the things that you are not allowed to share with others".

Michael liked studying at Linnaeus University and he appreciated the courses that were practical and that the students got in contact with different companies and organizations during the education.

"It was interesting. I especially liked the last year because the courses were more practical. We got in contact with different companies and organizations in different projects and getting contacts in the industry was valuable".

Although it was a fun education, there were also periods that were difficult. Michael suggests that you try to find someone to study with. the teachers were committed and helpful and that also made it easier to handle the difficulties.

"We were a group of students that used to study together and that is something that I truly recommend. It´s though not having someone to discuss tasks and theories with. The teachers were committed and that also helps".

If you are interested in the profession Michael says the programme could be something to consider.

"It´s a programme that prepare you for a carrier in Network security. You get to learn the basics, but also immerse into different subjects".

More information about the programme

This is what you read

This is what you read under the programme. You find all the courses in the list below or in the syllabus.

Courses within the programme

Year 1

1MA441, Basic mathematics for computer scientists, 7,5 credits
1DV501, Introduction to Programming, 7,5 credits
1DV503, Database Technology, 7,5 credits
1DV505, Programming and Data Structures, 7,5 credits
1DV502, Object-oriented Programming, 7,5 credits (optional)
1DV700, Computer Security, 7,5 credits
1DV508, Project course in computer science, 7,5 credits
1MA462, Discrete mathematics, 7,5 credits

Year 2

Elective course, recommended is 1DV607, Object oriented analysis and design, 7,5 credits
1DT301, Computer technology 1, 7,5 credits
1MA464, Cryptography and coding theory, 7,5 credits
1DV512, Operating systems, 7,5 credits
Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing, 7,5 hp
1DV701, Computer networks – an introduction, 7,5 credits
2DV702, Internet security, 7,5 credits
1DV721, System Administration, 7,5 credits,

Year 3

2DV703, Mobile and wireless data security, 7,5 credits
2DV705, Virtualization, cloud and storage, 7,5 hp
2DV704, Digital Forensics, 7,5 credits
Web Development, 7,5 hp
Elective course, 7,5 credits
Scientific Methods, 7,5 hp
2DV50E, Degree project at Bachelor level,15 credits

Frequently asked questions about Network Security

What does the programme in Network Security focus on?

The programme focuses on equipping you with the knowledge and skills to protect networks and information systems against cyber threats, including hacking, viruses, and other forms of cyberattacks.

What are the core subjects and skills I will develop during the programme?

Core subjects include network and computer security, digital forensics, and cryptography. Skills developed range from threat analysis, data protection strategies, to encryption techniques vital for safeguarding information.

How does the programme stay up-to-date with the latest cybersecurity threats and technologies?

The programme maintains currency through continuous curriculum updates, industry partnerships, and expert faculty involvement, ensuring that students are learning about the latest threats and technologies.

Are there opportunities for hands-on experiences, such as cybersecurity simulations or projects, to apply the knowledge gained in the programme?

Yes, the programme includes practical components such as cybersecurity labs, simulations, and real-world project work, providing hands-on experience with the latest security tools and techniques.

What qualities are good to have when studying the Network Security Programme?

Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and a strong ethical framework are important qualities. Being proactive and continuously learning about emerging threats is also beneficial.

Växjö – the student city with a vibrant campus

Just south of Växjö city centre lies Campus Växjö. Many students choose to live on campus.

Here you have friends, restaurants, lecture halls, gyms, a supermarket, the university library, outdoor recreation areas, and student pubs – all within a five-minute walk. You can also live in other parts of Växjö and easily reach the university by bike or bus.

With nearly 100 000 inhabitants, Växjö is one of Sweden’s fastest-growing cities. It has a strong Småland entrepreneurial spirit and a diverse business sector – perfect when you’re looking for a placement, an internship, or a job.

Växjö is also a scenic city, where you’re always close to forests and lakes, and it offers plenty of events and experiences, ranging from music and food to sports.