Apply To Cyber Security Courses
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Table of Contents
1. What Is Cyber Security?
Cyber Security is the practice of protecting systems, networks and data from digital attacks. These attacks are to access, alter or destroy sensitive information, disrupt business operations or extort money from users. It covers a wide range of practices including firewalls, antivirus software, encryption, ethical hacking and security audits.
Why It Matters To The World?
Cyber Security is a global priority due to our increasing dependence on technology. Here’s why:
- Cyber Security keeps essential systems safe, such as applications for banking, shopping, healthcare, and communication. If cybercriminals get into these systems, they can steal your money, personal information or shut down services you rely on.
- Cyber Security is key to national safety and peace. Governments use digital systems to protect citizens, manage power grids and control defence systems. If those systems get attacked, it could put entire countries at risk.
- It is also vital to avoid negative economic impacts. According to the World Economic Forum, the global cost of cybercrime is expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025.
Watch this video to secure your understanding about Cyber Security:
2. Where To Study Cyberjaya Security Courses In Malaysia?
Here are 8 best universities to study Cyber Security courses in Malaysia.
- #1 Asia Pacific University (APU)
- #2 Multimedia University (MMU)
- #3 University Teknologi Malaysia (UNITEN)
- #4 Curtin University Malaysia
- #5 UCSI University
- #6 SEGI University
- #7 Xiamen University Malaysia
- #8 First City University College (FCUC)
- BONUS #1 — Universiti Malaya (UM)
- BONUS #2 — Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
3. Cyber Security Course Pathways & Entry Requirements
There are 2 pathways one can consider to qualify for a career in the computing field.
Pathway 1: SPM/O-Levels ➔ Pre-University/Foundation ➔ Cyber Security Degree
The more common pathway into a Cyber Security course is through a Pre-University course (A-Level, SACE, STPM) or a Foundation course offered by the university of your choice.
As an SPM / O-Level leaver, the entry requirement is 5 credits including Mathematics to enter Pre-U or Foundation.
A Pre-University course or Foundation typically takes 1 to 2 years to complete and will qualify you to enter into a Degree in Cyber Security.
A Cyber Security Degree takes 3 years to complete. Here are the general requirements to enter with qualifications from popular pre-university courses or a foundation course:
| Qualifications | General Requirements |
| A-Level | 2D |
| AUSMAT/SACE | ATAR 55 |
| CIMP | 55% |
| STPM | 2C |
| UEC | 5B |
| Foundation | CGPA 2.00 |
Note: Actual minimum requirements will differ between different universities. Generally, these qualifications also require you to have taken Mathematics and achieved the minimum results.
In total, this pathway generally takes 4 years to complete.
Pathway 2: SPM/O-Levels ➔ Diploma ➔ Cyber Security Degree
As there aren’t many well-known universities that specifically offer a Diploma in Biotechnology, most students can consider taking a Diploma in Computer Science, a Diploma in IT or other equivalent before proceeding to a Degree that specialises in Cyber Security.
As an SPM / O-Level leaver, the entry requirement is 3 credits including Mathematics to enter Diploma.
A Diploma in Cyber Security normally requires 2 to 3 years to complete depending on the university offering.
If you decide to continue with a Degree in Cyber Security, you only need to study an additional 2 years instead of 3 years and achieve a minimum of CGPA 2.0 for your Diploma to enrol into the Degree course.
How Can Uni Enrol Help?
Uni Enrol’s experienced counsellors help you compare the pros and cons of studying a Cyber Security Course at different universities and different locations.
4. What You Learn In A Cyber Security Course
Students enrolled in a Cyber Security course in Malaysia will typically cover subjects such as:
- AI in Cyber Security
- Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Security
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
- Cloud Security
- Computer Forensics
- Cryptography and Encryption
- Cyber Law and Policy
- Cyber Threat Intelligence
- Data Privacy & GDPR
- Database Security
- Digital Evidence & Chain of Custody
- Endpoint Security
- Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
- Firewalls and VPNs
- Identity and Access Management
- Internet of Things (IoT) Security
- Introduction to Cyber Security
- Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS)
- Malware Analysis
- Mobile and Wireless Security
- Network Architecture Design
- Network Security
- Operating Systems and Networking
- Programming Languages (Python, Java, C++)
- Risk Assessment and Management
- Secure Coding Practices
- Secure Software Development
- Web Application Security
Some universities also prepare students for global certifications, such as:
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Cisco CCNA Security
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
5. Why Should I Study Cyber Security?
Cyber Security is a booming field and a smart choice for your future if you have interests.
- Increasing Positions Opening – Cyber Security experts are needed everywhere, especially in larger organisations. As more companies go online, there are more chances for hackers to attack. That’s why businesses are hiring people to keep their systems safe. In fact, cyber security jobs are growing faster than most others.
- Many Career Options – Cyber Security has many types of jobs. You can work with cloud systems, check for risks, investigate cyber crimes or test how easy it is to hack into systems (ethical hacking).
- Satisfying and Challenging Work – Cyber Security is like solving puzzles. Hackers are always trying new tricks, so your job is to stay one step ahead. You’ll learn new things and face different challenges every day. If you like problem-solving, this job will keep your brain active.
- Good Salary – Because cyber attacks can cost companies big money, they pay well to protect their data. Even beginner jobs in cyber security pay well and experienced professionals can earn a lot more. Some jobs even pay over $150,000 a year and beyond.
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6. RIASEC Compatibility To A Cyber Security Course
The John Holland Theory of Career Choice states that in choosing a career, people will choose one similar to their personality to ensure job satisfaction, job performance, and career success. The test generates 6 different personality types:
- Realistic (R)
- Investigative (I)
- Artistic (A)
- Social (S)
- Enterprising (E)
- Conventional (C)
With the RIASEC Test, the 6 personalities can generate up to 720 combination possibilities to provide career compatibility. You can try the test yourself here.
Here are the top 3 RIASEC traits for someone considering a Cyber Security course:
INVESTIGATIVE
- Cyber Security professionals need to have good problem-solving skills and a curiosity about complex systems.
REALISTIC
- Practical skills especially in handling security systems and software, are crucial in this field as Realistic personalities like to be hands-on and work with tools.
ENTERPRISING
- Cyber Security roles often require leadership and decision making, especially in roles like a Chief Information Security Officer.
7. Career Opportunities For Cyber Security
Cyber Security careers are varied and span across public and private sectors. Here’s a breakdown of potential areas and roles:
| Areas of Opportunity | Types of Roles |
| Security Operations & Incident Response | Cyber Security Analyst, Incident Responder, SOC Analyst, Threat Intelligence Analyst |
| Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing | Ethical Hacker, Red Team Specialist, Bug Bounty Hunter |
| Security Engineering & Architecture | Security Engineer, Security Architect, DevSecOps Engineer |
| Digital Forensics & Cybercrime Investigation | Digital Forensics Analyst, Cybercrime Investigator |
| Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) | Cyber Security Consultant, Risk Analyst, Compliance Officer |
| Cloud & Network Security | Cloud Security Engineer, Network Security Engineer |
| AI & Emerging Tech Security | AI Security Specialist, IoT Security Specialist, Blockchain Security Expert |
| Cyber Security Management & Leadership | Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Cyber Security Manager |
| Academic & Research Roles | Cyber Security Researcher, Cyber Security Instructor |
Recommended Course Guides
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We also took the liberty to compile all our University Guides and Course Fees Guides so you don’t have to go anywhere else!
About the Author:
Ken Hoong is the co-founder of Uni Enrol and a contributing writer. Drawing on his close work with Uni Enrol’s counsellors, he brings keen insight into Malaysia’s evolving private higher education landscape and the shifting preferences of students in learning and career choices.
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