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The Central State Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) has approved the course IT security and forensics under the number 178218. Who is the Master’s in IT Security and Forensics suitable for?
The Master’s programme in IT Security and Forensics is aimed at IT professionals, engineers, and technically oriented scientists who wish to qualify alongside their careers for strategic roles in the fields of cyber security, digital forensics or security management. Typical participants have already gained professional experience in IT, administration or industry and aspire to positions in companies, authorities, consultancies or security teams. It especially targets individuals who take responsibility for security concepts, work on the investigation of cybercrime, or want to enhance the security of critical infrastructures.
What formal requirements do you have to meet?
To be admitted to the Master’s in IT Security and Forensics, you need:
- A first professionally qualifying university degree (e.g. Bachelor, Diplom) in computer science, IT, engineering, mathematics or a technical-scientific discipline.
- Depending on prior qualifications, at least 180 ECTS (for a relevant degree). For applicants with 210 ECTS, the duration of study may be reduced. Individual credits or bridging courses may be required depending on your background.
- Professional experience in IT or a technically scientific environment is expressly desired and taken into account during admission.
- The application deadline for the winter semester is 31 July each year.
Personally, you should bring the following qualities and experiences:
- Interest in technical, legal and organisational issues of IT security
- Analytical thinking and the ability to understand complex problems
- Willingness to acquire knowledge independently and work on practice-oriented tasks in distance learning
- Basic knowledge in the areas of network technology and IT structures is advantageous
- Self-motivation and organisational skills to invest around 25 hours per week alongside your job
- Communication skills for interdisciplinary collaboration
Which content does the Master’s programme in IT Security and Forensics offer in distance learning?
In the distance learning programme IT Security and Forensics at Wismar University, you acquire in-depth knowledge on securing digital infrastructures, analysing cyberattacks, and forensically sound processing of forensic traces. You learn to assess security aspects in complex IT systems and to implement technical-organisational measures against cyber attacks. The study programme focuses on the following topics:
- Network security: Protection concepts for communication infrastructures and data transmission
- Cloud computing: Security and management of distributed and virtual systems
- IT security in the context of Industry 4.0: Protection of industrial control systems and critical infrastructures
- Security of biometric systems: Analysis, implementation and securing of biometric identification
- Cryptanalysis: Evaluation and application of advanced encryption methods, identification of vulnerabilities
- Forensic analyses: Methods for securing evidence, evaluation of data carriers, operating systems and application systems
The training also includes strategic and ethical dimensions – such as data protection, compliance, criminal psychology and international security standards. You acquire the skills to:
- Develop and manage cybersecurity strategies
- Lead security projects and audits
- Conduct forensically sound analysis and documentation of digital traces
- Communicate professionally at the interface between technology, law and management
How is the course structure designed in the distance learning programme IT Security and Forensics?
The programme is designed for a standard period of study of four semesters (two years) and follows a flexible distance learning concept. You combine self-study phases with face-to-face seminars at nine locations nationwide (including Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Wismar). The on-site modules take place over 2–3 weekends each semester and include practice-oriented workshops, lab exercises as well as exchanges with experts.
You should expect a workload of approximately 25 hours per week. The degree programme comprises 90 ECTS credits. The study materials are provided digitally and supplemented by live tutorials and online lectures. Assessment comprises term papers, case studies, presentations and written exams, which are partly held in person.
For collegial exchange as well as individual support, modern communication platforms and a personal student service are available. At the end, students write and defend a master’s thesis on a current topic in IT security or forensics.
What professional prospects open up after graduation?
With the Master of Engineering in IT Security and Forensics, you qualify for demanding specialist and management positions in the growing field of cybersecurity. Typical career paths include:
- Management of security departments in companies, authorities and organisations of critical infrastructure
- Deployment in specialised departments of federal or state authorities (e.g. BKA, constitutional protection, CERTs, customs)
- Work at security service providers and consulting companies focusing on risk analysis and compliance
- Specialist roles in the field of forensic IT analysis, incident response and cybersecurity management
Graduates benefit from very good salary prospects. The average starting salary ranges – depending on function and responsibility – between 58,000 and 130,000 euros annually, for example as IT Security Manager, Penetration Tester or Cyber Security Consultant. Additionally, there is the possibility of doctoral studies or entry into higher public service.
What costs arise and how can the distance learning programme be financed?
The total costs of the distance learning course IT Security and Forensics amount to 11,800 euros. These can be paid in monthly instalments of 492 euros or per semester (2,950 euros). All study materials, on-site seminars and examinations are included. Additional costs for travel and accommodation during attendance phases are to be planned.
You can finance the course through classic education loans or by tax deduction of expenses as income-related costs. Participation in the Deutschlandstipendium offers the chance of monthly funding of 300 euros. Furthermore, many employers support part-time studies within the framework of qualification measures.
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