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M-E in Computer Engineering Cyber Security at Gujarat Technological University
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Computer Engineering Cyber Security at Gujarat Technological University Ahmedabad?
This M.E. Computer Engineering Cyber Security program at Gujarat Technological University focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and skills to combat evolving cyber threats. It delves into critical aspects like network security, advanced cryptography, secure software design, and digital forensics, directly addressing the immense demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals in India''''s rapidly digitalizing economy. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to securing digital infrastructure.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates with a background in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a closely related field, seeking to specialize in cybersecurity. It caters to fresh graduates aiming for entry-level roles as security analysts or consultants, as well as working professionals in IT who wish to upskill and transition into specialized cybersecurity roles, contributing significantly to India''''s cyber resilience efforts.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in India as cybersecurity engineers, security architects, forensic analysts, or penetration testers, with entry-level salaries typically ranging from INR 4-8 LPA and experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong curriculum aligns with global security certifications and thoroughly prepares students for critical roles in both Indian and multinational corporations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Cybersecurity Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate focused time to thoroughly understand fundamental concepts in cryptography, network security, and secure software development. Actively participate in lectures and clarify doubts to build a robust theoretical base. Form collaborative study groups with peers for enhanced learning.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Cryptography and Network Security, Online security blogs like SANS Internet Storm Center, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for excelling in technical interviews and advanced subjects, laying the groundwork for specialized cybersecurity roles.
Hands-on Lab Practice and Tool Familiarity- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with Cyber Security Labs, practicing tools for network scanning, vulnerability assessment, ethical hacking basics, and secure coding. Experiment beyond regular lab assignments to gain practical proficiency with various security tools.
Tools & Resources
Wireshark for packet analysis, Nmap for network scanning, OWASP ZAP for web security testing, Virtual Machines for isolated testing environments
Career Connection
Practical skills and tool proficiency are highly valued in the cybersecurity industry, significantly boosting internship and placement prospects.
Participate in Tech Debates and Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Actively prepare and present for seminars. Engage in technical discussions on emerging cyber threats, countermeasures, and solutions. This practice enhances communication skills, critical thinking, and keeps students updated with industry trends.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore for research papers, ACM Digital Library, TechCrunch Cybersecurity Section, University seminar series
Career Connection
Improved presentation and communication skills are vital for conveying complex security issues to both technical and non-technical audiences in professional settings.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specializations via Electives- (Semester 2-3)
Carefully choose electives based on personal interest areas, such as Digital Forensics, Cloud Security, or Ethical Hacking. Go beyond the syllabus by reading relevant research papers and attempting online certifications specific to the chosen specialization.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX for specialized courses, SANS Reading Room, Certifications like CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a strong candidate for niche roles and advanced positions, leading to higher earning potential and focused career growth.
Engage in Project Phase-I and Competitions- (Semester 2-3)
Choose a challenging project topic, collaborate effectively with your team, and aim for innovative solutions. Participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions or hackathons to test and refine both offensive and defensive security skills in a competitive environment.
Tools & Resources
GitHub for project collaboration, Hack The Box, TryHackMe, Local/National CTF events and platforms
Career Connection
Demonstrable project work and competition achievements highlight problem-solving abilities and practical expertise, which are key for placements and advanced studies.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 2-3)
Attend cybersecurity conferences, workshops, and webinars. Connect with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Actively seek mentorship and explore early internship opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Cybersecurity conferences (e.g., NullCon, Ground Zero Summit, BSides), University alumni network events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and invaluable industry insights that are often not publicly advertised, facilitating better career transitions.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Industry-Relevant Dissertation/Project- (Semester 3-4)
For your final dissertation or industrial project, tackle a real-world cybersecurity problem, ideally in collaboration with an industry partner. Focus on delivering a deployable solution or making a significant research contribution.
Tools & Resources
Academic research journals (IEEE, ACM), Industry reports and whitepapers, Collaboration with industry experts
Career Connection
A strong, industry-aligned final project acts as a powerful portfolio piece, showcasing your readiness for high-impact roles and potential research positions.
Intensive Placement Preparation- (Semester 3-4)
Refine your resume and cover letter, explicitly highlighting cybersecurity-specific skills and projects. Practice technical interviews, mock aptitude tests, and group discussions rigorously. Understand common security frameworks and compliance standards.
Tools & Resources
Interviewbit, LeetCode (for algorithmic skills), Online aptitude test platforms, Resume building services
Career Connection
Thorough preparation ensures you stand out in competitive placement drives and secure positions in top-tier companies within the cybersecurity domain.
Continuous Learning and Advanced Certifications- (Semester 3-4)
The cybersecurity landscape changes rapidly; therefore, plan for continuous learning. Pursue advanced certifications like Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), based on your career goals, to stay competitive and knowledgeable.
Tools & Resources
Official certification exam guides and practice tests, Specialized training providers (e.g., Offensive Security, ISC2), Blogs and news from leading security researchers
Career Connection
Advanced certifications are often prerequisites for senior roles and demonstrate a commitment to professional development, significantly boosting career progression and salary prospects.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 95 Credits
Assessment: Internal: For Theory components: 30% (Progressive Assessment); For Practical/Viva components: 60% (Progressive Assessment), External: For Theory components: 70% (End Semester Examination); For Practical/Viva components: 40% (End Semester Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MECCS10101 | Advanced Data Structure & Algorithm | Core | 4 | Analysis of Algorithms, Advanced Data Structures (Trees, Graphs), Hashing and Collision Resolution, Graph Algorithms, Dynamic Programming |
| MECCS10102 | Network & Information Security | Core | 4 | Network Security Concepts, Cryptographic Algorithms, Authentication Applications, Web Security, Intrusion Detection Systems |
| MECCS10103 | Secure Software Design & Engineering | Core | 4 | Secure Software Development Lifecycle, Threat Modeling and Risk Management, Secure Coding Principles, Web Application Security Vulnerabilities, Software Security Testing |
| MECCS10104 | Research Methodology & IPR | Core | 3 | Foundations of Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), Patent and Copyright Law |
| MECCS10105 | Elective-I (Wireless & Mobile Security) | Elective | 4 | Mobile Platform Security, Wireless Network Security, Mobile Malware Analysis, Authentication in Mobile Systems, Privacy in Mobile Computing |
| MECCS10105 | Elective-I (Block Chain Technology) | Elective | 4 | Fundamentals of Blockchain, Cryptocurrency and Bitcoin, Smart Contracts, Ethereum Blockchain, Blockchain Applications |
| MECCS10105 | Elective-I (Big Data Analytics & Security) | Elective | 4 | Big Data Technologies (Hadoop, Spark), Data Analytics Techniques, Security Challenges in Big Data, Privacy-Preserving Data Mining, Anomaly Detection in Big Data |
| MECCS10105 | Elective-I (Cloud & IoT Security) | Elective | 4 | Cloud Computing Security Architecture, Virtualization Security, IoT Security Challenges, Data Security in Cloud & IoT, Access Control for Cloud & IoT |
| MECCS10106 | Cyber Security Lab-I | Lab | 2 | Network Scanning and Vulnerability Assessment, Packet Analysis with Wireshark, Cryptography Implementation, Firewall and IDS Configuration, Basic Penetration Testing Tools |
| MECCS10107 | Cyber Security Lab-II | Lab | 2 | Secure Coding Practices, Web Application Vulnerability Testing, Database Security Configuration, Operating System Hardening, Incident Response Simulation |
| MECCS10108 | Seminar | Project | 2 | Literature Survey, Presentation Skills, Technical Report Writing, Topic Selection in Cyber Security, Peer Review and Feedback |
| MECCS10109 | Audit Course-I | Audit | 0 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MECCS20101 | Advanced Cryptography | Core | 4 | Public Key Cryptography, Elliptic Curve Cryptography, Hash Functions and Digital Signatures, Quantum Cryptography Foundations, Cryptographic Protocols |
| MECCS20102 | Digital Forensic & Malware Analysis | Core | 4 | Digital Forensics Process, Evidence Collection and Preservation, Malware Types and Characteristics, Static and Dynamic Malware Analysis, Incident Response and Recovery |
| MECCS20103 | Security Assessment & Auditing | Core | 4 | Vulnerability Assessment Methodologies, Penetration Testing Frameworks, Security Audit Principles, Compliance and Regulations (GDPR, HIPAA), Reporting and Remediation |
| MECCS20104 | Elective-II (Social Network Security) | Elective | 4 | Privacy in Social Networks, Social Engineering Attacks, Identity Theft and Impersonation, Data Analytics in Social Media for Security, Trust and Reputation Management |
| MECCS20104 | Elective-II (Cyber War Fare & Espionage) | Elective | 4 | State-Sponsored Cyber Attacks, Critical Infrastructure Protection, Information Warfare, Cyber Espionage Techniques, International Cyber Laws and Treaties |
| MECCS20104 | Elective-II (Advanced Ethical Hacking) | Elective | 4 | Advanced Reconnaissance, Exploitation Techniques, Post-Exploitation, Wireless Hacking, Evading Detection |
| MECCS20104 | Elective-II (Web Application Security) | Elective | 4 | OWASP Top 10 Vulnerabilities, SQL Injection and Cross-Site Scripting, Authentication and Session Management, Secure API Design, Web Security Tools |
| MECCS20105 | Elective-III (Database Security) | Elective | 4 | Database Security Architecture, Access Control in Databases, SQL Injection Prevention, Data Encryption and Masking, Database Auditing and Compliance |
| MECCS20105 | Elective-III (Intrusion Detection & Prevention System) | Elective | 4 | IDS/IPS Architectures, Signature-Based Detection, Anomaly-Based Detection, Deployment and Management of IDS/IPS, Evasion Techniques |
| MECCS20105 | Elective-III (Quantum Cryptography) | Elective | 4 | Quantum Mechanics Principles, Quantum Key Distribution Protocols, Post-Quantum Cryptography, Quantum Computing Threat Models, Future of Quantum Cryptography |
| MECCS20105 | Elective-III (Critical Infrastructure Security) | Elective | 4 | SCADA Systems Security, Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Security, Cyber-Physical Systems Security, Risk Management for Critical Infrastructure, National Security and Resilience |
| MECCS20106 | Cyber Security Lab-III | Lab | 2 | Advanced Cryptography Implementation, Digital Forensic Tools Usage, Malware Analysis Techniques, Security Incident Handling Simulation, Open Source Security Tools |
| MECCS20107 | Cyber Security Lab-IV | Lab | 2 | Security Auditing with Tools, Vulnerability Exploitation using Metasploit, Web Application Penetration Testing, Cloud Security Configuration, IoT Device Security Assessment |
| MECCS20108 | Project Phase-I | Project | 6 | Problem Identification and Scope Definition, Literature Review and Gap Analysis, System Design and Architecture, Methodology Selection, Initial Prototype Development |
| MECCS20109 | Audit Course-II | Audit | 0 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MECCS30101 | Project Phase-II | Project | 16 | System Implementation and Development, Testing and Debugging, Performance Evaluation, Result Analysis and Discussion, Thesis Writing and Presentation |
| MECCS30102 | Elective-IV (Security for Smart Devices) | Elective | 4 | Smart Device Architecture, Embedded System Security, Firmware Analysis, Hardware Security Modules, Privacy in Smart Environments |
| MECCS30102 | Elective-IV (Digital Right Management) | Elective | 4 | DRM Architectures, Watermarking and Fingerprinting, Intellectual Property Protection, Legal Aspects of DRM, Content Protection Technologies |
| MECCS30102 | Elective-IV (Cyber Law & Policy) | Elective | 4 | IT Act, 2000 (India), Cybercrime and Legal Framework, Privacy Laws, Jurisdiction in Cyberspace, International Cyber Law |
| MECCS30102 | Elective-IV (Penetration Testing) | Elective | 4 | Penetration Testing Methodologies, Footprinting and Reconnaissance, Scanning and Enumeration, Exploitation Techniques, Reporting and Remediation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MECCS40101 | Dissertation/Industrial Project | Project | 20 | Advanced Research and Development, Solution Implementation, Rigorous Testing and Validation, Comprehensive Documentation, Final Defense and Publication |
