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M-TECH in Cyber Security at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA)
Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Cyber Security at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) Thanjavur?
This Cyber Security program at SASTRA University focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and practical skills to combat evolving cyber threats. It covers areas from cryptography and network security to digital forensics and ethical hacking, aligning with the critical demand for cyber professionals in India. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation for securing digital assets across various sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates (CSE, IT, ECE, etc.) and MCA/M.Sc. (IT/CS) degree holders aspiring for specialized roles in cyber security. It caters to freshers seeking entry into the burgeoning Indian cyber security industry, as well as working professionals looking to upskill and transition into more advanced security roles within public or private enterprises.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths as Security Analysts, Penetration Testers, Cyber Security Consultants, Digital Forensics Experts, or Security Architects. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 4-8 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist across IT services, banking, telecom, and government sectors, often aligning with global certifications like CISSP or CEH.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Computer Science & Security Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and basic networking. These are the bedrock for advanced cybersecurity concepts. Utilize online platforms like HackerRank, LeetCode for algorithms, and try to install/configure Linux distributions to understand OS fundamentals. Actively participate in problem-solving sessions.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, LeetCode, GeeksforGeeks, Linux distributions (Ubuntu, Kali)
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures efficient problem-solving in security challenges and a deeper understanding of system vulnerabilities, crucial for roles like Security Analyst or Developer.
Build a Strong Mathematical & Cryptographic Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on the mathematical principles underlying cryptography and security protocols. Practice number theory, probability, and algebraic structures. Start with basic cryptographic algorithms implementation in Python or Java to grasp their working mechanism and potential vulnerabilities. Join online communities for discussions on cryptographic challenges.
Tools & Resources
MIT OpenCourseware on Cryptography, Coursera courses, Python/Java for implementation
Career Connection
Essential for understanding and designing secure systems, vital for roles in Cryptography Engineering, Security Architecture, and R&D in defense or financial sectors.
Engage in Peer Learning and Technical Clubs- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups and actively participate in SASTRA''''s technical clubs related to cybersecurity or computer science. Discuss concepts, share resources, and work on small projects together. This fosters collaborative learning, improves communication skills, and exposes you to diverse perspectives on security challenges.
Tools & Resources
Departmental technical clubs, Discord/Telegram groups for peer discussions
Career Connection
Develops teamwork and communication skills, highly valued in corporate security teams, and provides networking opportunities for future career growth.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Hands-on Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing- (Semester 2-3)
Gain practical experience with ethical hacking tools and methodologies. Set up a personal lab environment (e.g., using VMs like Kali Linux, Metasploitable) to practice reconnaissance, vulnerability scanning, and exploitation techniques. Participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions to hone your offensive security skills.
Tools & Resources
Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Hack The Box, TryHackMe
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for roles as a Penetration Tester, Ethical Hacker, or Vulnerability Assessor, high-demand positions in the Indian IT security market.
Specialize through Electives and Mini-Projects- (Semester 2-3)
Choose electives strategically based on your interest and career goals (e.g., Cloud Security, IoT Security, Blockchain). Undertake mini-projects or research papers related to your chosen specialization. This deeper dive will create a niche for you and develop expertise that stands out to potential employers. Look for industry-relevant problems.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, GitHub for project collaboration, Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure)
Career Connection
Builds specialized expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for focused roles like Cloud Security Engineer, IoT Security Specialist, or Blockchain Security Researcher.
Network with Industry Professionals and Attend Workshops- (Semester 2-3)
Attend cybersecurity conferences, webinars, and workshops organized by professional bodies like NASSCOM, DSCI, or local cybersecurity communities in India. Connect with speakers and industry leaders on LinkedIn. Such interactions provide insights into current industry trends, potential internship opportunities, and mentorship.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Eventbrite for security events, NASSCOM/DSCI events
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships, mentorship, and job opportunities, enhancing your visibility within the Indian cybersecurity ecosystem.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Industry-Relevant Project- (Semester 3-4)
Leverage your final year project to solve a real-world cybersecurity problem, ideally in collaboration with an industry partner or as a strong research contribution. Focus on novel solutions, robust implementation, and thorough documentation. This project will be a cornerstone of your resume for placements.
Tools & Resources
Project management tools, Version control (Git), Industry mentorship
Career Connection
Showcases your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems, a key differentiator for lead security roles and research positions.
Prepare for Professional Certifications and Placements- (Semester 3-4)
Begin preparing for globally recognized cybersecurity certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, or even OSCP if aiming for offensive roles. Simultaneously, participate in campus placement training, mock interviews, and resume building workshops. Tailor your resume and interview responses to specific cybersecurity job profiles.
Tools & Resources
Official certification study guides, Online mock interview platforms, SASTRA career services
Career Connection
Certifications validate your skills and significantly boost employability in competitive Indian and global markets, directly leading to better placement outcomes.
Develop Soft Skills and Professional Presence- (Semester 3-4)
Alongside technical prowess, cultivate critical soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and ethical reasoning. Participate in technical presentations, debates, and leadership roles within student bodies. Build a professional online presence through LinkedIn and GitHub, showcasing your projects and contributions.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (if available), Professional networking sites (LinkedIn), GitHub
Career Connection
These skills are crucial for career progression into leadership and client-facing roles like Cyber Security Consultant, enhancing your overall professional impact and growth trajectory.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E. / B.Tech. (CSE / IT / ECE / EEE / EIE / Instrumentation / Electronics / Computer Science and Engineering related branches) / MCA / M.Sc. (IT / CS / Software Engineering / Electronics) or equivalent with a minimum of 60% aggregate.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 85 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YCSCY101 | Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms | Core | 4 | Linear and Non-Linear Data Structures, Trees and Graphs Algorithms, Hashing Techniques, Algorithm Design Paradigms, Complexity Analysis |
| YCSCY102 | Mathematics for Cyber Security | Core | 4 | Number Theory and Modular Arithmetic, Probability and Statistics, Linear Algebra, Abstract Algebra and Groups, Boolean Algebra and Logic |
| YCSCY103 | Advanced Operating Systems | Core | 4 | Operating System Structures, Process Management and Scheduling, Memory Management, Distributed Operating Systems, Security in Operating Systems |
| YCSCY104 | Network Security | Core | 4 | Network Attacks and Vulnerabilities, Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems, VPN and Secure Protocols (IPSec, SSL/TLS), Wireless Network Security, Email and Web Security |
| YCSCY105 | Information Security and Cyber Laws | Core | 4 | Information Security Principles, Security Policies and Standards, Indian IT Act 2000/2008, Intellectual Property Rights in Cyber Space, Privacy and Data Protection Laws |
| YCSCY181 | Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms Lab | Lab | 2 | Implementation of Trees and Graphs, Sorting and Searching Algorithms, Hashing Implementations, Dynamic Programming Solutions, Algorithm Complexity Measurement |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YCSCY201 | Cryptography and its Applications | Core | 4 | Symmetric Key Cryptography (DES, AES), Asymmetric Key Cryptography (RSA, ECC), Hash Functions and Digital Signatures, Key Management and Exchange, Public Key Infrastructure |
| YCSCY202 | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing | Core | 4 | Phases of Ethical Hacking, Reconnaissance and Footprinting, Scanning and Enumeration, Vulnerability Analysis, System Hacking and Exploitation |
| YCSCY203 | Cloud Security | Core | 4 | Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Security Threats and Risks, Data Security in Cloud, Identity and Access Management in Cloud, Cloud Compliance and Regulations |
| YCSCY204 | Machine Learning for Security | Core | 4 | Introduction to Machine Learning, Supervised and Unsupervised Learning, Anomaly Detection using ML, Malware Detection and Classification, Intrusion Detection with ML |
| YCSCY2E | Program Elective I | Elective | 3 | Chosen from a pool of specialized electives (See Program Elective Options section) |
| YCSCY281 | Network Security Lab | Lab | 2 | Packet Analysis with Wireshark, Firewall Configuration, VPN Implementation, IDS/IPS Configuration, Web Application Security Testing |
| YCSCY282 | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing Lab | Lab | 2 | Footprinting Tools and Techniques, Scanning Networks with Nmap, Vulnerability Scanning, Metasploit Framework Usage, Web Application Exploitation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YCSCY301 | Digital Forensics | Core | 4 | Principles of Digital Forensics, Evidence Collection and Preservation, File System Forensics, Network Forensics, Mobile Forensics and Cloud Forensics |
| YCSCY302 | Security Auditing and Risk Management | Core | 4 | Information Security Governance, Risk Assessment and Mitigation, Security Audit Frameworks (ISO 27001), Vulnerability Management, Business Continuity Planning |
| YCSCY3E | Program Elective II | Elective | 3 | Chosen from a pool of specialized electives (See Program Elective Options section) |
| YCSCY3E | Program Elective III | Elective | 3 | Chosen from a pool of specialized electives (See Program Elective Options section) |
| YCSCY3P | Project Work Phase I | Project | 8 | Problem Identification and Literature Review, Methodology and Design, Initial Implementation, Report Writing, Presentation and Viva-Voce |
| YCSCY381 | Cyber Security Lab (Project Phase I) | Lab | 2 | Hands-on Project Implementation, Tool Development for Security, Experimentation with Security Frameworks, Data Analysis for Security Incidents, Secure Coding Practices |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YCSCY4P | Project Work Phase II | Project | 16 | Advanced System Design and Development, Extensive Testing and Evaluation, Performance Analysis and Optimization, Final Dissertation Preparation, Final Presentation and Viva-Voce |
