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M-SC in Cyber Security at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Cyber Security at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This M.Sc. Cyber Security program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on providing advanced knowledge and practical skills in protecting digital assets. It addresses the growing need for skilled professionals to combat cyber threats in the Indian digital landscape, offering a blend of theoretical foundations and hands-on experience crucial for industry readiness.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering or science graduates with a background in Computer Science or IT seeking entry into the cyber security domain. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill in areas like ethical hacking, cloud security, or digital forensics, and career changers transitioning into the rapidly expanding cyber security industry in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue dynamic career paths as Security Analysts, Ethical Hackers, Forensics Investigators, or Cloud Security Architects within Indian organizations and MNCs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 15-25 LPA for experienced professionals, aligning with certifications like CEH, CISSP, and CompTIA Security+.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Security Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in advanced data structures, operating systems, networking, and mathematical concepts relevant to cybersecurity. Understand the core principles of cryptography and network security early on.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Data Structures and Algorithms, Cryptography, HackerRank for coding challenges, Academic textbooks
Career Connection
A robust understanding of these fundamentals is critical for all advanced cybersecurity roles, ensuring a solid base for specialized learning and problem-solving.
Hands-on Lab Skill Development- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all practical labs, focusing on implementing cryptographic algorithms, using network security tools, and performing ethical hacking exercises. Document all lab work thoroughly and understand the practical implications.
Tools & Resources
Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, Virtual labs, Online tutorials for practical exercises
Career Connection
Practical skills gained in labs directly translate to job requirements for security analyst, pen-tester, and incident response roles, enabling immediate application of knowledge.
Engage in Cyber Security Communities- (Semester 1-2)
Join campus cybersecurity clubs or online communities (e.g., OWASP local chapters, Null Community) to learn from peers, participate in hackathons, and stay updated on the latest threats and technologies.
Tools & Resources
Discord/Telegram groups, LinkedIn professional groups, Local cybersecurity meetups
Career Connection
Networking within the cybersecurity community opens doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities, while participation builds reputation and practical experience.
Intermediate Stage
Specialized Skill Acquisition through Electives- (Semester 3-4)
Strategically choose elective subjects (e.g., Cloud Security, IoT Security, Malware Analysis) that align with specific career interests. Deep dive into the chosen area through self-study, certifications, and practical projects beyond coursework.
Tools & Resources
Official documentation for AWS/Azure security, IoT development kits, Malware analysis tools (IDA Pro, Ghidra), Relevant online certification courses (e.g., CompTIA CySA+, CCSP)
Career Connection
Specialization enhances employability by demonstrating expertise in high-demand areas, making candidates more attractive for niche roles like Cloud Security Engineer or IoT Security Analyst.
Undertake Industry-Relevant Mini and Major Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Focus mini and major projects on solving real-world cybersecurity problems, ideally in collaboration with industry partners or based on identified vulnerabilities. Document the entire process, including research, implementation, and results.
Tools & Resources
Project management tools (Jira, Trello), Version control (Git), Collaboration platforms (GitHub), Industry contacts for mentorship
Career Connection
Strong project experience is highly valued by employers, showcasing problem-solving abilities, technical prowess, and the capacity to contribute meaningfully to a team.
Prepare for Professional Certifications- (Semester 3-4)
Begin preparing for globally recognized cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, CEH, AZ-500, CCSP) alongside academic studies. These certifications validate practical skills and significantly boost job prospects in the Indian market.
Tools & Resources
Official certification study guides, Practice exams, Online training platforms (Coursera, Udemy, Pluralsight), Professional forums
Career Connection
Certifications are often prerequisites or strong advantages for entry to mid-level cybersecurity roles, providing a competitive edge in placements and career progression.
Develop Strong Communication and Reporting Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly, both verbally and in written reports. This is crucial for presenting security assessments, incident reports, and interacting with non-technical stakeholders in a corporate environment.
Tools & Resources
Technical writing workshops, Presentation practice, Participation in debates or public speaking events, Peer review of reports
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for roles like Security Consultant, Auditor, and Incident Responder, where explaining risks and solutions to management is a daily task.
Seek Internships and Industry Exposure- (Semester 3-4)
Actively search for and complete internships at cybersecurity firms or IT departments with robust security teams. This provides invaluable real-world experience, mentorship, and often leads to pre-placement offers.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, Internshala, Company career pages, Networking events
Career Connection
Internships bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands, building a professional network and providing practical work experience that is highly valued by recruiters.
Stay Updated with Emerging Threats and Technologies- (Semester 3-4)
Regularly read industry news, follow leading cybersecurity experts and organizations, and understand emerging threats like AI-driven attacks or quantum cryptography. Attend webinars and conferences whenever possible.
Tools & Resources
Cybersecurity news sites (e.g., The Hacker News, Dark Reading), Cybersecurity blogs, Threat intelligence reports, Industry conferences (e.g., c0c0n, Nullcon)
Career Connection
Remaining current with industry trends demonstrates proactive learning and adaptability, essential for a rapidly evolving field, and positions graduates as forward-thinking professionals.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. in Computer Science / Computer Science and Engineering / Information Technology / Software Engineering / BCA with Mathematics as one of the subjects at 10+2 level or at Graduation. Minimum 50% aggregate marks.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 90 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P21CS101 | Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms | Core | 4 | Abstract Data Types, Hashing Techniques, Tree Structures, Graph Algorithms, Sorting and Searching |
| P21CS102 | Mathematical Foundations of Cyber Security | Core | 4 | Number Theory, Group Theory, Ring and Field Theory, Probability and Statistics, Boolean Algebra |
| P21CS103 | Advanced Operating Systems | Core | 4 | Distributed Operating Systems, Process Management, Distributed File Systems, Distributed Shared Memory, Security in OS |
| P21CS104 | Database Management Systems | Core | 4 | Relational Model, SQL and Query Processing, Transaction Management, Concurrency Control, Database Security |
| P21CS105 | Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms Lab | Lab | 2 | Array and List Operations, Tree and Graph Traversals, Sorting and Searching Algorithms, Dynamic Programming, Hashing Implementations |
| P21CS106 | Database Management Systems Lab | Lab | 2 | SQL Queries (DDL, DML, DCL), PL/SQL Programming, Database Design, Transaction Operations, Security Role Management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P21CS201 | Cryptography and Network Security | Core | 4 | Symmetric and Asymmetric Cryptography, Hash Functions and Digital Signatures, Network Security Protocols (IPSec, SSL/TLS), Firewalls and IDS, Key Management |
| P21CS202 | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing | Core | 4 | Reconnaissance, Scanning and Enumeration, Vulnerability Analysis, Exploitation Techniques, Reporting and Remediation |
| P21CS203 | Secure Coding Practices | Core | 4 | Software Security Principles, Buffer Overflows, Input Validation, Injection Attacks, Secure Development Lifecycle |
| P21CS204 | Advanced Computer Networks | Core | 4 | Network Topologies, TCP/IP Model, Routing Protocols, Network Management, Wireless Networks |
| P21CS205 | Cryptography and Network Security Lab | Lab | 2 | Cryptographic Algorithms (DES, AES, RSA), Network Scanner Tools (Nmap), Firewall Configuration, Packet Analysis (Wireshark), VPN Setup |
| P21CS206 | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing Lab | Lab | 2 | Vulnerability Scanning, Exploitation Tools (Metasploit), Web Application Hacking, Wireless Network Attacks, Post-Exploitation Techniques |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P21CS301 | Cloud Security | Core | 4 | Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Security Threats, Identity and Access Management, Data Security in Cloud, Cloud Security Best Practices |
| P21CS302 | Digital Forensics and Incident Response | Core | 4 | Forensic Readiness, Evidence Collection and Preservation, Disk Forensics, Network Forensics, Incident Response Plan |
| P21CS303 | Professional Elective I (Cyber Crime and Law / IoT Security / Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems / Web Application Security / Machine Learning for Cyber Security / Biometric Security) | Elective | 4 | Cybercrime categories, Digital evidence, Indian IT Act, Cyber law challenges, Intellectual property rights |
| P21CS304 | Professional Elective II (Cyber Crime and Law / IoT Security / Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems / Web Application Security / Machine Learning for Cyber Security / Biometric Security) | Elective | 4 | IoT architecture, Security challenges in IoT, Attack surfaces, Secure IoT protocols, Privacy concerns |
| P21CS305 | Digital Forensics and Incident Response Lab | Lab | 2 | Forensic Imaging, Registry Analysis, Memory Forensics, Malware Analysis, Log File Analysis |
| P21CS306 | Mini Project | Project | 2 | Problem Identification, Requirement Analysis, Design and Implementation, Testing and Debugging, Report Writing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P21CS401 | Professional Elective III (Security in Data Science / Block Chain and Crypto Currency Security / Malware Analysis / Digital Rights Management / Incident Management and Disaster Recovery / Mobile Computing and Security) | Elective | 4 | Malware types, Static analysis, Dynamic analysis, Debugging tools, Reverse engineering |
| P21CS402 | Professional Elective IV (Security in Data Science / Block Chain and Crypto Currency Security / Malware Analysis / Digital Rights Management / Incident Management and Disaster Recovery / Mobile Computing and Security) | Elective | 4 | Blockchain fundamentals, Cryptocurrency security, Smart contract vulnerabilities, Consensus mechanisms, DApp security |
| P21CS403 | Project Work | Project | 14 | Literature Survey, Project Design, Implementation and Testing, Result Analysis, Thesis Preparation and Defense |
