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B-TECH in Computer Science And Engineering Cyber Security at Vellore Institute of Technology
Vellore, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Computer Science and Engineering (Cyber Security) at Vellore Institute of Technology Vellore?
This B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering (Cyber Security) program at Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore focuses on developing expertise in protecting digital assets and systems from cyber threats. India''''s rapidly digitalizing economy and critical infrastructure demand a robust cybersecurity workforce. This program differentiates itself by integrating core CSE concepts with advanced cyber defense mechanisms, preparing students for the evolving threat landscape in the Indian IT sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a strong aptitude for problem-solving and an interest in technology security. It also caters to working professionals seeking to upskill in specialized cybersecurity domains and career changers transitioning into the high-demand field of cyber defense. Candidates should possess a foundational understanding of computer science and mathematics, along with a keen analytical mindset.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles like Security Analyst, Penetration Tester, Cyber Forensics Investigator, and Cloud Security Engineer, in leading IT companies and government organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The curriculum aligns with global certifications like CEH, CISSP, and CompTIA Security+, enhancing career growth trajectories in Indian and international markets.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Programming Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Solidify programming basics in languages like C/C++/Python, focusing on data structures and algorithms through consistent practice. Engage in competitive programming challenges.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, LeetCode, GeeksforGeeks, CodeChef
Career Connection
Essential for passing coding rounds in placements for software development and even cybersecurity roles requiring scripting.
Build a Strong Mathematical Base- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Discrete Mathematics. These form the bedrock for advanced topics in machine learning, cryptography, and algorithm design.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Faculty Recommended Textbooks
Career Connection
Crucial for understanding complex security algorithms, data analysis in forensics, and AI/ML applications in cybersecurity.
Explore Basics of Operating Systems and Networks- (Semester 2-3)
Understand how operating systems manage resources and how computer networks function. Experiment with Linux commands and basic network utilities.
Tools & Resources
VirtualBox/VMware for Linux VMs, Wireshark, Online Network Simulators
Career Connection
Fundamental knowledge required for comprehending vulnerabilities, penetration testing, and incident response in later stages.
Intermediate Stage
Hands-on with Security Tools and Concepts- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in lab sessions for subjects like Introduction to Network Security, Cryptography, and Cyber Forensics. Learn to use tools for sniffing, scanning, and digital evidence collection.
Tools & Resources
Kali Linux, Metasploit, Wireshark, Autopsy, FTK Imager
Career Connection
Direct practical skills valued by security operations centers (SOC) and forensic teams, making students job-ready.
Develop Projects and Case Studies- (Semester 4-5)
Work on mini-projects related to database security, web security, or building small security applications. Participate in hackathons and CTF (Capture The Flag) competitions.
Tools & Resources
GitHub, Python with Security Libraries, Local Servers for Testing
Career Connection
Builds a strong portfolio, demonstrates problem-solving abilities, and provides competitive edge in Indian tech companies.
Seek Industry Internships- (End of Semester 4, during Semester 5 breaks)
Actively search for and pursue internships in cybersecurity firms, IT departments of large corporations, or government agencies during summer breaks.
Tools & Resources
VIT Career Development Cell, LinkedIn, Internshala, Company Career Pages
Career Connection
Gain real-world experience, build industry contacts, and often lead to pre-placement offers (PPOs) in top Indian companies.
Advanced Stage
Deep Dive into Specializations and Certifications- (Semester 6-7)
Focus on a specific cybersecurity domain (e.g., Cloud Security, IoT Security, Blockchain Security) and prepare for industry-recognized certifications relevant to that niche.
Tools & Resources
Official Certification Guides (CompTIA Security+, CEH, AZ-500), Coursera, Udemy
Career Connection
Enhances credibility and validates specialized skills, highly sought after by recruiters for specialized roles in India.
Undertake a Significant Major Project- (Semester 7-8)
Collaborate with faculty or industry mentors on a substantial research or development project in cybersecurity, contributing to novel solutions or improvements.
Tools & Resources
Research Papers, Advanced Security Tools, Specific Programming Languages/Frameworks
Career Connection
Showcases advanced technical prowess, research capabilities, and can be a highlight in job interviews for R&D or advanced security engineering roles.
Network and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 7-8)
Attend industry conferences, workshops, and career fairs. Refine resume, practice technical and HR interviews, and participate in mock placement drives.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, VIT Placement Cell, Alumni Network
Career Connection
Maximizes opportunities for securing desirable placements in leading Indian and global cybersecurity firms, ensuring a strong start to their professional career.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates must have secured a minimum aggregate of 60% in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) in the qualifying examination (10+2/Intermediate). For SC/ST candidates and candidates hailing from North-Eastern states, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the aggregate percentage required is 50%.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 188 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE1007 | Introduction to Cyber Security | Core | 3 | Introduction to Cyber Security, Cybercrime and Ethical Hacking, Malware and Vulnerabilities, Digital Forensics, Security Management |
| EEE1019 | Electric Circuits and Digital Design | Core | 4 | DC Circuits Analysis, AC Circuits Analysis, Digital Logic Gates, Combinational Circuits, Sequential Circuits |
| MGT1038 | Engineering Economics | Core | 3 | Managerial Economics, Demand and Supply Analysis, Cost and Production, Market Structures, Macro Economics Overview, Project Evaluation Techniques |
| CHY1004 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 4 | Water Technology and Treatment, Electrochemistry Principles, Corrosion and its Control, Engineering Materials Science, Spectroscopic Techniques, Nanomaterials Applications |
| MAT1001 | Calculus for Engineers | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Multivariable Calculus, Vector Calculus, Differential Equations |
| ENA1019 | English for Engineers | Core | 2 | Technical Communication Skills, Presentation Strategies, Report Writing, Group Discussion Techniques, Professional Writing |
| FLC1001 | German (or other Foreign Language) | Elective | 2 | Basic German Grammar, Everyday Vocabulary, Greetings and Introductions, Simple Conversations, Cultural Aspects |
| FLC1005 | German Lab (or other Foreign Language Lab) | Elective | 1 | Pronunciation Practice, Listening Comprehension, Speaking Exercises, Role-Playing Dialogues, Interactive Language Games |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE1008 | Principles of Data Structures | Core | 4 | Arrays and Pointers, Stacks and Queues, Linked Lists, Trees and Graphs, Sorting and Searching Algorithms |
| ECE1007 | Microcontrollers and Interfacing | Core | 4 | Microcontroller Architecture, Assembly Language Programming, Peripheral Interfacing, Timers and Counters, Embedded System Design |
| MGT1002 | Principles of Management | Core | 3 | Management Concepts, Planning and Decision Making, Organizing and Staffing, Directing and Controlling, Business Ethics and CSR |
| PHY1003 | Physics for Engineers | Core | 4 | Quantum Mechanics Introduction, Optics and Lasers, Materials Science, Thermodynamics Principles, Electromagnetism |
| MAT1002 | Linear Algebra and Differential Equations | Core | 4 | Matrices and Determinants, Vector Spaces, Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors, Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations |
| ENA1002 | Value Education | Core | 2 | Human Values and Ethics, Moral Development, Social Responsibility, Environmental Ethics, Professional Ethics |
| CHY1002 | Environmental Sciences | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Pollution Types and Control, Climate Change and its Impacts, Renewable Energy Sources, Environmental Management |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE2008 | Database Management Systems | Core | 4 | Data Models and Architectures, SQL Query Language, Relational Algebra, ER Modeling and Normalization, Transactions and Concurrency Control |
| CSE2009 | Operating Systems | Core | 4 | Process Management, CPU Scheduling Algorithms, Memory Management, Virtual Memory Concepts, File Systems and I/O |
| CSE2010 | Design and Analysis of Algorithms | Core | 4 | Asymptotic Notations, Divide and Conquer, Greedy Algorithms, Dynamic Programming, Graph Algorithms, NP-Completeness |
| MAT2002 | Discrete Mathematics | Core | 4 | Mathematical Logic, Set Theory and Relations, Functions and Sequences, Graph Theory, Combinatorics, Algebraic Structures |
| MGT1037 | Professional Ethics | Core | 2 | Ethical Theories, Engineering Ethics, Professionalism in Engineering, Intellectual Property Rights, Workplace Ethics, Social Responsibility |
| CSE2007 | Introduction to Network Security | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 3 | Network Security Concepts, Basic Cryptography, Authentication Mechanisms, Secure Network Protocols, Firewalls and VPNs, Intrusion Detection/Prevention |
| UE1xxx | University Elective 1 | Elective | 4 | Selected from a diverse pool of university-wide electives. |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE2006 | Computer Networks | Core | 4 | Network Topologies and Models, Physical and Data Link Layer, Network Layer Protocols, Transport Layer Protocols, Application Layer Services, Network Security Basics |
| CSE2011 | Theory of Computation | Core | 4 | Finite Automata, Regular Expressions, Context-Free Grammars, Pushdown Automata, Turing Machines, Undecidability |
| CSE2012 | Object-Oriented Programming and Design | Core | 4 | OOP Concepts, Classes and Objects, Inheritance and Polymorphism, Encapsulation and Abstraction, Design Patterns, UML Diagrams |
| CSE2013 | Compiler Design | Core | 4 | Lexical Analysis, Syntax Analysis, Semantic Analysis, Intermediate Code Generation, Code Optimization, Runtime Environments |
| CSE2014 | Web Technology | Core | 4 | HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Web Servers and Clients, Client-Side Scripting, Server-Side Scripting, Database Connectivity, Web Security Fundamentals |
| UE2xxx | University Elective 2 | Elective | 4 | Selected from a diverse pool of university-wide electives. |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE3005 | Cryptography and Network Security | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | Symmetric Key Cryptography, Asymmetric Key Cryptography, Hashing and Digital Signatures, Authentication Protocols, TLS/SSL and VPNs, Email and Web Security |
| CSE3006 | Cyber Forensics | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | Digital Evidence Collection, Forensic Tools and Techniques, Data Recovery and Analysis, Disk Forensics, Network Forensics, Mobile Forensics, Legal Aspects of Forensics |
| CSE3007 | Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | IDS/IPS Concepts, Signature-based Detection, Anomaly-based Detection, Deployment Architectures, Alert Correlation and Analysis, Evasion Techniques |
| CSE3008 | Software Engineering | Core | 4 | Software Development Life Cycle, Requirements Engineering, Software Design Principles, Software Testing Strategies, Software Maintenance, Project Management and Agile |
| CSE3009 | Machine Learning | Core | 4 | Supervised Learning, Unsupervised Learning, Regression and Classification, Clustering Algorithms, Neural Networks Basics, Deep Learning Concepts |
| UE3xxx | University Elective 3 | Elective | 4 | Selected from a diverse pool of university-wide electives. |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE3010 | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | Reconnaissance Techniques, Scanning and Enumeration, Vulnerability Analysis, Exploitation Frameworks, Post-Exploitation, Web Application Hacking |
| CSE3011 | Cloud Security | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | Cloud Computing Models, Cloud Security Architecture, Data Security in Cloud, Identity and Access Management, Cloud Compliance and Governance, Virtualization Security |
| CSE3012 | Blockchain and Cryptocurrency | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | Blockchain Fundamentals, Cryptocurrencies and Bitcoin, Consensus Mechanisms, Smart Contracts, Decentralized Applications, Blockchain Security |
| CSE3013 | Project-I | Project | 6 | Project Planning and Scoping, Literature Review, System Design and Architecture, Implementation and Development, Testing and Debugging, Documentation and Presentation |
| CSE3014 | AI and Deep Learning | Core | 4 | Artificial Intelligence Foundations, Neural Network Architectures, Convolutional Neural Networks, Recurrent Neural Networks, Generative Adversarial Networks, Deep Learning Applications |
| SWE3005 | Software Project Management | Core | 3 | Project Life Cycle, Project Planning and Scheduling, Risk Management, Resource Management, Software Quality Management, Project Metrics and Estimation |
| PE1xxx | Programme Elective 1 | Elective | 4 | Selected from a pool of programme-specific electives related to CSE/Cyber Security. |
| PE2xxx | Programme Elective 2 | Elective | 4 | Selected from a pool of programme-specific electives related to CSE/Cyber Security. |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE4005 | Internet of Things Security | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | IoT Architecture and Protocols, Threat Models in IoT, Security Challenges in IoT, Device Security, Network Security for IoT, Data Security and Privacy in IoT |
| CSE4006 | Web Application Security | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | OWASP Top 10 Vulnerabilities, Injection Flaws (SQL, Command), Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), Broken Authentication and Session Management, Security Misconfiguration, API Security |
| CSE4007 | Digital Rights Management | Cyber Security Specialization Core | 4 | DRM Concepts and Principles, Copyright and Intellectual Property, Digital Watermarking, Fingerprinting Techniques, Content Protection Mechanisms, Access Control and Licensing |
| CSE4008 | Industrial Project | Project | 10 | Industry Problem Identification, Real-world Project Execution, Collaboration with Industry Mentors, Technical Report Writing, Presentation and Demonstration, Professional Practices |
| PE3xxx | Programme Elective 3 | Elective | 4 | Selected from a pool of programme-specific electives related to CSE/Cyber Security. |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE4009 | Major Project | Project | 16 | Advanced Research and Development, Innovative System Design, Comprehensive Problem Solving, Extensive Implementation, Detailed Report Generation, Viva-Voce Examination |
