

B-E-COMPUTER-SCIENCE-ENGINEERING-CYBER-SECURITY in General at Vivekananda Institute of Technology


Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is General at Vivekananda Institute of Technology Bengaluru?
This B.E. Computer Science & Engineering (Cyber Security) program at Vivekananda Institute of Technology focuses on equipping students with essential skills to protect digital assets and infrastructure. Addressing the escalating cyber threats in India''''s rapidly digitalizing economy, the curriculum is designed to foster expertise in network security, ethical hacking, data privacy, and secure software development, making graduates industry-ready to combat complex cyber challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring engineers passionate about digital defense and information security. it attracts fresh graduates seeking entry into the booming cybersecurity sector, and also serves as a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing advanced research or entrepreneurship in cybersecurity. Students with a keen analytical mind, problem-solving skills, and an interest in ethical hacking or digital forensics would find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths such as Security Analyst, Ethical Hacker, Forensic Investigator, and Security Architect within Indian IT firms, banks, and government agencies. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly higher. The program also aligns with certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, and CISSP, accelerating career growth and professional recognition in the Indian cybersecurity landscape.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Programming and Logical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering fundamental programming concepts using C/C++/Python, logic building, and basic data structures. Regularly solve coding problems on platforms like HackerRank, LeetCode, or GeeksforGeeks to strengthen algorithmic thinking, crucial for cybersecurity problem-solving.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, LeetCode, GeeksforGeeks, NPTEL courses on Programming in C/Python
Career Connection
Forms the bedrock for understanding vulnerabilities in code, developing secure software, and writing scripts for security tools later in the curriculum.
Build a Strong Mathematical and Scientific Base- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to engineering mathematics, physics, and chemistry concepts. These subjects provide the analytical framework necessary for cryptography, algorithm analysis, and understanding hardware-level security implications. Participate in problem-solving sessions and seek clarifications proactively.
Tools & Resources
Khan Academy, MIT OpenCourseWare for foundational science, textbook practice problems
Career Connection
Essential for understanding cryptographic algorithms, network protocols, and the scientific principles behind cybersecurity technologies.
Engage in Technical Clubs and Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Join relevant technical clubs or student chapters (e.g., IEEE, CSI, cybersecurity-focused clubs) at VIT. Actively participate in introductory workshops on Linux, basic networking, or ethical hacking. This early exposure builds practical skills and helps identify areas of interest within cybersecurity.
Tools & Resources
College technical clubs, workshops on Linux basics, networking fundamentals
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience, introduces industry tools, and helps in building a professional network early on.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Network Security and Operating Systems- (Semester 3-5)
Focus intently on courses like Data Structures and Algorithms, Computer Organization and Architecture, Operating Systems, and Computer Networks. Understand how these foundational concepts relate to security vulnerabilities and defenses. Experiment with network tools (Wireshark, Nmap) and explore OS hardening techniques in a lab environment.
Tools & Resources
Wireshark, Nmap, VirtualBox/VMware for setting up virtual labs, Kali Linux Revealed course
Career Connection
Directly applicable to roles in network security, system administration, and infrastructure protection, making candidates highly desirable for technical cybersecurity positions.
Participate in Ethical Hacking & CTF Challenges- (Semester 4-5)
Seek out opportunities to learn ethical hacking methodologies and participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions. These challenges provide a safe and practical environment to test skills in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and forensic analysis. Consider pursuing certifications like CEH foundations if interested.
Tools & Resources
Hack The Box, TryHackMe, CTFtime, PortSwigger Web Security Academy
Career Connection
Develops practical offensive and defensive security skills, highly valued for roles like penetration tester, security auditor, and incident responder.
Undertake Mini-Projects and Internships- (Semester 4-5 (especially summer breaks))
Actively seek out and complete mini-projects related to cybersecurity (e.g., building a simple firewall, implementing an encryption algorithm, creating a secure web application). Aim for an internship in a cybersecurity firm or a relevant IT department to gain real-world exposure and apply academic knowledge.
Tools & Resources
GitHub for project showcasing, LinkedIn/college placement cell for internship hunting
Career Connection
Builds a strong portfolio, provides industry contacts, and significantly boosts employability for entry-level cybersecurity roles in India.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Professional Electives and Certifications- (Semester 6-7)
Carefully choose professional electives that align with your career interests (e.g., Digital Forensics, Cloud Security, IoT Security). Complement academic learning with professional certifications like CompTIA Security+, AWS Certified Security – Specialty, or Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer, which are highly recognized in the Indian job market.
Tools & Resources
Official certification guides, online courses (Coursera, Udemy) for exam prep
Career Connection
Direct path to advanced roles in specialized cybersecurity domains, significantly increasing market value and salary potential.
Complete a Capstone Project with Industry Mentorship- (Semester 7-8)
Dedicate significant effort to a challenging final year project, ideally one that solves a real-world cybersecurity problem. Seek mentorship from industry professionals or faculty with relevant expertise. Document the project thoroughly and present it effectively.
Tools & Resources
Industry mentors, faculty advisors, project management tools, version control (Git)
Career Connection
Demonstrates ability to handle complex security challenges, provides a strong talking point in interviews, and often leads to job offers from mentor organizations.
Network Strategically and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 7-8)
Attend industry conferences, workshops, and webinars to network with professionals and stay updated on the latest cybersecurity trends. Actively participate in placement drives, practice technical and HR interviews, and tailor your resume/portfolio to highlight cybersecurity projects and skills.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, industry events (e.g., DSCI Conclave, Cyber Security Summit), mock interview platforms, career services at VIT
Career Connection
Maximizes job opportunities, provides insights into company cultures, and prepares students for a successful transition into the professional cybersecurity workforce.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed second year Pre-University Examination (PUC) of Karnataka or equivalent with Physics, Mathematics as compulsory subjects along with Chemistry/Biotechnology/Biology/Electronics/Computer Science as optional subjects and obtained a minimum of 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST, Category-I, OBC of Karnataka State) in Physics, Mathematics and any one of the above optional subjects from a recognized Board/University. Candidates must qualify in CET/COMEDK/JEE examinations.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA101 | Engineering Mathematics – I | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Partial Derivatives, Vector Calculus, Multiple Integrals |
| CH102 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 4 | Electrochemistry, Corrosion Science, Energy Resources, Polymers, Material Science |
| EL103 | Basic Electrical Engineering | Core | 4 | DC Circuits, AC Circuits, Three Phase Systems, Electrical Machines, Measuring Instruments |
| CP104 | Computer Programming | Core | 4 | C Programming Fundamentals, Control Statements, Functions, Arrays and Strings, Structures and Pointers |
| AE105 | Communicative English | Core | 1 | Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Written Communication, Oral Communication, Presentation Skills |
| CHL106 | Engineering Chemistry Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Titrimetric analysis, Instrumental analysis, Physical chemistry experiments, Polymer experiments, Material characterization |
| CPL107 | Computer Programming Laboratory | Lab | 1 | C programming exercises, Conditional statements, Looping constructs, Functions and arrays, File operations |
| CIP108 | Cultural Activities & Professional Ethics | Mandatory Non-Credit | 0 | Cultural Heritage, Professional Ethics, Environmental Awareness, Human Values, Constitution of India |
| HS109 | Health & Safety | Mandatory Non-Credit | 0 | Personal Health, Hygiene, Disaster Management, First Aid, Stress Management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA201 | Engineering Mathematics – II | Core | 4 | Ordinary Differential Equations, Laplace Transforms, Linear Algebra, Vector Spaces, Numerical Methods |
| PH202 | Engineering Physics | Core | 4 | Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Lasers and Optics, Modern Physics, Material Science |
| EE203 | Basic Electronics | Core | 4 | Semiconductor Diodes, Transistors, Rectifiers, Amplifiers, Digital Electronics |
| CV204 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 4 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, Development of Surfaces, CAD tools |
| CS205 | Data Structures and Applications | Core | 4 | Arrays and Pointers, Stacks and Queues, Linked Lists, Trees and Graphs, Searching and Sorting |
| PHL206 | Engineering Physics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Optical phenomena, Semiconductor characteristics, Magnetic fields, Oscillations, Error analysis |
| EEL207 | Basic Electronics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Diode characteristics, Transistor circuits, Rectifier circuits, Amplifier circuits, Digital gates |
| CAL208 | Data Structures Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Array operations, Linked list implementation, Stack and Queue applications, Tree traversals, Sorting algorithms |
| ID209 | Introduction to Design Thinking | Mandatory Non-Credit | 0 | Design Process, Empathy Mapping, Ideation Techniques, Prototyping, User-centered Design |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21CS301 | Engineering Mathematics - III | Core | 3 | Transforms, Complex Analysis, Probability, Statistics, Numerical Solution of ODEs |
| 21CS302 | Computer Organization and Architecture | Core | 4 | Basic Computer Structure, Instruction Set Architecture, Control Unit, Memory System, I/O Organization |
| 21CS303 | Operating Systems | Core | 4 | OS Introduction, Process Management, CPU Scheduling, Memory Management, File Systems |
| 21CS304 | Data Base Management Systems | Core | 4 | Database Concepts, SQL, Relational Model, Database Design, Transaction Management |
| 21CS305 | Object-Oriented Programming with JAVA | Core | 4 | OOP Concepts, Java Basics, Classes and Objects, Inheritance and Polymorphism, Exception Handling |
| 21CSL306 | Operating Systems Lab | Lab | 1 | Linux commands, Shell scripting, Process management, Memory allocation, System calls |
| 21CSL307 | DBMS Lab | Lab | 1 | SQL queries, Database creation, Data manipulation, Joins, Triggers and Stored Procedures |
| 21CSL308 | Java Programming Lab | Lab | 1 | Java program development, OOP implementation, GUI programming, Database connectivity, Exception handling |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21CS401 | Computer Networks | Core | 4 | Network Models, Physical Layer, Data Link Layer, Network Layer, Transport Layer |
| 21CS402 | Design and Analysis of Algorithms | Core | 4 | Algorithm Analysis, Divide and Conquer, Greedy Algorithms, Dynamic Programming, Graph Algorithms |
| 21CS403 | Software Engineering | Core | 3 | Software Process Models, Requirements Engineering, Software Design, Software Testing, Project Management |
| 21CS404 | Web Technologies | Core | 4 | HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Server-Side Scripting, Web Frameworks |
| 21CS405 | Discrete Mathematical Structures | Core | 3 | Logic and Proofs, Set Theory, Relations and Functions, Graph Theory, Combinatorics |
| 21CSL406 | Computer Networks Lab | Lab | 1 | Network commands, Socket programming, Protocol implementation, Network simulation, Wireshark analysis |
| 21CSL407 | Web Technologies Lab | Lab | 1 | HTML/CSS web pages, JavaScript interactive elements, Server-side scripting, Database integration, Web services |
| 21CS408 | Research Project - I | Project | 0 | Problem identification, Literature survey, Methodology design, Data collection, Report writing |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21CS501 | Automata Theory and Computability | Core | 3 | Finite Automata, Regular Expressions, Context-Free Grammars, Turing Machines, Undecidability |
| 21CS502 | Applied Cryptography | Core | 4 | Classical Ciphers, Symmetric Key Cryptography, Asymmetric Key Cryptography, Hash Functions, Digital Signatures |
| 21CS503 | Network Security | Core | 4 | Network Security Fundamentals, Authentication Protocols, IPSec, SSL/TLS, Firewalls and IDS/IPS |
| 21CPE541 | Advanced Data Structures | Elective (Professional Elective - I) | 3 | Heaps, Red-Black Trees, B-Trees, Hashing, Amortized Analysis |
| 21CPE542 | Cyber Law and Ethics | Elective (Professional Elective - I) | 3 | Cybercrime, IT Act 2000, Data Protection Laws, Digital Evidence, Intellectual Property Rights |
| 21CPE543 | Digital Forensics | Elective (Professional Elective - I) | 3 | Forensic Science, Digital Evidence Collection, Disk Forensics, Network Forensics, Mobile Forensics |
| 21CPE544 | Compiler Design | Elective (Professional Elective - I) | 3 | Lexical Analysis, Syntax Analysis, Semantic Analysis, Intermediate Code Generation, Code Optimization |
| 21CPE545 | Advanced Operating Systems | Elective (Professional Elective - I) | 3 | Distributed OS, Network OS, Real-Time OS, Mobile OS, Cloud OS |
| 21OE55x | Open Elective – I (e.g., Introduction to Data Science) | Elective (Open Elective - I) | 3 | Data Science Lifecycle, Data Collection, Data Cleaning, Exploratory Data Analysis, Machine Learning Basics |
| 21CSL506 | Network Security Lab | Lab | 1 | Cryptographic algorithms, Firewall configuration, IDS/IPS tools, VPN implementation, Wireless security |
| 21CSE507 | Mini Project | Project | 2 | Problem definition, Design and implementation, Testing and debugging, Documentation, Presentation |
| 21CS508 | Research Project - II | Project | 0 | Advanced literature survey, Prototype development, Data analysis, Research paper writing, Ethical considerations |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21CS601 | Machine Learning | Core | 4 | Supervised Learning, Unsupervised Learning, Neural Networks, Deep Learning Basics, Model Evaluation |
| 21CS602 | Cloud Computing | Core | 4 | Cloud Architecture, Service Models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), Deployment Models, Virtualization, Cloud Security |
| 21CS603 | Web Security | Core | 4 | Web Application Threats, OWASP Top 10, SQL Injection, Cross-Site Scripting, Session Management |
| 21CPE641 | Internet of Things | Elective (Professional Elective - II) | 3 | IoT Architecture, Sensors and Actuators, Communication Protocols, IoT Platforms, IoT Security |
| 21CPE642 | Mobile Application Development | Elective (Professional Elective - II) | 3 | Android/iOS Development, UI/UX Design, Activity Lifecycle, Data Storage, API Integration |
| 21CPE643 | Big Data Analytics | Elective (Professional Elective - II) | 3 | Big Data Concepts, Hadoop Ecosystem, MapReduce, Spark, Data Warehousing |
| 21CPE644 | Deep Learning | Elective (Professional Elective - II) | 3 | Neural Networks, Convolutional Networks, Recurrent Networks, Deep Learning Frameworks, Applications |
| 21CPE645 | Blockchain Technology | Elective (Professional Elective - II) | 3 | Distributed Ledger, Cryptocurrencies, Blockchain Architecture, Smart Contracts, Consensus Mechanisms |
| 21OE65x | Open Elective – II (e.g., Project Management) | Elective (Open Elective - II) | 3 | Project Lifecycle, Planning and Scheduling, Risk Management, Resource Allocation, Quality Control |
| 21CSL606 | Machine Learning Lab | Lab | 1 | Data preprocessing, Supervised learning algorithms, Unsupervised learning algorithms, Model evaluation, Python for ML |
| 21CSI607 | Internship/Industrial Training | Internship | 2 | Industry exposure, Practical skill development, Report writing, Presentation, Professional networking |
| 21CS608 | Research Project - III | Project | 0 | Project refinement, Experimentation, Results analysis, Publication strategy, Oral presentation |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21CS701 | Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems | Core | 4 | IDS/IPS Architecture, Signature-based Detection, Anomaly-based Detection, Evasion Techniques, Log Analysis |
| 21CS702 | Security Auditing and Risk Management | Core | 4 | Risk Assessment, Security Policies, Audit Processes, Vulnerability Management, Incident Response |
| 21CPE731 | Cryptographic Protocols | Elective (Professional Elective - III) | 3 | Key Exchange Protocols, Authentication Protocols, Secure Multiparty Computation, Zero-Knowledge Proofs, Anonymity Networks |
| 21CPE732 | Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering | Elective (Professional Elective - III) | 3 | Malware Types, Static Analysis, Dynamic Analysis, Reverse Engineering Tools, Anti-Reversing Techniques |
| 21CPE733 | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing | Elective (Professional Elective - III) | 3 | Reconnaissance, Scanning, Exploitation, Post-Exploitation, Reporting and Documentation |
| 21CPE734 | Cyber Physical Systems Security | Elective (Professional Elective - III) | 3 | CPS Architecture, IoT Security, SCADA Security, Automotive Security, Critical Infrastructure Protection |
| 21CPE741 | Data Privacy and Anonymity | Elective (Professional Elective - IV) | 3 | Privacy Definitions, Anonymization Techniques, Differential Privacy, Privacy Preserving Data Mining, GDPR |
| 21CPE742 | Cloud Security | Elective (Professional Elective - IV) | 3 | Cloud Security Architecture, Data Security in Cloud, Identity and Access Management, Cloud Compliance, DevOps Security |
| 21CPE743 | Secure Software Development | Elective (Professional Elective - IV) | 3 | Secure SDLC, Threat Modeling, Secure Coding Practices, Static and Dynamic Analysis, Fuzz Testing |
| 21CPE744 | Blockchain Security | Elective (Professional Elective - IV) | 3 | Blockchain Vulnerabilities, Smart Contract Security, Consensus Mechanism Attacks, Distributed Identity, Cryptocurrency Security |
| 21CSI705 | Internship/Industrial Training | Internship | 2 | Advanced industry exposure, Project implementation, Problem-solving skills, Mentorship engagement, Technical reporting |
| 21CSP706 | Project Work – Phase I | Project | 4 | Project problem definition, Literature review, System design, Module development, Preliminary results |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21CPE811 | Wireless and Mobile Security | Elective (Professional Elective - V) | 3 | Mobile OS Security, Wireless Network Attacks, Mobile Application Security, Device Management, Privacy Issues |
| 21CPE812 | Ethical Hacking and Countermeasures | Elective (Professional Elective - V) | 3 | Advanced Penetration Testing, Exploitation Frameworks, Malware Defenses, Incident Handling, Security Posture Assessment |
| 21CPE813 | IoT Security and Privacy | Elective (Professional Elective - V) | 3 | IoT Attack Surfaces, Device Authentication, Secure Communication, Data Privacy in IoT, Firmware Security |
| 21CPE814 | Quantum Cryptography | Elective (Professional Elective - V) | 3 | Quantum Mechanics Basics, Quantum Key Distribution, Shor''''s Algorithm, Grover''''s Algorithm, Post-Quantum Cryptography |
| 21CPE821 | Advanced Digital Forensics | Elective (Professional Elective - VI) | 3 | Memory Forensics, Cloud Forensics, Big Data Forensics, Anti-Forensics, Legal Aspects of Forensics |
| 21CPE822 | Cyber Warfare and Geopolitics | Elective (Professional Elective - VI) | 3 | Cyber Conflict, State-Sponsored Attacks, Information Warfare, International Cyber Law, Cyber Diplomacy |
| 21CPE823 | Security Analytics and Threat Intelligence | Elective (Professional Elective - VI) | 3 | Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Threat Intelligence Feeds, Behavioral Analytics, Data Visualization for Security, Incident Response Playbooks |
| 21CPE824 | Artificial Intelligence for Cyber Security | Elective (Professional Elective - VI) | 3 | AI/ML in Security, Anomaly Detection, Malware Detection, Spam Filtering, Fraud Detection |
| 21CSP803 | Project Work – Phase II | Project | 8 | Project execution, Testing and validation, Results analysis, Final report writing, Public defense |
| 21CSS804 | Seminar | Seminar | 1 | Technical topic selection, Literature review, Presentation skills, Q&A handling, Report submission |




