Computer Science: Computer Systems Security

The Master track in Computer Systems Security focuses on system and security issues related to operating systems, hardware and applications (topics like hacking, malware, reverse engineering, vulnerabilities). This specialization in Computer Systems Security is a joint effort by VU Amsterdam and University of Amsterdam. The emphasis on system related issues is what sets this track apart from other master programmes on security, which tend to have a focus on formal methods or the math behind cryptography. You’ll be taught by leading researchers in the field of computer security. Many of the challenging courses have a very hands-on character.

Students graduating in the Computer Systems Security specialization have knowledge of

• security issues in system-level software including weaknesses and defenses;
• static and dynamic analysis techniques for software (benign and malicious);
• modern scalable computer and network architecture;
• secure software development for modern, highly parallel computer systems.

NVAO accreditation

This program is legally recognized and accredited by the Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO).

This track is a joint degree programme of the University of Amsterdam and VU Amsterdam. Courses are given at the two Faculties of Science. Graduates receive a diploma accredited by both universities.

In addition to the information above 

In May 2018, dcypher made an analysis of the curriculum of the course Computer Systems Security at the VU Amsterdam. The curriculum at that time was comprised of technology (97%), organisation (3%) and human & behaviour (0%). More details of the analysis can be found on the website of dcypher.