Computer Science: Computer Systems Security
Description:
Technology has become ubiquitous in our global, connected society. Globally distributed information processing services have taken centre stage, with the internet connecting a variety of information processing devices, ranging from embedded sensors to data centres operated by world-leading companies.
The Computer Science programme is a joint degree between VU Amsterdam and the University of Amsterdam (UvA). It’s structured according to six specialisations, of which you’ll choose one depending on your own area of interest:
- Big Data Engineering
- Computer Systems Security
- Foundations of Computing and Concurrency
- Internet and Web Technology
- Parallel Computing Systems
- Software Engineering and Green IT
Leading programme in Computer Systems Security
In this track, you’ll focus on system and security issues related to operating systems, hardware and applications – topics like hacking, malware, reverse engineering and vulnerabilities. On graduating from the programme, you’ll have knowledge of security issues in system-level software, including weaknesses and defences; static and dynamic analysis techniques for software (benign and malicious); modern scalable computer and network architecture; and secure software development for modern, highly parallel computer systems. The emphasis on system-related issues is what sets this track apart from other Master’s programmes on security, which tend to focus on formal methods or the mathematics behind cryptography.
This track is part of the joint Master’s in Computer Science, in which you’ll be taught by leading researchers in the field of computer security. Plus, many of the courses are very hands-on, meaning you’ll get practical experience in security as well.
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).
Download the brochure Computer Science: Computer Systems Security
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.
