BA (Hons) Security, Intelligence and Cyber with integrated Foundation (3-year degree)
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Course overview
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Sep 2025 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Britain Since 1945: Changing Roles | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Foundations of International Human Rights Law | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| International Studies | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Political Communication | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| The Economic Environment of Business | Optional | 10.00 | 3 |
| The English Legal System | Optional | 10.00 | 3 |
| Cyber Challenges | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Development and Security | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Diplomacy in the Modern Age | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Foundations of Global Security | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Foundations of Intelligence Organisations and Structures | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Intelligence threats, triumphs, and blunders | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Introduction to Political Theory | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| National Security in a Cyber Age | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Companion to Industry Experience | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Integrated Industry Experience | Core | 30.00 | 5 |
| Security, Intelligence and Policy-Making | Core | 30.00 | 5 |
| Terrorism and Counter Terrorism | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| US Foreign Policy in the Post Cold War Era | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Conflict, Crisis and Strategic Decision-Making | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| Dissertation (Cyber) | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| DNA and Crime | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Global Security and International Law | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Media, Society, Security and Cyberspace | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| Network Analysis for Criminal Investigators | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Research Design and Methods | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
Jan 2026 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Britain Since 1945: Changing Roles | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Foundations of International Human Rights Law | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| International Studies | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Political Communication | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| The Economic Environment of Business | Optional | 10.00 | 3 |
| The English Legal System | Optional | 10.00 | 3 |
| Cyber Challenges | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Development and Security | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Diplomacy in the Modern Age | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Foundations of Global Security | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Foundations of Intelligence Organisations and Structures | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Intelligence threats, triumphs, and blunders | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Introduction to Political Theory | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| National Security in a Cyber Age | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Companion to Industry Experience | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Integrated Industry Experience | Core | 30.00 | 5 |
| Security, Intelligence and Policy-Making | Core | 30.00 | 5 |
| Terrorism and Counter Terrorism | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| US Foreign Policy in the Post Cold War Era | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Conflict, Crisis and Strategic Decision-Making | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| Dissertation (Cyber) | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| DNA and Crime | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Global Security and International Law | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Media, Society, Security and Cyberspace | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| Network Analysis for Criminal Investigators | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Research Design and Methods | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
The first year of this three year programme offers an introduction into the Security, Intelligence and Cyber landscape, ideal for candidates that need extra preparation before studying at undergraduate level. The foundation course is structured to bridge the gap between any current qualifications and experience you have, and the start of undergraduate study.
BA Security, Intelligence and Cyber looks at global politics and diplomacy in the 21st century which are increasingly underpinned by questions of security, both as a threat and as policy. Diplomats and decision-makers in government and business increasingly need to understand the complex dynamics of regional and global security, whether that be the complex dynamics of the Middle East; the resurgence of assertive powers in a multi-polar world; or domestic extremist movements, to name but a few. Processes of globalisation have taught us that two further developments are also critical. First, in order to survive and prosper in an uncertain world, all states need good intelligence on threats and adversaries. But how do intelligence capabilities properly interface with the business of government, especially in democratic states where security, privacy and accountability must be carefully balanced? Secondly, the twenty-first century is and will increasingly signify a world where the virtual and the physical become intertwined. The key managers and decision-makers of tomorrow will need to be very much at ease in the cyber realm, recognising both its opportunities and its threats. The intersection of technology, security and politics will become the essence of modern life.
This BA Security, Intelligence and Cyber programme builds upon the success of the Centre of Security and Intelligence Studies at Buckingham (BUCSIS) which has established itself as one of the world leaders in educational provision in this subject area. Both the centre and the university at large offer a very diverse environment. With students coming to Buckingham from over 80 countries, it is an ideal situation to learn about matters of international concern and to discuss them with people from differing cultural backgrounds.
The programme is structured around a core set of modules, and two optional pathways, focusing respectively on politics and diplomacy; and foundational-level computing and cybersecurity.
Students wishing to pursue careers in security, intelligence, diplomacy, foreign affairs or business management will find this programme a unique and attractive foundation.
This is the 2-year or 2-year (+ 1 term) format of the BA Security, Intelligence and Cyber degree. You get the same number of teaching weeks as the 3-year degree but complete the syllabus in a shorter time by working an extra summer term. This is for those who want to complete more quickly, and so begin their career, or progress earlier to further training or a higher degree. For those wishing to progress on to a Master’s or research degree, excellent options are available in the Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies (BUCSIS), with scholarships for high-performing graduates.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9, including English and Maths, or their international equivalents. In addition, applicants must have one of the following qualifications or their international equivalents:
- A Levels with minimum grades of DD
- BTEC National Diploma with minimum grades of MPP
- Other Level 3 qualifications equivalent to at least 48 UCAS points
International Applicants: We welcome equivalent qualifications from around the world. However, you must also demonstrate your English language proficiency by achieving an IELTS score of 6 with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component, or another approved language test.
UCAS applications
You may apply either through the national UCAS university admissions system, or at any time directly to the University using our own online application form. Our UCAS code is B90.
Mature students
The age range of our student body varies from those who have recently completed A-levels (or equivalent) to more mature students. Age is no barrier to learning and we welcome all applications from suitably qualified students.
International students
We are happy to consider all international applications and if you are an international student, you may find it useful to visit our international pages for details of entry requirements from your home country.
The University is a UKVI Student Sponsor.
English levels
If English is not your first language, please check our undergraduate English language requirements. If your English levels don’t meet our minimum requirements, you may be interested in applying for our Pre-sessional English Language Foundation Programmes.
Selection process
Wherever possible, you will be invited to the University to meet the Admissions Tutor for an informal interview and to have a tour of our campus. If you are an international applicant, it may not be possible for you to visit in person, so if the Admissions Tutor has any queries about your application you may be contacted by Microsoft Teams, email or phone.
The Admissions Office for Business would be happy to answer any questions you may have, email admissions@buckingham.ac.uk.
Student Contract for prospective students
When you are offered a place at the University you will be notified of the student contract between the University and students on our courses of study. When you accept an offer of a place on the course at the University a legal contract is formed between you and the University on the basis of the student contract in your offer letter. Your offer letter and the student contract contain important information which you should read carefully before accepting an offer. Read the Student Contract.
Teaching & Assessment
Quality teaching
We offer high quality, traditional Oxbridge-style teaching, which leads to our degrees being recognised around the world. The standards of degrees and awards are safeguarded by distinguished external examiners – senior academic staff from other universities in the UK – who approve and moderate assessed work.
Teaching methods
Teaching is carried out through a combination of lectures supported by seminars and tutorials. A key feature of the Buckingham teaching method is the use of small tutorial groups which provide the most effective means of ensuring that the students benefit from the academic expertise at their disposal. It is also the philosophy of Buckingham’s faculty to be available to students outside the scheduled tutorial times and to encourage good working relationships between staff and students.
Assessment methods
The assessment of individual modules within each course varies according to the subject. Assessment is usually by examination, assessed coursework, or a combination of the two. Please check module information for more details.
Preparation for work
All our degree courses combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. Many of our more vocationally-focused degrees offer the opportunity of work placements and experience in industry.
After Your Course
Graduate employment
Our graduates have gone on to further study at most of the world’s leading universities, including Harvard, London, Oxford and Cambridge and secured jobs in senior positions around the world. Among our alumni we have a graduate who became the head of his country’s civil service and one who became a leading Formula One motor-racing driver. Another secured a position as the Minister of Sabah and one female law graduate became the first British lawyer to become a French Advocate.
Course Fees
The fees for this course are:
| Start | Type | First Year | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Sep 2025 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £9,250 | £37,000 |
| INT | £14,800 | £59,200 | |
Jan 2026 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £9,250 | £37,000 |
| INT | £14,800 | £59,200 |
The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
Scholarships and bursaries
We have bursaries and scholarships available for both home and international students at undergraduate and postgraduate level, and these are awarded based on location, merit or financial need.
Funded scholarships and bursaries may be awarded across all schools of study, and represent a partial remission from tuition fees. Bursaries are means-tested and are intended for those who need a contribution towards their fees in order to study at Buckingham.
Students applying for this course may be eligible for the following:
UK Students
Swains Scholarship
How To Apply
We welcome applications in two different ways – directly via our online application form or through UCAS.
Apply directly
Apply online via our course pages:
- Most flexible option
- Apply until shortly before the course starts
- No application fees
- You can apply to us as an extra option alongside your UCAS choices
You can apply directly through our website by clicking the ‘apply’ button at the bottom of the course page.
Apply via UCAS
You can easily make Buckingham one of your UCAS choices:
- You can apply to up to 5 choices
- The application and decision deadlines are set by UCAS
- There is an application fee to UCAS
Our UCAS code is B90.
If you’re interested in transferring to Buckingham from another university then please get in touch to talk through your options.