Isle of Man Leads the Way in Developing Future Digital Defenders

The University College Isle of Man (UCM) today launches the new Cybersecurity and Advanced Computer Science degree certifications in a continued effort to develop the future leaders and defenders of the digital world

Following on from the successful launch of the IT & Education ‘Nunnery Campus’ last year, the Isle of Man is continuing its mission to bridge the skills gap and nurture its future technology workforce. Isle of Man residents will now be able to enrol on two additional UCM courses: a Cybersecurity undergraduate degree, and a Masters in Advanced Computer Science. The new courses will also provide opportunities for apprenticeships and research projects in some of the Island’s world-leading technology companies, including Derivco, Manx Telecom and PDMS, offering students direct exposure to the relevant industries.

The three year BSc (Hons) in Cybersecurity addresses the current global dangers of internet security, and will give students an understanding of these threats, developing their skills and expertise to investigate police and react accordingly to protect systems and organisations. Students will be introduced to topics including mathematics for computing, cyber legislation, professional investigation, and many more tools and concepts.

In addition, the MSc Advanced Computer Science is a one or two year postgraduate course that will build on students’ existing knowledge and skillsets, and will tackle the increasing employer demand for a higher level of expertise for computer based technology.

Both courses will host guest lecturers from on-Island technology companies as well as the police department, and will give students exposure to international case studies. Students will also be provided with practical exercises to hack, defend and protect.

Commenting on the announcement, Jo Pretty, Principal, UCM, said

: “We are delighted to announce these brand new courses, which add to the existing opportunities available. We are committed to supporting our students’ futures and believe these courses offer a strong foundation for employment. The MSc offers an excellent opportunity for Manx graduates to return to the island, continue their studies and take advantage of the excellent career opportunities here .

“Employability is at the heart of our offering, and we aim to provide rigorous and intellectual challenges, along with practical relevance. 91% of our students gain relevant employment at or before graduation, and we continue to work closely with local businesses to provide ‘real world’ work experience.”

The Isle of Man prides itself on being a world-leading centre for technology, and the launch of these new courses adds to this. There are nearly 200 technology businesses based on the Island, with e-Business and e-Gaming sectors growing by 8% since last year and now accounting for around 30% of the Island’s GDP.

The technology ecosystem on the Island ranges from world-leading public technology companies such as Manx Telecom, Pokerstars and Microgaming, to a fast-growth blockchain cluster.

Head of e-Business Operations for the Department of Economic Development, Brian Donegan, added

: “We are proud to offer a growing and unbeatable technology proposition on the Isle of Man, continuing our efforts to close the skills gap in the sector by developing future leaders.

“Cybersecurity is a very real challenge globally, and it is imperative that we develop our future digital defenders now. UCM is leading the way in doing just that.”

UCM is an Associate College of the University of Chester, which accredits the awards and degrees.