I found a new job as a Cyber Security Analyst while pursuing my Bachelor’s Degree programme. Quite interestingly, the fact that I was about to complete my Degree actually helped me negotiate a significant starting salary.

The module, Cyber Forensics and Information Technology, gave me very useful insights into the way Cyber Forensics is practised in the industry. It also provided me with a thorough understanding of commonly used tools.

The module, Information Security Policy and Governance, has enhanced my understanding of policy creation, and how one could identify and manage risks – these are really important for cyber security practitioners to know and start applying.

During my study with Murdoch University, I attended lessons online due to the pandemic. This has helped me to focus on my studies as well as save time as I was able to head home after work for dinner before lessons.

As for the lecturers, they were very helpful and engaging – giving us very useful feedback and advice to improve our understanding and appreciation of the subject matter.

Murdoch University was my choice for postgraduate studies, as the school would provide me with a globally-recognised credential and an enriching university experience.

I decided to pursue this Master’s programme as I have a strong interest in Data Science. It deals with huge volumes of data and uses modern tools and techniques to uncover unseen patterns, derive meaningful insights, and make operational decisions. The programme curriculum is very structured, and its relevance to my current job scope has helped me to add value to my work.

The University provides excellent student support with its online platform, where relevant resources are easily available. For example, I can access the online Murdoch University Library anytime to look up journals and articles for my research. The unit coordinators are also easily contactable via email, should one have any queries on the modules.

Studying at Kaplan also provides me with a flexible study schedule, which is important as I am working full-time. These positive factors were what gave me the confidence to embark on the programme. Undertaking part-time post-graduate studies while juggling with full-time work and family life is no walk in the park. Ever since embarking on this programme, I have become more disciplined and effective in managing my time.

Murdoch University Student (2020)

I chose the Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security & Forensics and Criminology Double Major as I wanted to further my studies in cyber security and forensics and combine my interest in criminology.

I graduated from a polytechnic in 2018 with a Diploma in Information Security and Forensics. Thus, Murdoch University was my first choice as I could skip the Year One modules and there was flexibility regarding the modules taken. The two modules which have helped me at work were Databases, and Creativity and Innovation. I would recommend the University to others, especially if they prefer something more specialised and flexible. The lecturers and staff are knowledgeable and helpful as well.

I am now in my second trimester. Since classes are conducted online during the COVID-19 period, there is no need to rush down to the campus after work. I can simply log on to classes from anywhere, even using my phone. Assignments are posted at an early date, giving me sufficient time to complete them.

Murdoch University Student (2020)

My choice to study with Murdoch University was due to its highly positive reputation compared to other universities and its association with the Innovative Research Universities network. They also provide programmes which fit my career needs flawlessly, and exceeded my expectations of the syllabus. I found the “Cyber Forensics and Information Technology” and “Information Security Policy and Governance” modules to be especially practical for my work.

As my current role involves investigation of suspects’ electronic devices and monitoring suspicious activity within company networks, my Degree has helped me understand my job scope in greater detail and allows me to improvise investigation methods. It also educates me on performing my job ethically.

As a part-time student, I appreciate that Murdoch University provides flexible study schedules, suitable for part-time students, and keeps assignment and revision deadlines reasonable for us to cope with. The lecturers’ presentations were clear and paced evenly so as not to overwhelm students, and I have found the lecturers themselves to be quite helpful.

To my fellow students, I recommend Murdoch University as my choice to study with as they offer well-organised programmes that focus on the essentials.

Murdoch University Graduate (2019)

I am glad to say that my Murdoch journey has been rewarding thus far. Exposure to industry-relevant modules like Forensics Data Analysis and Cyber Forensics, has laid a solid foundation for me to appreciate how different kinds of events and network traffic flows work. Working concurrently as an Engineer in a Security Operations Centre, I am able to tap on the data analytical skills learnt to effectively monitor and investigate offences that occur in the organisation’s network.

On top of that, as an individual who seeks career progression, I strongly believe that diving into more than one area of specialisation will enhance my versatility to future employers. Pursuing a Double Major has matched my thirst for learning with my two main fields of interest – Cyber Forensics and Information Security, opening doors to more career pathways.

Murdoch University Graduate (2019)

In search of enhancing my credentials, I was attracted to Murdoch University due to its stellar reputation in grooming graduates with strong employability prospects. There were many Double Majors to choose from and I eventually decided to enrol for a Degree in Cyber Forensics, Information Security & Management and Business Information Systems. My Double Major Degree not only taught me to pinpoint an organisation’s weak security governance, it exposed me to varied ways of implementing proper data storage systems and also enhanced my analytical skills.

I was offered a new role in managing critical security governance issues and adeptly applied my theoretical knowledge to drive productivity and revenue for digital security in my organisation. Pursuing a Double Major Degree has expanded my perspectives, and I encourage others to take it on with Murdoch University as well.

Murdoch University Student (2020)

Aiming for gainful and lucrative employment, I decided to switch to an IT career, which I felt would also be a fulfilling experience. With its flexible study schedule, wide range of programmes, and the option to take any number of modules per trimester, Murdoch University was the obvious choice. The flexibility alone is advantageous for part-time students like myself.

Set on acquiring an IT-related qualification, I began with a Kaplan Diploma in Information Technology as my foundation. Through its completion, I had smooth advancement to my chosen Bachelor of Science in Cyber Forensics & Information Security and Computer Science Double Major Degree.

Seeing how computer science and cyber and information security go hand in hand, I chose to study both in a Double Major programme to gain knowledge and increase my opportunities in both fields.

My efforts have paid off, and my Bachelor’s Degree education has enabled me to develop essential skills related to my work. I would recommend students take up Double Majors to increase their employability and expand their job options.