Direct answer
For the 2026/27 academic year, Cardiff University requires Chinese applicants to its MSc Cyber Security and Technology programme to hold a Bachelor’s degree with an overall score of 60% or above. The degree must be in a relevant subject such as Computing, IT or Software Engineering, and applicants must show evidence of programming proficiency and a relevant project. An IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no subskill below 6.0, or an accepted equivalent, is also required.
Degree classification and subject requirements
The programme requires a 2:2 honours degree in a relevant subject area. The official page lists Computing, IT and Software Engineering as relevant examples. Applicants must provide evidence that their previous studies included modules demonstrating proficiency in programming and a relevant project.
Country-specific requirement for Chinese applicants
The university publishes a specific equivalence for applicants holding a Chinese Bachelor’s degree. The stated minimum is an overall score of 60%. This is the only China-specific threshold given on the official page.
English language requirement
All applicants must meet the university’s English language standard for this programme. The required IELTS score is an overall band of 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each subskill. The university also accepts equivalent qualifications, though the official page does not list them.
Programme structure and professional recognition
The MSc Cyber Security and Technology is a full-time, one-year Master’s degree. The programme holds NCSC certification and is accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT.
Required application documents
When submitting the online application, applicants must include a copy of their degree certificate, transcripts, and, if applicable, their IELTS certificate.
What the official page does not establish
The published entry requirements page does not list a China-specific percentage for degree classifications above a 2:2 equivalent. It does not state whether work experience can substitute for the degree requirement. The list of accepted equivalent English language qualifications is not detailed on this page. Application deadlines and tuition fees are not included. All of these points require live rechecking on the university’s website.
FAQ
Does the 60% requirement apply to all Chinese Bachelor’s degrees?
The official page states a single threshold of 60% overall for a Chinese Bachelor’s degree. It does not differentiate between awarding institutions or degree types.
What counts as evidence of programming proficiency?
The university requires evidence of modules demonstrating proficiency in programming and a relevant project. The official page does not specify which programming languages or project formats are acceptable.
Is the programme available to students with a non-computing background?
The entry requirements specify a relevant subject such as Computing, IT or Software Engineering. The official page does not describe a conversion route for applicants without this background.
Does the NCSC certification guarantee a job outcome?
The official page states the programme is NCSC certified and BCS accredited. It does not make any claim about employment outcomes or professional registration.
Are there separate application deadlines for Chinese applicants?
The official page does not list any application deadlines. This information must be checked directly with the university.
Official sources
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