The future of cyber security relies on people like you who are able to think quickly, find innovative solutions, and work to keep the data of companies and nations secure, as well as protect our individual privacy.
Study with Us
Research
Globally recognised for our research strengths and innovations in teaching, our impact-driven research transforms lives and shapes the future.
About Western
School of Business
School of Computer, Data and Mathematical Sciences
School of Education
School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment
School of Health Sciences
School of Humanities and Communication Arts
School of Law
School of Medicine
School of Nursing and Midwifery
School of Psychology
School of Science
School of Social Sciences
School of Computer, Data and Mathematical Sciences
School of Education
School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment
School of Health Sciences
School of Humanities and Communication Arts
School of Law
School of Medicine
School of Nursing and Midwifery
School of Psychology
School of Science
School of Social Sciences
Duration
Full Time: 3 Years (Available Part Time)*
Next Start Date
21 July 2025
02 March 2026
Closing Date
Campuses^
LSR
Parramatta South
UAC 727052
75
Domestic Student Fees
Indicative annual fee from $11,885
Additional Information
Program Code: 1837
CRICOS Code: 094541D
Digital Defender
Western's Bachelor of Cyber Security and Behaviour is the only cyber security degree in Australia that analyses both the technical and human side, and places you at the forefront of a dynamic digital world.
With a focus on hands on learning led by industry experts, you'll use cutting edge technology to develop skills in programming and hacking and build your understanding of usable security and privacy by design – two skills that are highly sought after worldwide.
You'll be introduced to cyber risk management frameworks and how to think dynamically to respond to cyber threats. Learn the behavioural science behind online fraud and advanced hacking, and use this knowledge to protect data against cyber attacks.
We've partnered with leading Australian and global organisations to offer industry based training, your final year will include a half-year placement at the Western Centre for Cybersecurity Aid & Community Engagement working on cyber security problems for local businesses, followed by an industry lead project or placement with a partner organisation.
JOIN US AT OPEN DAY
Experience uni life, discover our courses and explore our vibrant campus on Sunday 6 July, Parramatta South campus.
Register now to go into the draw to win 1 of 3 $1000 e-gift cards.*
*T&Cs apply
This program is accredited by the Australian Computer Society at the professional level.
Western's links with industry, government and non-profit organisations like Gridware, the E-Safety Commission and local public hospitals mean students are exposed to real world cyber security and e-safety from their first year.
Students join the Western Centre for Cybersecurity Aid & Community Engagement in their final year to complete two placements. First working within the Centre addressing real problems for local businesses who are clients of the centre. Students are supervised by the centre manager and the cyber security team. The second placement is with an industry partner.
Western’s international research partners include Mitre Corporation, Artificial Intelligence Research Institute (Spain), University of South Africa, University of Hong Kong, and University of Oxford. Get greater insight into global security policy, safety awareness, the psychology of cyber criminals, the list goes on.
What you can expect to study
The program structure is outlined in our handbook. Here you can view all of the subjects you will be studying.
Career Opportunities
As a graduate of this degree, you can look forward to a broad range of exciting career opportunities in different sectors and industries. Below are some examples of the possible careers you can pursue with this degree:
- Cyber safety officer
- Data security analyst
- Security analyst
- Risk analyst
- Cyber policing
- Cyber intelligence
Alumni
"Ever since I was young, I wanted to be a detective and that has stuck with me, even to this day.
Pursuing a career in cyber security was a smart, future proof move, as a lot of forensics work is now done online with new forensic capabilities and rapid growth of technology.
I attended the new Liverpool campus open day, the degree coordinator for Cyber Security and Behaviour inspired me to enrol due to the rapid growth of technology and how a lot of forensics is now done online.
I’m passionate about digital forensics and raising awareness about cyber security in order to stop vulnerable people from being scammed.
Western Sydney University provides so many fun activities for you to participate in to get to know your peers and make new friends. The cyber security world here in Sydney is small, you are bound the run into your peers later in your professional life."
— Ashavali Lal, Bachelor of Cyber Security and Behaviour
Entry requirements for domestic students
Applicants who have undertaken studies overseas may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Local applicants who are applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) will find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UAC website. Local applicants applying directly to the University should also use the information provided on the UAC website. Find out more here.
Please consult the handbook for more information.
Entry requirements for international students
**Please note, if this course lists a part-time option, this is not available to International Students on a Student Visa.
Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course.
You can read more about international academic entry requirements here.
Indicative annual fee
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is one that is subsidised by the Commonwealth and applicable only to Domestic students. This means that the Australian Government pays part of your fees towards your program, therefore reducing your program fees, and the remaining amount is paid by you, this is considered your Student Contribution.
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
To work out how much your Student Contribution will be before you study, you will first need to find out the Student Contribution band your subjects fit into based on their general discipline area.
You can then calculate your student contributions to work out the total amount of your contribution.
The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) is a range of loans introduced by the Australian Government from 2005 to provide fee payment assistance to eligible students. Loans are for Australian citizens studying in Australia or overseas. Permanent residents who hold a humanitarian visa are also eligible if studying in Australia.
If eligible you may be able to defer all or part of your Student Contribution through the HECS-HELP loan program. You may also be eligible for OS-HELP if undertaking studies overseas.
New Zealand citizens and holders of an Australian permanent resident visa (other than an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) are generally not entitled to HECS-HELP assistance. If you are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident your Student Contribution amount must be paid in full by the census date.
However, the Australian Government has passed new legislation that changes the way some New Zealand citizens, who hold a Special Category Visa (SCV), studying in Australia will pay their fees. More information is available on the Changes to fees for New Zealand Citizens webpage.
Apply as a Domestic Student
If you are a domestic student, you can apply through our Western Application system which is free of charge.
Domestic students are:
- Australian Citizens
- New Zealand Citizens
- Australian permanent residents
- Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders
Scholarships
Western Sydney University recognises and rewards students who demonstrate community engagement, outstanding academic ability and superior leadership skills. Donor-funded scholarships are also available, providing support for students based on both academic achievements and equity considerations. There are also scholarships available for specific degrees.
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
Apply as an International Student
If you are an international student, you can apply for free through our international student application system or through an agent representative.
International students are:
- Not an Australian citizen;
- Not a New Zealand citizen; and
- Not a permanent resident of Australia.
If you are an international student completing the Australian HSC, IB or NCEA, apply direct via UAC International.
Admission to Western Sydney University is on the basis of meeting minimum academic and English language requirements. For more information about tuition fees and other costs, visit the Fees and Costs page.
Scholarships
When you apply to Western, you’re automatically assessed for a Scholarship, no additional application required! We’re offering multi-year scholarships (for up to 3 years) valued at $6,000 or $3,000 and even 50% off tuition fees. Scholarships are awarded on academic merit.
FAQs
We've gathered common questions to provide you with quick, clear answers about this program. Whether you're exploring admission requirements, details about the degree or career prospects, you'll find valuable insights here. If you need more information, our support team is ready to assist you on your journey to Western. You can find their details below.
This course combines hands-on technical training in areas like network security and ethical hacking with a focus on human factors, exploring how psychological aspects influence cybersecurity outcomes.
Graduates can pursue roles such as cybersecurity analysts, digital forensics experts, and security consultants.
Yes, students have to do compulsory placements, which will be completed within the Cybersecurity Aid Centre at Western Sydney University.
This program also fosters industry partnerships, providing internships and networking opportunities to enhance practical skills and build professional connections.
Absolutely. This program offers 4 elective courses allowing students to select a minor in an area like digital forensics, secure software development, or cybersecurity policy, tailoring their education to their career interests.
Want to know more?
We're here to provide clarity.
If you're uncertain about your study journey, enquire about our program today and gain the confidence to move forward.
Australian students
1300 668 370
International students
+61 2 9852 5499
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.