Transforming postgraduate cybersecurity education: a cybersecurity body of knowledge case study

Abstract

This contribution shares our experiences into the strategic utilisation of the guidance provided by the Cybersecurity Body of Knowledge (CyBOK) project in a revalidation exercise. The specific context of application is a postgraduate cybersecurity program at a teaching-intensive institution. Over the preceding two years, the program has enrolled a total of 48 students, notably over 90% of whom are international and non-native English speakers. This diverse demographic presents unique academic challenges that were systematically addressed within the framework of quality assurance. Significant challenges were confronted, including the imperative to adapt the program to the dynamic cybersecurity landscape and revisit the curriculum, initially validated in 2017. The curriculum had included co-validated optional modules from a Business Management program, which were poorly subscribed to by our students as considered less relevant to their specific needs, leading to a needed substitution of these modules. In their place, a cutting-edge module, “Security of Cyber-Physical Systems,” was proposed, based on the application of a CyBOK framework mapping. The proposed revisions received commendation from both external examiners and student representatives, who particularly commended the innovative approach of our “Security of Cyber-Physical Systems” module. This experience underscores the pivotal role played by CyBOK in not only elevating cybersecurity education but also contributing significantly to best practices in curriculum development and addressing knowledge gaps. The decision to incorporate CyBOK in this initiative was inspired by insightful case studies. As we look forward, our plans extend beyond the immediate revalidation process. They encompass a thorough review of program evaluation reports from the current and previous years, emphasising the steadfast commitment to quality assurance. This commitment aims to assess the efficacy of the implemented changes, ensuring that the program not only meets but exceeds academic standards while contributing meaningfully to the evolving field of cybersecurity education.
Keywords: CyBOK, cybersecurity education, programme revalidation.

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ORCID for Adriana Gabriela Wilde: orcid.org/0000-0002-1684-1539

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