Managing risks in a digital world
Designed for a non-technical audience, this eight-week online course equips public and private sector leaders with a basic understanding of cyber security, empowering them with the knowledge and skills to proactively defend their organisation from potential threats.
As a participant, through expert-led sessions, interactive simulations and real-world case studies, you will explore the structure of cyberspace, the nature of cyber risks and the strategic approaches required to build a culture of security.
By the end of the course, you will be equipped to:
- Identify and mitigate risks relevant to your organisation, strengthening operational security and data protection
- Build internal capacity for cyber resilience, and respond effectively to cyber incidents
- Develop a sustainable cyber security strategy that aligns with broader organisational goals
- Make informed decisions on technology procurement
Who should enrol?
- Public sector officials interested in gaining the essential knowledge in safeguarding critical infrastructure and sensitive information
- Managers in public or private organisations handling significant amounts of data or operational cyber security risk
- Decision-makers and policy-makers at any level who are interested in developing a holistic approach to cyber security
This course is for a non-technical audience, and no prior experience in cyber security is required.
At a glance
Enrolment is now open for our November cohort
Start date 17 November
Duration8 weeks, with a hiatus over the Christmas break (see workplan in the brochure for more details)
Time commitment 3—4 hours per week
LocationOnline
Cost£855
About the course
What you will study during the eight weeks.
Pre-recorded lectures are delivered via OpenEdX, a platform offering interactive exercises, discussion forums and a seamless user experience.
Week 1: Cyber insecurity – the harms caused by malicious activity: Explore the types of harm cyber threats pose to public sector organisations.
Week 2: The basics of technology and its misuse: Understand how technology works and how it can be exploited.
Week 3: Who is hacking and why?: Gain insight into hacker motivations and tactics.
Week 4: Building cyber defences: Develop operational strategies to protect your organisation.
Week 5: Incident response simulation: Participate in a live exercise responding to a cyber-attack.
Week 6:Public policy and cyber security: Examine the geopolitical context of cyber regulation and cooperation.
Week 7: Cyber security in times of crisis: Study cyber realism and wartime threats through faculty-led analysis.
Week 8: Final assignment and strategic review: Prepare a critical incident review and policy recommendations.
Asynchronous learning model:
Progress at your own pace each week, with support from your Teaching Assistant. Weekly assignments are due each Sunday.
Practical, real-world focus:
Case studies of major cyber incidents illustrate the tangible impacts of cyber risks and strategies for resilience.
Technical and human approach:
Gain a balanced understanding of both technical safeguards and the role of human users in securing your organisation.
Insights from cybersecurity experts:
Learn directly from ethical hackers and Oxford University faculty about proactive measures and best practices. You will also be supported by a course facilitator throughout the course.
Live masterclasses with Course Director Ciaran Martin:
Join two exclusive online sessions, one mid-course and one at the end, to reflect on your learning and explore emerging themes.
Course overview
Make cybersecurity a keystone of your strategy
Course overview
Make cybersecurity a keystone of your strategy
Take the next step
Become a cyber security confident leader — join our next cohort.
If you have any questions about the course, please email us at cybersecurity.online@bsg.ox.ac.uk
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