Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering

Introduction

About the Program

Welcome to the future of cybersecurity — where cutting-edge technology meets innovative education. The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering at the American University in the Emirates (AUE) is more than just a degree; it’s a launchpad for aspiring professionals who want to lead the global battle against cyber threats in a fast-evolving digital era. In today’s hyperconnected world, where nearly every aspect of our lives depends on technology, cybersecurity has become a critical cornerstone of global security, business continuity, and societal stability. Organizations and governments are facing an unprecedented surge in sophisticated cyberattacks, making the demand for skilled cybersecurity engineers higher than ever before. This is where you come in.

The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering program at AUE offers an unmatched opportunity to become a key player in safeguarding the digital infrastructure that powers our modern lives. This program is designed to prepare students to excel in one of the most dynamic, high-growth, and impactful professions of the 21st century. Combining a robust foundation in engineering, computer science, and science with specialized training in cybersecurity, this program equips you with the knowledge and skills to identify, prevent, and mitigate cyber threats across industries.

Program Mission

To empower students with cutting-edge knowledge and practical expertise to excel in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. The program fosters innovation, critical thinking, and technical excellence, enabling graduates to design secure systems, mitigate advanced cyber threats, and lead in safeguarding digital infrastructures. Through an emphasis on hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a forward-looking curriculum, the program prepares future-ready professionals to shape the resilience and security of tomorrow’s digital world.

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

Excel in Professional Careers. Graduates will excel as cybersecurity engineers, utilizing their expertise to secure complex digital systems and networks across diverse industries while adapting to evolving challenges and technologies.

Design and Implement Secure Solutions. Graduates will lead and contribute to the development of innovative, secure computing systems and processes that address technical, societal, and ethical challenges effectively.

Contribute to Global Cybersecurity Efforts. Graduates will uphold professional and ethical standards, contributing to the global advancement of secure and sustainable digital infrastructures by addressing security risks and threats.

Engage in Lifelong Learning. Graduates will commit to continuous professional development and education, staying current with emerging cybersecurity technologies, tools, and practices.

Lead Multidisciplinary Teams. Graduates will communicate effectively and work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating leadership in designing, implementing, and managing cybersecurity solutions.

Program at a glance

Total Credit Hours

135 Credit Hours

Duration

4 Years

Instruction Language

English

Tuition Fees

70,400 AED/Yearly

Quality assured

Accreditations

Accredited by CAA

Program Director

Dr. Rami Ahmed

Associate Professor / Department Chair of the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering / Acting Department Chair of Bachelor of Science Mechatronics Engineering

Credit breakdown

Program Structure

Course Category	Total Number of Courses	Total Number of Credit Hours
General Education Courses	10	30
College Mathematics and Science Courses	9	27
Cybersecurity Engineering Core	24	72
Cybersecurity Engineering Electives	2	6
Total	45	135 Credit Hours

Curriculum

Courses & Descriptions

General Education Courses

ENG 101 Academic Writing 3 CH

ARLAA 105 Arabic Composition 3 CH

ARLNA 100 Arabic for Non Arab Speakers 3 CH

ARLAA 100 Communication Skills in Arabic 3 CH

DES 104 Contemporary Arab Art 3 CH

ASC 208 Emirati Studies (formerly UAE and GCC Society) 3 CH

ENG 200 English Literature 3 CH

ASC 211 Environmental Science 3 CH

MAT 100 General Mathematics 3 CH

DES 105 History of Islamic Art 3 CH

MGT 604 Innovation and Entrepreneurship 3 CH

ASC 219 Introduction to AI 3 CH

ASC 201 Introduction to Philosophy 3 CH

ASC 207 Introduction to Research 3 CH

ASC 106 Islamic Civilization 3 CH

ASC 105 Islamic Culture 3 CH

ASC 204 Middle East History 3 CH

ASC 210 Natural Science 3 CH

ASC 212 Sustainable Energy 3 CH

ASC 101 University Life 3 CH

ASC 203 World History 3 CH

Bridging Courses

Core Business Courses

Core IT Courses

Core Courses

College Mathematics and Science Courses

MAT 110 Calculus 1 3 CH

MTH 102 Calculus II 3 CH

Differential Equations 3 CH

MTH 200 Discrete Mathematics 3 CH

MTH 210 Linear Algebra 3 CH

CSC 310 Numerical Analysis 3 CH

PHY 100 Physics 1 3 CH

PHY 200 Physics 2 3 CH

MTH 105 Probability and Statistics 3 CH

Concentration Courses

Cybersecurity Engineering Core Courses

CET 470 Artificial Intelligence 3 CH

Capstone I 3 CH

This course prepares students for the final-year Capstone project by emphasizing project planning and preparation within the Cyber security field. Students will identify a technical industry challenge, analyze it, and define both functional and non-functional requirements to propose an innovative, computing-based solution. Students will work in groups of 2-4 members to foster collaboration, and each group will be assigned an academic supervisor and an external industry practitioner to guide topic selection, ensuring alignment with industry needs and student interests. Throughout the course, groups will collaboratively develop a comprehensive project proposal that includes objectives, a 
literature review, research design, intellectual property considerations, as well as budget and schedule management. The course culminates in a group proposal defense conducted in an oral format, with individual contributions assessed through reflective papers documenting each student's involvement and learning experiences. Emphasizing project management, teamwork, collaboration, and presentation skills, this course equips students with the practical skills necessary to tackle real-world challenges in the field of cyber security.

Capstone II 3 CH

CET 444 Computer Architecture and Organization 3 CH

Cybersecurity Fundamentals 3 CH

Data Communication 3 CH

BCE 212 Data Structures and Algorithms 3 CH

This course aims at providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the foundation of data structure and algorithms using Python as an implementation medium. The course aims to introduce the fundamental topics and techniques in data structure as the Analysis of algorithms and complexity, searching and sorting algorithms, and fundamental data structures.
The course starts with a review of Python programming language, then the course moves to the analysis of algorithms and their complexity using Big-O notation to allow students to evaluate the performance of algorithms to select the most efficient algorithm for a given problem and to implement them using Python.
The course exposes students to the fundamental linear and non-linear data structure and their applications including Stack, Queue, Deque, Linked list, Recursion and applications on recursion, Trees and Trees algorithms as binary search tree and its implementation, and finally graphs and graph algorithms as breadth and depth-first search algorithms.
The course is heavily dependent on the implementation of the covered topics using Python. During the course, students will work on individual assignments and group-based final projects.

CET 240 / CSC 201 Digital Logic and Design 3 CH

Electrical and Electronic Circuits 3 CH

Embedded Systems Design 3 CH

Ethical Hacking 3 CH

Information Security and Ethics 3 CH

Internship 4 CH

CSCS 403 Introduction to Computer Forensics 3 CH

This course provides the student with a comprehensive introductory to the uses of computers in the world of digital forensics. Through this course the student will get familiar with the known methods of computer investigations and digital evidences, the requirements of work and lab environments of computer forensics, the techniques of data acquisition and data analysis used today in computer forensics, and the legal aspects of forensics investigations. The course serves as an essential primer to digital forensics investigations. It covers the well-known techniques and tools used by investigators for acquiring, comparing, and analyzing digital evidences in computer in private and public investigations. General legal issues such as handling evidences, chain of custody, admissibility, search warrants, and working with law enforcement are also covered. Several hands-on lab exercises that includes working, analyzing, and examining digital images and evidences will be carried out throughout this course.

CSC 312 Introduction to Cryptography 3 CH

CET 346 Introduction to Operating Systems 3 CH

This course covers the essential operating system concepts. The students will be provided an introduction to operating systems including a brief history of development through the years and the five managements under each operating system. The course will also cover the topics including processes and threads in context of resource management, memory management and related schemes, CPU scheduling algorithms and file systems. Several alternative algorithms related to page replacement policies and CPU scheduling are discussed along with understanding their advantages and disadvantages. The role of the device manager will be emphasized in the context of resource sharing. Other topics such as concurrent processes and synchronization, deadlocks and security are also presented briefly. Furthermore, the students will get hands-on practical labs on modern Operating Systems including Linux and Windows. The advanced labs will introduce the practice of a scripting language to understand the various topics presented through the course outline.

CIT 201 Introduction to Programming 3 CH

BCE 442 Malware Analysis & Reverse Engineering 3 CH

This course teaches students how to reverse engineer legacy software systems using Ghidra and IDA to identify vulnerabilities and risks. Students will learn how to analyze the behavior of these systems using static and dynamic analysis techniques and use debugging techniques to troubleshoot issues. To demonstrate their skills, students will analyze a Windows executable using various techniques. In addition, the course will address x86 and x64 computer architectures, analyzing legacy software systems, reversing malware, static and dynamic analysis techniques, data encoding, debugging techniques, binary obfuscation techniques, and packing and encryption. 
The course emphasizes teamwork and collaboration in a group project where students will design and implement practical solutions for real-world malware analysis problems. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of legacy software systems and be equipped with the necessary tools to identify and address security threats.

CSCS 401 Mobile and Wireless Security (formerly Mobile Technology) 3 CH

BCE 200 / CSC 302 Network Essentials 3 CH

CSC-S 310 Network Security 3 CH

This course teaches students the fundamental principles and practices of network security. They will learn how to identify security threats and apply appropriate countermeasures to data link layer security threats. Students will also implement security protocols and standards at the network layer to mitigate risks and learn about encryption and decryption techniques to ensure data confidentiality. They will use security tools and technologies such as IDPS and VPN to secure network endpoints and systems to explore anonymity and pseudonymity techniques for user privacy law and compliance standards. The course will cover other topics including malware and social engineering attacks, host, application, and data security, administering a secure network, wireless network, and mobile device security, access control fundamentals, authentication and account management, business continuity, and vulnerability assessment. Throughout the course, students will work with their peers on a group project to implement a network security solution, applying the knowledge and skills they have acquired.

CET 210 Object Oriented Programming 3 CH

ITM 306 Server Operating System and Network Management 3 CH

Threats and Risks 11 CH

Mechatronics Engineering Core Courses

Engineering Core Courses

Thesis

Electives

Cloud Computing Security 3 CH

Cryptography for Security and Forensics 3 CH

Cyber Threat Intelligence 3 CH

Internet of Things 3 CH

Special Topics in Cybersecurity Engineering 15 CH

Comprehensive Exam

Dissertation

Research Seminar

Basic Health Science Courses

College Core Courses

Clinical Placement Courses

Semester by semester

Study Plan

Credit hours: 135
Duration: 5 years
Terms: 10

General Education 30 CH · 22%
College Mathematics & Science 27 CH · 20%
Engineering Core 72 CH · 53%
Electives 6 CH · 4%

Swipe to see each year →

Year 130 CH
Semester 115 CH
- — 3 CH General Education
- — 3 CH General Education
- — 3 CH Physics I Math & Science
- — 3 CH Calculus I Math & Science
- MTH 105 3 CH Probability and Statistics Math & Science
Semester 215 CH
- — 3 CH General Education
- — 3 CH Physics II Math & Science
- MTH 102 3 CH Calculus II Math & Science
- CIT 201 3 CH Introduction to Programming Engineering Core
- — 3 CH General Education
Year 230 CH
Semester 315 CH
- — 3 CH General Education
- MTH 200 3 CH Discrete Mathematics Math & Science
- CET 210 3 CH Object-Oriented Programming Engineering Core
- MTH 210 3 CH Linear Algebra Math & Science
- — 3 CH General Education
Semester 415 CH
- — 3 CH General Education
- — 3 CH Electrical and Electronic Circuits Engineering Core
- BCE 212 3 CH Data Structures and Algorithms Engineering Core
- BCE 200 / CSC 302 3 CH Network Essentials Engineering Core
- — 3 CH General Education
Year 330 CH
Semester 515 CH
- — 3 CH General Education
- CET 240 / CSC 201 3 CH Digital Logic Design Engineering Core
- — 3 CH Differential Equations Math & Science
- — 3 CH Cybersecurity Fundamentals Engineering Core
- CET 346 3 CH Introduction to Operating Systems Engineering Core
Semester 615 CH
- — 3 CH General Education
- — 3 CH Data Communication Engineering Core
- CSC 310 3 CH Numerical Analysis Math & Science
- — 3 CH Information Security & Ethics Engineering Core
- CSC 312 3 CH Introduction to Cryptography Engineering Core
Year 430 CH
Semester 715 CH
- — 3 CH Embedded Systems Design Engineering Core
- CSC-S 310 3 CH Network Security Engineering Core
- — 3 CH Threats & Risks Management Engineering Core
- CET 470 3 CH Artificial Intelligence Engineering Core
- CSCS 403 3 CH Introduction to Computer Forensics Engineering Core
Semester 815 CH
- CET 444 3 CH Computer Architecture and Organization Engineering Core
- — 3 CH Elective (Elective)
- — 3 CH Mobile & Wireless Security Engineering Core
- BCE 442 3 CH Malware Analysis & Reverse Engineering Engineering Core
- ITM 306 3 CH Server Operating System and Network Management Engineering Core
Year 515 CH
Semester 96 CH
- — 3 CH Internship Engineering Core
- — 3 CH Capstone I Engineering Core
Semester 109 CH
- — 3 CH Capstone II Engineering Core
- — 3 CH Ethical Hacking Engineering Core
- — 3 CH Elective (Elective)

Study Plan - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering

What we aim for

Program Goals

Excel in Professional Careers: Graduates will excel as cybersecurity engineers, utilizing their expertise to secure complex digital systems and networks across diverse industries while adapting to evolving challenges and technologies.
Design and Implement Secure Solutions: Graduates will lead and contribute to the development of innovative, secure computing systems and processes that address technical, societal, and ethical challenges effectively.
Contribute to Global Cybersecurity Efforts: Graduates will uphold professional and ethical standards, contributing to the global advancement of secure and sustainable digital infrastructures by addressing security risks and threats.
Engage in Lifelong Learning: Graduates will commit to continuous professional development and education, staying current with emerging cybersecurity technologies, tools, and practices.
Lead Multidisciplinary Teams: Graduates will communicate effectively and work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating leadership in designing, implementing, and managing cybersecurity solutions.

What you will learn

Program Learning Outcomes

Identify, formulate, analyze, and solve complex cybersecurity engineering problems by applying principles of computing, engineering, mathematics, and science in the context of secure systems and networks.
Design, apply, implement, and evaluate secure computing systems, processes, and programs by integrating knowledge from cybersecurity, computer science, mathematics, and engineering to meet desired needs, considering security requirements, user experience, legal, ethical, and societal implications.
Utilize appropriate techniques, skills, and modern tools necessary for secure computing, cryptography, data analysis, and risk management, applying scientific and mathematical principles in developing and defending against cyber threats.
Develop and conduct appropriate experiments, simulations, and testing protocols related to cybersecurity systems, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering and scientific judgment to draw conclusions and improve security measures.
Communicate effectively in both written and oral forms with diverse audiences, including technical and non-technical stakeholders, to ensure that cybersecurity risks, solutions, and impacts are clearly understood, fostering collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.
Recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in cybersecurity and computer science, and make informed decisions that consider global, economic, legal, environmental, and societal impacts of security measures and breaches.
Recognize the need for continuous learning and professional development by engaging in lifelong learning strategies to stay current with emerging technologies in cybersecurity, computer science, mathematics, and related fields.

Requirements

Program Requirements

Admission Requirements

High School Average: 80%
Subject-specific Competencies: Mathematics 80%, Physics 80%, one subject from (Chemistry 80% or Biology 80%).
IELTS: Minimum band score of 5.0 or TOEFL IBT: Minimum score of 61 or ITB 500
Placement Tests: All applicants are required to complete placement tests in mathematics, physics, information technology, and English (writing) to assess readiness for the program’s technical coursework.
Admission Interviews: Prospective students may be invited for an interview to evaluate their motivation, technical background, and alignment with program goals.

Career Opportunities

Endless Career Opportunities: With a degree in Cybersecurity Engineering, you’ll be prepared to step into roles such as:

- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Ethical Hacker
- Digital Forensics Specialist
- Cybersecurity Architect
- Network Security Engineer
- Cyber Threat Intelligence Specialist

FAQ

1. What makes our Program Unique?

At AUE, we go beyond teaching the fundamentals of cybersecurity. We empower our students to become leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. Here's what sets our program apart: Future-Focused Curriculum: Designed with input from industry experts, our curriculum blends theory with practice, addressing real-world challenges in areas like cryptography, ethical hacking, artificial intelligence, digital forensics, and lot security. Experiential Learning: Our program emphasizes hands-on experience through advanced labs, simulated attack-defense scenarios, and real-world internships with leading companies and government organizations. Interdisciplinary Approach: Cybersecurity doesn't exist in a vacuum. Students gain expertise in programming, network security, data analysis, and ethical decision-making, ensuring they have the skills to solve complex problems in diverse industries. Capstone Projects & Internships: Engage in meaningful, real-world projects that allow you to apply your knowledge to developing innovative cybersecurity solutions. An internship requirement ensures you graduate job-ready with experience in the field. Global Perspective, Ethical Foundation: You will develop not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of the ethical, societal, and legal dimensions of cybersecurity, preparing you to lead responsibly in a globalized digital economy.

2. Who should join this Program?

Do you dream of being on the frontlines of digital defense? Are you passionate about solving complex problems and using technology for the greater good? If so, The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering at AUE is for you. Whether you are a tech enthusiast, a problem-solver, or someone inspired by the challenge of protecting digital ecosystems, this program will help you turn your passion into a rewarding career.

3. The Cybersecurity Advantage

A Degree with Global Demand: The world is facing a well-documented shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, there will be over 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs globally by 2025, highlighting the unprecedented demand for experts in this field. Similarly, the (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study reports that organizations across industries are struggling to fill critical roles in cybersecurity, making it one of the most secure and lucrative career paths today. Endless Career Opportunities: With a degree in Cybersecurity Engineering, you'll be prepared to step into roles such as: Cybersecurity Analyst Ethical Hacker Digital Forensics Specialist Cybersecurity Architect Network Security Engineer Cyber Threat Intelligence Specialist Whether it's protecting critical national infrastructure, securing multinational corporations, or innovating new tools to counteract cybercrime, the opportunities are limitless. Competitive Edge: Graduates of AUE's Cybersecurity Engineering program will be ready to meet the needs of industries ranging from finance and healthcare to government, defense, and tech startups.

4. Why AUE?

When you choose AUE's College of Engineering and Technology (CET), you're not just enrolling in a program-you're joining a university committed to excellence, innovation, and student success. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our cutting-edge cybersecurity labs provide an ideal environment for learning and innovation. Expert Faculty: Learn from industry leaders and researchers with extensive experience in the field. Global Connections: Benefit from AUE's partnerships with top-tier organizations, giving you access to internships, research opportunities, and a strong professional network. Support for Lifelong Learning: The program equips you with skills not only for today's challenges but also for evolving technologies and threats of tomorrow.

Become a Digital Defender

The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering at AUE is your pathway to becoming a leader in one of the most critical and high-demand professions of our time. With a curriculum designed to address real-world cybersecurity challenges and a commitment to fostering innovation and ethical responsibility, this program ensures you graduate ready to protect, innovate, and lead in a digital-first world. Step into the future. Become a trusted guardian of the digital age. Join The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering program at AUE today. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our cutting-edge cybersecurity labs provide an ideal environment for learning and innovation. Expert Faculty: Learn from industry leaders and researchers with extensive experience in the field. Global Connections: Benefit from AUE's partnerships with top-tier organizations, giving you access to internships, research opportunities, and a strong professional network. Support for Lifelong Learning: The program equips you with skills not only for today's challenges but also for evolving technologies and threats of tomorrow.

When can I join?

Three intakes every year

Students can join at the beginning of any semester.

Intake 01

September

Fall Semester

Intake 02

January

Spring Semester

Intake 03

May

Summer Semester

Keep exploring

Explore Other Programs

Program

Ready to plan your path?

Submit Your Application and Join AUE Today

Apply Now

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering

About the Program

Program Mission

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

135 Credit Hours

4 Years

English

70,400 AED/Yearly

Accreditations

Dr. Rami Ahmed

Program Structure

Courses & Descriptions

Study Plan

Year 130 CH

Semester 115 CH

Semester 215 CH

Year 230 CH

Semester 315 CH

Semester 415 CH

Year 330 CH

Semester 515 CH

Semester 615 CH

Year 430 CH

Semester 715 CH

Semester 815 CH

Year 515 CH

Semester 96 CH

Semester 109 CH

Program Goals

Program Learning Outcomes

Program Requirements

Admission Requirements

Three intakes every year

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

Summer Semester

Explore Other Programs

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering

Master in Knowledge Management

Master of Science in Al and Data Science

Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics

Bachelor of Science in Network Security