The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) has announced the launch of two new postgraduate degrees in cybersecurity: the Bachelor of Science Honours (BScHons) in Cybersecurity and the Master of Science (MSc) in Cybersecurity. These fully accredited programmes are designed to develop highly skilled professionals to address evolving cyberthreats and safeguard Africa’s digital landscape.
The application deadline for both degrees is December 31, and prospective students can apply via the Wits online application system.
🎓 Program Focus and Scope
These degrees combine rigorous academic foundations with real-world applications, preparing graduates for advanced careers in cybersecurity, data protection, and trustworthy AI.
According to Professor Richard Klein, Deputy Head of the Wits School of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, the curricula will focus on:
- Advanced Cybersecurity Principles and Technologies
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Digital Security
- Ethical and Legal Aspects of Information Security
- Applied Research addressing local and global cybersecurity challenges.
🤝 Strategic Global and Local Partnerships
The programs are delivered in collaboration with two globally recognized organizations, ensuring students gain globally relevant skills and practical insights:
| Partner | Origin | Role and Value |
| CISPA Helmholtz Centre for Information Security | Germany (Research Centre) | Provides global expertise, fosters joint research, academic exchanges, and co-supervision of students. |
| MWR CyberSec | South Africa (Cybersecurity Company) | Offers industry insights, strengthens local resilience against cyberthreats, and helps build the next generation of experts. |
The collaboration with CISPA was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a framework for joint research, academic exchanges, and co-supervision in fields including cybersecurity, AI, machine learning, and cryptography.
Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, emphasized that these partnerships address “one of the defining challenges of our time,” creating pathways for students to engage with global expertise while serving the urgent cybersecurity needs of society. The initiative is expected to strengthen South Africa’s ability to protect critical infrastructure and contribute to the country’s growing digital economy.
