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Master
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Security and Network Engineering

Study programme

The Master’s in Security and Network Engineering (SNE) is the only academic programme in The Netherlands that focuses on understanding, developing, maintaining, and securing complex IT systems and networks. It poses crucial questions like: How do you integrate various software components within a complex architecture to create a safe and efficiently functioning system?

The curriculum and courses

This one-year Master's programme Security and Network Engineering consists of eight courses (all 6 EC) and two research projects,divided into two focus areas: Networking and Security. You will follow the courses of the two focus areas in parallel. Each day typically starts with theoretical courses in the morning, followed by related practical assignments in the afternoon. To enhance learning, guest lecturers are frequently invited to provide insights into cutting-edge research and industry practices.  

Compulsory courses

The programme contains the following core courses (all 6 EC):

  • Classical Internet Applications
  • Security of Systems and Networks
  • Large Systems
  • Offensive Technologies

Focus areas

The other courses are divided into two focus areas which you follow in parallel.

  • Networking

    ​​​​​​​Networking. This area delves into the architecture and protocols of layers two, three and four of the Internet TCP/IP stack, blending theory with hands-on experience. 

    • Internetworking and Routing: Learn about switching and routing in local and wide-area networks, covering layer 2 switching, RIP, OSPF, and BGP. You will create your own Autonomous System and set up peering with other students via our private Internet Exchange.
    • Advanced Networking: Explore TCP, optical and wireless transmission, programmable networks, and more. A highlight is designing your own 10 Gbps network using carrier-grade routers and switches.
    • Classical Internet Applications: Study the history of internet protocols like DNS and DNSSEC, and cover essential services like email and web, alongside basic computer architecture.
  • Security

    Security. Focusing on all aspects of security, and forensic intelligence and analysis, this area teaches you to trace digital evidence on all levels, from a single computer to a large network.  

    • Cybercrime and Forensics: Learn how to conduct forensic data acquisition from ICT infrastructures as you learn to document digital evidence that will hold up in court. 

    • Advanced Security: Explore malware, radio-based technologies (GSM, Bluetooth, ZigBee), mobile OS security, and how to manage effective incident response teams.  

    • Offensive Technologies: This course covers security vulnerabilities in physical, network, database, and application layers. You’ll perform hands-on analysis of real-life attacks, hacking, monitoring, and defensive strategies.  

Research projects

You will complete two research projects (6 EC each): the first in January (either individually or with a partner) and the second in June, which will culminate in your Master’s thesis These projects provide the opportunity to work with respected academic institutes and relevant organisations, applying your skills in a professional context.

Detailed course information

For detailed information regarding the curriculum and courses, please see the UvA Course Catalogue via the link below. 

UvA Course Catalogue - Security and Network Engineering

Why choose Security and Network Engineering

SNE is a unique programme that stands out for the following reasons: 

  • It embraces the OS3 principle (Open Standard, Open Software, and Open Security), with openness and knowledge-sharing as core values. 
  • You’ll receive individual guidance from top-notch lecturers with extensive industry and research experience. 
  • The programme fosters strong social cohesion among a motivated, skilled, and international student body. 
  • You’ll have access to the SNE Lab, a uniquely designed facility that supports practical assignments and real-world experience. 
  • The focus on Networking and Security provides a balanced and in-depth understanding of both fields. 
  • You’ll benefit from guest lectures by leading professionals from consultancy firms, financial institutions, and research institutes. 
  • You’ll participate in an international field trip, visiting key organisations like CERN in Switzerland, to gain insight into cutting-edge projects and build relationships with your peers. 

Educational guidance

The SNE programme offers intensive, personal mentoring. A dedicated team of three lecturers is always available to support you with any questions or challenges that arise during your studies. In addition, a practical instructor is on-hand in the SNE lab during practical assignments.

Part-time study

The programme is also available in a part-time format, allowing you to complete the curriculum over two years instead of one. This option is ideal for professionals who want to balance work and study, requiring two and a half days of attendance in Amsterdam each week. However, please note that due to visa requirements, students from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland cannot enrol in the part-time programme.

Accreditation and title

This Master's programme is accredited by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO). Upon successful completion of the programme (a total of 60 EC), you will be awarded your Master's degree in Security and Network Engineering and the title of Master of Science (MSc).