New Cyber Security Top-Up Launch Strengthens Sheffield Hallam-Horizon, Sri Lanka Education Partnership

Announced in 2026, the collaboration marked Sheffield Hallam University's first partnership in Sri Lanka for more than a decade and was established with an ambition to expand into key disciplines including engineering, computing, business and health.

We are now excited to share the launch of the Cyber Security Top-Up programme which represents a significant milestone in that vision, providing a specialist pathway into one of the world's fastest-growing and most in-demand professions.

This exciting development builds on the successful first phase of the partnership, which introduced programmes in Quantity Surveying and Construction Project Management, and reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to deliver high-quality, internationally recognised education aligned with evolving industry needs.

Designed to widen participation in higher education, the BSc (Hon) Cyber Security Top-Up offers an innovative progression route for technology professionals and Higher National Diploma (HND) holders from any computing discipline who aspire to build a career in cyber security. Learners holding an HND in general computing disciplines can access the programme through a dedicated bridging pathway commencing in October 2026, while those holding an HND in Cyber Security can gain direct entry to the top-up programme from March 2027.

The programme has been developed to meet growing industry demand for cyber security expertise and equips students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to protect organisations from an increasingly complex cyber threat landscape. Through a blend of hands-on learning, applied projects and industry-focused assessments, students will develop expertise in penetration testing, information security management, cyber incident detection and response, digital forensics, and the secure management of enterprise applications and infrastructure.

Students will engage with contemporary cyber security tools, platforms and technologies commonly used by industry professionals, gaining experience in areas such as vulnerability assessment, security monitoring, network defence, incident investigation, ethical hacking methodologies, cloud and enterprise security, and security governance frameworks. This practical exposure ensures graduates are equipped with the technical competencies and professional mindset needed to contribute effectively from day one in security operations centres, IT security teams and cyber consultancy environments.

The modules have been designed to develop highly sought-after skills in threat identification, risk assessment, forensic investigation, security policy implementation, and the protection of organisational assets and critical infrastructure.

The launch is particularly timely as Sri Lanka accelerates investment in digital transformation and cyber resilience through its five-year National Cyber Protection Strategy. Across the globe, organisations continue to face a significant shortage of qualified cyber security professionals, creating strong demand for graduates with specialist cyber security knowledge and practical experience. As governments and businesses increase investment in cyber defence capabilities, the need for skilled professionals who can secure systems, investigate incidents and manage cyber risk has never been greater.

By combining Sheffield Hallam University's internationally recognised degree with the strong local delivery expertise of Horizon Campus, the partnership provides Sri Lankan learners with access to world-class education and career-enhancing opportunities without leaving the country (also see).

As the partnership continues to expand, the launch of the BSc (Hon) Cyber Security Top-Up demonstrates how both institutions are responding proactively to emerging workforce needs, helping to close critical cyber security skills gaps while developing the next generation of digital security professionals for Sri Lanka and beyond.