Course Structure and Electives
The Cyber Security program at Alard University Pune is meticulously structured to provide a comprehensive foundation followed by advanced specialization. The curriculum spans 8 semesters with a blend of core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and hands-on laboratory sessions.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CS101 | Introduction to Computing | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | CS102 | Mathematics for CS | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | CS103 | Programming Fundamentals | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| 1 | CS104 | Basics of Computer Networks | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | CS105 | Computer Organization & Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | CS201 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 3-0-0-3 | CS103 |
| 2 | CS202 | Operating Systems | 3-0-0-3 | CS105 |
| 2 | CS203 | Database Management Systems | 3-0-0-3 | CS201 |
| 2 | CS204 | Network Security Fundamentals | 3-0-0-3 | CS104 |
| 2 | CS205 | Discrete Mathematics | 3-0-0-3 | CS102 |
| 3 | CS301 | Cryptography and Network Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS204 |
| 3 | CS302 | Security Architecture and Design | 3-0-0-3 | CS201 |
| 3 | CS303 | Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering | 3-0-0-3 | CS201 |
| 3 | CS304 | Digital Forensics | 3-0-0-3 | CS205 |
| 3 | CS305 | Web Application Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS201 |
| 4 | CS401 | AI for Cyber Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS301 |
| 4 | CS402 | Mobile Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS305 |
| 4 | CS403 | Cloud Computing Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS202 |
| 4 | CS404 | Incident Response and Forensic Investigation | 3-0-0-3 | CS304 |
| 4 | CS405 | Risk Management in IT | 3-0-0-3 | CS302 |
| 5 | CS501 | Advanced Ethical Hacking Techniques | 3-0-0-3 | CS401 |
| 5 | CS502 | Penetration Testing Lab | 0-0-6-3 | CS301 |
| 5 | CS503 | Secure Software Development | 3-0-0-3 | CS203 |
| 5 | CS504 | Cyber Threat Intelligence | 3-0-0-3 | CS401 |
| 5 | CS505 | Compliance and Governance in Cyber Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS405 |
| 6 | CS601 | Cybersecurity Research Project | 0-0-8-4 | CS502 |
| 6 | CS602 | Internship | 0-0-0-12 | - |
| 7 | CS701 | Capstone Project | 0-0-10-6 | CS601 |
| 7 | CS702 | Advanced Topics in Cyber Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS504 |
| 8 | CS801 | Final Year Project | 0-0-12-8 | CS701 |
| 8 | CS802 | Specialized Elective I | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 8 | CS803 | Specialized Elective II | 3-0-0-3 | - |
Each departmental elective course is designed to enhance students' understanding of specialized domains within cyber security. For example, the course on 'AI for Cyber Security' introduces students to machine learning models that can detect anomalies in network traffic, while 'Mobile Security' delves into the challenges of securing mobile applications and devices.
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
- Cryptography and Network Security: This course covers symmetric and asymmetric encryption methods, hash functions, digital signatures, and public key infrastructure (PKI). Students will learn how to implement cryptographic protocols in secure communication systems.
- Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering: Designed to equip students with the skills needed to analyze malicious software, identify vulnerabilities, and develop countermeasures against cyber threats. The course includes hands-on labs using disassemblers and debuggers.
- Digital Forensics: Focuses on collecting, preserving, analyzing, and presenting digital evidence in legal proceedings. Students will gain practical experience with forensic tools and techniques used in incident response scenarios.
- Web Application Security: Explores common web vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and CSRF attacks. The course emphasizes secure coding practices and the use of security frameworks.
- Cloud Computing Security: Addresses security challenges specific to cloud environments, including identity management, access control, and data protection. Students will learn about cloud security models and best practices for securing cloud infrastructures.
The department's philosophy on project-based learning is rooted in real-world relevance and collaborative innovation. Mini-projects are assigned at the end of each semester to reinforce core concepts and encourage creative problem-solving. The final-year thesis or capstone project allows students to explore a specific area of interest within cyber security, guided by faculty mentors who are experts in their respective fields.
Project Structure and Evaluation
Mini-projects span 2-3 weeks and require students to apply theoretical knowledge to solve practical problems. These projects are evaluated based on technical execution, documentation quality, and presentation skills. The final-year project is a substantial endeavor that involves research, development, and deployment of a cyber security solution.
Students select their project topics in consultation with faculty members, ensuring alignment with current industry trends and personal interests. Faculty mentors guide students through the research process, from initial concept development to final implementation and presentation.