- The CyberFirst programme is backed by the UK’s NCSC and GCHQ
- Students will benefit from exclusive scholarships, internships and guaranteed job offers from GCHQ among others
- The partnership strengthens industry collaborations, offering real-world experience and research opportunities.
Aston Business School has officially joined the UK Government’s prestigious CyberFirst programme, an initiative backed by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ).
The programme aims to nurture the next generation of cyber security professionals and will provide Aston University students with exclusive opportunities to develop critical skills in one of the most important and rapidly-evolving fields.
CyberFirst is designed to inspire young people to pursue careers in cyber security and enhance the UK's ability to defend against cyber threats. As part of the programme, Aston Business School will have access to a range of resources, including scholarships, career opportunities, internships with government agencies and industry collaborations.
Financial support through CyberFirst scholarships and career development funding empowers students pursuing cyber security-related degrees, enabling them to focus on academic and professional excellence.
Additionally, the partnership fosters collaboration on cutting-edge cyber security research, enhancing Aston University’s academic offerings while contributing to national security.
CyberFirst participants also gain guaranteed job offers from GCHQ, significantly boosting their employability in the rapidly expanding cyber security sector.
Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, commented:
“I am delighted that Aston Business School has become an integral part of the CyberFirst programme.
“This partnership not only enhances our reputation as a leader in cyber security education but also aligns with our commitment to preparing students to successfully tackle the challenges of tomorrow's digital world.
“Cyber security is a priority area for the UK, and through CyberFirst, we can offer our students the expertise, resources and career pathways that will equip them to make a meaningful impact in the field.”
Professor Vladlena Benson, director of the Aston Centre for Cyber Security (CSI), said:
“Being accepted into the CyberFirst program opens up new opportunities for both our students and the Cyber Security Innovation Centre.
“It allows us to strengthen our research collaborations, offer hands-on training, and contribute to the development of cyber security solutions that address real-world challenges.
“We look forward to working closely with GCHQ, NCSC, and other industry leaders to continue advancing cyber security practices.”
Professor Marian Garcia, Dean of Aston Business School, added:
“This is a significant milestone for Aston Business School and for our students.
“CyberFirst brings a wealth of opportunities, including scholarships, placements, and guaranteed job offers with GCHQ.
“It strengthens our curriculum, allowing students to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in cyber security, which are in high demand across industries.
“We're excited to offer our students this exceptional advantage.”
- Notes to Editors
About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
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