Launching Digital4Security: A groundbreaking European master’s programme in cybersecurity

Digital4Security was officially launched in October 2023 as a pioneering pan-European master’s programme, designed to tackle the increasing challenges of cybersecurity threats and data privacy issues across various industries. With funding from the European Union, this four-year, €20 million project has attracted the support of a Consortium of 35 partners across 14 countries. The launch event, hosted by Politecnica University of Bucharest, represented a crucial step forward in combating the escalating digital threats. This industry-led programme will equip European SMEs and companies with thorough knowledge in cybersecurity management, regulatory compliance, and technical expertise.

A programme for a constantly evolving digital landscape

At the launch, Programme Director and Dean of the Faculty of Automatic Control and Computers at UPB, Mihnea Moisescu, commended the global commitment and vision of all partner organisations, stating that such a transformative programme is “highly relevant today because the digital landscape is constantly evolving, and cyber threats are on the rise”.

Tudor Prisecaru, the State Secretary with the Romanian Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitalisation, highlighted that “Cybersecurity is a global concern” impacting everyone from individuals to businesses, large organisations, and national security.

He remarked at the event: “A master’s programme offers students the chance to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation in the field of cybersecurity. Graduates from master’s programmes in cybersecurity can contribute significantly to the global effort to tackle these issues. It is crucial to raise awareness about cybersecurity best practices. A master’s programme can provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to educate others on staying safe in the digital world.”

DIGITAL Europe Programme

Digital4Security receives funding from the EU’s flagship DIGITAL Europe Programme, which allocates €7.5 billion of funding to accelerate economic recovery and shape the digital transformation of Europe’s society.

DIGITALEurope Project Communications Officer, Irene Marinelli, stated the launch came at an opportune time. She said: “The necessity to recruit, retain and sustain a sufficient number of cybersecurity professionals in Europe has become increasingly urgent today. The kick-off meeting for the Digital4Security project was an excellent opportunity to commence the 4-year collaboration with partners and lay the groundwork for an innovative and market-driven European Masters Programme in Cybersecurity Management & Data Sovereignty.”

The project stands out as a highly market-driven sustainable European cybersecurity master’s programme aimed at bridging the growing cybersecurity skills gap within European industries and public sector organisations. It will concentrate on the needs and demands of the industry, and develop Europe-wide cybersecurity knowledge through a unique blend of academic accreditation and industry certification.