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Information Assurance and Cybersecurity Director: Joshua C. Nwokeji, Ph.D.
INTRODUCTION Information Assurance has been one of the most dynamic fields in recent decades. With growing demand for computing professionals, the who wish to stay abreast of the rapidly changing technological world. Emphasis is placed on the development of the student’s skill for independent study and continued professional growth. Keeping our critical cyber infrastructure safe and secure while maintaining privacy is a major concern. The report by Cybersecurity Ventures [1] predicts that there will be 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions globally by 2021. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has also predicted that the current number of cybersecurity job openings is up. Every cybersecurity worker needs to be equipped with cybersecurity concepts and know-how to protect and defend apps, data, networks, devices, critical systems, infrastructure, and people. This program is aimed to is filling the void and designed for professionals who work full-time. It provides post bachelor’s academic credentials for their success leading to targeted industryrecognized certifications. Each of the two certificates targets professionals holding a nontechnical undergraduate or graduate degree and looking to improve their knowledge in cybersecurity, increase their job prospects, or take the first step towards a graduate degree in the cybersecurity field.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES At the conclusion of any of the programs of study leading to the degree of Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity, the graduate is able to: IA&C-1. Identify patterns in cybersecurity intrusion detection and preventing techniques. IA&C-2. Manage large-scale network management and security implementation on ground and cloud and the practical issues surrounding how the data privacy and security. IA&C-3. Able to use creativity, critical thinking, and analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems in cybersecurity field. IA&C-4. Recognize professional responsibilities including and make informed decisions in cybersecurity practice. IA&C-5. Communicate competently in a variety of cybersecurity professional contexts. IA&C-6. Provide a research or development contribution or development of value to the profession, industry or society
DEGREE OFFERED The program offers a Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity (MS-IAC) degree.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 1. An applicant must present a baccalaureate degree with a GPA of at least 2.5/4.0. 2. Completed graduate application 3. Complete resume 4. Transcripts from all prior institutions 5. Three letters of recommendation 6. TOEFL scores if English is not a first language Factors for consideration include work experience in related areas of CIS and letters of recommendation. A committee appointed by the department chairperson will review applications for admission.
ADMINISTRATION Retention is contingent on maintaining at least a 3.0 grade point average (GPA). The course work is expected to be completed within two years for full-time students and within six years for part-time students. The degree requirements are at least thirty credit hours of study. The program is intended to be offered in both face-to-face and online delivery mode, and typically includes completion of both the Cybersecurity Essentials Certificate and the Information Systems Security Certificate as part of completing the program. the faceto-face delivery mode, academic semester consists of fourteen to fifteen weeks of instruction, including one week for final exams. The courses are scheduled as regular sessions and classes meet in rooms appropriate for the course being taught. Courses requiring the use of lab equipment as part of their instructional model are taught in computer teaching labs and may include an additional lab fee. In online delivery mode, each academic semester typically consists of fourteen weeks with two courses offered in sequence. The courses are scheduled as regular online, 7-week courses. Courses requiring the use of lab equipment as part of their instructional model are taught in with distributable software/licenses and/or simulations. Courses requiring these additional materials may include a modest course fee. The University’s policy is that a master’s degree program must be completed within six years of taking the first course. Only the Program Director and/or the Dean can grant exceptions.
