Distance Education and Training for Security Specialists

The importance of computers and online networks in society today has increased demand for information security specialists. Those interested in becoming information technology professionals in the realm of data security can acquire the necessary skills by enrolling in a distance-learning program. Professionals already working in the field can improve their skills through online graduate programs. Qualified individuals can also pursue advanced training and certification.

Career Description for Security Specialists

Security specialists provide critical protection and support to computer networks and information. Using encryption tools and security protocols, they ensure that only authorized individuals are able to access content. Businesses, schools and hospitals hire such professionals to ensure the safety of their networks and data. Security specialists are may also be members of law enforcement who address cyber crime and identity theft. They also work for government agencies such as Homeland Security by encrypting and guarding crucial virtual information infrastructures.

Distance-Education Programs for Security Specialists

Those interested in studying information security through distance-education programs must have reliable Internet connections, newer computers and solid computer skills. Most online courses host components via video streaming and live chat. Online information security programs are usually intended to enhance the skills of professionals already employed in the technology industry, which means that entry-level programs are rare.

Associate's Degree Level

While earning a bachelor's or graduate degree is the most common training for information security specialists, a growing number of community colleges are offering associate's degrees in computer information security. These programs allow aspiring security specialists to acquire foundational skills in information technology. They also prepare students to transfer to 4-year colleges or for entry-level employment in technology departments. Some associate's degrees in this field are available online.

Bachelor's Degree Level

At the baccalaureate level, prospective security specialists often study computer science or information technology in a broad sense, although some programs offer specialties in security systems and information management. Non-specialized programs are more consistently available through distance-education divisions.
These undergraduate programs usually start with an introduction to computers and teach students to use a variety of hardware, software and operating systems. They also provide instruction in programming for the computer and for the Web. Students build on these basic skills in courses that cover network defenses, infrastructure security and the management of servers and networks. Most information security programs also require a class in ethics for the information age.

Graduate-Level Certificate

Those holding bachelor's degrees who do not wish to enroll in a master-level program may prefer to pursue a graduate-level certificate in information assurance. The program may be available online and comproses classes in information system security, advanced protocols, network security and information warfare. Students also take a class in cryptography or steganography.

Master's Degree Level

Graduate-level programs are more likely to focus specifically on information security than undergraduate programs. Online master's degree programs assume that applicants already have solid programming abilities and familiarity with a variety of computer systems, servers and software. Specialized certification or previous experience in an IT field is also looked upon favorably by admissions boards.
Students usually take 30 credits of classes in areas such as legal issues and ethics, computer security, information warfare and advanced computer networking. They then choose from electives including steganography and watermarking, cryptography, wireless security and computer forensics. Graduates are prepared for advanced computer and information security positions; security specialists are much more competitive in the job market with a master's degree.

Certification Information for Security Specialists

Another online training option is a course sequence that prepares the students for the CompTIA™ Security+ certification exam. This certification is a recognized designation in the information industry, showing that the holder has obtained proficiency in managing network infrastructures and system security. Most exam preparation programs recommend students have a minimum of two years' experience in network management.
The 80-hour preparation course focuses on how protocol weaknesses are exploited and ways those weaknesses can be reduced or eliminated. Students work with TCP/IP protocols and the Windows, Linux and UNIX operating systems. Topics include file integrity checking, packet filtering and password policies.