Students considering enrolling in an online
degree program for information security have several options. Students
can choose to earn an associate's, bachelor's or master's degree program
in information security or a related field.
This program provides students with an overview of the tasks and
duties required of information security professionals. Course material
introduces students to security infrastructure issues and solutions for
computer, data and voice network technology. Program topics include
change and risk management, legal issues, security policies and
best-in-practice defense measures. Students will gain the skills to
identify recent trends in information security and implement real world
situations.
Admission to an online associate's degree information security
program is open to high school graduates and working adults who are
considering a career change. Some schools offer joint-credit programs
for students currently enrolled in high school. Courses can be taken
strictly online or in a hybrid format with some classes offered online
and others completed on campus. Programs take anywhere from two to three
years to complete.
Course delivery includes live online classes and tutors, uploaded
material, textbooks, streaming video and prerecorded training sessions.
This course introduces students to information technology topics,
including network structures, hardware used and common software
applications. Students learn how information technology is molded by,
and affects, business today. Topics include computer design,
configuration and maintenance, software installation and removal,
operating systems and network configuration.
Network Security Course
This class provides students with a basic knowledge of computer
network security topics. Topics discussed include common terminology web
server, DSN and email security, cryptography, firewalls, intrusion
reporting and avoidance software and disaster recovery tactics.
In May 2009, the median annual salary for information security workers was $67,710 (
www.bls.gov)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for
information security personnel is expected to increase from the time
period 2008 to 2018. It is predicted that this field will grow by more
than 30%, which is considerably faster than the national average growth
rate of seven percent.
While enrolled in online information security degree courses, many
schools grant students professional certificates as coursework is
completed. Examples of certificates titles include Network Security
Specialist and Linux Security Specialist. Program graduates may also
consider pursuing a bachelor's degree in information technology.
This degree program prepares provides students with the training and
skills necessary to enter the information technology security field or
to improve their skills for career advancement. The program covers areas
related to information security such as network infrastructures, web
server configuration, system monitoring and database management.
Although this degree program does not require students to have a
background in information technology, those who already have a basic
understanding of computer systems will have an easier time understanding
course material. Many schools offer flexible schedules to accommodate
working adults.
Although the majority of coursework emphasizes security processes and
procedures, many programs also include business writing and management
courses.
Computer Crimes Course
This class exposes students to the various crimes committed over the
Internet, including e-mail scams, phishing, hacking and distribution of
malware. Students will learn how to detect and counter these and other
attacks.
Technical Writing Course
In this course, students learn the various types and appropriate
formats for technical documents. Upon completion of the course, students
will have the skills to research and write technical documents.
In May 2009, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the top
paying states for information security personnel were New Jersey,
Maryland, California, the District of Columbia and New York (
www.bls.gov).
Professionals in New Jersey realized an average wage of $81,160 per
year while New York residents earned an annual salary of $78,960 per
year. Maryland, California and the District of Columbia works earned
wages between $79,000 and $81,000 per year.
Many schools incorporate industry specific certificates as part of
their curriculum. Some certificates include Microsoft Certified
Technology Specialist (MCTS) CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+ and Cisco
Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security Certification. Students
interested in furthering their education may want to consider a master's
degree in information technology.
A master's degree in information security teaches students how to
apply their technical understanding of system security toward a
leadership role within an organization. Students learn how to prepare,
implement and manage an organizational security plan. While information
security is the primary focus of this degree program, students will
learn how to oversee hardware and software upgrades and manage an
organization's computer and information technology needs.
Successful completion of a bachelor's degree in a computer related
field is required for admission to a master's degree program in
information security. Students can opt to take courses online or in a
combination of online and in-person classes. Most programs can be
completed in two years.
Computer Privacy and Ethics Course
This course covers the ethical and legal issues of information
security. Legal topics include a review of the Digital Millenium
Copyright Act, HIPAA compliance, the Telecommunications Decency Act and
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Ethical topics address privacy and user rights.
Computer Cryptography Course
Material in this course provides students with an introduction to
computer cryptography, including digital certificates and signatures,
encryption formats, Discrete Logarithm. Network and website protocols
and applications are also discussed.
In 2009, the median salary for
information systems managers was $113,720 (
www.bls.gov).
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of
information systems managers will grow by 17% from 2008 to 2018. This
growth is faster than the national average for all occupations.
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