One of the continuing challenges facing society is the security and protection of information assets. Recent attacks on the nation's information technology infrastructure highlight the need for information security. In a 2003 CSI/FBI survey, 92 percent of respondents had detected computer security breaches in the previous year and 75 percent reported financial losses as a result. The events of September 11 accelerated longstanding concerns about the threat of cyberterrorism and the vulnerability of the nation's information systems and communications networks. As a result, there is a recognized need for professionals trained in information security and assurance to address these issues.

About the Program: Program Overview Program Prerequisite Curriculum Application Procedures Tuition Program Location

Program Overview
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Security and Assurance degree program at Robert Morris University prepares information technology professionals to recognize and combat information systems threats and vulnerabilities. The degree cultivates an appropriate knowledge of computer security, increasing the likelihood that the next generation of IT workers will have the background needed to design and develop systems that are engineered to be reliable and secure.

Course work covers the administration, management and technologies of information security. In this program, you will learn to:

• Describe threats to information security
• Identify tools and techniques for combating these threats
• Explain integral parts of good information security practices
• Understand issues related to access control
• Understand principles of good information security policies
• Develop information security policies
• Understand technical details of common countermeasures
• Evaluate countermeasures and understand appropriate use
• Create deployment plans for countermeasures
• Apply technical knowledge to simulated deployment issues
• Create deployment plans including impact and risk management

Program Prerequisite
A prerequisite for this program is coursework in either C++ or Java programming. This prerequisite can be satisfied by demonstrating a "C" grade or better in an equivalent undergraduate course or by successfully completing an approved undergraduate course at Robert Morris University.

Curriculum
The M.S. in Information Security and Assurance is a 30-credit degree program comprised of 21 credits of required courses and nine credits chosen from advanced communications and information systems electives.

Core Courses - 21 credits

Choose three graduate-level courses from selected communications and information systems offerings.

Application Procedures

Students should submit the following credentials to the Graduate Admissions Office:

1. A completed application and a non-refundable $35 application fee. Or apply online for free.
2. Official undergraduate transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
3. Two current letters of recommendation.
4. A current résumé.
5. A brief essay outlining goals for the program.

Tuition (2007-08)
Tuition information can be found at Tuition & Fee Schedules . The tuition rate includes all University fees except fees for courses that have an online component.

Program Location
Offered in both Moon Township and downtown Pittsburgh.