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Computer Security Programs

Computer security program train you for a career in cyber security, protection of data and other vital information. Computer security professionals protect computer systems from cyber attacks and play a critical role in the nation's national security. For this reason, they are employed by governmental organizations like the Homeland Security Department as well as private organizations.
 

Cyber security: A National Security Issue

Cyber crimes, cyber espionage and cyber attacks are not abstract notions anymore. Cyber attacks are not just confined to attacking and stealing data and other vital information for one company's computer network alone. The problem has assumed greater proportions and more worrying dimensions now. Government's national security organizations have been the subject of such attacks. How lethal and destructive cyber attacks could become can be gauged from a fact that a company which has spent years to establish itself can be destroyed in seconds. Cyber attacks go beyond stealing data of a company's finances, business plans, customers' names and information. Malicious software on your computer can send your personal and family's information including photographs to an attacker whose identity you may never find out.

 

Importance of Computer Security Professionals

Computer security professionals are in greater demand today than ever before and not just because of increasing cyber crimes. Cyber crimes are still not understood properly and what is more worrying, poorly dealt with.
 

Information Security Analysts

They plan and execute security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. More specifically they perform the following duties:


  • Monitor computer networks for security breaches and investigate them
  • Install and run software to protect vital information
  • Prepare reports for the company's top management on cyber attacks and the extent of their damage
  • Run checks on computer networks and assess their vulnerabilities
  • Keep abreast with the latest technological advancements in the field
  • Develop and maintain standards for the best computer security practices in the company
  • Recommend better computer security arrangements to the company's top management
  • Help others install security products on their computers

Computer Security Certificates

Non-degree programs like certificates are available in computer security which is offered by many organizations as well as colleges and universities. Some of the advantages of enrolling in a certificate program are,
 

  • Enhance your employability
  • Shorter in duration
  • Less expensive than a college degree
  • Endorse an individual's specific technical skills

There is a long list of certificates offered in computer security. For example, take a look at the Department of Homeland Security's National Initiative for Cyber Security Careers and Studies (NICCS) for certificate names and their description.

Computer Security Degrees

An associate degree in computer security will prepare you for an entry-level position as a network security specialist, security technician or system security technician. The degree can be completed in 2 years and some of the courses offered may be titled as:
 

  • Computer Applications
  • Web Interface Design
  • Logic and Design
  • UNIX Administration
  • Windows Client and Server
  • Network Security Concepts
  • Introduction to Routing and Switching
  • Networking I-II

The two main admission requirements for this degree are a high school diploma or its equivalent and SAT scores. If you are however seeking enrollment in a community college, then you may not need to take the SAT.

Bachelor's degree in Computer Networks and Security

Bachelor's degree in computer security may prepare students for a career as network security analysts, systems administrators and network managers. The program may focus on the technologies, operational procedures, policies and techniques needed to design, administer, implement, and secure computer networks.

A bachelor's degree in computer security is generally a 4-year, 120 credit hours degree, in which 33 credit hours are taken in the major courses. Some of the core requirements may be satisfied after the successful completion of:
 

  • Fundamentals of Computer Troubleshooting
  • Fundamentals of Networking
  • Network Security
  • Interconnecting Cisco Devices
  • Installing and Configuring Windows Server
  • Current Trends and Projects in Computer Networks and Security

Admission requirements for the degree are generally the following:

  • A high school diploma or its equivalent
  • Cumulative grade-point average (GPA)
  • SAT scores
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose

Master of Science in Computer Science with Specialization in Computer Security

A master's degree in computer security is ideally for those already in the field, looking to further enhance their skills in securing operation of computer systems, and interested in research, development and deployment of computer security. Those who successfully complete the degree may be eligible to hold managerial positions and other positions of greater responsibility and leadership within their organization.

The following may serve as general admission requirements for admission into the program:
 

  • An undergraduate degree in computer science, math or engineering
  • Cumulative undergraduate GPA
  • GRE test scores
  • Statement of purpose
  • Letters of recommendation
    • The degree may be completed by full-time students in one and half years to two years. Some of the required computer security courses may be titled as:

  • Software Architecture?
  • Software Engineering
  • Analysis of Algorithms
  • Advanced Operating Systems
  • Computer Communications
  • Applied Cryptography
  • Security Systems
    • Students may select from some of the following electives:
  • Database Systems
  • Web Technologies
  • Introduction to Cryptography

Online Computer Security Degree

An increasing number of colleges and universities are offering non-degree and degree programs in computer security online. For example, all of the abovementioned programs are also available online. Online education or distance learning is ideally for those who cannot commute to campus for whatever reason. But there are pros and cons to enrolling in an online program as well.

Some of the benefits associated with distance learning programs is as follows,
 

  • Convenience - You may be able to study from home; make your own study schedule; may be allowed more time to complete the degree
  • Cost effective - Some students may find online education to be cheaper than traditional education
  • Employability - An online degree from an accredited university may be as valuable as the degree from a traditional university
    • Computer security programs are offered all across the United States both in the traditional educational format and through distance or online learning programs.

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:While going through the list of Computer courses, I came across Computer and Network Administration certification. Can you tell me the contents of this program?

A:It is very common to come across Computer and Network Administration certification in the list of Computer courses because it is among the most sought for programs. In this program the students get to study the basics of computer administration and network related issues. They are taught official tools used for network administration.

Q:What will I learn during my associate Computer Security Programs?

A:The associate of science computer security programs gives students the foundation in methods and principles of cyber security along with knowledge of the tools used to apply security measures. After your associate degree, you should be able to: Manage and administer networks, perform vulnerability and security assessments, configure network routers and manage user/group accounts.

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