Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Information Assurance
Majors Overview March 30, 2015The field of study that involves information security is referred to as information assurance. Bachelor’s degree programs in this field cover topics such as hackers, information ethics, and computer security.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Information Assurance
High priority is accorded to security of sensitive information in the fast-growing information technology industry. Information assurance is the term used to describe the field related to the management of risks in the transmission, processing, and storage of information.
Training must be imparted to information assurance workers on ways of maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive information in an organization.
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Information Assurance program focuses on the improvement of information assurance practices and secure operational procedures. Coursework within these four-year programs cover courses in cyber terrorism, needs assessment, eCommerce, and information systems, in addition to general education courses.
Coursework
The current threats to information security are recognized by those who pursue degree programs in information assurance, the coursework is imbued with concepts such as ethics, hacker prevention, and e-commerce. Core coursework may include topic areas such as the following:
•Needs assessment
•Telecommunication systems
•Information security
•Cyber terrorism
•Software and hardware concepts
•Ethics in the age of information
•Information systems in organizations
•Disaster recovery
•Policy planning
•Security mechanisms
Career Choices
Those who complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program in information assurance can seek employment as senior systems managers, system administrators, and information systems security professionals. They are responsible for securing an organization’s information systems. All fields need these professionals, including health departments, education, military, governmental agencies, law enforcement, and private industries.
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, a faster-than-average job growth rate of 37% has been predicted for computer network architects, web designers, and information security analysts as a group (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, these professionals brought home an average annual wage of $86,170.
Continuing Education Choices
Those who graduate from the bachelor’s degree program may opt for continuing education to enhance their career prospects by earning a Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Security; there are several universities that offer this degree. Completion of this advanced degree will increase the likelihood of obtaining management roles within information technology departments.
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