Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Information Security and Assurance
Majors Overview March 4, 2015Get information about a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program in Information Security and Assurance and its coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Information Security and Assurance
Students enrolled in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Information Security and Assurance will develop a strong foundation of knowledge about technological tools and general business concepts, thereby allowing them to pursue careers that involve the protection of information and assets.
Students learn how the two disciplines intersect to allow them to devise innovative solutions aimed at meeting the needs of business organizations. Students are given an outline of business administration concepts, in addition to ways of applying such knowledge through the use of database and computer applications to ensure a smooth and secure running of business operations.
A computer-based research project may be the culmination of programs, thereby allowing students to communicate their findings and applications to their peers.
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma.
Coursework
Coursework covers a combination of various resources, including software, hardware, and computer labs that can be used by students to enhance their knowledge of systems security and database technology. Core coursework may include topic areas such as the following:
•Wireless security
•Network security
•Business information systems
•Security management planning
•Ethical hacking
•Database protection
•Information security
•Computer systems analysis
•Information assurance
•Digital forensics
Career Choices
Those who graduate from the program may want to pursue continuing education or join the workforce immediately upon completion of the program. They can choose from various job positions with employers interested in storing and protecting information as well as investigating unauthorized access to such information. Job seekers can opt for potential job titles such as:
•Computer crime investigator
•Digital forensic examiner
•Computer security consultant
•Information assurance specialist
Job and Wage Outlook
A high job growth rate of 37% has been predicted for information security analysts over the 2012 – 2022 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, these professionals brought home an average annual wage of $86,170 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Those who complete a bachelor’s degree program may choose to pursue continuing education by earning master’s and doctoral degrees in information security and assurance. Coursework in these programs typically includes advanced technical concepts and research in the field. Graduates may seek occupations in management positions or in academia or research within the information security field.