Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Information Systems Security
Majors Overview February 19, 2015Bachelor’s degree programs in information systems security will teach students how to prevent information, systems assets, and data from disruption or unauthorized access. Graduates are usually prepared for industry certification examinations.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Information Systems Security
Students enrolled in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) programs in Information Systems Security become adept at analyzing computer systems, including applications, databases, and networks, and in assessing the protection they may afford against disruption and breach.
The process of identifying points of danger involves vulnerability testing and auditing, including the development and implementation of plans aimed at mitigating this risk. Also involved in the process is the communication of security policies and concerns to an organization’s stakeholders.
Bachelor’s degree programs in information systems security features a combination of hands-on training and classroom lectures to teach students about ways of performing this technical process. Disaster recovery and business continuity are examined, in addition to the legal and ethical aspects of information security. Schools offer programs in both on-campus and online formats.
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate, a high school diploma, or a prior degree.
Coursework
Coursework involves examination of theories in database security, systems architecture, operating systems, and programming. Core coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Access control systems
•Security controls
•Risk management
•Systems analysis and design
•Network security
Career Choices
Students enrolled in the program learn the skills needed for the identification of policy changes in information security and management of security procedures in numerous types of government sectors and businesses. They may choose from career options such as:
•Information security risk analyst
•Compliance specialist
•Network security specialist
•Data protection administrator
•Application security tester
Job and Wage Outlook
A job growth rate of 37% has been predicted for information security analysts over the 2012 – 2022 decade. Network administrators are expected to enjoy a job growth rate of 12% during the same period (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, information security analysts took home an average annual salary of $86,170, while network administrators banked $72,560 (BLS). In November 2013, data security administrators grossed an average annual salary of $47,835.
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates of the bachelor’s program may seek professional certification relevant to the information systems security field, including the Computing Technology Industry Association’s CompTIA Security+ certification and the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc (ISC)’s Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) certification. Graduates may also pursue continuing education by earning a master’s degree in information systems security.
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