Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Information Systems Security
Majors Overview September 13, 2014Those looking for a career involving network security should look into Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Information Systems Security. Students will be taught how to address and recognize a wide variety of cyber and network attacks.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Information Systems Security
Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in information systems security can expect to be able to tackle computer networking issues, including installation, troubleshooting, or security across systems. They also develop security-related skills, which they will use to protect data, manage user accounts in the network, and maintain current encryption and antivirus software. During their undergraduate program, students will become adept in the performance of these tasks in Cisco, Windows, and UNIX computing settings.
Those that complete the program can seek jobs as consultants or as network administrators, performing security audits for organizations in various industries. The capacity to access the network’s data and the circumstances under which such access is possible are determined by security auditors, along with the nature of security controls used by the client and the ways in which testing and improvement of security protocols can be done. Network administrators instruct users on ways of safeguarding network integrity and provide general assistance related to the networking needs of the organization.
Coursework
Different network vulnerabilities are examined by students from the perspective of network administrators and hackers; this is an important requirement before a network security audit or security strategy can be developed.
Diverse types of programming activity are explored by software courses comprising the validity of digital certificates, firewalls, antivirus programs, and encryption. Core coursework in network security programs may also include subject areas such as:
•Security in operating systems
•Network systems management
•Cyber law
•Security auditing
Job and Wage Outlook
A job growth rate of 28% has been predicted for network and computer systems administrators over the 2010 – 2020 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2012, these professionals earned an average annual wage of $72,560. Candidates with vendor-oriented certification to augment a bachelor’s degree are expected to enjoy the best opportunities.
Continuing Education Choices
Network security certification, such as the Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) credentials are sought after by many employers. However, employers of network security professionals don’t insist on any of these certificates.
Holders of the CCENT certification have demonstrated basic computer networking experience. Network administrators employed in small businesses would benefit from the credential. Individuals employed with larger companies would be best served by obtaining the CCNA certification, whereby they can showcase knowledge and skills related to network security.
An advanced understanding of network administration and security can be displayed by holders of the CCNP certification. Before they can obtain the CCNP certification, networking professionals must have earned their CCNA credential.
 Degree in Information Systems Security on http://educationcareerarticles.com "Pin It")
