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Information Systems Security Degree

An information systems security degree can help individuals develop skills that are extremely valuable in an increasingly digital world. The growing reliance on the internet and information systems by corporations and government agencies has led to continuous attacks from a growing number of hackers and cybercriminals and a strong need for individuals who can protect these systems.

Information Systems Security Training and Courses

The degree is often offered as a four-year bachelor’s degree or multi-year master’s program, and combines aspects of information systems design, network security and even criminal investigation courses. Oftentimes, the degree programs are combined with certification options from Cisco, Comp TIA A+ or similar organizations to improve future employment prospects.

Did you know? It is estimated that a third or more of US cyber attacks originate outside of the United States.

Source: Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus

Job Opportunities for Information Systems Security Degree Program Graduates

Graduates will have completed coursework in how to properly set up computer networks of varying sizes, how to work with users to improve security as well as how to monitor for and prevent intrusions. Those who hold the degree can find work throughout the corporate sector with companies who deal with confidential data that they don’t want to fall into the wrong hands. In addition to technical understanding, information systems security degrees afford students classes in the theory and concepts of information security and how it is affected by the internet.

On the other hand, there are many law enforcement applications for degree holders. For example, the FBI and other federal law enforcement agencies regularly recruit for those with network and information systems security degrees because of the recent growth in the use of computers for espionage or fraud. There are also positions in county and state agencies, especially those who deal with forensic accounting and other data-intensive investigative work.

CJDS Fact: Sony estimated a loss of about $171 million due to a 2011 hack of the Playstation Network that exposed millions of customers’ personal information.

Source: Wired.com

Career Outlook for the Information Security Field

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for businesses to store and transmit sensitive information will lead to strong growth in jobs for information security specialists. Salary information for these jobs varies according to the company or agency, but network administrators as a whole was on average more than $65,000.