Graduate Study
Computing Security and Information Assurance
Program Overview
Developers and practitioners need to understand the importance of building security and survivability into systems, rather than trying to add it once systems are installed. This program addresses these concerns by drawing on the expertise of the faculty from the three departments that make up the Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences: computer science, software engineering, and information technolgy.
The master of science in computing security and information assurance consists of a group of seven core courses that provide a common foundation. The core courses are designed to give students a better understanding of the technological as well as the ethical role of computer security in society. Students then develop a specialization in one of several areas by selecting four related elective courses under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Students conclude their program of sstudy through the successful completion of a thesis under the guidance of a faculty mentor. This cross-disciplinary program enables graduates to develop a strong foundation preparing them for leadership positions in both the private and public sectors in the computer security area or for an advanced degree. Students can also prepare for academic or research careers in computer security and information assurance, as well as further academic study.
Curriculum Review
The MS in computing security and information assurance is designed for students who have an undergraduate degree in computer science, information technology, or software engineering, as well as those who have a strong background in a field in which computers are applied, such as computer or electrical engineering.
Computing security and information assurance graduate courses are generally offered in the afternoon and evening. Some of our graduate students are employed and are pursuing the degree on a part-time basis. A full-time student, one who takes three courses per quarter, may be able to complete the course work in four quarters; part-time students can finish in two to four years. The time required to complete a master's thesis varies according to the student and the scope of the project; two quarters is typical.
Admission Requirements
Because the program encompasses a wide variety of technical disciplines, students with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Undergraduate preparation leading to a bachelor of science degree in computer science, software engineering, information technology, computer engineering, electrical engineering, applied mathematics or computer engineering technology usually is required. However, exceptional students from other fields may be admitted on a contingent basis. Applicants should have a minimum grade point average of 3.0.
Applicants must have a strong record of academic achievement from their undergraduate institution, as indicated by official transcripts, proficiency on the Graduate Record Examination and strong recommendations from at least two well-qualified individuals who are able to assess the student’s potential for success in the program. It is expected that applicants will achieve minimum scores of 650 (quantitative), 500 (verbal) and 650 (analytical) on the GRE.
Applicants from foreign universities will be required to submit results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language. A minimum score of at least 570 (paper-based), 230 (computer-based) or 80 (Internet-based) is required.
Prerequisites
Applicants must satisfy prerequisite requirements in mathematics and computing:
Mathematics
Integral Calculus
Discrete Mathematics
Computing
Experience with a modern high-level language (e.g., C++, Java)
Operating Systems
OS Scripting
Software Engineering
Computer Networking
Bridge program
If an applicant lacks any of these prerequisites, bridge program courses are available to allow students to achieve the required knowledge and skills. Generally, formal acceptance into the master’s program is deferred until the applicant has made significant progress through these necessary courses.
Students whose undergraduate preparation or industrial experience does not satisfy the prerequisites may make up these deficiencies through up to a year of study, taking one or more of the following RIT courses, as prescribed by the graduate coordinator.
Mathematics
1016-281, 282 Calculus
1016-265 Discrete Math I
Computing
4003-707 Advanced Programming
4002-402 OS Scripting
4010-361 Software Engineering
4055-746 Telecommunications Network Protocols
If any bridge courses are indicated in a student’s plan of study, the student may be admitted on the condition that he or she successfully completes the bridge program courses with a grade of B or better. All remaining bridge program courses must be completed with a grade of at least “B”; courses with lower grades must be repeated. Bridge program courses are not part of the 49 credits required for the master’s degree. These grades are not included in a student’s graduate grade point average.
A bridge program can be designed in different ways. Often, other courses can be substituted, and courses at other colleges can be applied. (See the Computing Security and Information Assurance Graduate Studies Handbook for more details.) All programs must be approved in advance by the program chair.
Prerequisites
Applicants must satisfy prerequisite requirements in mathematics and computing (listed below). If an applicant lacks any of these prerequisites, bridge program courses are available to allow students to achieve the required knowledge and skills. Generally, formal acceptance into the master's program is deferred until the applicant has made significant progress through these necessary courses.
Prerequisites
Mathematics
Integral Calculus
Discret Mathematics
Computing
Experience with a modern high-level language (e.g., C++, Java)
Operating Ssytems
OS Scripting
Software Engineering