http://www.nssa.rit.edu/

Program overview

The scope of computer networks and the span of these systems increases in organizations every day. At the same time, industry and society's dependence on these technologies is growing, as is the creation of damaging software that attacks computing systems and networks. Therefore, security has become a major concern. The result is an increased need for people and technologies that can secure information infrastructures and protect them from attack.

The BS degree in information security and forensics produces professionals who understand people and processes. In addition to possessing state-of-the-art knowledge in the preservation of information assets, students become experts in the identification of computer security vulnerabilities. Students also understand the forensic requirements needed to prove an attack occurred, identify its origin, assess the extent of the damage or loss of information, and design strategies that ensure data can be recovered.

An important goal of the program is to provide students with a level of specialization in information security and forensics beyond what is provided by more general programs offered in information systems or information technology. RIT accomplishes this by focusing on network and computing system security and forensics. The program favors depth over breadth, affording students sufficient time to explore the issues and technologies of computer and network security.

Curriculum

The program requires students to complete 182 quarter credit hours. For transfer students, some of these credits may be transferred from course work completed at other accredited institutions.

The program features both required core courses and an advanced track. The core includes a programming sequence, an ethics course, a computer networking and system administration sequence, and foundation courses in computer and network security. In addition to 64 quarter credit hours of core courses, students will select one of two advanced tracks for 16 quarter credit hours.

Advanced tracks

Students select one of the following two tracks. Before beginning either advanced track, they must successfully complete Ethics in Information Technology (4002-415).

Network and Wireless Security

4050-517 Network Forensics and Security
4050-523 Security of Wireless Networks
4050-525 Wireless Ad-hoc and Sensor Network Security
4050-585 Networks and System Security Audits

Computer System Security

4050-422 System Administration II
4050-580 Computer System Security
4050-581 Computer System Forensics
4050-585 Networks and System Security Audits

Additional information

Cooperative education

Students complete three quarters of cooperative education, which enables them to work in a variety of organizations, from small- or medium-sized businesses to large international companies or law enforcement organizations, that require computer systems or computer networks. These may be security-centric businesses (law enforcement agencies, security auditors) to users of information technology (manufacturing companies, school districts, health care). Completing a co-op provides real-world experience and an edge when applying for jobs after graduation. Typically, the first co-op occurs during the summer following the second year. The remaining co-ops may occur during the student's third year or the following summer. Students must complete the co-op requirement prior to completing their course work.

Part-time study

The program is available on a part-time basis. Courses can be completed during the day and in the evening to accommodate those who work, regardless of their schedules. The typical evening student requires 26 quarters to complete the BS degree. Please refer to the part-time undergraduate guide for more information on this option.