MS in Information Security and Assurance

Master of Science Information Security and Assurance

Degree Overview

Our online information security master’s program will give you a tremendous advantage in this highly competitive field. The M.S. in Information Security and Assurance will prepare you with the necessary skills for the protection of networks, communication, and data, as well as the knowledge base for planning, implementing, and managing enterprise level security and system integrity. You will become an expert IT security and assurance manager.

This program has been certified by the National Security Agency’s Information Assurance Courseware Evaluation (IACE) Program. This certification verifies that WGU’s courseware meets the requirements established by the Committee on National Security Systems National Training Standards No. 4011 (Information Systems Security Professionals) and 4012 (Senior Systems Managers).

Who the Program is for:

• Experienced IT professionals seeking to move into IT security and assurance management positions and need the credentials to do so.
• Individuals with “real world” experience who seek in-depth knowledge and skills in IT security and assurance.
• Individuals who can typically spend 15 or more hours per week on their studies.

This program will be flexible and adaptable to your schedule. Click here to learn how your program works.

What You’ll Learn — Areas of Study:

In this online master’s in information security, you’ll learn all the essential skills and knowledge needed. This program includes nine domains of study and completion of a capstone project.

Network Security Practices and Policies
Fundamentals of Interconnecting Network Devices
Hacking
Cyberlaw, Regulations and Compliance
Vulnerability Assessment
Forensics and Network Intrusion
Risk Management
Security Policy and Standards
Disaster Recovery Planning, Prevention and Response

Total Program: 30 Competency Units (credit equivalents)

Note: This program is aligned with security standards put in place by the National Security Agency (NSA) and encompasses the 10 security domains that are the foundation of the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

More details about your challenging course of study

View the PDF program guide

What You’ll Earn — IT Certifications:

This program incorporates several IT certification exams into the curriculum. You will study for and complete the following certification exams (which are all included in your tuition — a huge cost savings for you):

• Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT)
• EC-Council Ethical Hacking and Countermeasures (EC0-350)
• EC-Council Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (EC0-349)

Answers to your questions
Click a question, see the answer below.

• Is this program for me?
• Can I accelerate my progress?
• How will I complete my degree?

Is this program for me?

This program will provide you with the IT security and assurance skills you need to succeed. The IT program is best suited for experienced professionals with bachelor’s degrees in information technology, computer science, and information systems. If you already hold a major security certification, you can use your knowledge to move more quickly through the required subject area assessments. However, this is not an “easy” program. You are a good candidate for our online IT degree only if you are prepared to work independently, study hard, and pass the required assessments.

Can I accelerate my progress?

As a WGU student you progress through your program by passing assessments. In consultation with your mentor, you set the pace at which you prepare for and take the assessments. Consequently, some WGU students with strong academic or career experience in the fields are able to go faster than the standard rate of progress. However, doing so isn’t easy. Many of the assessments are quite challenging, and students sometimes overestimate the knowledge they possess when they enter a program. On the other hand, a highly-motivated, self-disciplined individual is precisely the kind of student who does well at WGU. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor to discuss whether you’re the kind of student who might go faster.

How will I complete my degree?

As a WGU student, you take and complete assessments. You’ll prepare for your assessments by engaging various learning resources including textbooks, web tutorials, and online courses. You will determine what learning resources are best for you in consultation with your mentor using your personalized Degree Plan. You can learn more by exploring the WGU Experience. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor who can explain this program in greater depth.