Program:

The Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security develops professionals who will take their places as leaders in applying sound security policies to business and government entities, providing protection and disaster recovery to critical control systems.

Information systems are under constant threats from hackers, viruses, and worms. The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook (2006-07 edition) says, "Concerns over 'cyber security' should result in businesses and government continuing to invest heavily in software that protects their networks and vital electronic infrastructure from attack." Securing cyberspace and the national information infrastructure is critical and can be achieved only when qualified workers are available. Literature and announced job openings indicate a huge shortage of qualified workers in this field. Mercy College is attempting to mitigate this shortage by offering a master's degree in Information Assurance and Security.

The Information Assurance and Security program offers the students a combination of strong foundation in information security theory and practical skills in implementing an effective infrastructure in information assurance and security. Graduates of this program will be prepared for advanced supervisory positions in the field and also for acquiring professional certificates including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

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Program Contacts:

	Nagaraj Rao, PhD Chair, Division of Mathematics and Computer Information Science nrao@mercy.edu Telephone: 914-674-7593
	Zhixiong Chen, PhD Professor zchen@mercy.edu Telephone: 914-674-7756

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Career Opportunities:

Graduates can seek advanced supervisory positions in information infrastructure assurance and security. Some of the job titles in the industry are: principal system security engineer, information assurance analyst / IT security analyst, information assurance engineer, information security analyst, Jr. Level information security analyst, I/S specialist - I/S governance, information security/assurance specialist - TS/SCI.

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Curriculum:

The Master's degree consists of 30 credits including a capstone requirement. This program is targeted to individuals who have a baccalaureate degree in a related field who wish to broaden their knowledge and their professional standing with an advance degree. Graduates of this program will be able to

• Monitor use of security systems including firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
  
• Create, implement and oversee security policies.
  
• Plan disaster recovery for operating systems, databases, networks, servers, and software applications.
  
• Conduct research on emerging products, services, protocols, and standards in support of security enhancement and development efforts.
  
• Test new security software and/or technologies.
  
• Conduct regular compliance audits utilizing cross divisional information security team.
  
• Prepare to take the CISSP certification exam
  
• Conduct research in information security related fields towards a doctoral program
  

For the complete course curriculum click here.

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Campuses where program is offered:

Dobbs Ferry, Bronx and entirely online

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Frequently Asked Questions:

What should I submit for admission into this program?
A completed application for admission with the nonrefundable fee; official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended; two letters of recommendation that provide evidence of personal and/or professional qualifications for graduate study; a two-page written personal statement stating the reasons for applying to the program and how the applicant can benefit by its completion.

What are the academic requirements for admission?
Graduates from other fields will be accepted provided they complete the following prerequisite courses prior to starting the graduate program:

• Local Area Networks
  
• Database Management Systems
  
• Cryptography and Computer Security
  
• Operating Systems
  
• Statistics
  

Is there an English language requirement for applicants whose native language is not English?
They must demonstrate proficiency in English. The evaluation will measure reading, writing, speaking and an understanding of the spoken language at a level appropriate for graduate studies. Proficiency will be determined by a standardized test such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or a test(s) approved by the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Is Mercy College a non-sectarian institution?
Yes. Qualified applicants are admitted without regard to race, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age or physical disability.

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