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Masters in Information Security and Assurance

This program satisfies the dual needs of preparing graduates to (1) fill the need for information security and assurance professionals to work in a wide variety of capacities to protect the information systems of different types of organizations, and to support the nation’s information infrastructure and (2) conducting advanced research and in information security and assurance. Consequently, the degree provides technical knowledge and skills to understand information security, and provides specialized theoretical knowledge and experimental experience.

Students develop core competencies in operating systems and networks. They focus on the technical aspects of information security, examining ways to provide secure information processing systems by investigating operating systems security, distributed secure system architectures, database security, software applications security, security policies, applications security, network and distributed systems security, cryptography, and security protocols.

Graduates are actively recruited by federal, state and local governments, private sector and academia. Typical employers include Internet-based, software and financial companies.

All classes are scheduled in the late afternoon and early evening to accommodate employed students.

Changes to Core Effective Fall 2010

Effective Fall 2010, the core Degree Requirements have changed. Please see this web page for more information.

New Optional Concentrations Starting Fall 2011

Starting in Fall 2011, MS-ISA students can pursue a concentration by completing four courses in Network & System Security or Advanced Cyber-security. Please see this web page for more information.

For Further Information

Additional information on the program is available from the MS-ISA Student Advisor (csadmin@cs.gmu.edu)