School of Information Security & Applied Computing

About this Program

The Bachelor of Science in Information Assurance and Cyber Defense program prepares prospective students with the knowledge and skill set necessary for future computing and cybersecurity professionals to build, maintain and protect networks and computer systems in both government and industry.

The program has been designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and National Security Agency (NSA) as the Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Information Assurance (IA) and Cyber Defense (CD) education (DHS/NSA CAE-IA/CD). The program is classified as a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program.

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Learn

The Information Assurance and Cyber Defense program places emphasis on design, integration, administration, hardening, and protection of all types of computer information systems and network infrastructures in modern cyber environments. Students are immersed in solid theories as well as intensive hands-on practical experiences to enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities applied to all elements in modern computing disciplines. The curriculum covers:

• Computing and networking theories/practices
• System architecture and administration, integration and troubleshooting
• Cybersecurity threat/risk evaluation
• Incident response analysis and practice
• Network/digital forensics and investigation
• Penetration testing and system auditing
• Cyber laws, legislation, policy/compliance, and project management

• Mission Statement

  Our mission is to support the computing and cyber security needs of local, regional, and national government and private organization through excellence in education, scholarship and service. We are committed to providing quality educational opportunities to both traditional and non-traditional students and seek to equip our students with the knowledge and skill set necessary for future computing and cyber security professionals to build, maintain and protect networks and computer systems in both government and industry.

• Program Educational Objectives

  As a framework for the continuous improvement policy, the Assessment Committees has adopted a set of program educational objectives (PEO) that describe the anticipated accomplishments of our graduates 3-5 years after graduation. Information Assurance and Cyber Defense Program’s educational objectives are to produce graduates who:

  • Function successfully as professionals by designing, implementing, supporting and evaluating holistic solutions to protect and maintain information security.
  • Advance professionally through increasing level of expertise of information technology and cyber security, and/or by transitioning into leadership position in industry, government, and/or education.
  • Actively seeking life-long learning through self-study, completion of advanced degree(s), continuing education, and IACD related certification(s)/licensures or other professional development related to their career.
  • Demonstrate social and professional commitment to serving the community.

• Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

  IACD Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)The IACD program SLOs are adapted from ABET General Criteria 3 for Accrediting Computing Programs, General Criteria 3. The following outcomes must be attained by students upon graduation.

  •  An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the program’s student outcomes and to the discipline
  • An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution
  • An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs
  • An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal
  • An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities
  • An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
  • An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society
  • Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development
  • An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice

• Enrollment and Degree Data (2017-2020)

  Enrollment

  Fall 2020

  • FTIAC: 4
  • Total: 206

  Fall 2019

  • FTIAC: 7
  • Total: 170 

  Fall 2018

  • FTIAC: 2
  • Total: 109 

  Degrees Awarded

  Academic Year 2019/20

  • Numbers of Degrees: 49

  Academic Year 2018/19

  • Numbers of Degrees: 31

  Academic Year 2017/18

  • Numbers of Degrees: 14 

• Opportunities

  Per the U.S. Department of Labor 2019 handbook, computer and information technology occupations are projected to grow 11 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $88,240 in May 2019, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $39,810. Graduates are in demand to work in private, public, and government agencies.

  Recent graduates have held positions at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Barracuda, CyberForce|Q, Dominos, Ford Motors, General Motors, and Visioneering Inc.