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Courses - Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security - Information Security and Forensics Option

Penn State's 33-credit online Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security — Information Security and Forensics option includes core courses that build an understanding of the theories, skills, and technologies associated with network security, cyber threat defense and forensics, intelligence analysis, risk assessment, security policy development, and privacy protection and assurance.

The core curriculum for the information security and forensics option (ISF) includes the three required courses that unify the goals for all options in the iMPS-HLS program (HLS 801: Policies and Programs; HLS 803: Social and Ethical Issues; HLS 805: Violence, Threats, Terror, and Insurgency). 

In addition to a capstone project, IST 594, and 9 credits of electives, four prescribed courses for the ISF option are required:

  • IST 454: Computer and Cyber Forensics – Fundamental issues and concepts of computer and cyber-crime
  • IST 515: Information Security and Assurance – Emphasis on information systems security and assurance, identity theft, and distributed-systems security
  • IST 554: Network Management and Security – Networks and Internet technologies to facilitate, manage, and secure data communications and applications
  • IN SC 561: Web Security and Privacy – Latest techniques and practices in computer security as applied to the Internet

Learning Outcomes of the Program

  • Understand theories and technologies associated with: cyber and network security; cyber threat defense and forensics; risk assessment, security policy development and intelligence analysis.
  • Build your skills in: information security and assurance; security audit and compliance; emergency and security management across multiple venues.

View the Course List for course information, including course descriptions and prerequisites.

View the Course Schedule to see courses listed with start and end periods, registration deadlines, and semesters offered, as well as a link to sample lessons and syllabus when available, by clicking on the six-digit schedule number.