Information Security Education for the Professional

Cyber threats and cybersecurity are increasingly critical areas of focus for the U.S. government, with the Department of Homeland Security serving as the coordinating agency. If you are a computer and information systems specialist looking to advance your career, or to move into the government or private sector supporting government initiatives, you may want to consider Penn State’s Information Security and Forensics option in the online intercollege Master of Professional Studies (iMPS) in Homeland Security. As a graduate of the program, you can build your understanding of the theories, skills, and technologies associated with:

• information security and assurance
• cyber and network security
• cyber threat defense and forensics
• intelligence analysis
• risk assessment, mitigations, and resiliencies
• security policy development
• privacy protection and assurance
• security audit and compliance
• emergency and security management across multiple venues

Why Penn State for Your Information Security Education

The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have designated Penn State as a “National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education.” The designation demonstrates Penn State’s commitment to academic excellence in information security and assurance education. Students attending Penn State may be eligible to apply for scholarships and grants through the Department of Defense Information Assurance Scholarship Program and the Federal Cyber Service Scholarship for Service Program.

Penn State offers an online Information Systems Security Postbaccalaureate Certificate. The 15 credits earned in the certificate may be applied toward the Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security — Information Security and Forensics option.

Who Should Apply?

The Information Security and Forensics option is open to candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree in a technical or scientific discipline, including applied mathematics, computer information systems, computer science, information sciences, engineering, information systems, statistics, or related fields. Students with sufficient background gained through work experience or professional training in information technologies, such as networks, web services, and database development, will be considered for admission to the program.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

This option prepares graduates to work in areas such as information assurance engineering, catastrophe risk management and analysis, computer systems security analysis, information security/digital forensics, intelligence analysis, and systems integration and networks.

Information for Military and Veterans

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, or application instructions. 

Online Education at Penn State

Penn State has a history of 100+ years of distance education and more than a decade of experience in online learning. We strive to create an online learning environment that brings you as close to the face-to-face experience as possible. Learn more about Penn State World Campus.