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Graduate Certificate inEnterprise Information and Security Technology Architecture

Summary Courses Careers Costs and Aid

Gain advanced knowledge of enterprise information security technology, gap analysis, migration planning, and network strategy with this online enterprise information and security technology architecture certificate program.

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Apply by November 1 to start January 12

9 Credits$1,027 per credit

Develop Enterprise-wide Decision-making Skills

  • Understand how the enterprise technology stack can strategically enhance an organization.

  • Utilize architecture frameworks and assessment methodologies to generate and apply relevant knowledge, supporting advanced and creative accomplishments.

  • Enhance strategic technology utilization from a business perspective.

  • Incorporate information gained from the integration and management of IT resources to assist in enterprise-wide decision-making.

This 9-credit program helps you build a strong knowledge base and technological skills that encompass enterprise architecture and technology, giving you expertise to advance in the ever-expanding field of security architecture.

Areas of focus include: 

  • the enterprise information technology stack 
  • enterprise architecture gap analysis 
  • migration planning 
  • governance and measurement 
  • security and network management strategy, including intrusion detection, encryption, authentication, and network management

Required Courses (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Theoretical foundations and practice of the enterprise information technology architecture.

    • Prerequisite

      EA 871

    • Note

      Prerequisite waived for this certificate

  • 3
    credits

    Analytical skills to produce credible, meaningful answers to critical risk management questions across enterprise architecture layers, including the supply chain.

    • Prerequisite

      EA 871

    • Note

      Prerequisite waived for this certificate

  • 3
    credits

    Essential skills and knowledge for effectively utilizing networks and internet technologies to facilitate, manage, and secure data communications and applications.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

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This certificate is designed to help you gain an important career advantage in the areas of enterprise architecture and security technology architecture.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

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From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

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Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State graduate certificate?

Apply by November 1 to start January 12. How to Apply 

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition Rates for the Fall 2024, Spring 2025, and Summer 2025 Semesters
How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

2025–26 Academic Year Rates

Tuition Rates for the Fall 2025, Spring 2026, and Summer 2026 Semesters
How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,037 per credit
12 or more$12,448 per semester

Paying for Your Certificate

Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.

Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.

Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.

Military Benefits

Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Additional Cost of Attendance Details

To view the detailed list of cost of attendance elements:

Technical Requirements

Review the technical requirements for this program.

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Not only can this program help create opportunities in your career, it can also give you a solid head start toward a full master’s degree.

Degree Program Related to This Certificate

Some or all credits earned for this certificate can be applied to the following Penn State World Campus degree program:

This online master's program in enterprise architecture and business transformation (EABT) integrates both business strategy and enterprise technical execution. EABT improves organizational efficiency, effectiveness, and agility by delivering holistic business-aligned and digitally focused systems.

Learn more

If you're working in a field related to enterprise architecture, this certificate can help you expand your understanding of integrating enterprise architecture and technology, allowing you to add a respected credential to your résumé and helping you advance your career.

The program is also appropriate if you have a strong background in information technology, business, or engineering and security, or have other certifications such as CISSP, PMP, or TOGAF.

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Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Our online courses typically follow a 12- to 15-week semester cycle, and there are three semesters per year (spring, summer, and fall). If you plan to take a heavy course load, you should expect your course work to be your primary focus and discuss your schedule with your academic adviser. 

To Finish Your Certificate in Less than a Year

  • Take 1–2 courses each semester

To Finish Your Certificate in One Year

  • Take 1 course each semester

Timelines may vary based on course availability.

 

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

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Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

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Apply by November 1 to start January 12

Application Instructions

Deadlines and Important Dates

Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.

  • Spring Deadline

    Apply by November 1 to start January 12

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    A bachelor's degree in a related area (e.g., engineering or science), while not necessary for admission, is helpful in the successful completion of the certificate. It is expected that students will have a solid foundation in information technology and enterprise architecture with a minimum of two years of relevant work experience.

    GPA — For admission to the certificate program, a 2.75 GPA, either overall or from the last 60 credits, is needed. To be awarded the certificate, students must successfully complete 9 credits of graduate course work with a grade-point average of 3.0. A minimum of 2 years relevant work experience is recommended.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. If you are a Penn State alum, you do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history.

    Test Scores — GRE scores are not required and will not be accepted as part of your application.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Fox Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

    Reference (1) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering the name, email address, and mailing address of one professional reference. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to your reference requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform the recommender they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.

    Program-Specific Questions/Materials

    Résumé — Upload your résumé to the online application.

    Program-specific questions — Please submit your responses with your application.

    Statement of Interest — Please include a written personal statement in your application to share information that you deem important to your candidacy. Be sure to include why you are a qualified applicant and how this degree will assist you in meeting your future career goals. You may wish to describe aspects of your background and interests — intellectual, personal, and/or professional — and how you will uniquely contribute to the IST community and/or the related professions. As a suggested length, limit your statement to one or two pages, double-spaced. At the top of each page, please indicate "STATEMENT OF INTEREST," along with your name, numbering each page.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

  5. 5. Complete the application.

    Penn State Fox Graduate School Application

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

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Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

To learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Enterprise Information and Security Technology Architecture, please contact:

Lynne Bechdel
Academic Program Coordinator
College of Information Sciences and Technology
The Pennsylvania State University
E108 Westgate Building
University Park PA 16802
[email protected]

For general questions about Penn State World Campus, please contact:

World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

This program is offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from the same dedicated educators who teach on-campus courses in Penn State's highly regarded IST programs.

Faculty

  • Michael R. Bartolacci

    • Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, Lehigh University
    • MBA, Lehigh University
    • B.A., Engineering, Lafayette College

    Dr. Michael R. Bartolacci is an associate professor of information sciences and technology at Penn State Berks. He conducts research in telecommunications modeling, electronic commerce modeling, customer relationship management, manufacturing modeling, and international aspects of telecommunications.

  • David Fusco

    • Ed.D., Educational Leadership and Management, Drexel University
    • M.Ed., Saint Francis University
    • B.S., Computer Science, Penn State

    Dr. David Fusco is an associate teaching professor and director of experiential learning in the College of Information Sciences and Technology at University Park. Dr. Fusco teaches courses in cybersecurity, enterprise technology integration, and leadership. In 2018, Dr. Fusco received the George J. McMurtry Faculty Excellence in Teaching and Learning Award.

  • Edward J. Glantz

    • Ph.D., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
    • MBA, Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania
    • B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Penn State
    • B.A., General Arts and Science, Penn State

    Dr. Edward J. Glantz, P.E., has been with the College of IST faculty since 2009. Prior to joining IST, Dr. Glantz served 10 years as a faculty member of Penn State's Smeal College of Business. His career spans more than 20 years of managing technology, research, and marketing in the manufacturing and telecommunication industries, including startup work.

  • David Hollar

    • M.S., Computer Science, Rochester Institute of Technology
    • B.S., Computer Science, Lenoir-Rhyne University

    David Hollar is a principal enterprise architect for the MITRE Corporation’s Enterprise Strategy & Transformation Innovation Center, providing advice and guidance to senior executives within the federal government. He has more than 25 years of experience working with federal government and private industry on system development, enterprise architecture, and transition planning and execution. His areas of interest and expertise also include enterprise transformation, technology strategy, and risk analysis.

  • Rosalie Ocker

    • Ph.D., Computer and Information Science, Rutgers University Graduate School of Management
    • MBA, Lehigh University
    • B.A., Economics, Albright College

    Dr. Rosalie Ocker is an associate teaching professor in the College of Information Sciences and Technology at Penn State University Park. Prior to working in academia, Dr. Ocker was a consultant at Arthur Anderson (now Accenture), where she worked in the financial services sector, developing financial trading systems for firms on Wall Street. She also worked at Morgan Stanley as an internal consultant. Dr. Ocker teaches EA 871: Enterprise Architecture Foundations I and EA 594: Capstone Project.

  • Mahdi Nasereddin

    • Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, University of Central Florida
    • M.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Central Florida
    • B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Central Florida

    Dr. Mahdi Nasereddin is an associate professor of information sciences and technology at Penn State Berks. His current research interest is in the application of artificial intelligence, simulation metamodeling, simulation optimization, and experimental design.

Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State graduate certificate?

Apply by November 1 to start January 12. How to Apply 

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