Homeland Security forensics print image

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

Program summary

Prepare for a career in areas such as information assurance engineering, risk management and analysis, computer systems security analysis, information security/digital forensics, intelligence analysis, and systems integration and networks.

Application deadline

Apply by July 1 to start August 21

Credits and costs

33 Credits $1,007 per credit

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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 move into the government or private sector supporting government initiatives, you may want to consider Penn State's online intercollege Master of Professional Studies (iMPS) in Homeland Security - Information Security and Forensics option, offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology. 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 Cyber Defense. The designation demonstrates Penn State's commitment to academic excellence in information security and assurance education. 

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.

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 more than 100 years of distance education and more than two decades of experience in online learning. We create an online learning environment that offers you the same quality education our residential students experience in a face-to-face setting. Learn more about Penn State World Campus.

Courses

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.

    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, and emergency and security management across multiple venues.

    Up to 10 graduate credits may be transferred into the program from an accredited institution (as permitted by the Graduate School). At least 18 credits must be in courses at the 500 or 800 level, with at least 6 credits at the 500 level. 

    Please note that as per the Graduate School transfer credit policy, credits that have been applied toward the degree requirements for a previous degree, whether at Penn State or elsewhere, may not be applied to degree requirements for a graduate degree at Penn State.

    All students are required to complete the HLS Orientation (non-credit) as part of the HLS core curriculum before the end of their first semester. This orientation provides an overview of the HLS program and the field of homeland security.

    Required Courses (9 credits)

    • 3
      credits

      Foundation for understanding homeland security history, the development of homeland security policies and organizations, and current management approaches.

    • 3
      credits

      This course will examine the social, political, legal, and ethical issues that arise in the context of homeland security.

    • 3
      credits

      Provides an overview of the domestic and global issues related to homeland security.

    Information Security and Forensics Option Prescribed Courses (12 credits)

    • 3
      credits

      Fundamental issues and concepts of computer forensics; aspects of computer and cybercrime; methods to uncover, protect, exploit, and document digital evidence; tools, techniques, and procedures to perform computer and cybercrime investigation.

    • 3
      credits

      Contemporary security issues; security management processes, architecture, and models; risk analysis and management; security planning, analysis, and safeguards; security policies development and administration; contingency planning, incidence handling, and response; and security standards and certification processes.

    • 3
      credits

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

    • 3
      credits

      This course provides theoretical and applied foundations of information security and assurance.

    Electives (select 9 credits)

    • 3
      credits

      This seminar provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of disaster communication across phases of a disaster.

    • 3
      credits

      The application of cultural geography in the intelligence analysis and synthesis process by identifying prominent threats to civil security.

    • 3
      credits

      Explores psychological impact of disasters and terrorist attacks on victims, families, rescuers, and society and methods of reducing negative effects.

      • Prerequisite

        permission of the program

    • 3
      credits

      A web-centric look at the latest techniques and practices in computer security as they apply to the Internet.

      • Prerequisite

        IST 815

    • 3
      credits

      Fundamental issues and concepts of network security, network security technologies and protocols, and emerging technologies in network security.

    • 3
      credits

      This course examines the fundamental elements of crisis, disaster, risk, and emergency management.

    • 3
      credits

      Introduces visual analytic techniques for security informatics and intelligence. Survey technical approaches for data analysis and threats and vulnerability, communicating risk.

      • Prerequisite

        IST 816 or IST 554 or IST 562

    Capstone Experience (3 required credits)

    • 3
      credits

      In this project all students in the program are required to focus on a well-defined issue or problem relevant to information sciences and technology. Each student will submit a project proposal to his/her faculty adviser for approval.

      • Note

        Must be scheduled over the final two semesters in a 2-credit/1-credit consecutive sequence for a total of 3 credits

    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.

    Costs and Financial Aid

    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.

    2022–23 Academic Year Rates

    How many credits do you plan to take per semester? Cost
    11 or fewer $1,007 per credit
    12 or more $12,082 per semester

    Financial Aid and Military Benefits

    Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

    How to Apply

    Deadlines and Important Dates

    Your degree application, including receipt of all materials, must be received by the deadlines below to be considered complete. You may apply several months in advance and indicate your planned semester start date in the application. We encourage you to apply early.

    • Fall DeadlineApply by July 1 to start August 21
    • Spring DeadlineApply by November 1 to start January 8

    To help you manage the application process, our online application management system will provide you with complete details regarding the required elements of your application portfolio — and will even help you track your progress.

    Admissions Help

    If you have questions about the admissions process, contact our admissions counselors.

    Admission Requirements 

    For admission to the 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.

    The degree is multidisciplinary in nature and students from many disciplines may be accepted into the program. However, because of the technical nature of the degree program, those who hold a bachelor's degree in a technical or scientific discipline — including applied mathematics, computer information systems, computer science, information sciences, engineering, statistics, or a related field — will be considered. Students with sufficient background gained through work experience or professional training in information technologies, such as networks, web services, and database development, will also be considered for admission to the program.

    Students are expected to have basic competency in college algebra, computer programming, networks, and information technology (related work experience is also acceptable). A student may be accepted into the program with "provisional status" for no more than one year while work is completed to meet these competencies.

    What You Need

    Applications are submitted electronically and include a nonrefundable application fee. 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. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State, but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    GPA and Test Scores — postsecondary (undergraduate), junior/senior (last two years) GPA is required. Successful applicants are expected to have an overall grade-point average of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher from undergraduate study (and/or graduate-level studies). However, accomplishments demonstrated through work experience and recommendation letters from an applicant's academic adviser or employer will also play an important role in the admission decision. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience is recommended.

    GRE or GMAT scores are not required.

    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 Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

    References (3) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of three references from professional sources. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to each reference requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform all recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.

    Program-Specific Questions/Materials

    Résumé — Upload your résumé (one-to two-pages) to the online application. 

    Start your Application

    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.

    How to Apply

    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.

    Begin the graduate school application

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Degree Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus
    • Choose "HOMELAND SECURITY" as the major
    • Choose “MASTER OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES” as the degree
    • Choose “INFORMATION SECURITY AND FORENSICS OPTION” as the option

    Checking Your Status

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

    Technical Requirements 

    Review the technical requirements for this program.

    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 master's degree?

    Apply by July 1 to start August 21. How to Apply

    Start or Advance Your Career

    A homeland security professional working at a computer

    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.


    Job Titles Related to This Degree

    The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:

    • Cyber Analyst
    • Forensic Computer Examiner
    • Information Security Specialist
    • Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO)

    Employment Outlook for Occupational Fields Related to This Degree

    Estimates of employment growth and total employment are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are subject to change. While these occupations are often pursued by graduates with this degree, individual outcomes may vary depending on a variety of factors. Penn State World Campus cannot guarantee employment in a given occupation.

    Information Security Analysts

    34.7%
    employment growth (10 years)
    157,220
    total employment

    Forensic Science Technicians

    11.4%
    employment growth (10 years)
    17,020
    total employment

    Detectives and Criminal Investigators

    -0.7%
    employment growth (10 years)
    107,890
    total employment

    Career Services to Set You Up for Success

    Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

    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 

    Earn a Valuable Credential along the Way

    A figure walking on a path that includes a certificate part of the way through their progress

    Show mastery of specific subjects before your degree is complete. Thanks to shared courses across programs, students can often earn a certificate along with their degree in less time than if they earned them separately.

    Certificate Program Related to This Degree

    The following graduate certificate can be earned while completing this degree program:

    Build your understanding of information systems security, risk management, digital forensics, knowledge management, cybersecurity, crisis and disaster management, and web security and privacy with this online graduate certificate.

    Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Information Systems Cybersecurity  

    Contact Us

    For questions related to the Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security — Information Security and Forensics option, offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology, please contact: 

    Chrissie Fitzgerald
    Graduate Programs Manager
    College of Information Sciences and Technology
    The Pennsylvania State University
    E108 Westgate Building
    University Park PA 16802
    Email: [email protected]

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

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

    Faculty

    • Wei-Fan Chen

      • Degree
        Ph.D., Instructional Systems, Penn State
      • Degree
        M.Ed., Instructional Systems, Penn State
      • Degree
        B.S., Computer Science and Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taiwan

      Dr. Wei-Fan Chen is an associate professor of information sciences and technology at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. His research and teaching interests include cognitive and information sciences and technology as related to learning.

    • Robert J. Cole

      • Degree
        Ph.D., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
      • Degree
        B.S., Electrical Engineering, University of Delaware

      Dr. Robert J. Cole has been an adjunct instructor for the College of IST since 2013. He is also a systems engineer and data scientist for Raytheon Intelligence and Information Services.

    • Edward J. Glantz

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

    • Abdullah Konak

      Degree
      Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, University of Pittsburgh

      Dr. Abdullah Konak is a professor of information sciences and technology at Penn State Berks and teaches courses on database management systems, information security, and technology-based entrepreneurship.

    • Anna Levy
      • Degree
        Ph.D., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
      • Degree
        M.S., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
      • Degree
        MLS, Library and Information Sciences, Pratt Institute School of Information
      • Degree
        B.A., Library Science and Bibliography, Moscow State University of Culture and Arts

      Dr. Anna Levy has been an instructor for the College of IST and World Campus since 2014. Prior to joining IST, Dr. Levy served 8 years as an adjunct faculty member of Queen College Graduate School of Library and Information Studies (CUNY). Her career spans more than 30 years of conducting library and academic research, including work as a reference librarian and a bibliographer. Dr. Levy’s primary research interests include e-government research at the municipal level, public administration, and town-gown relations, particularly focusing on the analysis of the impacts of social media and mobile technology on local governance in the information age.

    • Mahdi Nasereddin

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

    • Mimi Zhang

      • Degree
        Ph.D., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
      • Degree
        M.Sc., Information and Knowledge Management, Loughborough University, UK
      • Degree
        B.Mgt., Information Management and Information Systems, Hefei University of Technology, China

      Dr. Mimi Zhang is an adjunct faculty for the College of IST. Her primary areas of research and teaching interests are data science, web analytics, and technology industry.

    News


    Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State master's degree?

    Apply by July 1 to start August 21. How to Apply