Hands-On Experience
Gain valuable hands-on experience alongside your online course work.
Application deadline
Credits and costs
Nationally Recognized
Gain Skills to Recognize and Prevent Cyber Threats
Address security risks within individual, community, organizational, and national security contexts.
Identify and recognize countermeasure strategies to address security needs, including architectures, processes, components, or programs.
Effectively communicate analyses of security issues and solutions to diverse audiences through writing and speaking.
Understand the ethical, legal, security, and social aspects of a problem and its solution.
Evaluate the impact of information, computing, and technology on individuals, groups, organizations, society, and the world.
Online Security and Risk Analysis Courses and Options
Online Security and Risk Analysis Courses and Options
Courses will engage you in the challenges and problems associated with assuring information confidentiality and integrity (e.g., social, economic, technology-related, and policy issues), as well as the strengths and weaknesses of various methods for assessing and mitigating associated risk.
This program will familiarize you with the general frameworks and multidisciplinary theories that define the area of security and related risk analyses. It will also provide a unique, interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates areas of study in information assurance (both digital and physical security), intelligence analysis, and cyber forensics.
Customize your learning with degree options
Information and Cybersecurity Option
Learn how to design secure systems, evaluate risk, and ensure the privacy of individuals, businesses, government, and other organizations. The courses in the program can provide you with an understanding of the theories, skills, and technologies associated with network security, cyber threat defense, information warfare, and infrastructure protection across multiple industries.
Intelligence Analysis and Modeling Option
Develop a thorough knowledge of the strategic and tactical levels of intelligence collection, analysis, and decision-making. Your course work will examine decision analysis, economic theory, statistics, data mining, and knowledge management, as well as the security-specific contexts in which such foundational knowledge is applied.
Prescribed Courses for the Major (30 credits)
Students must earn a grade of C or better in all prescribed courses for the major.
- 3credits
Provides an understanding of the overview of information security, including security architecture, access control, and internet secure applications.
- Prerequisite
SRA 111 and IST 110 and CMPSC 101
- 3credits
The use, analysis, and design of information systems and technologies to organize, coordinate, and inform human enterprises.
- 3credits
Introduction to the concept of databases, including the storage, manipulation, evaluation, and display of data, and related issues.
- 3credits
Legal environment of information technology, constitutional/political issues, intellectual property, management, e-commerce, privacy, access, computer contracting, cyberspace regulation.
- Prerequisite
IST 301 or SRA 231
- 1credit
Supervised off-campus, nongroup instruction including field experiences, practica, or internships. Written and oral critique of activity required.
- Prerequisite
prior approval of proposed assignment by instructor
- Note
Internships provide valuable experience for students; however, we recognize that situations vary and some students, due to work or other commitments, are unable to adjust their schedules. You are encouraged to contact your adviser to make arrangements for suitable activities in lieu of an internship.
- 3credits
This introductory course spans areas of security, risk, and analysis covering contexts in government agencies and business organizations.
- 3credits
Provides overview of nature, scope, and seriousness of threats to security as a result of terrorism and crime.
- Prerequisite
SRA 111 and CMPSC 101 or IST 140 and CMPSC 121
- C or better
A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.
- 3credits
Provides an overview of decision theoretical and analytical concepts and tools in the security risk analysis field.
- Prerequisite
SRA 111, STAT 200
- 4credits
Descriptive Statistics, frequency distributions, probability and normal distributions, statistical inference, linear regression, and correlation.
- Prerequisite
Placement into MATH 21 or higher.
Additional Courses for the Major (21–23 credits)
Writing Courses (select 3 credits)
- 3credits
Writing for students in scientific and technical disciplines.
- Prerequisite
ENGL 15, ESL 15, ENGL 30, and 4th Semester standing OR ENGL 137H, ENGL 138T, and 4th Semester standing
- 3credits
Writing reports and other common forms of business communication.
- Prerequisite
(ENGL 15 or ESL 15 or ENGL 30) and 4th-semester standing OR (ENGL 137H and ENGL 138T) and 4th-semester standing
PSYCH/SOC Courses (select 3 credits)
- 3credits
Introduction to general psychology; principles of human behavior and their applications.
- GS
The credits earned in this course may be applied toward the Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS) requirement.
- 3credits
Current social problems such as economic, racial, and gender inequalities; social deviance and crime; population, environmental, energy, and health problems.
- GS
The credits earned in this course may be applied toward the Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS) requirement.
Economics Courses (select 3 credits)
- 3credits
This course introduces students to microeconomic principles in the context of food and agriculture.
- 3credits
Methods of economic analysis and their use; price determination; theory of the firm; distribution.
- 3credits
National income measurement; aggregate economic models; money and income; policy problems.
Math Courses (select 3–5 credits)
- 3credits
Relations, functions, graphs; polynomial, rational functions, graphs; word problems; nonlinear inequalities; inverse functions; exponential, logarithmic functions; conic sections; simultaneous equations.
- Prerequisite
MATH 021 or satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination.
- 3credits
Trigonometric functions; solutions of triangles; trigonometric equations; identities.
- Prerequisite
MATH 21 or satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination
- 4credits
Introduces and develops the mathematical skills required for analyzing change, and the underlying mathematical behaviors that model real-life economics and financial applications. Develops student knowledge of calculus techniques, and how to use a calculus framework to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Prerequisite
MATH 22 or MATH 40 or MATH 41 or satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination
- 4credits
Introduces and develops the mathematical skills required for analyzing change and creating mathematical models that replicate real-life phenomena. Develops student knowledge of calculus techniques and how to use the calculus environment to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Prerequisite
MATH 22 and MATH 26 or MATH 26 and satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination or MATH 40 or MATH 41 or satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination.
GEOG or PLSC Courses (select 3 credits)
- 3credits
Contemporary international affairs in their geographical setting; geographic elements in the development of national power, political groupings, and international disputes.
- 3credits
This course examines the American democracy by looking at the dynamic interaction between the founding ideals of the United States government, the institutions established by the Constitution, and the ongoing contest for power within and through those institutions.
- 3credits
Characteristics of modern nation-states and forces governing their international relations; nationalism; imperialism; diplomacy; current problems of war and peace.
Statistics Courses (select 3 credits)
- 3credits
This course emphasizes how to summarize data using descriptive statistics, how to make data-driven decisions using inferential statistics, and how to critically evaluate data presented in the media, all within the context of security, risk, and analysis. This is both a theory and application course. Students will learn about statistical theories, such as regression, and chi-square analyses, and apply their knowledge of these theories by analyzing and interpreting data using a statistical software package.
- Prerequisite
STAT 200
- C or better
A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.
- 3credits
Review of hypothesis testing, goodness-of-fit tests, regression, correlation analysis, completely randomized designs, randomized complete block designs, latin squares.
- Prerequisite
STAT 200 or STAT 240 or STAT 250 or STAT 401
- C or better
A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.
Programming Courses (select 3 credits)
- 3credits
Fundamentals of computational thinking, including reasoning about problems at multiple levels of abstraction, and analyzing code for its behavior, efficiency, and correctness.
- Prerequisite
MATH 21 or satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination
- C or better
A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.
- 3credits
Introduction to programming techniques design and implementation of algorithms. Structured programming. Problem-solving techniques. Introduction to a high-level language, including arrays, procedures, and recursion
- Prerequisite
MATH 110 or prerequisite or concurrent MATH 140
- C or better
A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.
- 3credits
A first course in concepts and skills for application development.
- Prerequisite
C or better in MATH 21 or placement above the level of MATH 21 in the mathematics placement test.
- Recommend preparation
MATH 22
- C or better
A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.
Prescribed Courses for the Intelligence Analysis and Modeling Option (21 credits)
Students must earn a grade of C or better in all prescribed courses for the option.
- 3credits
Exploration of legal, regulatory, public policy, and ethical issues related to security and privacy for information technology professionals in public institutions, private enterprise, and IT services.
- Prerequisite
IST 432
- 3credits
This course introduces the fundamental principles, methods, and tools of visual analytics that enable security and risk analysts to synthesize information and derive insight from massive, dynamic, ambiguous, and often conflicting data.
- 3credits
This course provides students with the background, experience, and perspective required to document risk and identify policies and procedures that effectively deal with hazards and threats to which the organization is vulnerable, jeopardizing its mission.
- 3credits
The course examines the users and processes of Intelligence Community, participants of Competitive Intelligence, and comparative intelligence communities.
- 3credits
Deception tactics, technologies and procedures, and approaches to counterdeception analysis.
- 3credits
The Security and Risk Analysis Capstone course is designed to provide IST students enrolled in the SRA major to experience a semester-long security and risk problem-solving experience, providing realistic security dilemmas requiring a solution process that is well suited for teamwork and collaboration.
- Prerequisite
SRA 221 and SRA 311 and ENGL 202C or ENGL 202D
- 3credits
Helps students develop a spatial perspective on risk analysis and empowers them with GIS spatial data representation, visualization, and analysis methods that are fundamental to the spatial analysis of risk.
- Prerequisite
SRA 111
Supporting Courses and Related Areas for the Intelligence Analysis and Modeling Option (15 credits)
Select 15 credits from College-approved list. At least 3 credits must be at the 400-level.
Prescribed Courses for the Information and Cybersecurity Option (15 credits)
Students must earn a grade of C or better in all prescribed courses for the option.
- 3credits
Fundamental issues and concepts of network security, network security technologies and protocols, and emerging technologies in network security.
- Prerequisite
C or better in IST 220 and SRA 221
- 3credits
Fundamental issues and concepts of computer forensics; aspects of computer and cyber crime; methods to uncover, protect, exploit, and document digital evidence; tools, techniques, and procedures to perform computer and cyber crime investigation.
- Prerequisite
C or better in IST 220 and SRA 221
- 3credits
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.
- Prerequisite
C or better in IST 220 and SRA 221
- 3credits
Introduction to digital network topologies, transmission media, signal modulation, digital packet switching and routing, systems integration, communications management, and security.
- 3credits
Assessment and mitigation of security vulnerabilities for people, organizations, industry sectors, and the nation.
- Prerequisite
SRA 231
Additional Courses for the Information and Cybersecurity Option (select 3 credits)
Students must earn a grade of C or better in all additional courses for the option.
- 3credits
Problem-based approach to technology integration by focusing on real-life problems faced by an organization.
- Prerequisite
ENGL 202C or ENGL 202D and seventh-semester standing (this course is intended for seniors)
- 3credits
The Security and Risk Analysis Capstone course is designed to provide IST students enrolled in the SRA major to experience a semester-long security and risk problem-solving experience, providing realistic security dilemmas requiring a solution process that is well suited for teamwork and collaboration.
- Prerequisite
SRA 221 and SRA 311 and ENGL 202C or ENGL 202D
Supporting Courses and Related Areas for the Information and Cyber Security Option (12 credits)
Select 12 credits from College-approved list. At least 3 credits must be at the 400-level.
Electives (select 5–13 credits)
Students can choose electives in consultation with their adviser.
General Education Requirements
Some General Education requirements may be satisfied by courses required for the major. Students should work with an adviser to select courses.
- Foundations: 15 credits
All courses require a grade of C or better. Inter-Domain courses may not be used for foundations requirements.- Writing/Speaking: 9 credits
- Quantification: 6 credits
3-6 credits are selected from mathematics, applied mathematics, and statistics; 3 credits may be selected from computer science or symbolic logic.
- Knowledge Domains: 15 credits
Inter-Domain courses may not be used for knowledge domain requirements.- Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
- Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits
- Arts (GA): 3 credits
- Humanities (GH): 3 credits
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
- Integrative Studies: 6 credits
- Inter-Domain course work: 6 credits
- Exploration: 9 credits
- Natural Sciences (GN) (may be Inter-Domain): 3 credits
- GA, GH, GN, GS, and Inter-Domain courses: 6 credits
May include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the requirements of the student’s degree program or at the 12th credit level, whichever is higher.
These General Education Requirements are for students who started in summer 2023 or later. Students who started earlier can review the prior version of the general education requirements.
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.
Start or Advance Your Career
Start or Advance Your Career
As business and personal interactions continue to shift online, the need is growing for professionals who can keep information and data secure. You can find such careers in business and industry, government and intelligence, and protective services and criminology, among others.
Job Titles Related to This Degree
The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:
- Information Analyst
- Information Security Specialist
- IT Security Analyst
- Network Security Analyst
- Security Analyst
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
Computer Systems Analysts
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Career Services to Set You Up for Success
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
Upcoming Events
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.
Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State bachelor's degree?
Costs and Financial Aid
Costs and Financial Aid
Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.
Costs and Financial Aid
Undergraduate Tuition
Undergraduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register and the number of total credits you have accrued at or transferred to Penn State.
Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.
2024–25 Academic Year Rates
| How many credits do you plan to take per semester? | If you have 59 or fewer credits | If you have 60 or more credits |
|---|---|---|
| 11 or fewer | $632 per credit | $678 per credit |
| 12–19 | $7,678 per semester | $8,288 per semester |
2025–26 Academic Year Rates
| How many credits do you plan to take per semester? | If you have 59 or fewer credits | If you have 60 or more credits |
|---|---|---|
| 11 or fewer | $638 per credit | $685 per credit |
| 12–19 | $7,755 per semester | $8,371 per semester |
Undergraduate students taking more than 19 credits will be charged the flat tuition rate plus the regular per credit hour rate for each credit above 19.
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. Federal financial aid may only be used to pay for credits used to satisfy program requirements.
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:
- visit the Tuition Information site
- click the plus sign to expand the table
- select a semester from the World Campus row
Earn a Credential along the Way
Earn a Credential along the Way
Because the IT profession is constantly changing, continued learning remains key to advancing your career. As you consider your education options, you might also be interested in earning an associate degree or undergraduate certificate as you work toward your bachelor’s degree.
Develop practical IT skills through hands-on projects and an internship. This online degree program is designed for working professionals without formal IT training who want to pursue a career in technology management.
Learn more about the Associate in Science in Information Sciences and TechnologyGain an understanding of IT fundamentals and how technology connects people. This online minor in Information Sciences and Technology from Penn State is a useful enhancement to a wide range of majors in today’s world.
Learn more about the Undergraduate Minor in Information Sciences and TechnologyDevelop the expertise in data security and privacy that is becoming increasingly valuable to employers across many industries. Organizations today are highly concerned with preventing and detecting security risks and data breaches, and this minor can help you stand out.
Learn more about the Undergraduate Minor in Security and Risk AnalysisGain an understanding of IT fundamentals and how technology connects people. This online minor in Information Sciences and Technology from Penn State is a useful enhancement to a wide range of majors in today’s world.
Learn more about the Undergraduate Minor in Information Sciences and TechnologyGain an understanding of IT fundamentals and how technology connects people. This online minor in Information Sciences and Technology from Penn State is a useful enhancement to a wide range of majors in today’s world.
Learn more about the Undergraduate Minor in Information Sciences and TechnologyDevelop the expertise in data security and privacy that is becoming increasingly valuable to employers across many industries. Organizations today are highly concerned with preventing and detecting security risks and data breaches, and this minor can help you stand out.
Learn more about the Undergraduate Minor in Security and Risk AnalysisMany of the credits in these programs may be applied to the requirements for your bachelor’s degree, so that means you can benefit from Penn State's highly regarded name on your résumé even sooner.
Develop practical IT skills through hands-on projects and an internship. This online degree program is designed for working professionals without formal IT training who want to pursue a career in technology management.
Learn more about the Associate in Science in Information Sciences and TechnologyBuild the foundation for a leadership role in any IT–related field. This 12-credit certificate program focuses on practical skills that can be immediately implemented in the information technology workplace.
Learn more about the Undergraduate Certificate in Information Sciences and TechnologyLearn to secure systems, evaluate and measure risk, and maintain proper levels of privacy by using the latest tools and techniques in this online security and risk analysis undergraduate certificate program.
Learn more about the Undergraduate Certificate in Security and Risk AnalysisYour adviser can help you plan the best path for you to achieve your goals.
Who Should Apply?
If you work in or aspire to work in areas of information and data security, system security, network security, cyber security, intelligence, cyber intelligence, intel analytics, or cyber-crime prevention, this could be an excellent program for you.
Nationally Recognized
Nationally Recognized
Penn State is recognized by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security as a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense.
SRA graduates can earn a Letter of Recognition and Certificate of Achievement from these agencies, which certify that the student graduated from an institution and program whose security-related faculty, resources, curricula, and commitment were evaluated and found to be of high quality.
Set Your Own Pace
Set Your Own Pace
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 Degree in Two to Three Years
- Take 6 courses each semester
To Finish Your Degree in Three to Four Years
- Take 4–5 courses each semester
To Finish Your Degree in Five or More Years
- Take 2–3 courses each semester
Timelines may vary for students transferring credits from another school or 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
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.
How to Apply to Penn State
How to Apply to Penn State
Apply by October 31 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 October 31 to start January 12Summer Deadline
Apply by March 15, 2026, to start May 18, 2026
Steps to Apply
You must be a high school graduate or have completed a GED and have earned three and a half units of mathematics (selected from any combination of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry or higher math course) to satisfy the initial admission requirements to be admitted to the College of Information Sciences and Technology. Transfer applicants are expected to meet the minimum high school math requirements or equivalent college course work prior to enrolling at Penn State:
- completing MATH 022 (College Algebra II and Analytic Geometry) or MATH 026 (Plane Trigonometry) OR a higher-level math course offered by Penn State, determined in consultation with your academic adviser
- completing a trigonometry or higher-level course at another accredited institution with a grade of C or better
- receiving sufficient scores on Advanced Placement calculus exams
Important: Penn State's math placement exam results are used to determine the appropriate starting point for math. The results are NOT sufficient for satisfying the entrance into the College of IST requirement. The requirement must be demonstrated by letter grade or transfer credit. For more information about the entrance into the College of IST requirement for this program, contact an adviser.
Once you are admitted to the pre-major in the College of Information Sciences and Technology, you will work closely with your academic adviser to gain entrance to the security and risk analysis major.
You will need the following items to complete your application:
High school transcripts or GED transcript — First-year applicants are required to submit Self-Reported Academic Records (SRAR) when applying. Official high school transcripts for first-year applicants will only be required at the time a student accepts an offer of admission to Penn State.
Transfer international students will need to submit their high school transcript before their application can be reviewed.
Official college or university transcripts and/or official military transcripts (if applicable) — All college or university transcripts are required regardless of the length of time that has passed, the grades earned, or the accreditation of the institutions attended. Acceptance of transfer credit toward your degree is subject to final approval by the academic department. For detailed information, see the Transfer Students page.
Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.
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 Language Proficiency section on the Undergraduate Admissions International Requirements page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.
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.
Accessing MyPennState
The MyPennState Portal provides access to our online admissions services. Before accessing MyPennState, you must have a Penn State account that will be used to access all Penn State systems. After creating an account, you will receive a unique Penn State User ID. You will need to enter your User ID followed by @psu.edu when signing in to MyPennState and other Penn State sites. For example, you should be entering something like '[email protected]' in the Sign In field.
The application consists of six sections:
- Application Setup
- Program of Study
- Citizenship and Residency
- Academics and Experience
- Miscellaneous
- Review and Submit
Application Setup
Be sure to select "Online" for the "How would you like to complete your degree" question if you plan to attend Penn State World Campus.
The rest of this section will ask some basic questions about your education experience and military affiliation.
Program of Study
You will choose the degree type and then the starting semester.
Your starting campus will be selected as Penn State World Campus by default as long as you picked "Online" in your Application Setup. Click Continue.
On the Choose a Program page, select your intended major from the list.
Review your selection on the summary screen and click Continue to move on to the Citizenship and Residency section.
Citizenship and Residency
Complete the series of questions about your citizenship status, demographic information, Pennsylvania residency status, and family history.
Academics and Experience
You will need to enter academic experience information about your high school and any attempted courses at a college or university after high school.
The Education Gap Statement offers a place to explain any time that has elapsed between your high school graduation and your anticipated enrollment at Penn State. Please provide a summary of why that gap occurred. Some examples that would explain a gap in your education include work, family, attending another college or university, etc.
Miscellaneous
In the Miscellaneous section, you will provide any program-specific requirements (e.g., a personal statement), information about activities, and financial aid information.
Review and Submit
Review your information, digitally sign your application, and provide payment for the application fee ($65 domestic or $75 international).
High School Transcripts and Academic Record
After your application is completed, you will also need to self-report your high school course work before the application deadline. You will be directed to fill out the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR). It is helpful to have a high school transcript available when completing this section. In the third section, you'll select your program of study and campus.
Official high school transcripts or GED transcript, along with records from high school, are required, regardless of the length of time that has passed.
Include any college/university transcripts (required), military transcripts, and Proof of English Language proficiency (if applicable). SAT/ACT scores are not required if you are identified as an adult learner or transfer student.
All official documents should be sent to:
Undergraduate Admissions Office
The Pennsylvania State University
201 Shields Building
University Park, PA 16802You can also have your transcripts sent electronically through Parchment, eScript-Safe, or the National Clearinghouse directly to Penn State from the college/university where course work was attempted.
Acceptance
After receiving your application, application fee, and all required materials, your application will be evaluated for admission. You can check your application status online. This will provide the most up‐to‐date information about the status of your application and is updated once daily, before 8:00 a.m. (ET). Once a decision has been made regarding your application, it will be available to you through the MyPennState portal.
For information on when you can expect an admissions decision, visit the Dates and Deadlines page of the Undergraduate Admissions website. Make sure you click the "+" sign to see these dates for World Campus Applicants (First-Year and Transfer).
5. Complete the application.
Admissions Help
If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].
Contact Us
Contact Us
Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.
To learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Security and Risk Analysis, offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology, please contact:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]
Learn from the Best
Learn from the Best
The B.S. in Security and Risk Analysis is offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology, which is a leader among an emerging group in higher education known as i-schools, or information schools.
Your faculty members in this online program are the same faculty who teach our respected on-campus programs. They are a diverse group of thought leaders from many fields, including business, information science, computer science, engineering, psychology, chemistry, and artificial intelligence.
Faculty
Michael R. Bartolacci
- DegreePh.D., Industrial Engineering, Lehigh University
- DegreeMBA, Lehigh University
- DegreeB.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.
Jennifer Breese
- DegreePh.D., Information Systems and Communication, Robert Morris University
- DegreeM.A., Liberal Studies Concentration in Leadership, Duquesne University
- DegreeB.A., Political Science/Pre-Law Track, California University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Jennifer Breese is an assistant professor of information sciences and technology at Penn State Allegheny. She is an industry professional with more than 20 years of experience, including nine years at FedEx in both Pittsburgh and Boston. She has also spent thirteen years in the collegiate education environment as both an adjunct and full-time professor. She has teaching interests in cyber education, security risk analysis, and information systems technology.
Megan Costello
- DegreeJ.D., University of New Hampshire
- DegreeB.S., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
Megan Costello is an assistant teaching professor of information sciences and technology. Her areas of interest are copyright and trademark registration, business law matters, contract disputes, and privacy law. Prior to her appointment in the College of IST, she was the founder and solo practitioner for a boutique law practice that focused on cyberlaw issues and intellectual property.
Marc Friedenberg
- DegreeJ.D., Columbia Law School
- DegreeM.S., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
- DegreeB.S., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
Marc Friedenberg joined the College of Information Sciences and Technology as an assistant teaching professor of information sciences and technology after practicing intellectual property and securities litigation for large law firms in New York. His legal practice experience also involved clerkships with federal judges in New York and Los Angeles.
Katherine Hamilton
- DegreePh.D., Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Penn State
- DegreeM.S., Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Penn State
- DegreeB.A., Psychology, Florida International University
Dr. Katherine Hamilton, an assistant teaching professor of information sciences and technology, teaches statistics and research methods. She conducts research on team effectiveness, particularly in the areas of virtual teams, team cognition, and team conflict.
David M. Hozza
- DegreeMPS, Information Sciences (Cybersecurity), Penn State
- DegreeB.S., Computer Science and Management, East Stroudsburg University
David M. Hozza is a lecturer in information sciences and technology. Prior to his appointment, he had a 30-year career in the IT industry, with responsibilities in storage architecture, systems administration, data analysis, and leadership management. His areas of interest include cloud computing, cybersecurity, data protection and storage, and enterprise integration.
Johnson Kinyua
- DegreePh.D., Computer Science, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
- DegreeM.S., Digital Communications, University of Kent at Canterbury, United Kingdom
- DegreeB.S., Electronics Engineering, University College London, United Kingdom
Dr. Johnson Kinyua has been an associate teaching professor with the College of IST since 2018. His career spans more than 35 years of teaching, research, and industry experience. He served as a director of a school for six years and as a dean for five years at different universities. His teaching interests are in cybersecurity, enterprise information systems, networks, computer architecture, operating systems, software engineering, database management systems, object-oriented programming, distributed database systems, and enterprise integration.
Mohamed Meky
- DegreePh.D., Electrical Engineering, City University of New York Graduate Center
- DegreeM.Sc., Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria University, Egypt
- DegreeB.Sc., Electrical Engineering, Egypt
Dr. Mohamed Meky has been teaching for more than 25 years in the U.S. and abroad. He also has more than 22 years of industrial experience in IT fields with AT&T. He is currently conducting research in the IT security field, and his areas of teaching interest are networking, cybersecurity, system administration, computer language programming, wireless communication, electronics, and other technology courses.
Alison R. Murphy
- DegreePh.D., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
- DegreeB.S., Information Sciences and Technology, Penn State
Dr. Alison R. Murphy is an assistant teaching professor of information sciences and technology. She enjoys teaching students to think critically about the socio-technical impacts of technology on individuals, organizations, and society. She is also dedicated to researching how to improve the usability of health information technology for both individuals and organizations through the use of qualitative methods and UX design principles.
Mahdi Nasereddin
- DegreePh.D., Industrial Engineering, University of Central Florida
- DegreeM.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Central Florida
- DegreeB.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.
Syed Rizvi
- DegreePh.D., Computer Science and Engineering, University of Bridgeport
- DegreeM.S., Computer Engineering, Old Dominion University
- DegreeB.S., Computer Engineering, Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology
Dr. Syed Rizvi is an associate professor in information sciences and technology at the Penn State Altoona campus. His research interests lie at the intersection of computer networking, network security, and machine learning. Dr. Rizvi teaches cybersecurity, risk analysis, and IST courses such as fundamentals of information security, networking and telecommunications, secure software engineering, security risk assessment, network security, incident response handling, and capstone projects. He is a member of the IEEE Communications Society and ACM.
Maryam Roshanaei
- DegreePh.D., Computer Networks, Kingston University London
- DegreeB.Sc., Joint Honor Degree in Mathematics and Computing, Kingston University London
Dr. Maryam Roshanaei is an assistant professor of cybersecurity and IST at Penn State Abington. She teaches undergraduate- and graduate-level courses in security and risk analysis, information security and cybersecurity, mobile technologies, and digital forensics and crime. She is an active researcher with expertise in AI, cyber trust, cyber hygiene, critical infrastructure protection, future networks (FN), cybersecurity, digital forensics and crime, Internet privacy, and surveillance. She is an active member of BSI, ISO, and ITU-T standards committees.
Don Shemanski
- DegreeJ.D., Georgetown University
- DegreeB.A., With High Distinction, German, Penn State
Don Shemanski joined Penn State as a professor of practice of information sciences and technology after a 23-year career as a diplomat with the U.S. Foreign Service. Immediately prior to his appointment at Penn State, he served as counselor for global affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Berlin, responsible for high-priority policy issues such as counterterrorism and nuclear nonproliferation.
Greg Thomas
- DegreePh.D., Administration and Leadership Studies, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
- DegreeMPA, Penn State
- DegreeB.S., Criminal Justice, Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Greg Thomas has more than 25 years of hands-on law enforcement and educational experience in intelligence. He has developed operational intelligence concerning criminal activities and selected, trained, and supervised analysts in a criminal intelligence center. He has extensive experience teaching intelligence and analytical techniques to college students as well as intelligence analysts and law enforcement personnel.
Steve Tomasko
- DegreeM.S., IT, Capella University
- DegreeB.S., Professional Studies, Mount Aloysius College
- DegreeA.A.S., Electronics Technology, Penn Highlands Community College
Steve Tomasko has spent more than 29 years working in networking, communications, program management, and cybersecurity. He has dozens of professional certifications in these fields. His experience includes many years of cybersecurity research in support of the DoD and IC. His current professional work and research focus on cybersecurity for 5G and satellite systems.
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