Infrastructure security has not kept pace with the growth of information in cyberspace. Information systems need detection and counter-measure strategies to thwart computer hackers. Iowa State faculty have a national reputation for education in computer security. In 1999 the National Security Agency named Iowa State University one of the seven charter Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Security Education. To increase technology proficiency and policy issues critical to the security of information infrastructure, Iowa State faculty developed a graduate certificate program for those who have a bachelor of science in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related field The program was launched in fall 2001. It is designed to meet the needs of information system security specialists in government, the private sector, and educational institutions. The program will:
- increase your knowledge about information infrastructure security,
- expand and develop your engineering abilities,
- nurture and instill the ethics involved in technology, and
- help you develop and understand strategy and policy issues.
Students can receive the certificate in as little as 9 months by taking two courses a semester. Several of the courses offer hands-on learning experience where the students will be able to perform experiments and use software systems remotely through the internet. The ISU faculty members offering these courses have over a decade of experience in online education and the courses have been designed with online education in mind.
Admission Requirements
Our target audience is students who have a BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a closely related field; or one year of experience in IT and BS. Admission and application procedures can be found on the Graduate College website . Students may take up to 9 credits as a non-degree seeking student, so it is possible to begin your studies before formal admittance into the program. GRE not required for IT professionals with 3 + years of IT experience.
Continuing on for a Masters Degree
If a person who receives a graduate certificate decides to continue for a graduate degree, the person needs to seek approval from that degree program. Credits earned for the graduate certificate may also be used to meet degree requirements for the graduate degree if approved by the Program of Study Committee.
Certificate Requirements
The certificate consists of 4 courses (12 credit hours). Students need to earn a C or better in all courses for them to count towards the certificate program.
- InfAs 530 Advanced Computer Networking
- InfAs 531 Computer Security
- Infas 532 Information warfare
1 out of 5:
- InfAs 533 Cryptography
- InfAs 534 Ethical and Legal Issues in Computer Security
- CprE 535 Steganography
- Cpr E 536 Forensics
- CprE 537 Wireless Security
Course descriptions can be found in the course catalog .