Sam Houston State University Online Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity

Why Sam Houston State University?

Sam Houston State University recruits applicants for its online Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity. SHSU, a large public university in Huntsville, Texas, accepts applications from individuals with an undergraduate major or minor in Computer Science or Management Information Systems. 

Individuals with a baccalaureate degree in a related technical field and appropriate professional experience may also be competitive for admission.

Standardized test scores are not required, and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is expected.

Program Snapshot

University Name Sam Houston State University
Location Huntsville
State Texas
Niche.com Grade B
Name of Degree Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
School or Department Administering Program Department of Computer Science
Credits 30
Cost per credit $643.00
Tuition for Entire Program $19,290.00
Test Requirements None
Minimum GPA 3.0
Campus Visit Required? No
Typical Time to Complete 1-2 years
When Can Students Start the Program? Fall, Spring, Summer
Program Concentrations None
Synchronous Classes No
Required Courses ·   Operating Systems Security

·   Database Security

·   Principles and Policy for Information Assurance

·   Network and Cyber Security

·   Business Contrinuity Management

·   Directed Management and Development Project

·   4 Electives

Does the Program Include a Capstone? Yes
Does the Program Include a Practicum or Internship? No
Other Features that Make the Program Unique Comprehensive exam if you earn a B or lower, each student assigned an advisory committee, flexibility with 4 electives
Program Objectives (quoted directly from the program) Establish and operate an investigator’s lab, and process digital evidence, Develop plans to safeguard digital files against unauthorized modification and destruction, Create plans and implement strategies for preventing attacks to a network Analyze/asses risk and identify vulnerabilities in an organizations network Acquire the professional competency and cybersecurity expertise necessary for roles and responsibilities in business, industry, and governmental positions
Program Description This 30-credit program emphasizes computer science skills and approaches. This is a generalist program with no concentrations offered. A capstone is required. The program follows an accelerated course schedule, allowing students to graduate faster and reap the benefits of their degree.

 

What will I Learn?

Graduates of the SHSU program will have the knowledge and abilities needed to set up and operate an investigator’s lab, process digital evidence, design plans to protect digital files from unauthorized modification and destruction, and build plans and strategies for preventing network attacks. They will have the expertise and experience to assess risk and detect vulnerabilities in an organization’s network. They will be prepared for roles and responsibilities in business, industry, and government that need professional competency and cybersecurity experience.

Required courses are: Operating Systems Security, Database Security, Principles and Policy for Information Assurance, Network and Cyber Security, and Business Continuity Management. All students are required to complete a Directed Management and Development Project to consolidate and hone their skills. Students enroll in four electives in addition to their required courses. 

Students who earn a B or lower in any course must take a comprehensive exam. 

How much will the program cost?

Students finish their degree within 1-2 years and pay $643.00 per credit for a total of 30 credits, or $19,290.00 in total.

How does the program fit into my life?

All courses are asynchronous, meaning that students complete coursework on their own schedule each week, including watching pre-recorded lectures and participating in online discussion. No campus visit is required. Most students complete the program within 1-2 years. Students can enter the program in Fall, Spring or Summer semester.

Students are supported by an assigned advisory committee. 

Summary

This regional university’s lower-cost cybersecurity master’s degree emphasizes computer science skills and techniques. With four electives in addition to obligatory courses, it provides more freedom than many low-cost programs. Managerial and communication abilities are focused heavily.

The degree’s accelerated curriculum helps students to complete their program faster and re-enter the job with greater skills. A capstone project is required, and lower-performing students may be asked to take a comprehensive exam.