Area of Emphasis

Students must complete requirements in one of the following areas of emphasis:

• Digital Forensics
• Cyber Response (Defense, Incident & Attack Response)
• Governance & Leadership (Communication, Management, Policy, Compliance)
• Security Architecture (Systems, Software, Data)

Digital Forensics

Digital Forensics is the scientific investigation methods used to collect, preserve, and analyze data stored on electronic media so that it can withstand legal review. The skills students learn include computer criminology, network forensics, digital evidence investigation techniques, and forensic iconology. Digital forensics is a program option commonly selected by students in law enforcement or the military. 

Cyber Response

Cyber Response is an organized approach to monitoring, detecting, and responding to security events through each state of their lifecycle. Skills students will learn include threat identification, management, and prevention, security infrastructure, incident remediation, and active defense techniques. Cyber Response is a common track for students in System Administrator positions.

Governance & Leadership

Governance & Leadership is the framework for mitigating risk by assuring that information security strategies align with business objectives, and are consistent with relevant laws and regulations. Skills students will learn include executive leadership and communication, security administration, cybersecurity management, and risk management. Governance & Leadership is a track commonly selected by students in executive-level leadership or business-minded careers. 

Security Architecture

Security Architecture is a system's confidentiality, integrity, and availability in relation to an enterprise's overall system architecture and security process. Skills students will learn include modern cryptography, foundations of engineering secure applications, cyber-physical systems, and secure cloud computing. Security Architecture is commonly selected by students in experienced technologist careers.