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Executive Master's in Information Systems Security

 Information Systems Security (INFOSEC) experts keep data safe and confidential, protecting both computer and communication information. INFOSEC mitigates the risks of storing and transferring data and ensures information stays private.

two business professionals talking indoors
two business professionals talking indoors

Types

Executive Master

Location

Hybrid

Credits

31

Cost

$549/credit hour

Stop cyber attacks before they happen.

Attacks are plenty, but defenders are few. Protecting data in a technology-filled society is essential for running any business or organization, but too few individuals accept the challenge of ensuring the safety of private information. What we’re saying is, INFOSEC needs you! With an executive master’s degree in Information Systems Security from University of the Cumberlands, you will become an expert in information preservation and restoration. Because of your expertise, you will be set apart in the job market, guaranteeing the chance for success no matter where you go. From security analyst to systems manager, you will have your pick of careers. 

  

Anchor: Stats

By the Numbers

$102,600

Average Salary

35%

Industry Growth

#1

INFOSEC Program in KY

2023

Listed "Most Affordable"
Anchor: Programs & Requirements
Programs & Requirements

Programs & Requirements

Information Systems Security

This executive program is mapped directly to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and National Security Agency (NSA) cyber security education standards. It also aligns with the (ISC)2 CISSP Common Body of Knowledge. CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) is an industry-leading professional certification for cyber security experts such as security practitioners, managers, and executives.

Our program is intended for those who have earned their baccalaureate degree and already work in the information technology field. If you’re interested in continuing your education and enhancing your credentials, you’ll find that UC’s executive information systems security degree program is built to help you achieve your goals. 

You’ll learn how to prevent or mitigate data loss by: 

  • Developing and implementing security policies 
  • Managing compliance with federal regulations for information security 
  • Creating disaster prevention and recovery plans 
  • Finding and preventing problems related to hardware, software, and networks 
  • Achieving availability, integrity, and confidentiality of information 
  • Implementing physical security measures to restrict access 
  • And much more 

Earning an Executive Master of Science in Information Security Systems will equip you to take the CISSP certification exam. You’ll also graduate ready to pursue a new career path in INFOSEC or apply the latest information assurance and cyber security principles in your current role. 

University of the Cumberlands has been named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). There are just over 200 universities nationwide with CAE-CD designation, and only two other universities in Kentucky included in this elite group. 

Course Requirements

*All online students who are seeking to earn this degree must take this course in lieu of INTR 599, in addition to meeting all program degree requirements. Executive format students can substitute the required INTR 599 course in lieu of ISOL 699 as part of their program degree requirements. 

** Executive format programs have an applied learning component (internship or practicum) that is an integral and essential part of the established curriculum. Due to the applied learning component required for the degree program, Executive format students must enroll in INTR every term of enrollment. 
 

Anchor: Executive Student Resources
Executive students walking toward graduation ceremony

Executive Student Resources

UC's Department of International Graduate Services enjoys providing support resources for our international students. Find tutorials and information regarding offices and policies for the International Graduate Students and programs.

Executive Program Format

Our Executive Programs include hybrid course days designed for international graduate students studying in the U.S., or domestic students seeking a hybrid-format program.  We strive to incorporate professional experience and real-world application of course curriculum into our programs to enhance the learning experience.  Practical Training is an integral part of program coursework and available to all students.  At the University of the Cumberlands our degree programs focus on quality education at an affordable price.

Executive Program students take three (3) courses per semester.  The program semester is based on the existing UC semester calendar, with three (3) annual semesters: fall, spring, and summer.  Two of the courses each semester focus on the specific program content.  Additionally, students will be required to attend an intensive residency weekend as part of their course enrollment each term.  The third class includes an Applied Learning Practicum, in which students apply what they are learning in their other two courses to the real world via work or internship experiences.

Residency FAQs

Residency Session dates are determined by the course that you are registered for. It is very important that you make note of the class you registered for, as well as the designated residency weekend for that course as each course will only meet one weekend for the duration of the semester.

Even though we will only be meeting one weekend per semester, we will have the same number of contact hours with you. This will enable the instructors to make residency weekends much more valuable. This change will allow us to have meaningful projects on residency weekends.

You can view your semester schedule in your self-service portal in your Student Profile. Once you log into your MyUC account, click on Academics, then click on Current Schedule. Your schedule details will indicate the date and location of your residency weekend.

You can find information on the residency site locations on our website.

Yes, all three days are mandatory, and requests to arrive late or leave early will not be approved. Should you not be in attendance for the full session, you will be counted absent for the entire session. Please plan travel accordingly!

Attendance to each executive residency class session is mandatory. Students may make up no more than one (1) residency session throughout the duration of their academic program. Missing a second residency will result in the student being dismissed from the university.

A missed session will result in the student attending a make-up session, and paying a $300 residency make-up fee. In addition, the student may be asked for documentation from the program department providing an explanation as to why the scheduled residency session was missed. Make-up sessions must be completed prior to the end of the term. Noncompliance with this policy will result in dismissal from the executive program.

Make-up residency sessions will be held at our campus in Williamsburg, KY. You will be contacted with the time and dates after your absence is reported. There will only be one (1) residency make-up session offered each semester. Failure to attend all days of the makeup session will result in receiving a failing grade for the course, as well as potential dismissal from the University, and SEVIS termination. 

If you cannot be in attendance for all three days then you will be counted absent for the entire residency weekend and be required to attend the make-up residency and pay the $300 make-up fee.

The Department of International Graduate Services will contact you via your UC student email as registration for the next term approaches. Please remember that you are required to register for (one) main class, (one) online class, and Applied Learning Practicum each semester in order to maintain your F1 status – late registration will not be accepted and can result in the termination of your student status. 

Once you register for a class you will want to make note of the residency weekend that your class is scheduled, as that is the only session for that class that will be scheduled for the semester. You will need to be sure to plan your travel accordingly to ensure that you are in attendance for the full residency session.

Registration is done on a first-come, first-serve basis. Once a course is full, there will not be additional seats added, as we cannot exceed classroom seating capacity; therefore, it is advised that you register for classes as much in advance as possible. As a reminder, students cannot register for future semesters until their current tuition balance is paid in full.

*Please note all times are in local time zone*

Friday

Facility will open at 4:00 p.m.

Saturday

Facility will open at 7:00 a.m.

Sunday

Facility will open at 7:00 a.m.

We ask that you please take note of the above-mentioned times and schedule your travel accordingly.

*These dates have been set; however, if any changes are made, they will be made prior to registration for that semester. Not all dates are available at each residency location.

Fall 2024 (August 26th – December 13th)

  • September 27 – 29
  • October 4 – 6
  • October 11 – 13
  • October 18 – 20
  • October 25 – 27
  • November 1 – 3
  • November 8 – 10
  • November 15 – 17
  • November 22 – 24 

Spring 2025 (January 6th – April 30th)

  • January 31-February 2
  • February 7-9
  • February 14-16
  • February 21-23
  • February 28-March 2
  • March 7-9
  • March 14-16
  • March 21-23
  • March 28-30
  • April 4-6
  • April 11-13

Take the Next Step

Anchor: Mission & Goals

Program Mission

The School of Computer and Information Sciences strives for excellence in creating, applying, and imparting knowledge in information technology.

Knowledge to properly secure facilities, equipment and software.
Ability to create and implement a plan to provide for disaster prevention and recovery
Practice using proper techniques for implementing security plans that ensure compliance with various laws.
Practice identifying and investigating breaches in compliance.
Confidence to address specific needs and challenges in the field of information security.

University of the Cumberlands has been named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). There are just over 200 universities nationwide with CAE-CD designation, and only two other universities in Kentucky included in this elite group.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) & National Security Agency (NSA)
Anchor: Career Outcomes

Information Systems Security Careers & Outcomes

All stats from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Information Security Analyst: $102,600

Information Security Analyst: $102,600

Information security analysts analyze current security measures and plan, organize, and implement new security protocols. 

Computer and Information Systems Manager: $159,010

Computer and Information Systems Manager: $159,010

Computer and information systems managers lead teams of information systems personnel, organize projects, and direct teams for projects.

IT Security Manager: $159,010

IT Security Manager: $159,010

IT security managers lead teams of information security personnel, organize projects, and direct teams for cyber security projects. 

Database Administrator: $101,000

Database Administrator: $101,000

 Database administrators create, maintain, optimize, and secure databases to hold data for an organization.

Network and Computer Systems Administrator: $80,600

Network and Computer Systems Administrator: $80,600

Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the daily operations of all network and computer systems under their direction. 

Computer Network Architect: $120,520

Computer Network Architect: $120,520

Computer network architects design and build networks for communications. These may include LANs, WANs, and Intranets.

Anchor: FAQs

Common Questions

Information systems security, also known as INFOSEC, involves keeping data safe, confidential, and available for access. The field centers on protecting both computer information and communications data, such as telephone conversations. Since storing, processing, or moving data can present a risk to businesses and organizations, INFOSEC is critical to ensuring private information stays safe from unauthorized access. 

The field of information systems security is often broken down into two areas: 

  • Cyber Security. This is the discipline of protecting computer systems and networks from threats like malware, phishing attacks, and hackers. 
  • Information Assurance. This is the discipline of making sure data is accessible and won’t be lost in the event of an incident.  

Earning a degree in cyber security or information systems security could be a step toward a career with critical impact. Earning a degree in cyber security could be well worth it. For instance, you could... 

  • Boost your salary. Information security analysts earned a median annual salary of $102,600 in 2021. The 2021 median annual salary for computer and information technology careers, in general, was $97,430. That’s about twice the median salary for all other occupations.  
  • Take your career in a new direction. If you’re ready to go further in the IT field, earning your master’s in Information Systems Security could prepare you to advance your current career, lead your business’s IT security strategy, or pursue a new professional challenge.  
  • Learn in a flexible format. University of the Cumberlands’ master’s in Information Systems Security program can be earned executive, offering maximum convenience. The program is designed for working students and offers the same high quality as a traditional campus program. 

Earning an IT security degree may equip you with the skills needed to pursue an Information Security Analyst career path. Job opportunities in this occupation should grow 33 percent between 2021 and 2030—much faster than average. Security analysts keep businesses’ IT systems and critical data safe by: 

  • Monitoring for security breaches and investigating incidents 
  • Installing software like firewalls and data encryption programs 
  • Doing penetration testing to detect vulnerabilities before criminals find them 
  • Creating a disaster recovery plan in case of an emergency 
  • And much more!

Security analysts must typically earn a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in information assurance or a related field. However, many earn a master’s degree in an area like information systems. 

Knowledge of IT security also comes into play in many other IT career paths, including: 

No matter which direction you plan to pursue, earning an executive master’s in Information Systems Security from University of the Cumberlands could help you build the skills you need to advance your career. 

This degree is a 31-credit hour degree, and each class is worth 3 hours, except for the final project, which is worth 1 hour. Each class is offered in an 8-week term format, and you will be able to take classes at your own pace. If you take 12 hours per semester (2 classes each biterm), you could be able to finish this degree in as little as one year (3 semesters)! 

Since this executive master's degree is offered in a hybrid format, it includes residency weekend sessions throughout the program. Check out our Residency FAQs for more information, or fill out the form at the bottom of this page if you have further questions about on-campus components.

The Master of Science in Information Security at University of the Cumberlands focuses on information security challenges relating to mitigating the risk of loss or disclosure of data. With the combination of the ubiquitous nature of electronic information and the associated security risks, the field of information security has become a critical need for every organization. The graduate degree in cybersecurity is comprised of the following the following Program Goals and Program Level Outcomes (PLOs):

  • PLO 1.1. Students manage access controls using best practices and technologies to help secure the network.   (ISOL 531 Access Control)
  • PLO 1.2. Students secure an application by applying proper security methods and parameters. (ISOL 534  Application Security)
  • PLO 1.3. Students apply cryptography techniques to secure data. (ISOL 535 – Cryptography)
  • PLO 1.4. Students recommend security strategies to minimize operational attacks. (ISOL 631 Operations Security)
  • PLO 1.5. Students provide action plans and recommendations to secure a facility. (ISOL 634 Physical Security)
  • PLO 2.1. Students justify techniques for securing networks to minimize operational impacts when cyber-attacks occur.  (ISOL 532 Telecommunications and Network Security)
  • PLO 2.2. Students evaluate an organization’s infrastructure to prevent future security attacks. (ISOL 536 – Security Architecture and Design)
  • PLO 2.3. Students examine risk management strategies for protecting assets. (ISOL 533 Information Security and Risk Management)
  • PLO 2.4. Students develop a comprehensive plan to reduce the risks of a loss of business continuity. (ISOL 632 Business Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery Planning)

PLO 3.1. Students determine which laws apply to different types of business environments. (ISOL 633 Legal Regulations, Compliance, and Investigations)

PLO 4.1. Students clearly assess IS security needs for an organization. (ISOL 699 Information Security Project)

A group of Graduate students entering during the processional at Commencement.

Executive Program Admission Requirements

All students in our executive programs are required to meet a standard set of admissions requirements for graduate students.

Anchor: Faculty

Faculty Experts

Learn more about the professors you will interact with. 

Dr. Mohamed Elseifi

Dr. Mohamed Elseifi

Adjunct Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

Dr. Mohamed Elseifi

Contact Information

mohamed.elseifi [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
Dr. Eve Thullen

Dr. Eve Thullen

Adjunct Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

Dr. Eve Thullen

Contact Information

eve.thullen [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
Dr. Vanessa Cooper

Dr. Vanessa Cooper

Adjunct Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

Dr. Vanessa Cooper

Contact Information

512.507.4547
vanessa.cooper [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
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