N U M S I A Brochure

Master of Science in Information Assurance

Expect Challenge, Achieve Distinction

MSIA_brochure final 5/16/06 12:13 PM Page 1

Table of Contents

Director’s Message 1

Program Overview 2

Program Structure 3

Seminar Descriptions 4 - 5

Residency Week 6

Faculty 7

Online Learning 8

Six Levels of Support 9

Admission Requirements 10

Frequently Asked Questions 11

Join The Norwich Tradition 12


When I began working in the computer field in the 60’s,information assurance meant nothing more than controllingaccess to the computer room. Getting data out of the roomrequired either printing it or copying it to spools of magnetictape the size of hubcaps. The center of the informationassurance world was the computer room.

All that has changed since the early 1990’s. The Internet allowsa hacker to knock on a company’s front door, back door, or sidedoor from anywhere in the world, and a disgruntled employeecan download a gigabyte of company data onto a flash drivethe size of a salt shaker and walk it out in his or her pocket.

Not surprisingly, securing an organization’s information assetshas become a critical business process. Recent high profilecases of information theft have moved the informationassurance field to center stage. Information assuranceprofessionals are in high demand, and studies indicate that theneed will double in the new few years. Never has the fieldseen a brighter future.

The increased need for information assurance has also comewith increased demands in the field. The informationassurance professional has to worry not only about securingan organization’s proprietary information, but customer andemployee information. The information assurance professionalmust understand the new regulatory environment that hasbeen created by laws such as HIPAA and Sarbanes-Oxley.Even the name of the field has evolved from “informationsecurity” to “information assurance,” a term borrowed fromgovernment circles in recognition that security is a process,not a product. It also recognizes that threats are not limited tomalicious attack. Natural disasters, employee error, andhardware failure are all equally serious threats.

Norwich University created the Master of Science in InformationAssurance program to fill the need for professionals whounderstand the management of information assurance andhow information assurance supports and advances businessneeds.

This is not technical training in how to configure a firewall.As they say, information assurance is about people, not

technology. The greatest need is for professionals whounderstand the policies, procedures, and overall structure of anorganization-wide information assurance program.We preparestudents to enter upper management positions to implementinformation assurance principles across all parts of anorganization.

An educational principle that has been true for years and is akeystone of Norwich's history as a teaching institution is thattheory must be melded with practice for real learning to occur.Our students apply what they learn to their own organizationwhile they learn it, providing them with consulting experienceand their organization with valuable reports. Many of ourstudents have been promoted as a result of their case studybefore even completing the program.

Norwich University’s MSIA program will be a significantenhancement to your career in this increasingly visible andimportant field. Join the ranks of our successful graduates.

Sincerely,

Michel E. Kabay, PhD, CISSP-ISSMP

Program Director,Master of Science in Information AssuranceNorwich University

Michel E. Kabay, PhD, CISSP-ISSMP is currently employed with NorwichUniversity in the Division of Business and Management as Associate Professorof Computer Information Systems Information Assurance and Director,Master’s Program in Information Assurance. Dr. Kabay’s extensive experienceincludes Atomictangerine, Inc. as Security Leader; ICSA Labs as Director ofEducation; Jinbu Corporation, as President & Owner; Mathema,Incorporated, as Director of Technical Services, and Hewlett-Packard(Canada) Ltd., as Systems Engineering Consultant. He received his PhD fromDartmouth College and his MSc from McGill University. His publicationsinclude Cyber-Safety for Everyone: from Kids to Elders and ComputerSecurity Handbook as well as myriad articles.

Director’s Message

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Program Overview

The National Security Agency has designated NorwichUniversity as a Center for Academic Excellence inInformation Assurance Education. Norwich’s highlyregarded Master of Information Assurance degree, offeredonline, gives you access to a curriculum of unparalleledacademic quality.

The program is designed for those in technology fieldswho wish to combine their technical competency incomputer science or information systems with

a broader knowledge of the IA issues which affectmanagerial decisions and an organization’s IA policies.The program prepares learners to assume professionalmanagement responsibilities such as Chief SecurityOfficers, Security Administrators, and Chief InformationSecurity Officers. The MSIA degree is built specifically forworking professionals. Its design will accommodate yourdemanding work and home life schedule.

The Master of Science in Information Assurance programwill capitalize on your experience and meet youreducational needs by offering an in-depth study of IA-related management and security issues, and by creatingopportunities for you to propose real, workplace-basedsolutions to real and emerging security threats.

Theory and practice are blended into a learning experiencethat develops skills applicable to complex real-worldproblems. The MSIA coursework focuses on theintegration of information security with businessproblems and opportunities within your own workplace.You’ll bridge the connection between both technologicalissues and business concepts, and put those concepts towork in a real-world context.

Thanks to a rich and dynamic learning environment, youwill study with other IA professionals from around thecountry. At the end of the coursework, you will havedeveloped strong relationships with your fellow studentsand the Norwich faculty without ever having theopportunity of face-to-face interaction with them.To overcome this distance, and to cement theserelationships into lifelong bonds, all students cometogether on the campus of Norwich University for a one-week residency and graduation.

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Program Structure

Norwich University provides a fresh andinnovative approach to master's education

The MSIA program offers 36 credits of coursework splitinto six, 6-credit seminars. There are two seminars persemester. Seminars one and two are taken in Semester 1,Seminars three and four in Semester 2, etc. Seminars areappropriately named Seminars 1-6 and they last abouteleven weeks; each semester lasts 24 weeks. Every studentfollows the same path through the program, takingSeminar 1 through 6 in progression, then on to a one-weekresidency. There are four start dates: March, June,September and December.

A pace designed specifically for busy professionals

Coursework takes between 15-20 hours per week. Ourextensive experience has demonstrated that you canmanage this pace. We have students from nearly every walk of life: busy executives, retired professionals, workingmothers, and active military personnel. If they can do it,so can you.

You travel through the program with the same group of students

Unlike other graduate programs having students withscattered schedules, you will join a group of approximately12 students, known as a cohort. You will be able to developvery close friendships and business relationships with theother students in your cohort as you travel though theentire program together. The community created in thissystem is real.

Capstone residency experience

The coursework is followed by a one-week residency andgraduation at Norwich. There is no nicer place to be in thesummer than the Green Mountains of Vermont. NorwichUniversity’s School of Graduate Studies provides travelassistance in the amount of $1,000 to each graduatingstudent participating in the Residency. Travel assistancechecks will be delivered to students upon completion of allResidency out-processing activities.

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While a Distance Education may not be for everyone, my experience atNorwich in one word would have to be “Superb.” As a professor myself,I found the level of caring and responsive experts that this program hasgathered to be the key to the program. ... The education I received atNorwich was more than just a couple of classes that I managed to finish- I was provided with ... discipline and improved writing skills that I amnow using as a PhD student at Purdue University.

—Russell D. Rosco, MSIA 2005

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Seminar Descriptions

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Semester One

Foundations Seminar 1 GI510

The first seminar provides an introduction to informationsystems security assurance. The topics covered includecyberspace law, computer forensics, computer crime,information warfare, penetrating computer systems and networks, malicious code, denial-of-service attacks,E-commerce vulnerabilities, and physical threats to theinformation infrastructure. (6 credits)

Prevention: Technical DefensesSeminar 2 GI520

The second seminar examines the range and effectivenessof the technical tools used to protect the informationinfrastructure. These tools include cryptography systems,identification and authentication, operating system security,e-commerce safeguards, firewalls and proxy servers, anti-malware and anti-spyware technology, softwaredevelopment and quality assurance, and anti-piracytechniques. (6 credits)

Course of Study

The program is 36 credits with six consecutiveseminars of six credits each. You can completeyour coursework in less than 2 years.

Seminars:

Foundations

Prevention: Technical Defenses

Prevention: Human Factors

Detection, Response and Hot Topics

Electives

Management Tools


Seminar Descriptions

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Semester Two

Prevention: Human FactorsSeminar 3 GI530

The third seminar looks at the human factors contributingto information security. These factors include security policyguidelines, security awareness, ethical decision-making inthe context of technology, employment practices andpolicies, operations security and production controls,e-mail and Internet use policies, working with lawenforcement, use of social psychology to implementsecurity policies, and auditing. (6 credits)

Detection, Response and Hot TopicsSeminar 4 GI540

The fourth seminar covers the tools and techniques fordetecting and responding to intrusions. The topics in thisseminar include detection vulnerability assessment andintrusion detection systems, emergency quick-responseteams, censorship, privacy and anonymity, standards andlaws, and the future of information assurance. (6 credits)

Semester Three

ElectivesSeminar 5

In order to provide you with the opportunity to tailor youreducation to your own professional goals, you are able tochoose an elective for your fifth seminar.

You can customize your degree with one of the followingelective choices:

• Emergency Management• Business Continuity Planning• Computer Emergency Response Teams• Digital Investigations

These courses will combine students from different cohorts aswell as being open to alumni.(6 credits)

Note: Courses may not be offered every semester. Contact anAdmissions Advisor for details. 1.800.460.5597 ext. 3363

Management ToolsSeminar 6 GI560

The sixth seminar provides an understanding of themanagement concepts needed to develop and implementan enterprise-wide information assurance program. Topicsinclude management principles, vendor relations, qualitycontrol, organizational psychology, decision-making andleadership, project management and problem solving.(6 credits)

Unique Consultancy Project

Meld theory with practice through our unique case studyprogram. Analyze your organization’s information systemand provide invaluable security recommendations. Yourorganization will receive consulting recommendationsnormally costing hundreds of thousands of dollars, and youwill have gained the experience to become an informationsecurity expert

When I started the MSIA program in the fall of 2004, Inever imagined that this step in my pursuit of lifelonglearning would have such an immediate effect in mycareer, but thanks to the MSIA program format, everyIA term paper I’ve submitted to management hasproduced significant improvements in our informationsecurity strategy and captured the attention of ourbusiness unit leadership.

— Octavio HerreraMSIA 2006


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Residency Week — The Culminating Experience

You will cap your studies with a week-long

residency at Norwich University in the hills of

Vermont during the month of June. Residency will

allow you to meet your fellow classmates and

instructors face-to-face and become involved in

exciting activities such as a professional

conference, lectures, networking, and graduation.

Cementing lifelong friendships and networks

You will have time to relax with professors and colleaguesfrom all the program’s cohorts, cementing lifelongfriendships and business acquaintances.

Graduation � The Master's Hood

At the end of the week, a formal graduation ceremony willbe held, complete with master’s hooding and a specialdinner celebration.

Family Involvement

Attaining a master’s degree takes sacrifice on the part offamily members as well as students. Graduation at Norwichis, therefore, a very special and emotional event, whichstudents often share with family members.We stronglyencourage you to bring your family, to share and participatein the special events, celebrations, and ceremonies.


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I had an epiphany regarding the value of the educationI received at Norwich during a recent risk assessmentproject. While working on this project, I was able toutilize my enhanced skills and think more “out of thebox” than in similar efforts over the past five years. Iwould encourage other IA professionals to look atNorwich’s MSIA as a capstone to their careerdevelopment efforts.

— Kerry Anderson, CFE

MSIA 2006

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Our faculty are leaders in both academicexcellence and professional achievement

Academic achievement and real-world experience

All of Norwich University’s faculty have distinguished academic andprofessional backgrounds. You will be learning from some of the bestand brightest professors across the nation, Ph.D’s, consultants andexperts with real-world experience in the field.

Trained to teach online

All instructors have completed online educational training, ensuringtheir ability to create a dynamic learning environment for yourclassroom.

Faculty


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Online Learning Gives You Access Anywhere, Anytime

Online

Designed to accommodate your demanding work and home life

The program’s virtual classroom is the center of thelearning experience. Here, you will access courseinformation, communicate with your instructor and fellowstudents, post assignments, and view grades, all from theconvenience of your home or office. This highly interactiveeducational website uses the highest quality multi-mediato make your learning experience as engaging as it iseffective.

Small Groups

Your learning experience is enhanced by our cohort model

You will be a part of a small group of about 12 other students — a group we call a cohort. Your instructor willhelp build your cohort into a learning community ready toengage in discussions of current issues and hypotheticalscenarios. Your instructor is a seasoned professional who understands both the workplace and the academicenvironment and will successfully guide your cohortthrough the seminar.

Work

Apply the knowledge you gain from the program to your future

The program blends professional experience with scholarlyachievement, to give you the knowledge and skills that setyou apart from others in your field. You will have manyopportunities for practical application of your newfoundknowledge and experience.

Home

Learning that fits your busy lifestyle

All printed materials and textbooks for the program aredelivered to you prior to the beginning of each seminar.Your course will be laid out in a detailed schedule so youknow what to expect and how to prepare, making life just abit simpler.

Support

Live technical support anytime — day or night

We have built this degree around your lifestyle andlearning needs. Since many of our students work and learnoff-hours, our technical support desk is always ready toprovide computer and software help. Our support team isavailable to make your learning experience as easy aspossible. Regardless of your technical skill, you areguaranteed assistance whenever you need it.


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6 Levels of Support

Your support team provides you witha rich and rewarding learning experience

Ongoing Support to Ensure Your Success

Helping you succeed in the classroom is the goal of every member of the University's distance learning team; we are here to help you every step of the way by providing a team dedicated to you:

• Admissions Advisor — to walk you through the application process

• Assistant Director — to support you through all six seminars and Residency

• Administrative Director— to help you navigate University policies and to manage issuesthat affect all the students in your class

• Instructor — to engage and coach you through your studies

• Program Director — to ensure the quality and relevance of your curriculum

• Technical Support Team — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, to make yourlearning experience as easy as possible


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Norwich University is committed to your success, and therefore requires that candidates for admission to the Master ofScience in Information Assurance program meet the following criteria and submit the following information. Submityour completed application package to Norwich University for processing. Your package must be accompanied by a non-refundable $50 application fee.

Qualifications for Admission

• An undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution OR an equivalent degree from a foreigninstitution, as evaluated by WES

• An undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher• At least 2 years of full-time work experience in informations systems or security• The TOEFL if the applicant’s first language is not English

Application Package

• Three letters of recommendation, from current or past supervisors, managers, or workplace colleagues• Letter of intent• Resume• All official transcripts of prior undergraduate or graduate work • Case Study agreement signed by your case study sponsor

Graduate Testing

Graduate testing is waived for students meeting the GPA requirements.

Our Admissions Advisors are here to help you complete the admissions process

Call 1.800.460.5597, ext. 3363 (US and Canada), or +1.647.722.6642 ext. 3363 (International) and talk to an Admissions Advisor who can help you:

• Explore all your opportunities for financial aid• Walk step-by-step through the application process• Determine which start date fits your needs• Clarify any concerns or questions

Admission Requirements

It is about time that a program of this caliber is finally

available. Where else can you get the best-of-the-best

security thinkers and practitioners under one virtual roof?

— Winn Schwartau, President, Interpact, Inc.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How challenging is an online degree at NorwichUniversity?

Most of our students find that our online programs are more rigorous than any traditional class they havetaken. You can be assured that the return on your hardwork will be immediate as you apply your learning to thereal world.

2. Will my diploma say “Online” degree?

No. You will receive the official, traditional diploma of Norwich University.

3. How is the program accredited?

Norwich University is accredited by the New EnglandAssociation of Schools and Colleges, Inc., through itsCommission on Institutions of Higher Education.

Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the NewEngland Association should be directed to theadministrative staff of the institution. Individuals may alsocontact:

Commission on Institutions of Higher EducationNew England Association of Schools and Colleges209 Burlington RoadBedford, MA 01730-1433(781) 271-0022E-Mail: [email protected]

4. How long is the program?

The coursework can be completed in 18 months. There arethree six-month semesters and a one-week on-campusresidency in June. Depending on the start date you choose,you will have your degree in 18 to 27 months. YourAdmissions Advisor will assist you with the enrollmentcalendar, highlighting the unique benefits of each start date.

5. How many credits and courses do I take each semester?

You will enroll in two six-credit seminars each semester fora total of 12 credits. Each seminar lasts approximately 11weeks. Each semester lasts 24 weeks.

6. How much does the program cost?

See the “Tuition and Fees Supplement” for the most currentinformation or speak to your Admissions Advisor.

7. Do you accept transfer credits or grant credits based onwork experience and certifications?

We will, on a case-by-case- basis, assess transfer credit upto six credits. Work experience and certifications cannot beused as a substitute for coursework.

8. When do I start the program?

You may enter the program four times per year in either March, June, September, or December.

9. What does an average week look like for a studentenrolled in an online graduate program at NorwichUniversity?

This program is designed for the working professional whomust balance the demands of work, home and study. Moststudents require about 20 hours of study time per week forreading course material, researching discussion and essaytopics, posting to discussions, and completing each writingassignment. Some students set aside study time after thekids are in bed, or early in the morning. Most studentsstudy during some portion of the weekend. Like everystudent, you will need to develop a well-structured studyroutine that suits you and accomodates your work andfamily responsibilities. Your instructor and your AssistantDirector will help keep you on track. You will find that yourcohort is a tremendous source of support in managingyour time and studies.

10. Who do I talk to if I have more questions,or I want to apply?

You may call an Admissions Advisor at 1.800.460.5597,ext. 3363 (US and Canada), or +1.647.722.6642 ext. 3363(International) who will be able to answer all your questions.


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Established in 1819, Norwich University is a small, prestigious university with a balance of strongprofessional and liberal arts programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Our 1600undergraduate students choose either a military lifestyle as part of the Corps of Cadets or atraditional college lifestyle. The campus is located in Northfield, Vermont in the heart of the GreenMountains, truly one of the most beautiful locations in the world for a college campus. Norwich isknown for its dedicated teaching faculty. The combination of superior professional education, broadstudies in the liberal arts, dedicated faculty, and the leadership laboratory supplied by the Corps ofCadets has generated a legacy not found in many corners of the educational map. Norwich is a veryproud place and maintains deep bonds with its alumni. The New England Association of Schoolsand Colleges accredits Norwich University.

Why You Should Choose Norwich University for your Master’s Degree

Norwich University has always been a leader in higher education:

• Norwich was the first private college in the nation to offer engineering instruction • Norwich was the first private military academy in the nation• Norwich was the birthplace of ROTC• Norwich's Corps of Cadets was one of the first to accept women• Norwich's founder, Alden Partridge, brought experiential learning to U.S. education

His educational beliefs became the basis for the Morrill Land Grant Act, which transformed American education into the model for the world

Join The Norwich Tradition


Norwich UniversitySchool of Graduate Studies

PO Box 367 Northfield, VT 05663-0367Phone: 1.800.460.5597, ext. 3363 (US and Canada)+1.647.722.6642 ext. 3363 (International)Fax: 1.888.560.4934Website: www.msia.norwich.edu

