Academics
GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
The University of Fairfax offers the following graduate degree programs:
- Doctorate in Information Assurance (DIA)
- Doctor of Science in Information Assurance (DSc)
- Master of Science in Information Security Management (MSISM) with specializations in Information Security Analysis (ISA), Information Security Auditing (IAU), Information System Certification (ISC), Information Security Engineering (ISE) and Information Security Research (ISR)
- Master of Science in Enterprise Management (MSEM) with specializations in Information Security Analysis (ISA).
Dual Degree
Students may apply for a program of study which leads to two consecutive degrees (MSISM/DIA or MSISM/DSc) on an accelerated schedule. These students are required to follow a program of study which includes core, specialization-specific, elective, research and dissertation courses. The MSISM degree is awarded upon successful completion of the required 36 semester credits. Formal admission to the doctoral program selected is granted upon successful completion of the MSISM degree.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Doctorate in Information Assurance (DIA)
This degree program helps students to advance their Information Assurance careers in government or industry. In this program, students undertake solution-oriented applied field research projects which address relevant industry problems and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the practice of Information Assurance.
Program Objectives
This program fosters the development of students who:
- Are recognized as practitioners with expertise in a specialized field of study relevant to the cybersecurity community
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the analysis of information assurance issues
- Utilize an evidence-based approach to solution identification when addressing problems relevant to the cybersecurity community
- Demonstrate competence in conducting solution-focused field research relevant to information assurance practitioners
- Make continuing contributions to knowledge and practice in the field of cybersecurity
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this degree program, graduates will be able to:
- Analyze, assess and critique the applicability of best practices in addressing information assurance issues
- Demonstrate secondary research competencies in the investigation and identification of research topics relevant to information assurance practitioners
- Formulate the rationale and justification for conducting an applied field research project in information assurance
- Develop evidence-based recommendations for solutions which address problems relevant to the cybersecurity community
- Empirically assess the feasibility of a proposed solution for a problem affecting the cybersecurity community
- Articulate a thorough understanding of a specialized field of study relevant to the cybersecurity community
Qualifying Exam
Doctoral students enrolled in the DIA program must pass the Qualifying Exam. This exam is used to evaluate mastery of the concepts and foundations of applied research and is administered at the conclusion of the RM8500 course.
Comprehensive Exams (Level I)
Doctoral students enrolled in the DIA program must pass two Level I Comprehensive Exams completed in CEX8220, CEX8230 or CEX8240. Each Level I Comprehensive Exam consists of a 25-30 page research paper on a specified topic in Information Security and must demonstrate mastery of content and literature-based research skills, while utilizing APA format and citation requirements. If necessary, students may repeat any or all of the Level I Comprehensive Exams.
Credit Requirements
The Doctorate in Information Assurance consists of a minimum of 60 semester credits beyond a Master’s degree, including 57 credits of pre-dissertation courses (consisting of 24 credits of Information Security content taken from core and specialization courses, 18 credits of research methods courses, 6 credits of comprehensive exam courses, 9 credits of research- preparation courses) and 3 credits of dissertation development courses.
To ensure that doctoral students make steady progress towards the completion of their dissertations, the University has developed the Dissertation Project Plan. This plan consists of a series of deliverables students produce in research methods courses and dissertation courses.Earning Graduate Certificates
DIA students complete the requirements for graduate certificates as they progress through their programs. Upon completion of the required courses, they may elect to receive the applicable graduate certificate(s) listed under the Graduate Certificate Program.
Doctor of Science in Information Assurance (DSc)
This degree program helps students to advance their Information Assurance careers in government, industry or academia. In this program, students engage in primary research and complete original applied field research, derived from theory and practice, which contributes to the advancement of knowledge and application in Information Assurance.
Program Objectives:
This program fosters the development of students who:
- Are recognized as thought leaders with expertise in a specialized field of applied research relevant to the cybersecurity community
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in assessing research issues relevant to information assurance
- Possess an awareness and expertise in recognizing gaps in knowledge that have generalized applicability to the cybersecurity community
- Have a commitment to advancing the state of practice and knowledge relevant to the field of information assurance
- Contribute to the strategic development of practices in the field of cybersecurity
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this degree program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate secondary research competencies in the investigation and identification of research topics relevant to information assurance practitioners
- Analyze, evaluate and propose opportunities for applied research projects relevant to the cybersecurity community
- Formulate the rationale and objectives for conducting primary research which investigates practice-relevant research questions
- Apply appropriate hypothesis testing methodologies and analysis techniques in conducting practice-driven primary research
- Demonstrate primary research competencies through the completion of an original applied field research project in information assurance
- Articulate a thorough understanding of a specialized field of study relevant to the cybersecurity community
Qualifying Exam
Doctoral students enrolled in the DSc program must pass the Qualifying Exam. This exam is used to evaluate mastery of the concepts and foundations of applied research and is administered at the conclusion of the RM8500 course.
Comprehensive Exams (Level I and II)
Doctoral students enrolled in the DSc program must pass two Level I Comprehensive Exams completed in CEX8220, CEX8230 or CEX8240. Each Level I Comprehensive Exam consists of a 25-30 page research paper on a specified topic in Information Security and must demonstrate mastery of content and literature-based research skills, while utilizing APA format and citation requirements.
DSc students must also pass the Level II Comprehensive Exam completed in CEX9200, which consists of a 25-30 page paper addressing a research question relating to one of the 10 Information Security domains known as the Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). The exam must demonstrate mastery of the subject matter content as well as literature-based research skills, while utilizing APA format and citation requirements.
If necessary, students may repeat any or all of the Level I or Level II Comprehensive Exams.
Credit Requirements
The Doctor of Science in Information Assurance consists of a minimum of 70 semester credits beyond a Master’s degree, including 63 credits of pre-dissertation courses (consisting of 18 credits of Information Security content taken from core and specialization courses, 18 credits of research methods courses, 9 credits of comprehensive exam courses, 18 credits of research- preparation courses) and 7 credits of dissertation development courses.
To ensure that doctoral students make steady progress towards the completion of their dissertations, the University has developed the Dissertation Project Plan. This plan consists of a series of deliverables students produce in research methods courses and dissertation courses.
Earning Graduate Certificates
DSc students complete the requirements for graduate certificates as they progress through their programs. Upon completion of the required courses, they may elect to receive the applicable graduate certificate(s) listed under the Graduate Certificate Program.
Master of Science in Information Security Management (MSISM)
This degree program prepares students to be strategic and tactical contributors in the development, implementation and evaluation of enterprise level security programs. Specializations allow students to pursue a program of study which relates to their professional interests and goals.
Specializations
The University of Fairfax offers a variety of specialization options to meet the needs of information security professionals.
- Information Security Analysis (ISA)
- Information Security Auditing (IAU)
- Information System Certification (ISC)
- Information Security Engineering (ISE)
- Information Security Research (ISR)
Information Security Analysis (ISA)Students develop competencies in implementing an enterprise strategic security plan by integrating effective security policies, standards, procedures and controls.
Information Security Auditing (IAU)
Students develop competencies in assessing network vulnerabilities, analyzing cyber evidence, enforcing data process controls, and establishing information protection programs.
Information System Certification (ISC)
Students develop competencies in supporting a management structure to certify and accredit information systems by developing policies, standards and procedures in accordance with a prescribed set of criteria.
Information Security Engineering (ISE)
Students develop competencies in assessing network vulnerabilities and attack methods as well as in designing and deploying counter-measures and resilient security architectures.
Information Security Research (ISR)
Doctoral students who have completed a minimum of 36 semester credits of a University of Fairfax doctoral degree program, but wish to discontinue studies, may be awarded an MSISM degree in Information Security Research.
Program Objectives
This program fosters the development of students who:
- Are recognized as knowledgeable and qualified practitioners in a specialized field of information security
- Possess a depth of knowledge in current cybersecurity practices
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the analysis of issues relevant to the cybersecurity community
- Utilize secondary research competencies in the investigation and selection of best practice solutions to information security challenges
- Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to address a specialized area of information security management
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this degree program, students will be able to:
- Compile, analyze, and assess the applicability of best practices in addressing information security issues relevant to the cybersecurity community
- Evaluate the impact of business constraints and processes on the implementation of information security programs
- Integrate principles and techniques of risk analysis, project planning and change management in the development of information security strategies
- Demonstrate secondary research skills in the investigation and selection of best practice solutions to address information security challenges
- Demonstrate mastery of theory, concepts and skills in addressing specialized aspects of information security management
Credit Requirements
The MSISM degree program consists of 36 semester credits beyond a baccalaureate degree, including 18 credits of core courses, 6 credits of research methods courses, and 12 credits of specialization-specific courses.
Multiple Specializations
MSISM degree students may pursue multiple specializations through the completion of graduate certificates. Each specialization requires completion of four specialization-specific courses. Required specialization courses may apply to multiple certificates.
Earning Graduate Certificates
MSISM students complete the requirements for a graduate certificates as they progress through their programs. Upon completion of the required courses, they may elect to receive the applicable graduate certificate(s) listed under the Graduate Certificate Program.
Master of Science in Enterprise Management
This degree program prepares students to be strategic and tactical contributors in the development, implementation and evaluation of enterprise level programs. Specializations allow students to pursue a program of study which relates to their professional interests and goals.
Specializations
The University of Fairfax offers a variety of specialization options to meet the needs of enterprise management professionals.
- Information Security Analysis (ISA)
Information Security Analysis (ISA)Students develop competencies in implementing an enterprise strategic security plan by integrating effective security policies, standards, procedures and controls.
Program Objectives
This program fosters the development of students who:Are recognized as knowledgeable and qualified practitioners in a specialized field of enterprise management
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the analysis of issues relevant to enterprise managers
- Utilize secondary research competencies in the investigation and selection of best practice solutions to enterprise challenges
- Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to address a specialized area of enterprise management
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this degree program, students will be able to:
- Compile, analyze, and assess the applicability of best practices in addressing enterprise management issues
- Evaluate the impact of business constraints and processes on the implementation of enterprise programs
- Integrate principles and techniques of risk analysis, project planning and change management in the development of enterprise strategies
- Demonstrate secondary research skills in the investigation and selection of best practice solutions to address enterprise challenges
- Demonstrate mastery of theory, concepts and skills in addressing specialized aspects of enterprise management
Credit Requirements
The MSEM degree program consists of 36 semester credits beyond a baccalaureate degree, including 18 credits of core courses, 6 credits of research methods courses, and 12 credits of specialization-specific courses.
Graduate Certificate Program
Graduate certificates represent a level of achievement of technical competencies and project experience which relate to specialized fields of practice in Information Security. Requirements for earning a graduate certificate cannot be satisfied through transfer credit. Upon acceptance into a University of Fairfax degree program, students who have earned a grade of “B” or better in graduate certificate courses may request that those credits be applied to meet degree requirements.
Program Objectives
This program fosters the development of students who:
- Are recognized as qualified practitioners in a specialized field of study relevant to the cybersecurity community
- Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to address issues in a specialized area of study in cybersecurity
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the performance of tasks associated with a specialized field of study in cybersecurity
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of a graduate certificate, students will be able to:
- Compile, analyze, and assess the applicability of best practices in addressing information security issues
- Demonstrate mastery of theory, concepts and skills in addressing specialized aspects of information security management.
Credit Requirements
Graduate certificates vary from 6 semester credits to 18 semester credits. However, the majority of offerings are 12 credits.
Multiple Graduate Certificates
Students may earn multiple graduate certificates concurrently or sequentially. Credits earned toward a graduate certificate may also apply to one or more additional graduate certificate(s).
Degree Seeking Candidates Earning Graduate Certificates
Degree candidates complete the requirements for graduate certificates as they progress through their programs. Upon completion of the required courses, they may elect to receive the applicable graduate certificate(s).
Graduate Certificate Options
The University of Fairfax offers a variety of graduate certificates to meet the needs of information security professionals.
Certified Cybersecurity Researcher (CCR)
Students examine the emerging trends that pertain to security programs, technology, and regulation while developing skills necessary to implement Information Security research projects.Cybersecurity Best Practices (CBP)
Students explore the ten domains of Information Security and prepare for an industry related certification exam which demonstrates mastery of subject knowledge in the discipline.Information Security Analysis (ISA)
Students develop competencies in implementing an enterprise strategic security plan by integrating effective security policies, standards, procedures and controls.
Information Security Auditing (IAU)
Students develop competencies in forensically analyzing cyber evidence, enforcing data process controls, certifying information protection programs, and managing risk and compliance.Information Security Engineering (ISE)
Students develop competencies in assessing network vulnerabilities and attack methods as well as in designing and deploying counter-measures and resilient security architectures.Information Security for the Enterprise (ISEN)
Students explore the ten domains of Information Security and examine effective approaches to implementing security awareness programs within an enterprise.In addition, students enrolled in doctoral degree programs may earn the following graduate certificates as they progress through their programs.
Information Security Professional Practices (ISPP)
Students develop competencies in assessing threats and vulnerabilities of information systems, designing security procedures and practices that are executed in the protection of data and information systems, and analyzing the validity and reliability of information to ensure that an information system will operate at a proposed level of trust. Upon completion students are awarded the NSA certifications for Information System Security Professionals (CNSS No. 4011) and Senior Systems Managers (CNSS No.4012).Information Security Research Practices (ISRP)
Students explore concepts and foundations of applied research, identify a feasible research site, and utilize industry-relevant problems to propose an original field research study.
Information System Certification (ISC)
Students develop competencies in supporting a management structure to certify and accredit information systems by developing policies, standards and procedures in accordance with a prescribed set of criteria.
Knowledge-Based Research for Information Security Practitioners (KRIS)
Students learn how to articulate a research problem, conduct a research literature review, and synthesize relevant research in the development of an original Information Security research project derived from theory and practice. (DSc students only)
Solution-Based Research for Information Security Practitioners (SRIS)
Students learn how to articulate a research problem, conduct a research literature review, and synthesize relevant research in the development of a solution-based Information Security research project. (DIA students only)
Click here for the Graduate Certificates Curriculum.
Click here for the Course Descriptions.
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