Online master's degree programs in digital and network security

• Information Systems Security
• Network Security
• more

You question your bank's encryption codes, and you wonder if the codes are effectively protecting your financial information. You take personal offense to malware. Perhaps the increasing number of computer network breaches and incidents of identity theft have spurred you to research graduate degrees in cybersecurity. If you want to safeguard sensitive digital information and keep computer users safe, turn your existing technical knowledge into a network and digital security career.

What to expect in online master's degree programs in network and digital security

In addition to core classes in operating and database systems, your online Master of Science degree in information security includes many exciting courses:

• Artificial intelligence
• Biometrics
• Database security
• Digital forensics and investigations
• Network security

You may be able to choose a specialty, such as cryptography or digital forensics. If your undergraduate degree included computer science courses, you may be able to waive some of the core classes required for many graduate degrees in cybersecurity. For more information on what to expect, visit WorldWideLearn.com's Guide to Majors in Information Systems Security.

Possible careers for individuals with graduate degrees in cybersecurity

Many career opportunities are available for graduates of online master's degree programs in network and digital security. More and more top-level computer-related positions require knowledge of information security. Below are some potential professions, along with relevant salary figures as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Computer security specialists design and plan the information security system for organizations and train other users about computer security. May 2009, mean annual salary for computer specialists, including security specialists: $78,010.


• Computer and information system managers are responsible for the maintenance of technological systems in an organization, including network security. May 2009, mean annual salary for computer and information system managers: $120,640.


• Network system administrators install and oversee a variety of network systems, including intranet, Internet, local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN), including the management of necessary software and security. May 2009, mean annual salary for network systems analysts: $70,930.

Your salary will vary depending on your knowledge, area of specialization and the industry in which you find employment. For a more extensive explanation of possible graduate-level programs that help you qualify for these positions, explore the Guide to Master's Degrees in Technology & IT. You can find guides to specializations in information systems security, technical management and web development.

Online master's degree programs in network and digital security can teach you how to plan strategically, perform hardware and software upgrades and updates, and protect databases full of sensitive information. While no degree program can guarantee you a career or a particular salary, an online Master of Science degree in information security can provide you with the knowledge and experience many employers desire.

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