Contents
Catalog Links

Master of Science in Computer Science - Computer Systems Security Concentration

The Master of Science in Computer Science program centers on a set of core courses which are designed to provide the student with an understanding of operating systems and networking, as well as knowledge of computer system architecture and the software system engineering process. The MSCS program is designed for Computer Science professionals seeking to advance their careers in a broad range of computer fields.

Building on the MSCS program core, the concentration courses provide the foundation and focused knowledge for those interested in the systems security field. Protecting vital enterprise computer systems from unauthorized change, improper access, theft of information and monetary theft has always been important. It is becoming more so with the rapid growth of networking, the Internet and e-business. This concentration presents an overview of computer systems security, together with the opportunity to attain education competencies necessary to develop a security policy, formulate an implementation plan, design and implement security measures, and monitor and manage computer systems security.

MSCS Program Outcomes: Core

  • Apply effective leadership strategies and skills
  • Critically evaluate the issues that affect the development and modification of complex software systems
  • Conduct professional, scholarly, applied research
  • Demonstrate a breadth of knowledge and understanding of the field of computer science
  • Select analytical and critical thinking skills for effective decision analysis and problem solving in a specific situation

Outcomes: Concentration

  • Assess the need for, and make recommendations on the technical requirements necessary for the implementation of an effective security infrastructure
  • Recommend and defend the implementation of security components at the operating system and network level to include considerations for cloud computing and virtualization.
  • Develop effective enterprise level security policies, standards and procedures including business continuity

MSCS Program Competencies:

  • Critically evaluate the issues that impact the development and modification of complex software systems
  • Apply analytical, critical thinking, and problem solving skills in diverse, appropriate situations
  • Construct domain-specific computing or information system solutions
  • Identify gaps in the body of knowledge
  • Conduct professional, scholarly, applied research

Degree Requirements

Courses: Core

CS627Design and Analysis of Algorithms

4

CS630Modern Operating Systems

4

CS635Computer Networking

4

CS651Computer Systems Security Foundations

4

CS660Database Systems

4

CS672Systems Engineering Methods

4

CS698Computer Science Capstone

4

Total Credit Hours:28

Courses: Concentration

CS631Digital Forensics

4

CS652Operating Systems Security

4

CS653Network Security

4

CS654Security Management

4

CS661Software Information Assurance

4

Total Credit Hours:20

Total Credit Hours: 48

Preparatory Requirements

The CTU Master of Science in Computer Science degree program is designed to provide technical depth in computer science and in the three concentration areas—software engineering, security and database management systems. In order to achieve this depth a solid foundation in mathematics, computer science, and the student’s concentration area is required. In addition, the student must have an intermediate level of ability to program in a current object-oriented programming language such as C++ or Java, such as is provided by CS215 or IT215. Students who have the required background but need to refresh their mathematics skills are highly encouraged to take MATH501. Students who have the required background but need to refresh some of their computer science skills are highly encouraged to take CS500. Students who do not have the required background in mathematics, computer science, and the concentration or current object oriented programming skills should consult with an Admissions Advisor to design an undergraduate foundation program in preparation for this degree. A resume and entrance essay stating why the student wants to attend graduate school are required in order to successfully assess the student’s preparation for entrance into the MSCS program.

Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS)

The University curriculum for this program has been certified by the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS) for education standards in computer systems security as follows:

NSTISSI-4011

National Training Standard for Information Systems Security (INFOSEC) Professionals, dated 20 June 1994

CNSSI-4012

National Information Assurance Training Standard for Senior Systems Managers, dated June 2004; Supersedes NSTISSI No. 4012, dated August 1997

CNSSI-4013

National Information Assurance Training Standard For System Administrators (SA), dated March 2004

CNSSI-4014

Information Assurance Training Standard for Information Systems Security Officers, dated April 2004; Supersedes

NSTISSI No. 4014, dated August 1997

CNSSI-4016

National Information Assurance Training Standard For Risk Analysts, dated November 2005

Locations

  • Colorado Springs
  • Aurora (Denver Area)
  • Virtual Campus