Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Technology (Specialization in Cyber Security)

Introduction
Recognition
Curriculum
Course Delivery Format
Admission
Graduation Requirement

Introduction

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Technology (Specialization in Cyber Security) program includes advanced work in information technology with a specialization in cyber security. The focus of the program is on the development of concepts, knowledge and skills that enables successful participants to become experts in the area of information security, internet crime prevention, and digital crime investigation. The goal of this program is to develop highly qualified technical experts to meet the demands of the national, regional and international workplace for information and network security.

Graduates excel in their ability to:

Understand and articulate the different levels and aspects of information security in the context of an enterprise;
Identify the management and technical controls that can be used to architect an enterprise security structure;
Perform a needs analysis of an enterprise to determine the appropriate levels of security needed for systems and data;
Implement technical security mechanisms to protect the confidentiality, integrity and accessibility of critical data;
Understand the information technology essentials necessary to deal with computers, storage devices and computerized data in the context of a crime scene; and
Understand information security in a global context as it relates to international norms, laws, ethics and structures.Recognition

Recognition

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Technology program is approved by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. As Zayed University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the program is internationally recognized for further education and employment in private and public sector organizations.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to combine a rich theoretical foundation with a strong laboratory component to provide students with lifelong learning capabilities and marketable skills for today‘s job market. The computer laboratory facilities supporting many of the courses consist of the state-of-the-art equipment, combining the best of breed in hardware and software platforms. The aim is to give students a first-hand experience with many of the tools in demand today. The Master of Science in Information Technology (Specialization in Cyber Security) curriculum is also tailored to the needs of information technology professionals in the United Arab Emirates and consists of the following 12 courses:

Year One

CIT 501 Research Methods
CIT 505 Information Security
CIT 508 Linux Security
CIT 530 Cyber Forensics
CIT 510 Information Security, Policy, Ethics and Law
CIT 535 Advanced Cyber Forensics

Year Two

CIT 515 Network and Internet Security
CIT 538 Small Scale Digital Device Forensics
CIT 540 Database and Enterprise Application Security
CIT 520 Information Security Management
CIT 545 Penetration Testing and Advanced Hacking Techniques
CIT 599 Independent Research* or CIT Elective**

*Graduate students in the program optionally complete a research component that combines knowledge developed in the courses with a literature survey to investigate a specific problem of significance in the field.

**Elective courses will be added to the Master of Science in Information Technology (Specialization in Cyber Security) program during the academic year 2011-2012. Courses proposed, but not limited, to include:

Advanced Network Security
Cyber Crime and Criminal Behavior
Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Analysis
Cyber Security Project
Special Topic in Cyber Security

Course Delivery Format

The onsite delivery for each course is normally conducted on evenings during the week. Classes are supported with online activities using course management systems, email, and group discussion systems.

The in-class room instruction for each course is conducted during two evenings on weekdays over a period of six weeks.

The Master of Science in Information Technology (Specialization in Cyber Security) program is delivered over a period of 24 months at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi and/or Dubai.

For more information on the admission deadline, please visit the Key Dates section of our website.

Admission

Admission is open to males and females of all nationalities.
Applicants must have earned a four-year baccalaureate degree with a GPA of 2.5 or higher from an accredited university.
IELTS score of 5.50 (with minimum sub scores no less than 5.0 in reading and writing) or TOEFL score of 550 (CBT 213 - IBT 79).
Preference will be given to applicants currently working in the information technology or related fields.

For more information on the admission requirements, application procedure and program cost, please visit the Admissions and Fees section of our website.

Graduation Requirement

Graduate students must maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 in course work taken in fulfillment of the requirements of a master's degree.