Online Information Security Graduate Certificate

Developing a strong information security program in today’s world is crucial and challenging for most organizations. In general, information security means protecting information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or destruction. Information security is essential because most organizations—including government agencies, hospitals, insurance companies, and private businesses—store various kinds of information about their employees and customers. If any business-related information is confidential, the security of that data becomes crucial. For example, if critical business data (e.g., credit card numbers or design documents) is leaked to competitors or hackers, it could lead to loss of business, lawsuits, and even bankruptcy. Organizations also need to be able to comply by standards and laws, such as HIPPA, PCI, and GLBA, which help protect confidentiality and privacy of customer data.

MET’s Information Security graduate certificate program touches upon various aspects of information security, including IT security policies and system security. Students also learn about digital forensics to help in investigating a security breach, and obtain a good understanding of how information is stored in a database and what services are available to protect it. On completing the graduate certificate, students will have sufficient skills in developing and implementing IT security in their organizations.

Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Information Security will be able to demonstrate:

  • Advanced knowledge of information security concepts, governance, biometric systems, and database systems security, as well as network security and cryptography.
  • Proficiency in risk management, such as asset assessments, architectural solutions, modeling, and design.
  • Competence in security policies, processes, technology, and operations.

Why Choose BU’s Graduate Certificate in Information Security?

  • Four-course certificate program comprises courses shared by the MS in Computer Information Systems, ranked #8 among the nation’s Best Online Master's in Computer Information Technology Programs (U.S. News & World Report 2024).
  • Students benefit from a supportive online network, with courses developed and taught by PhD-level full-time faculty and professionals with hands-on expertise in the industry.
  • Small course sections ensure that students get the attention they need, while case studies and real-world projects ensure that they gain in-depth, practical experience with the latest technologies.

Meet Dr. Suresh Kalathur, one of the faculty members you’ll work with in the Computer Information Systems program.

Career Outlook

Computer and Information Systems Managers

10% increase in jobs through 2029

$146,360 median annual pay in 2019

Computer and Information Research Scientists

15% increase in jobs through 2029

$122,840 median annual pay in 2019

Information Security Analysts

31% increase in jobs through 2029

$99,730 median annual pay in 2019

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2020


Industry Trends

  • Cybersecurity postings grew 91% from 2010 to 2014. This growth rate is faster than that of IT jobs generally.
  • The fastest increases in demand for cybersecurity workers were in industries managing increasing volumes of consumer data such as Finance (+137% over the last five years), Health Care (+121%), and Retail Trade (+89%).

Burning Glass Technologies Job Market Intelligence: Cybersecurity Jobs, 2015

Best Technology Jobs, 2024 U.S. News & World Report

  • #1 Software Developer
  • #2 IT Manager
  • #3 Information Security Analyst
  • #4 Data Scientist
  • #5 Web Developer
  • #6 Computer Systems Analyst
  • #7 Computer Network Architect
  • #8 Database Administrator
  • #9 Computer Support Specialist
  • #10 Computer Systems Administrator
  • #11 Computer Programmer

Tuition & Financial Assistance

Money Matters

Boston University Metropolitan College (MET) offers competitive tuition rates that meet the needs of part-time students seeking an affordable education. These rates are substantially lower than those of the traditional, full-time residential programs yet provide access to the same high-quality BU education. To learn more about current tuition rates, visit the MET website.

Financial Assistance

Comprehensive financial assistance services are available at MET, including scholarships, graduate loans, and payment plans. There is no cost to apply for financial assistance, and you may qualify for a student loan regardless of your income. Learn more.



Curriculum

Boston University’s Graduate Certificate in Information Security consists of four required online courses (16 credits).

Academic credits earned toward the online Graduate Certificate in Information Security may be transferred to the Master of Science in Computer Information Systems.

 

Faculty

Eric Braude

Eric Braude

Associate Professor and Director of Digital Learning, Computer Science
PhD, Columbia University; MS, University of Miami; MS, University of Illinois; BS, University of Natal (South Africa)

Lou Chitkushev

Lou Chitkushev

Associate Dean, Academic Affairs; Associate Professor, Computer Science; Director, Health Informatics and Health Sciences
PhD, Boston University; MS, Medical College of Virginia; MS, BS, University of Belgrade

John Day

John Day

Lecturer, Computer Science
MSEE, BSEE, University of Illinois

Getting Started

To learn more or to contact an enrollment advisor before you get started, request information using the button below and tell us a little about yourself. Someone will be in touch to answer any questions you may have about the program and detail the next steps in earning your degree. You can also start your application or register for a course at Metropolitan College.