Information Systems Security

Program Description

Computer and systems security is an integral part of our everyday lives. When the systems work it is apparent, though when they fail it can be catastrophic. Not only are businesses focused on the security of their data, but nation states are focused on the security of their people. Terrorism, rogue states, organized crime, and low level cyber-warfare are all part of today’s threat landscapes.

The Information Systems Security program prepares you to enter the security profession with confidence and solid fundamental knowledge. You will use a wide variety of defensive and offensive tools while learning the fundamentals of networking, malware analysis, reverse engineering, tool construction, operating systems internals, forensics, legal and ethical issues, social engineering, and military strategy.

The first year of the program delivers a strong base of fundamental skills in programming, operating systems, networking, and strategy. The second year moves into the more practical applications of defensive and offensive technologies, cumulating with a capstone project in which students apply the sum of their learning in the program. Underscoring the rigorous nature of the training, a selection of courses are conducted in a unique lab environment that is designed to contain and control the possible spread of the malware being analyzed.

Program Overview

Fast Facts

This program is two years in length, with each academic year divided into two 15-week semesters
Students participate in e-learning based curriculum, leasing a SAIT laptop computer that comes equipped with a variety of required software applications
Internet access (on-site), training, and technical support are provided throughout the program

Your Career

Graduates may find employment in a wide variety of functions, including penetration testing, log analysis, threat analysis, risk management, network security, Internet of Things hardening, physical security, quality assurance, malware analysis, and security audits.

The information security industry is currently experiencing a large deficit in well-trained, entry-level security professionals who can be instantly productive in a variety of capacities. As such, while the career type is intellectually challenging, the opportunities are abundant, exciting, and rewarding.

Please note that a criminal records check may be required of potential employers.

Student Success

Students who experience success in this program and profession:

Embody curiosity and strong problem solving skills
Make their education a priority by demonstrating excellent working habits and focus
Have higher secondary and/or post-secondary grades
Are dedicated to the life-long learning that is critical to professional success
Possess basic literacies in computer networking and ‘C’ language programming (an asset, but not required)

Credentials

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT Information Systems Security diploma.

Accreditation

There are no formal accreditation arrangements at this time. Please contact the School of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) for more information.

Progression

The progression requirement for students taking credit courses is a Term GPA and Total Institutional GPA of 2.0, with the exception of English Language Foundations and Academic Upgrading programs.

Admission Requirements

Completion of the following courses or their equivalents, including meeting the minimum grade requirements for each as indicated:

65% in Math 30-1, or, 70% in Math 30-2 or Applied Math 30, AND,
60% in English Language Arts 30-1, or, 65% in English Language Arts 30-2

All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Program Outline

First Year

Second Year

Semester 3

ITSC 301 - Wireless Security 3 Credits
ITSC 302 - Web Application Security 3 Credits
ITSC 303 - Malware Analysis 3 Credits
ITSC 304 - Operating System Exploitation 3 Credits
ITSC 305 - Reverse Engineering of IoT Systems 3 Credits

Semester 4

ITSC 306 - Computer Forensics 3.0 Credits
ITSC 307 - Payment Card Industry Compliance and Encryption 3.0 Credits
ITSC 308 - Security Policies and Operations 3 Credits
ITSC 309 - Social Engineering 3 Credits
PROJ 309 - Capstone Project 3 Credits

Total Credits 60.0

Program Outcomes

Analyze existing systems for vulnerabilities.
Design exploits to expose vulnerabilities in systems.
Analyze data for exceptions to normal operations.
Deploy a vulnerability response system.
Implement data security systems.
Exercise appropriate legal practices and ethical codes of conduct.
Analyze risks, costs and benefits associated with the security of business processes.
Expose security deficiencies through the use of social engineering.
Demonstrate effective oral, written and presentation skills.