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Master of Science in Information Technology Cybersecurity courses
Cybersecurity coursework overview
Coursework tailored to your learning preferences
- Capella sets the deadlines
- Weekly online interactions
- Learn on your time
- Online
Planning for your degree
- total quarter credits: 48
- Quarter length: 10 weeks
- Course length: 10 weeks
- Break: 3 weeks between quarters
Course requirements
- Core 5 courses
- Specialization 5 courses
- Capstone 2 courses
Example program course sequence
This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. In GuidedPath, the number of courses you take in a quarter and time it takes to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.
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ITEC5002
Core Information Technology and System Trends
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course examine current information technologies and trends, emphasizing the areas of technical focus. Learners gain the strategic underpinnings of contemporary technology and emerging trends, as well as the communication skills and requirements of an IT professional. This course also presents self-assessments and career development activities designed to support lifelong learning and workforce success. Must be taken during the first quarter by learners who have been admitted to the MS in Information Technology degree program. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
ITEC5010
Core Security and Enterprise Networks
4 quarter credits
In this course, learners develop an understanding of the core security principles that apply throughout networked systems. Learners examine the concepts of enterprise network design, core network infrastructure hardware, configuration, and the architecture of contemporary computing networks and cloud platforms. Learners also gain an understanding of network security and threat vectors in the context of enterprise systems, firewalls, VPNs, and network protocols. Finally, learners explore enterprise network governance, security risk assessment and development of internal controls, and implementation and management for cloud computing environments. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in ITEC5002.
4 quarter credits
ITEC5025
Core Application Development and AI
4 quarter credits
Learners use their knowledge of fundamental and advanced programming concepts, skills, programming languages, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop applications. Learners apply the essential skills to develop a user interface, integrate a database, and incorporate an AI model, to build a sophisticated and intelligent application. Prerequisite: ITEC5020
4 quarter credits
ITEC5020
Core Database Development and AI
4 quarter credits
Learners use their knowledge of designing and developing both relational and non-relational databases, and fundamental concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create databases. Learners apply the necessary skills and knowledge to create robust databases that leverage AI models to achieve goals efficiently and effectively.
4 quarter credits
PM5018
Core Project Management Foundations
4 quarter credits
In this cross-disciplinary course , learners analyze the fundamentals of project management and gain an overview of project management standards and their applicability to managing projects, with an emphasis on management methodologies and frameworks, including those defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI®). Learners have the opportunity to participate in experiential learning by bringing in a workplace project, or they may use the project provided in the course. Learners cultivate effective project management leadership skills, including project politics and ethics and collaboration.
4 quarter credits
IAS5015
Specialization Course Network Security Fundamentals and Cryptography
4 quarter credits
Learners apply foundational concepts of cybersecurity and information assurance to select appropriate information security policies, procedures, and controls to defend enterprise information assets from breaches of confidentiality and integrity. Learners identify specific points of vulnerability that may be mitigated through the use of administrative security policies and operational information security tools. Learners also examine principles of cryptography and some of the security controls and methods that use it. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in IAS5010 or ITEC5020.
4 quarter credits
IAS5020
Specialization Course Information Security Regulatory and Legal Environment
4 quarter credits
Learners apply cyber-defense and information assurance controls in context of the rules and guidelines that influence them and with an understanding of the security standards, responsibilities, rules, regulations, and issues that impact a particular organization. Learners identify laws and policies related to cyber-defense and how they relate to the storage and transmission of data. Learners also study basic concepts of audit, evidence collection, and chain of custody rules. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in IAS5015.
4 quarter credits
IAS5025
Specialization Course Operating System Defense
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course explore the fundamental security issues related to operating system (OS) defense. Learners also employ best practices to harden operating systems and associated software applications using various tools as a part of a layered defense-in-depth strategy. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in IAS5020..
4 quarter credits
IAS5030
Specialization Course Identifying and Managing Risk
4 quarter credits
Learners identify common information security risk analysis methodologies, their characteristics, pros and cons, and applications. Learners examine the sources of risk, including external malicious attackers, intentional and accidental attacks by internal users, and threats from environmental and structural sources. Learners also identify vulnerabilities in hardware, software, locations, and procedures that provide an opening to attackers and create risk to organizations. Learners demonstrate risk assessment techniques through hands-on application of software vulnerability testing tools. Prerequisite(s): IAS5025.
4 quarter credits
IAS5220
Specialization Course Network Security Controls and Testing
4 quarter credits
Learners study cryptographic algorithms, protocols, and how they protect information in various states. Learners apply methodology to detect, analyze, and mitigate vulnerabilities and threats within a network environment, and examine the latest network technologies and security issues involved in network communications. Finally, learners identify and demonstrate ways of exploiting vulnerabilities to gain access to a system through penetration testing and network forensics techniques.
4 quarter credits
ITEC5900
Capstone Applied Information Technology Project 1
4 quarter credits
In this first of a two-course sequence, learners further enhance their professional collaboration and communication skills to identify and select a project that addresses an IT problem or opportunity in an organizational or societal context. Learners apply IT evaluation frameworks and the RFP process to elicit and evaluate requirements and possible technology solutions. Learners also explore IT consulting skills to address technical, product, and related economic factors valuable for in-house and external consulting engagements. For MS in Information Technology learners only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in ITEC5020 and IAS5030 or ITEC5040 or ITEC5060 or PM5335. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
ITEC5905
Capstone Applied Information Technology Project 2
4 quarter credits
In this second of a two-course sequence, learner teams implement their project plan to address an IT problem or opportunity in an organizational or societal context. Teams finalize project requirements and complete tasks associated with the project, including regular status reporting, production of intermediate deliverables, on-going communication with key stakeholders, and developing an optimal IT solution that meets the requirements and solution context. Learners also complete a written report and conduct a final presentation that describes the solution and its implementation. Upon project conclusion, learners review and update their personal, technical, and soft skills development plan created at the beginning of the program. For MS in Information Technology learners only. Prerequisite(s): ITEC5900 and completion of or concurrent registration in ANLT5100 or IAS5110 or or IAS5220 or ISTM5112 or PM5336. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
Total
At least 48 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)
Core course requirements
Complete at least 20 quarter credits in the core courses category. Choose from the courses shown below.
Show all descriptions
ITEC5002
Core Information Technology and System Trends
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course examine current information technologies and trends, emphasizing the areas of technical focus. Learners gain the strategic underpinnings of contemporary technology and emerging trends, as well as the communication skills and requirements of an IT professional. This course also presents self-assessments and career development activities designed to support lifelong learning and workforce success. Must be taken during the first quarter by learners who have been admitted to the MS in Information Technology degree program. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
PM5018
Core Project Management Foundations
4 quarter credits
In this cross-disciplinary course , learners analyze the fundamentals of project management and gain an overview of project management standards and their applicability to managing projects, with an emphasis on management methodologies and frameworks, including those defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI®). Learners have the opportunity to participate in experiential learning by bringing in a workplace project, or they may use the project provided in the course. Learners cultivate effective project management leadership skills, including project politics and ethics and collaboration.
4 quarter credits
ITEC5025
Core Application Development and AI
4 quarter credits
Learners use their knowledge of fundamental and advanced programming concepts, skills, programming languages, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop applications. Learners apply the essential skills to develop a user interface, integrate a database, and incorporate an AI model, to build a sophisticated and intelligent application. Prerequisite: ITEC5020
4 quarter credits
ITEC5010
Core Security and Enterprise Networks
4 quarter credits
In this course, learners develop an understanding of the core security principles that apply throughout networked systems. Learners examine the concepts of enterprise network design, core network infrastructure hardware, configuration, and the architecture of contemporary computing networks and cloud platforms. Learners also gain an understanding of network security and threat vectors in the context of enterprise systems, firewalls, VPNs, and network protocols. Finally, learners explore enterprise network governance, security risk assessment and development of internal controls, and implementation and management for cloud computing environments. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in ITEC5002.
4 quarter credits
ITEC5020
Core Database Development and AI
4 quarter credits
Learners use their knowledge of designing and developing both relational and non-relational databases, and fundamental concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create databases. Learners apply the necessary skills and knowledge to create robust databases that leverage AI models to achieve goals efficiently and effectively.
4 quarter credits
Total
At least 48 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)
Specialization course requirements
Complete at least 20 quarter credits from the specialization courses shown below.
Show all descriptions
IAS5220
Specialization Course Network Security Controls and Testing
4 quarter credits
Learners study cryptographic algorithms, protocols, and how they protect information in various states. Learners apply methodology to detect, analyze, and mitigate vulnerabilities and threats within a network environment, and examine the latest network technologies and security issues involved in network communications. Finally, learners identify and demonstrate ways of exploiting vulnerabilities to gain access to a system through penetration testing and network forensics techniques.
4 quarter credits
IAS5020
Specialization Course Information Security Regulatory and Legal Environment
4 quarter credits
Learners apply cyber-defense and information assurance controls in context of the rules and guidelines that influence them and with an understanding of the security standards, responsibilities, rules, regulations, and issues that impact a particular organization. Learners identify laws and policies related to cyber-defense and how they relate to the storage and transmission of data. Learners also study basic concepts of audit, evidence collection, and chain of custody rules. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in IAS5015.
4 quarter credits
IAS5030
Specialization Course Identifying and Managing Risk
4 quarter credits
Learners identify common information security risk analysis methodologies, their characteristics, pros and cons, and applications. Learners examine the sources of risk, including external malicious attackers, intentional and accidental attacks by internal users, and threats from environmental and structural sources. Learners also identify vulnerabilities in hardware, software, locations, and procedures that provide an opening to attackers and create risk to organizations. Learners demonstrate risk assessment techniques through hands-on application of software vulnerability testing tools. Prerequisite(s): IAS5025.
4 quarter credits
IAS5015
Specialization Course Network Security Fundamentals and Cryptography
4 quarter credits
Learners apply foundational concepts of cybersecurity and information assurance to select appropriate information security policies, procedures, and controls to defend enterprise information assets from breaches of confidentiality and integrity. Learners identify specific points of vulnerability that may be mitigated through the use of administrative security policies and operational information security tools. Learners also examine principles of cryptography and some of the security controls and methods that use it. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in IAS5010 or ITEC5020.
4 quarter credits
IAS5025
Specialization Course Operating System Defense
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course explore the fundamental security issues related to operating system (OS) defense. Learners also employ best practices to harden operating systems and associated software applications using various tools as a part of a layered defense-in-depth strategy. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in IAS5020..
4 quarter credits
Total
At least 48 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)
Capstone courses
In your final quarter, complete a capstone course for a total of 8 quarter credits.
Show all descriptions
ITEC5900
Capstone Applied Information Technology Project 1
4 quarter credits
In this first of a two-course sequence, learners further enhance their professional collaboration and communication skills to identify and select a project that addresses an IT problem or opportunity in an organizational or societal context. Learners apply IT evaluation frameworks and the RFP process to elicit and evaluate requirements and possible technology solutions. Learners also explore IT consulting skills to address technical, product, and related economic factors valuable for in-house and external consulting engagements. For MS in Information Technology learners only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in ITEC5020 and IAS5030 or ITEC5040 or ITEC5060 or PM5335. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
ITEC5905
Capstone Applied Information Technology Project 2
4 quarter credits
In this second of a two-course sequence, learner teams implement their project plan to address an IT problem or opportunity in an organizational or societal context. Teams finalize project requirements and complete tasks associated with the project, including regular status reporting, production of intermediate deliverables, on-going communication with key stakeholders, and developing an optimal IT solution that meets the requirements and solution context. Learners also complete a written report and conduct a final presentation that describes the solution and its implementation. Upon project conclusion, learners review and update their personal, technical, and soft skills development plan created at the beginning of the program. For MS in Information Technology learners only. Prerequisite(s): ITEC5900 and completion of or concurrent registration in ANLT5100 or IAS5110 or or IAS5220 or ISTM5112 or PM5336. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
Total
At least 48 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)
What can I expect in the courseroom?
Each unit consists of readings, discussions and other activities you will be expected to complete throughout the week. Most deadlines for coursework occur on Thursdays and/or Sundays but may vary by program and course. In each course, you will receive a detailed scoring guide that describes expectations for every graded assignment.
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How will I be graded?
Grades are based on your participation in weekly reading discussions and completion of assignments, based on criteria outlined in the rubric. You will also be assessed on your ability to demonstrate an understanding of expected outcomes for your program or specialization. These outcomes are based on the needs and performance standards of your field or discipline.