Course Descriptions

Computer and Network Security


SEC 210
Principles and Practice of Information Security
3 credits

This course provides the latest security tips and techniques on Internet and computer security best practices. Topics include: important privacy legislation, case studies of infamous hackers, how to develop an effective security system, selection of IT security products, firewall benefits and limitations, intruder detection, correct ways to configure your computer, browser settings, virus settings, operating system vulnerabilities, strong password techniques, parasite detection, and encryption techniques. Note: This course replaces IRM 110.


SEC 220
Introduction to Computer Forensics
3 credits

This hands-on introductory course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to begin a computer-based investigation. The course begins with an overview of computer forensics and then proceeds to introduce forensics tools, concepts, and documentation of evidence/procedures. The course uses common and accepted Incident Response Policies and Procedures for previewing and securing digital evidence. Topics include: (1) Learn “What exactly are computer forensics and computer evidence?” (2) Learn basic forensic methodology: a) how to acquire the evidence without altering or damaging the original, b) how to authenticate the recovered evidence, and c) how to analyze the data without modifying it.


SEC 230
Introduction to Linux
3 credits

Designed for the serious computer user, this course will introduce the student to the basic concepts of the Linux operating system. Completion of the course will provide a good basic working knowledge of: essential Linux commands, login and logout sequences; Linux e-mail; fundamentals of the vi editor; piping and redirection; security and process control; Directory and File Systems and essential utilities; Linux shell programming; X Windows; Linux installation; and basic system administration.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206 or equivalent


SEC 300
Information Technology Hardware and Software
3 credits

This course provides the hardware/software technology background to enable systems development personnel to understand trade-offs in computer architecture for effective use in a business environment. System architecture for single user, central, and networked computing systems is examined, as are single and multi-user operating systems. An advanced library orientation has been incorporated as part of this course.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206


SEC 310
Cryptography: Algorithms and Applications
3 credits

Algorithms and theory and how they are used in everyday web and computer applications are studied. The theory behind the algorithms is included, as well as application of those theories. Some of the topics explored include the following: Cryptography (encompassing private and public key cryptography; digital signatures; and encryption methods such as Rijdael, RSA, and Kerberos), Data Compression (MPEG/JPEG), Indexing/Traversing methodologies

Prerequisite(s): SEC 210


SEC 320
Networks and Telecommunications
3 credits

This course provides an in-depth knowledge of data communications and networking requirements, including networking and telecommunications technologies, hardware, and software. Emphasis is upon the analysis and design of networking applications in organizations. Management of telecommunications networks, cost-benefit analysis, and evaluation of connectivity options are also covered. Students learn to evaluate, select, and implement different communication options within an organization.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206


SEC 330
Operating System and Computer Systems Security
3 credits

This course expands upon the material studied in SEC 210. The following topics are covered: Security Principles (Windows 2000 Security Architecture, Linux Security), Account Security (Securing Accounts, Passwords, Password Aging, and Verification of System State), File System Security (Windows 2000, XP File Security, NAS Storage Security), Accessing Risk (Key loggers, Sniffers, Port Scanning), Risk Analysis (Viruses, Patches, Packaging Techniques), and Encryption (applying topics from SEC 310 to Web Sites and applications). The student’s basic network and operating system skills will be expanded to include planning, implementation, and auditing of a system’s security package.

Prerequisite(s): SEC320 or IRM320


SEC 335
Linux for Systems Administrators
3 credits

This course covers key network services managed by the Linux Administrator. Focus is on Web servers, e-mail (POP and SMTP protocols), and security. The course will present the following Internet services: DNS, FTP, HTTP (Apache Web Server), telnet, and SSH. Intranet topics included are: NFS (Network File System), NIS (Network Information Services) and interoperability with the Windows system using Samba. At the conclusion of the course students will explore topics in networking: network configuration, security and interoperability.

Prerequisite(s): SEC 230 or permission of the program coordinator


SEC 340
Windows Operating Systems and Systems Administration
3 credits

This course uses practices and procedures for installing and configuring modern Windows operating systems, including user accounts; file, print, and terminal servers; mobile computing; and disaster recovery. User account management, security, disk configuration, and backup procedures are addressed, with particular attention to coverage of TCP/IP and TCP/IP applications. Students will learn system installation, configuration and administration issues as well as network file systems, network access and compatibility with other operating systems. Through practical lab sessions, students receive real-world experience administering Windows operating systems.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206 or equivalent


SEC 380
Cloud Computing
3 credits

This course will help students get a firm, practical grasp of cloud computing, its concepts and implementations. Students will explore the rationale for this fast-growing segment of the IT industry and how virtualization is affecting the traditional client/server architecture. Students get to examine different vendor-specific versions of virtual computing in data-centers, servers, storage and desktops. The course will provide practical exposure to cloud computing through detailed hands-on labs that illustrate the power and functions of virtual environments in VMWare server & workstation, Citrix virtualization, Microsoft Virtual PC, Sun VirtualBox and open source offerings.

Prerequisite(s): IRM 230, IRM 320


SEC 410
Web and Data Security
3 credits

This course will help students build a security policy and SOP for an organization which is implementing a new network and web infrastructure. Topics include the following: Security Education and Advisory, Risk Management, Threats to IT Assets, Encryption (an expansion of SEC 310), Standards and Compliance, and Security Testing and Implementation.

Prerequisite(s): SEC 330


SEC 420
Data Integrity and Disaster Recovery
3 credits

This course will expand upon SEC 330 and will leave a student with a complete understanding of the steps necessary to protect an organization from an attack or disaster. Topics include the following: Data Backup and archiving, Retrieval methods, Log Analysis, Error Checking and Integrity Analysis. Also covered in this course is Disaster Recovery. Students will be asked to develop a Disaster Recovery Plan keeping in mind the Risk assessment, location, network, computer, financial and power constraints necessary to develop an efficient DRP for an organization.

Prerequisite(s): SEC 330


SEC 430
Security Issues Concerning RFID Technology Applications
3 credits

Radio Frequency Identification is an automatic identification methodology relying on the storage and remote retrieval of subject-specific data using devices called RFID “tags” or “transponders”. The use of RFID technology is proliferating and emerging as a ubiquitous and sensitive informational asset within today’s global enterprise. This course will help students better understand the role that RFID plays In various applications to include: product distribution, tracking, education, and government. Security of applicable resources as well as the technology employed and ethical issues will be discussed in detail. As a result, students will be better prepared to identify when and where to employ RFID technology as a business solution.


SEC 435
Advanced Network Management
3 credits

This course builds on Introduction to Network Management to develop an understanding of advanced networking management and Management Information Systems, MIS. Students will design and maintain their own corporate network configuration. Topics will be covered in a theoretical and practical way. There is a large component of hands-on computer work. Students will practice network theory, hardware selection and upgrading, operating systems, platforms, programming languages, batch control, shared resources, security systems, anti-virus procedures, and specific manufacturers’ methodology.

Prerequisite(s): SEC 320


SEC 450
Protecting Your Network: Firewall and Perimeter Security
3 credits

This is the ultimate security course on protecting company assets through network security. Topics include Firewall, Perimeter Security, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Edge Devices, and Assessment. Students will learn how to develop a set of firewall rules that will keep hackers out, how to look at all possible ways in which unauthorized users might gain access to network assets, and how an IDS can provide an analysis showing who has access to the system. Students will develop a security plan and monitor ongoing activities to determine effectiveness of a security model.

Prerequisite(s): SEC320 or IRM 320


SEC 460
Topics in Computer and Network Security
3 credits

This course surveys contemporary subjects and current events pertaining to Computer and Network Security.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Program Coordinator


SEC 490
Computer and Newtork Security Internship
6 credits

Students in the final year of the program who have completed the program’s core requirements will be offered the option, as an elective, to receive academic credit of up to six credit hours for a supervised field experience.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Program Coordinator


SEC 491
Computer and Network Security Internship
6 credits

Students in the final year of the program who have completed the program’s core requirements will be offered the option, as an elective, to receive academic credit of up to six credit hours for a supervised field experience.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Program Coordinator


SEC 492
Computer and Network Security Internship
6 credits

Students in the final year of the program who have completed the program’s core requirements will be offered the option, as an elective, to receive academic credit of up to six credit hours for a supervised field experience.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Program Coordinator


SEC 493
Computer and Network Security Internship
6 credits

Students in the final year of the program who have completed the program’s core requirements will be offered the option, as an elective, to receive academic credit of up to six credit hours for a supervised field experience.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Program Coordinator


SEC 494
Computer and Network Security Internship
6 credits

Students in the final year of the program who have completed the program’s core requirements will be offered the option, as an elective, to receive academic credit of up to six credit hours for a supervised field experience.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Program Coordinator


SEC 6010
Planning for Information Security
3 credits

This course addresses the necessity of developing accurate Business Continuity Plans. Within this scope, emergency response, business resumption, and disaster recovery will be evaluated as critical components to the process. Through review of the planning process, a variety of methods and models will be considered to assist in business impact assessment as well as RISK planning assessment.


SEC 6020
Security Issues Concerning RFID (Radio Frequency Identification System) Technology Applications
3 credits

Radio Frequency Identification is an automatic identification methodology relying on the storage and remote retrieval of subject-specific data using devices called RFID “tags” or “transponders”. The use of RFID technology is proliferating and emerging as an ubiquitous and sensitive informational asset within today’s global enterprise. This course will help students better understand the role that RFID plays in various applications to include: product distribution, tracking, education, and government. Security of applicable resources as well as the technology employed. Ethical issues will be discussed in detail. As a result, students will be better prepared to identify when and where and to employ RFID technology as a business solution.


SEC 6030
Operating System and Computer Systems Security
3 credits

The student’s basic network and operating system skills will be expanded to include planning, implementation, and auditing of a system’s security package. The following topics are covered: Security Principles (Windows 2000 Security Architecture, Linux Security), Account Security (Securing Accounts, Passwords, Password Aging, and Verification of System State), File System Security (Windows 2000, XP File Security, NAS Storage Security), Accessing Risk (Key loggers, Sniffers, Port Scanning), Risk Analysis (Viruses, Patches, Packaging Techniques), and Encryption.


SEC 6040
Web and Data Security
3 credits

This course will help students build a security policy and SOP for an organization which is implementing a new network and web infrastructure. Topics include the following: Security Education and Advisory, Risk Management, Threats to IT Assets, Encryption, Standards and Compliance, and Security Testing and Implementation.


SEC 6090
Topics in Information Assurance
3 credits

This course is an intensive study of selected contemporary topics in Information Assurance. Emphasis is placed on research in areas pertinent to the current IT environment. Given the rapidly changing landscape of present day information systems and technology, it is entirely appropriate to focus on recent and novel developments in the field. The focus for each section will vary, and in a “Directed Study” format, will be tailored specifically to the career and vocational interests of the student. When scheduled in lecture/seminar form, the topical subject matter will change at each offering; students should refer to the course listing bulletin for the current topic.