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M.S. Information Security and Digital Forensics

Offered 100% Online

Niagara’s ISDF program equips students to manage and react to cybersecurity threats that have presented challenges across all industries. Students will be trained in brand new, state-of-the-art computer labs, allowing them to gain skills that can be used in professional areas such as computer and mobile forensics, network security, defensive security, and data privacy. The program is appropriate for students of many backgrounds, including computer and information sciences, business, criminal justice, accounting, and healthcare. For those who are interested, this program will provide the knowledge necessary to obtain the Certified Information Systems Security Management Professionals (CISSP) certification.

Curriculum

Our innovative curriculum combines a theoretical foundation with a hands-on learning approach in state of the art labs. The program requires 36 total credit hours, and will explore courses in data privacy, ethical hacking, software security, modern cryptography, mobile forensics and security, and computer forensics. Students will also complete a capstone research project, allowing them to use scholarly research methods to develop analytics and problem-solving skills that can be applied to solving real-world information security issues.
CSO Student Learning Outcome Upon successful completion of the MS ISDF curriculum, students will be able to:
CSO SLO 1 Demonstrate the ability to understand and apply cybersecurity terms, concepts, threats, actors, and events with excellent written and oral communication skills.
CSO SLO 2 Demonstrate the ability to analyze business conditions for optimal applications of information security tools, models, cybersecurity methodologies, planning, and policies to protect people, process, and technology.
CSO SLO 3 Demonstrate the ability to conduct professional cybersecurity research that includes accurate modeling, analysis, and design of CD processes, systems, and relevant laws, regulations, and agencies.
CSO SLO 4 Demonstrate the ability to apply best practices of responding to external or internal cybersecurity incidents through incident response through forensic imaging and emergency preparedness.

Future of Cybersecurity

The need for cybersecurity experts is rapidly increasing, faster than organizations can hire – the demand is expected to continue. The number of unfilled cybersecurity positions worldwide grew 350% between 2013 and 2021 (1 million to 3.5 million). Research suggests that over the next five years, the same number of openings will remain unfilled. Breaches are on the rise and cybersecurity talent is becoming scarce, Niagara University invites you to become part of the future in cybersecurity. Niagara University offers a graduate degree in cybersecurity (Information Security and Digital Forensics, ISDF) to prepare learners for an exciting career in the cybersecurity field. Because of Niagara’s focus and course offerings, most graduates have been able to secure immediate employment at major tech companies, banks and financial institutions, healthcare agencies, and government agencies.

The Information Security and Digital Forensics Program (ISDF) at Niagara University meets the validation criteria for the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)

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Upcoming ISDF Events

Buffalo business first panel of experts
featuring dr. petter lovaas

Thursday, Sept. 26 | 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m
Salvatore’s Amore Ballroom

»  Register Now 

Why Information Security and Digital Forensics at NU?

When you’re at Niagara University, the world is at your fingertip.  

Flexibility

The program is offered 100% online, allowing you the flexibility to complete your studies in one year (or at your own pace.)

Affordability

Graduate assistantships,
scholarship opportunities,
and over 60 different
awards for well-qualified
matriculated graduate students
exist to make graduate school
more affordable.

innovation

Students will benefit from learning in brand new, state-of-the-art facilities
in an area of study that is constantly changing to meet industry demands.

CSO Center project

The Information Security and Digital Forensics Program (ISDF) at Niagara University meets the validation criteria for the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD).

Application Requirements

FPO testimonial photo
"Niagara truly understands the diverse care er field of accounting. Faculty help students see paths beyond the traditional CPA route, and advise them on which ones may suit them best. I took electives in data analytics, which led me to a career in fraud detection and deterrence."​
Brandon Andrews, ’17
Auditor/Investigator NYS Office of the Attorney General​

IN THIER WORDS

“As a graduate of Niagara University’s ISDF program, I can confidently say that it significantly impacted my career as a cybersecurity professional. The program
equipped me with cutting-edge skills within the cybersecurity landscape and further developed my passion for the industry. The hands-on experience in state-of-the-art
labs allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Moreover, the program alignment with many of the industry’s top certifications was invaluable for
my career success. Thanks to Niagara’s ISDF program, I am well-prepared to tackle the ever-evolving challenges in the cybersecurity field.”

Jon Sandanato
Cyber Threat Analyst | New York Life Insurance

Niagara University Cybersecurity News
M.S. in Information Security and Digital Forensics Receives National Security Agency Validation

Niagara University’s Master of Science in Information Security and Digital Forensics program has been validated by the United States’ National Security Agency, recognizing it as a top advanced degree program that will contribute to the greater national mission of preparing a qualified and robust cybersecurity workforce. The designation was awarded after a review completed by the NSA in partnership with a committee of academic peers.

As a NSA-validated program, Niagara’s M.S. ISDF program gives graduates a competitive advantage for careers in cybersecurity. Its proven ability to meet the increasing requirements of this high-demand industry and its demonstrated community leadership in the field ensures that students are well-prepared to join the nation’s highly-skilled cybersecurity workforce in protecting the country’s information infrastructure and fostering a strategic national security advantage. Niagara’s validation extends through 2029.

Careers

Computer and Mobile Forensics Analyst
Cybersecurity Administrator
Cybersecurity Analyst
Defensive Security
Information Security Research

Accreditations

Information Security and Digital Forensics
Faculty & Staff

MAIN CONTACT

Dr Petter Lovaas headshot

Dr. Petter Lovaas
Department Chair

Dr. Perry

Benson

Assistant Professor

Phone: 701.777.4344

Email:

Profile:

Dr. Petter

Lovaas, Ph.D., ACE

Associate Professor
Chief Information Security Officer
CSO Center Point of Contact

Phone: 716.286.8447

Email:

Profile:

Dr. Glenn R.

Papp Jr.

Assistant Professor

Phone: 716.286.8449

Email:

Profile: