Norwich University - Information Assurance

Worth the price of admission

By: mstemarie (Graduate) on June 20, 2008

Materials:		Teachers:
Institution:		Support:
Value:		Technology:

Review:

Having graduated in 2007 I have many good things to say about the program:
-They take work experience over the ability to pass a entrance exam (GMAT or GRE) which quickens the application process and ensures you have the proper knowledge to hit the ground running.
-It can be completed in as little as 18 months (if you start in December).
-Your writing skills will improve drastically during the first session (or at least mine did).  

Yes, this is not a technical degree.  You won't learn how to create buffer overflows or configure a firewall, rather it deals with Information Assurance principals and learning how to protect data from more of a management level.  

The program is divided up into six semesters and each class is 11 weeks long.  Weekly participation is mandatory along with weekly papers.  At the end of each class, a final paper is required, using your company (in most situations) as a case study.  You will make recommendations to your boss on how the company may improve their security, based on what you learned in the class.  This can be a bear as most of my papers were in the 20-25 page range.

Overall I am very happy that I decided to obtain the degree.  It opened my eyes and allowed me to see more of the "big picture" in regards to security.  Going into the program I was not sure about how I would like the online experience.  However starting in December (when it is cold and snowy where I live) allowed me to get into a routine and figure out what needed to be done and when.  That way when the weather became warmer I knew what I had to do and how many days (not many) I could get away from the computer and have fun.  Plus, you didn't have to spend an hour or more commuting to class and back.  When you log off, you're already home.  The instructors and staff are always willing to help out with any questions/problems and you will enjoy residency week and the campus for graduation.  Just hope you enjoy climbing steps.  There are a LOT of them.