Norwich University - Information Assurance

Excellent, Challenging Program

By: Anonymous (In Progress) on April 8, 2009

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

Review:

My current career field is Information Assurance, specifically an engineer in the profession with a vast technical background.  I researched Norwich extensively based on quality, reputation, and the program's professor.  This program is recognized as a Center for Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency, the professor's material is widely published and recognized across the industry, and the school's reputation is impeccable.  In fact, alumni of other prestigious institutions recognize the reputation of Norwich: every West Point alumni I have spoken with has a very high opinion of Norwich. 

The real value in the MSIA program is the material it provides: concepts, principles and framework associated with Information Assurance.  It is most assuredly big picture stuff, and for those who expect it to be a technical exercise in hacking will be woefully disappointed.  This program is designed for the overall science of Information Assurance, to include its foundations, laws, policy making, risk analysis, and organizational concepts.  It provides methodologies and strategic value vital to a Chief Information Security Officer, a strategic planner, or anyone otherwise responsible for subject matter expertise in IA.  Technical skills are important to know, but they are only part of the picture when it comes to the total IA experience.  

I highly recommend the Norwich MSIA program for anyone who wishes to pursue IA as a profession.  You will be writing (a LOT), and you will be challenged and forced to defend your research, but what you learn here will well prepare you for the real world, whether it be the boardroom, a government program, or consultancy.