Cyber Degrees Education - PhD Degree in Cyber Security

A doctorate program in cyber security helps you to become one of the most highly qualified professionals in this field. You’ll be able to face ever more-complex cyber security challenges that are confronting businesses, financial and health institutions, and government agencies. A PhD prepares you to research some of the most difficult security problems now confronting the nation and the world. Once you graduate, you’ll be ready to work in either state, federal, or local government agencies; or you may choose to work for a private business.

Why Get a PhD or Doctorates?

Each field needs its researchers so that previously unknown information can be discovered, tested, and made public. A good program will combine a strong technical foundation, policies and perspectives in social sciences. Within the realm of research, you’ll be prepared to advance the state of the art in security matters, networks, and systems.Excellent PhD programs are designated as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Research, Information Assurance/Cyber Defense, and Cyber Operations. This designation is provided by the DHS and NSA so that you know which programs provide government-approved certification.

Overview of Degrees Available

You’ll have a range of degree programs from which to choose. They all provide a solid technical foundation in computer science, exposing you to applied research in cyber security.

Expect a solid PhD program to take about three years to complete and for it to include research seminars that give you the opportunity to delve even more completely into the cyber security research field. If you are attending part-time, then you should be able to complete your program within seven years.

Some programs may put a stronger emphasis on technologies and techniques that are connected to specialized cyber security operations.

Concentrations

A PhD concentration is a closely related grouping of courses, which represents about one-third of a student’s major. These concentrations or “tracks” fall within a sub-specialization or emphasis. Students who plan to focus on this concentration can take the courses they need along with the courses they need to finish their PhD.Cyber security concentrations focus on information security, minimizing cyber vulnerability, and hands-on research.

Concentrations within the Information Technology program may include Computer Systems and Network Administration, Cyber Security, and Web and Applications Development.

Individual universities and colleges offer their own concentrations, such as Security and Privacy, big data initiatives and cyber security, or a PhD in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Information Security.

How Much Does a PhD in Cyber Security Cost?

Doctoral and PhD students should expect to pay more tuition for their degree programs. Because they are likely to spend more time in school, including working on their dissertations, this extended time will cause their school related costs to rise.

PhD students can expect to pay up to $3-4,000 per year. Of course, costs can be affected by many things including credits transferred from your master’s program, region, school, in-state vs. out-of-state costs, and more. At one school in the Southeastern US, doctoral students pay $1,185 per credit hour for their tuition. However, research and testing assistantships may help defray costs for some students, as will any grants or scholarships you receive.

PhD in Information Assurance (DIA)

If you’re looking to become a problem-solver in cyber security, the Doctorate in Information Assurance may be a good choice for you. You’ll focus on policy making, either as an analyst or consultant.

Sample Curriculum

Year 1

- Information Security Systems and Organizational Awareness
- Legal and Ethical Practices in Information Security
- Information Security and Organizational Change

Year 2

- Business and Security Risk Analysis
- Certification and Accreditation
- Forensic Evaluation and Incident Response Management

Year 3

- Strategic and Technological Trends in Information Security
- Research Topics in Information Security

Year 4

- Research Topics in Information Security
- Designing Solutions to InfoSec Problems
- Research Foundations

Year 5

- Research Foundations
- Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis
- Security Program and Implementation: Quantitative Application
- Legal and Ethical Management in Information Security: Qualitative Application

Year 6

- Dissertation Proposal (IRB-Institutional Review Board)

Year 7

- Final Dissertation Manuscript & Defense

PhD in Information Technology (IT), Cyber Security Emphasis

In this program, you’ll obtain advanced knowledge in information technology. You’ll also learn how to use the strategic leadership skills you need to guide organizations as they navigate critical IT-related challenges.

Sample Curriculum

Year 1

- Fundamentals of Information Systems
- Principles of Programming
- Systems Analysis and Design

Year 2

- Operating System and Network Architecture
- Enterprise Data Design
- Enterprise Systems Architecture

Year 3

- Applied Research Methods—Qualitative and Quantitative
- Quantitative Decision Making for Strategic Analysis
- Qualitative and Case Study Research for Strategic Analysis

Year 4

- Seminar in Information Security
- Seminar in IT Systems, Software, and Management
- Seminar in Project Management

Year 5

- Doctoral Study Mentoring
- Doctoral Study Completion (Students are continuously enrolled in this course for at least five 8-week terms until their doctoral studies are approved by the Chief Academic Officer)

PhD in Technology and Innovation Management

This research-based program helps to shape you into a leader who is able to step into a managerial position in both the public and private sectors. When you graduate, you will possess broad knowledge in technology management and business; you’ll also hold a good understanding within a specialization.

Sample Curriculum

Year 1

- Changing Times: Leading Technology & Innovation in the 21st Century
- Scholarly Communication for Technology Leaders
- Managing Risk, Security, and Privacy in Information Systems (Specialization Course)

Year 2

- Computer Networks & Mobile Computing (Specialization Course)
- Databases and Business Intelligence (Specialization Course)
- Statistics with Technology Applications (Specialization Course)

Year 3

- Technology Policy & Strategy (Specialization Course)
- Introduction to Research Design & Methodology for Technology leaders (Specialization Course)

Choose from one of the following for specialization course 6:

- Quantitative Research Design & Methodology for Technology Leaders
- Directed Quantitative Research
- Qualitative Research Design & Methodology for Technology Leaders
- Directed Qualitative Research
- Constructive Research Design & Methodology for Technology Leaders
- Directed Constructive Research

Years 4-6/7

Other Degrees

PhD in Computer Science

PhD students in the computer science program will work with top researchers as they learn about advancing state-of-the-art distributed systems, human computer interaction, AI, theoretical computer science, and computer graphics. Before entering this program, each student should already have a strong background in their field as they prepare for a teaching or research career.

PhD in Computer Engineering

Post-bachelor’s and post-master’s students have the opportunity to study in a wide range of areas. These disciplines may overlap with others within the College of Engineering.

Computer Engineering PhD students will have both empirical and theoretical studies in an area identified by their career interests. Students are also encouraged to collaborate externally with both industry and government laboratories.

Admission Requirements

PhD programs are created for students with a strong technical background, though some cater to students whose backgrounds are in a non-technical area. All students must commit themselves to working in an interdisciplinary environment as they work toward their PhD.

Prior to admission, students should have a minimum GPA of 3.0. If they don’t have the technical knowledge they need, they may be required to take courses such as Fundamentals of Information Assurance, Network and Systems, and Fundamentals of Computer Engineering.

Traditional - Online - and Hybrid Programs

- Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
- Components of the Dissertation
- The Dissertation Proposal
- Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Data Collection
- The Dissertation Manuscript and Defense

Each class format has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Online classes take place solely online. You are not required to commute to a physical campus to attend classes or take exams. If you are taking classes online, you can often choose when to access each class session, though some classes require you to be online at a specific time to be “present” for class. You’ll communicate with fellow students using discussion boards, forums, and chat rooms.Hybrid courses are a blending of the online format and the on-campus format. You’ll take some classes online and combine these with other classes that you attend on-campus. Or, you may do most of your work from a personal computer but be required to show up for specific on-campus events, lectures, or networking opportunities.

Online PhDs in cyber security are limited, however gradually expanding in number. We should certainly stress that these are research study degrees, indicated for people who prepare to dedicate 3-7 years of their life to a detailed area of passion. If you're assuming relating to becoming a teacher or a high-level researcher, take a look at on.

A PhD is a long, tough, as well as sometimes very lonely level. If you have a helpful company, a network of security coworkers, in addition to a good deal of self-control, you can do it through range understanding. Yet do not take as well lightly the minute as well as likewise initiative it's mosting likely to take. Some internet programs have on-campus possibilities to avoid isolation.

Make sure you fit the account. Connect with grads of the PhD program (on-campus along with online) to discover what they thought about the experience. Ask to accomplish your opportunity manager in person. University staff immediately commitments, the curriculum, and also career chances after university graduation. Although your research project/thesis will certainly be self-directed, you will absolutely generally be needed to finish 2-3 years of sophisticated coursework as well.

Name acknowledgment issues for a great deal in the cyber safety and security and also safety globe. Discover endorsements and also connect with partners to uncover whether the university, the department of computer technology (or the equivalent), as well as the faculty are well-respected. Otherwise, run for the hillsides. This NSA CAE category is granted to universities that provide higher-level doctoral research study programs in cyber security.

To gain the level, potential customers must finish a minimum of 60 credit scores past the master's degree, which typically requires 3 to 5 years of study. Trainees will definitely have both synchronous along with asynchronous components in their coursework. The educational program includes core courses, experience programs, research approaches training programs, research study prep work programs, and also argumentation development programs.

You can locate our extensive directory of on-line PhD programs in Cybersecurity as well as security here. A PhD in Cyber Defense is laborious, research-focused level where you can dedicate on your own to a detailed area of interest (e.g. human-centered computer system, cyberinfrastructure, deep-rooted systems, and so on). Postgraduate degrees may take 5-7 years to end up. A PhD is not needed for most organisations' cyber security tasks.

Students that get in with a master's may have the ability to move approximately 24 credit reports. All students need to complete 30 argumentation credit scores ratings and also complete a three-month functional protection experience (selections to an internship are approved). NSACAE Students that sign up in the Ph. D. in Computer Scientific Research Study Program at Idaho State University can concentrate on info assurance by adhering to the educational program described by the Facility for Secure and also Trustworthy Solutions, housed in the University of Style.

Trainees without a technological history are accepted, yet they might have to take coursework. Applicants need to send an affirmation of function, 3 suggestions, as well as likewise GRE scores. Students could simply get in the program in the loss term. NSACAE Doctoral trainees managing a Ph. D. in Computer Technology or a Ph.

As a PhD in Cyber Security Policy, you will have many challenging decisions to make. The more complicated the decision, the more the value of the problem will be. This is because you are going to be put in charge of hundreds of people who require your expertise and knowledge.

In most instances, the areas of employment and training are not the most interesting and fulfilling parts of being a PhD in Cyber Security Policy. The real world skills and capabilities of your potential employees and students are what will ultimately prove to be important in making your career success. No matter what the issue, these skills will help you succeed in the cyber security profession.

There are several topics for a PhD in Cyber Security Policy. It can range from which type of antivirus software to purchase, to what type of data backup solution is best for your organization. These are all important issues and there are a number of different subjects for PhD in Cyber Security Policy that you may take up.

One of the best ways to begin is by obtaining accreditation for the degree you are attempting to obtain and create a comprehensive training program. It is important to understand that every subject will require some training. The more trained you are in these areas, the better you will be able to cope with the subject.

The topic is also well known for its key characteristics. Like any other topic, you must always be prepared to face your challenges. Some of the more critical aspects of the area are about understanding the firewall, cybersecurity policy and regulations, managing risk and implementing administrative changes in the network.

While you might choose to go through an extensive cyber security study program, it may not be the best way to get your foot in the door. You will want to demonstrate your competence and reliability. Remember, the money you save by taking a different direction will be used to gain experience in the field so that when you do finish your studies, you have all the necessary knowledge you need to jump into the workforce.

The best way to apply for a PhD in Cyber Security Policy is to apply online. The search will only take a few minutes and then you will be one step closer to your goal. After you have chosen the program you want to pursue, it is very important to do some preliminary research on the school to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

A good thing about applying for a PhD in Cyber Security Policy is that you can start as soon as October. However, before you start working on your application, it is important to understand that the curriculum is set at two years. The time frame is not too long, but it is enough to give you a foundation to learn the basics.

While a PhD in Cyber Security Policy is one of the more demanding and in-demand degrees, there are no limits. The degree is not limited

to IT or computer specialists, but includes other career fields that include law enforcement, defense, financial services, health care, government and others. You will need to use your information technology and computer knowledge to meet the specifications of the job you are looking for.

If you are looking to start a career in a more technical career, you should definitely apply for a PhD in Cyber Security Policy. Of course, if you have the interest in teaching, the job description will also open the door to teaching MBA students about the field. The program requires about one year of course work and nine months of supervised internship.

While a PhD in Cyber Security Policy is not exactly a glamorous job, you will be required to have numerous positions. For Example, you may be required to look over medical systems or other devices that could cause catastrophic damage. or have access to the core networks to help keep the system running.

The right degree can be the next step in the right direction for a career in cyber security policy. You have to remember that there are many routes you can take to get the degree. The first is to seek out the best online programs available and see what path they lead you down.

Doctorate Sample Curriculum and Courses

Here is a realistic sample course schedule for a PhD student:

Year 1

- Fundamentals of Computer Networking

You’ll study network protocols, modeling, analysis, and architectures as well as modeling concepts, queuing theory, and Little’s theorem. The class will also cover performance evaluation of computer networks, performance metrics, evaluation tools, and methodology.

- Cryptography and Communications Security

This course will teach you how new cryptography systems are designed and how cyber security specialists use them. You’ll cover what applications use these systems, such as e-commerce, talk about how cryptography systems were developed, and discuss the mathematical theories behind these systems, their design, and any vulnerabilities they may have. The course may also teach you how cryptographic systems can be broken into and discuss varieties of stream cyphers (block, shift register sequences, discrete logarithms, and public-key systems).

- Software Vulnerabilities and Security

In this course, you will gain awareness of the various issues in systems security and then develop knowledge of security overall. You’ll also learn about the principal types of software and associated applications used on the internet, talk about similar vulnerabilities, and how hackers exploit them.

Year 2

- Cyberlaw: Privacy, Ethics and Digital Rights

This course discusses all ethical and legal issues that are attached to information security including system access; the use and dissemination of such systems. The emphasis is on laws that cover the protection of information: the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and the Telecommunications Decency Act. You’ll learn about new technologies that help organizations manage digital rights.

- Applied Probability and Stochastic Processes

Here, you’ll learn about the basics of probability and stochastic processes, discuss those applications that are connected to estimation and queuing theory, talk about the foundational rules of conditioning, probability and Bayes rule, and discuss random variables and their functions.

- Foundations of Formal Methods and Software Analysis

This will cover foundational math (first-order logic), as well as measure theory. You’ll learn formal methods in detail, discuss the current state-of-the-art practices in semantics of probabilistic, hybrid systems, and verification.

Year 3

- Information Retrieval

This is the first course in information retrieval systems, as well as the approaches to information retrieval. You’ll learn the evaluation processes of information retrieval systems, language and inducing models, and retrieval, go into file organization, relevant feedback, and compression. You’ll also discuss metasearch and clustering distributed retrieval.

- Information Security Risk Management

You’ll gain knowledge in how policies and procedures for information security are developed, including safety contingencies for networks and physical software. You’ll also learn about various malicious attacks (Trojan horses and computer viruses), methods of detecting cyberattacks, and ways to assess damage, plus steps to control such attacks.

- Software Security Practices

Here, you’ll learn the basics and methodologies that help you to focus on software security risk issues confronted by organizations and develop new software solutions to address them. You’ll also learn about the information assurance requirements, U.S. and international laws, federal systems guidelines, best practices in industry, and directives and guidelines.

Financial Aid/Scholarships

1. Department of Defense Information Assurance Scholarship Program

- Fundamentals of Computer Engineering

Here, you’ll learn about the foundational techniques in computer engineering utilized in the graduate curriculum, familiarize yourself with basic programming and analysis methods, and discuss the creation and solution of a diverse range of computer engineering issues.

- Information Theory

This course will teach you about the basics of entropy and mutual information, cover Shannon’s fundamental theorems about data compression and transmission by single users, covering lemmas and binning, rate distortion theory, Slepian-Wolf coding of correlated information sources, and feedback in one-way channels.

- Testing and Design for Testability

This course discusses theoretical and practical aspects of digital systems testing, talks about the makeup of easily testable circuits, defect and fault models, testing measures and costs, developing tests for combinational and sequential circuits, and functional and parametric test methods.

- Readings/Research

Here, you’ll go over mandatory readings under the supervision of a member of faculty. Another session of reading/research may end with a comprehensive examination.

- Dissertation / Dissertation Defense

Amount:

Deadline: Varies

Link: http://www.sait.fsu.edu/scholarships/dod-ias/index.shtml

Doctoral students are encouraged to apply for a full-ride scholarship and a $30,000 stipend in order to focus on concentrated studies in cyber security. If you are chosen for this program, you will receive a full scholarship.

1. Cyber Security Policy Fellowship

Amount: $179/Credit Hour

Deadline: None

Link: https://www.ufairfax.edu/tuition-financial-aid/institutional-aid/

This fellowship requires students to be employed by a private company, as well as being enrolled in a Master’s or Doctorate cyber security degree program. The fellowship was established by the University of Fairfax (VA) to help support research intended to advance ongoing cyber security policy development. Pays $179/credit hour. No stated deadline.

1. Cyber Security Crisis Fellowship

Amount: $250/Credit Hour - $4,500/Year

Deadline: None

Link: https://www.ufairfax.edu/tuition-financial-aid/institutional-aid/

This funding is available for cyber security students beginning in 2019. Students must be enrolled in any cyber security degree program (bachelors through doctorate) or the MBA program. Fellowship is renewable throughout calendar year 2019 for students who are continuously enrolled, up to $1,500/semester and $4,500/year. No stated deadline.

Career Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that the employment of information security analysts is expected to grow 32% between 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than the average of all other US occupations. Because of the increasing frequency of cyberattacks, the demand for analysts is expected to be very high.

Computer scientists will be needed in cyber security positions due to the threat of cyberattacks. The demand for information security analysts, computer scientists, and information technology occupations will be in higher demand due to the increasing use of cloud computing and collection and storage of big data.

Jobs/Salaries for PhD Holders

1. Information Security Manager

Average Annual Salary: $112,900

Late-Career Average Annual Salary: $123,600

An information security manager oversees the maintenance of security protocols across an entire organization. They are responsible for developing strategies to help increase network and internet security which may be related to various projects.

1. Director, Computing/Networking/Information Technology (IT) Security

Average annual salary: $132,500

Late-Career Average Salary: $146,800

A director of information security for an organization that uses computers, the internet, and possibly an intranet will usually head a dedicated information technology department. The director in charge of this department is responsible for maintaining the integrity and security of the online assets of the company. They establish and maintain policies and procedures that relate to the interdepartmental communications.