Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Assurance

What Is Information Security?

Information security professionals protect data from unauthorized access by designing secure systems to store data and protect against cyberattacks. As the economy's dependence on networks and computer systems increases, data security has become a critical concern in every industry.

A specialty within the broader field of information technology, information security also includes multiple focused concentrations. For example, within the field of information security, cybersecurity professionals protect data from cyberattacks, network security keeps an organization's networks secure, and application security focuses on data security for web or mobile applications.

Information security professionals can also specialize in areas like risk management, data loss prevention, and secure software development. They can also work in cryptography, a field devoted to securing data, or cyber forensics, where they reconstruct data breaches and track stolen information.

As hackers become increasingly sophisticated, information security professionals must create innovative solutions to protect data. In addition to preventing unauthorized access, information security must also stop disruptions in service, the disclosure of private data, and unauthorized modifications to an organization's systems. A bachelor's degree in information security, information assurance, or cybersecurity meets the requirements for entry-level roles.

An information security degree trains undergraduates in cybersecurity and information assurance. During a bachelor's program in information assurance and security, students learn how to protect networks and systems from cyberattacks and maintain IT infrastructure for organizations across many industries.

Information assurance and security majors take courses in cyberdefense, ethical hacking, and computer forensics. The curriculum may also cover security management, operating systems security, and defense against cyberattacks. These courses provide the knowledge and skills required to analyze an organization's information security needs, identify cybersecurity threats, and create recovery plans after a security breach.

Some universities offer an information assurance and cybersecurity specialization within an information technology major, while others offer majors in information security. Both options provide focused training for information security jobs. Prospective students can enroll in an information assurance degree if they have a high school diploma or the equivalent. Some schools also require standardized test scores.

Earning a bachelor's degree in information assurance and security generally takes four years for full-time students, but transfer students with prior college credit can earn the degree in less time. In addition to coursework in information technology, information assurance, and cybersecurity, undergraduates complete general education requirements designed to build critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

What Is the Difference Between Information Assurance and Cybersecurity?

The fields of information assurance and cybersecurity share several key characteristics. Both fields promote the security of information and protect against cyberattacks and data breaches. The field of cybersecurity focuses on preventing unauthorized access of computer networks and private data. Cybersecurity professionals identify potential risks, conduct security tests, and create plans to prevent data breaches.

In contrast, information assurance predates the computer age and includes the protection of hard copy documents in addition to digital records. Information assurance makes sure that authorized users can access data while preventing unauthorized access.

Both fields require training in security technology. Entry-level information assurance jobs -- like information security analyst -- typically require a bachelor's degree in information assurance, information security, or cybersecurity. Prospective students considering a cybersecurity degree can learn more about the best online bachelor's programs in cybersecurity.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Information Assurance and Security Degree?

Information assurance and security is a growing career path with opportunities in many fields. For example, a bachelor's in information assurance and security prepares graduates for in-demand jobs like information security analyst. The degree also leads to opportunities in IT management, computer systems administration, and network architecture.

After completing a bachelor's degree in information assurance and security, professionals should also consider earning a certification or a graduate degree. Certifications in cybersecurity or information systems security demonstrate advanced skills, and many employers prefer to hire candidates who hold certification.

A graduate degree can help information assurance professionals advance their careers. Master's programs, including online master's in management information systems or online master's in information assurance and security programs, can lead to more responsibilities and higher earning potential. Professionals considering management roles can also earn an MBA with a concentration in information assurance or cybersecurity.

Information Security Jobs

Professionals with an information security degree can pursue a variety of careers, including information security analyst. With a bachelor's degree and IT experience, professionals can also advance to roles like IT security manager.

Information security jobs offer strong starting salaries and high demand. According to BLS data, information security analysts should see 32% projected job growth over the next decade. The following list provides an overview of information security jobs.