CSU Center for Information Assurance Education

Columbus State University, in response to concerns raised by local industry, has committed itself to providing a quality education in computer and network security.  As a part of this commitment, the University has created a Center for Information Assurance Education.  This center resides within the TSYS Department of Computer Science, located in the Center for Commerce and Technology on the main campus of Columbus State University.

Currently, Columbus State University offers a Masters of Science in Applied Computer Science with a concentration in Information Assurance.  The first such degree was awarded in May 2003 and there have been several graduates since then.

The curriculum for this concentration was developed in cooperation with several local industries and trade groups, including Chattahoochee Valley Infragard, a chapter of the national Infragard organization.  The curriculum has since been reviewed for compliance with nationally recognized standards in Information Assurance Education and was recently determined to be compliant with NSTISSI-4011 and NSTISSI-4014, standards published by the Committee on National Security Systems and the National Security Agency (NSA) of the United States.

As a part of its commitment to the education of professionals in all areas of information assurance, Columbus State University is working with the the National Security Agency to be accredited as a Center for Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education.  The first application for this recognition led to encouragement from the NSA and many helpful suggestions for curriculum improvement.  After addressing the concerns arising from the application, CSU will again apply for the recognition in December 2008.

Letter of Recognition from the Dean of the College of Science at CSU

Information Assurance faculty

CAE Resources

• Information Assurance e-Library (extensive annotated bibliography on online resources)
• Information Assurance books available in the CAE Library (CCT435) - see the CS Department for access