University of Richmond launches new major and certificate in information security

The University of Richmond’s School of Professional and Continuing Studies is launching a new information security major in its Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies program. The School is also offering a Certificate of Applied Studies in information security.

The mission of the new programs is to prepare students to be information technology specialists and decision makers in information security positions.

The new major in information security is designed for working professionals seeking a position in the growing information security sector of information technology. The new certificate is designed for IT professionals seeking an information security or cybersecurity credential.

The new major in information security joins Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies majors in HR management, IT management and paralegal studies. Like existing majors, the information security major requires a two-semester interdisciplinary seminar and a professional core consisting of classes in leadership in the global environment, applied ethics and critical thinking and analysis. Major coursework focuses on networking, database design, systems analysis and programming combined with security and security planning and risk management.

The new certificate joins information systems and paralegal studies among the school’s Certificates in Applied Studies. The four-course certificate covers secure network, database, and systems design with an added focus on security planning and risk management.

Although demand for information security professionals is high and growing, both locally and nationally, the University of Richmond’s major and certificate in information security will be the first undergraduate information security program offered in the Richmond metropolitan area. According to a study released by Burning Glass Technologies, a career and industry research firm, Virginia ranks second behind California in the number of openings available in information security.

The information security major and certificate will be offered through the school’s Information Systems program chaired by Dr. Ellen M. Walk. Walk holds dual professor appointments at the University: assistant professor of information systems in the School of Professional and Continuing Studies and assistant professor of management in the Robins School of Business. Walk is also a graduate of the University, having earned an M.B.A. in management in 1983. Walk has served as chair of the information systems program since 1997.

The new major and certificate build on the lengthy history of the information systems program, which started in 1980 as the information processing systems program in University College (the original name of the School of Professional and Continuing Studies).

Students are now being admitted to both programs of studies. Classes will be offered starting in August.