This course provides a bird’s eye view of the evolving cyberspace ecosystem, the interoperability of physical and social networks, and methods and techniques in securing that ecosystem. Students will explore the ethical, legal, and technical aspects of cybercrime and methods of prevention, detection, response and recovery. The value of strong moral character, integrity, and trust as prized attributes of cybersecurity practitioners will be highlighted. Students will be introduced to essential cybersecurity topics including operating system models and mechanisms for mandatory and discretionary controls, data models, basic cryptography and its applications, security in computer networks and distributed systems, inspection and protection of information assets, detection of and reaction to threats to information assets, and examination of pre- and post-incident procedures, technical and managerial responses, an overview of the information security planning and staffing functions, data mining and data science, and policy and assurance issues. The advantages and inherent value of being prepared as a life-long learner with a strong liberal-arts background will be emphasized with the opportunity for students to complete a service-learning project tailored to their academic/career goals. No prior computer programming experience is required. Basic competency in computer operation is required.
