Information security program starts in fall

    MCCC will begin offering a new program – Information Assurance and Security – in the fall of 2012, .
   The program will require 60 credit hours and result in an Associate Of Applied Science Degree.
    Professor William Hilliker is in charge of the program in close collaboration with software company CyberWatch and Eastern Michigan University.
     Information assurance takes into consideration the management of risks associated with the use, processing, storage, and transmission of information and data over computer systems and networks, as well as handling physical information.
    “Information security involves a little bit more than just simply setting a password on a wireless network,” Hilliker said.
    The program rollout will take place over two semesters, beginning with the offering of IAS 105 – Everyday Computing and Responsibility, in the Fall 2012 semester.
    This introductory course is only offered online at the moment. IAS 103 – Information Assurance Overview, will be offered in the Winter 2013 semester, along with several required CIS classes.
     The basic requirements for MCCC degress, such as math, language and science will also be required for Information Assurance and Security program.
    Most of the credits earned will be directly transferrable to Eastern Michigan University, Hilliker said.
    The program was designed with the intention of students pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
    Information Assurance and Security is a promising, rapidly growing field which will demand qualified and educated individuals, Hilliker said.
    Students interested in pursuing the degree are encouraged to contact Hilliker.
    His office is E115, and his office hours are Tuesday, 9-11 a.m. and Thursday 9-11 a.m. and 1-2 p.m.