Computer Science in Network Security and Computer Forensics (MS)

The Master of Computer Science in Network Security and Computer Forensics program aspires to train professionals focused on mastering knowledge, skills, and attitudes in computer science with a specialty in network security and computer forensics.

The Barranquitas Campus is authorized to offer this program.

Program goals:

The master’s program aims to achieve the following goals:

1. Develop professionals focused on mastering computer science knowledge in network security and computer forensics.

2. Promote research and the use of technology to generate the production of knowledge in computer science, network security and computer forensics.

3. Promote the solution of problems related to network security and computer forensics within a framework of ethical, legal, and social responsibility.

4. Develop leaders committed to professional development that promotes research and best practices in network security and computer forensics.

Program objectives:

The Program seeks to achieve the following general objectives:

1. Generate theoretical and methodological knowledge in an integrated manner in computer sciences with a specialty in network security and computer forensics.

2. Use research, information sources and technological advances to inform the development of innovations in computer science in network security and computer forensics.

3. Apply the ethical, legal, and social dimensions in the problem-solving and decision-making processes related to the practice of computer science in network security and computer forensics.

4. Demonstrate commitment to the continuous improvement of the professional competencies required in the field of computer science in network security and computer forensics. 

Competencies of graduate profile

The program is designed to develop the skills that allow the student to:

Knowledge

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

1. The fundamental concepts of data communication in networks, operating systems and computer forensics.

2. The theoretical, practical, and methodological principles of algorithms, information security and networks.

3. The theoretical, practical, and methodological applications of computer sciences in the areas of Network Security and Computer Forensics.

Abilities

1. Use the problem-solving method ("troubleshooting") in situations related to the practice of the profession.

2. Apply research principles in network security and computer forensics.

3. Apply high technology in scientific research, in an international context, for the development of technological innovation in the areas of Network Security and Computer Forensics.

Attitudes

1. Demonstrate a responsible attitude towards the ethical, legal, and social aspects associated with Network Security and Computer Forensics.

2. Identify areas of need for training and application of computer sciences in solving personal, social, and economic problems.

3. Value research and continuing education as means to update knowledge in Network Security and Computer Forensics.

Admission requirements

In addition to meeting the admission requirements for master's studies, students applying for admission to this program must:

1. Have completed a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems or related areas.

2. Minimum overall average of 2.80 GPA.

3. If you come from another academic degree, pass the following undergraduate level courses and, upon completion, have a minimum average of 3.00 points.

   1. Data Structure (Java or C++)

   2. Calculation I

   3. Discrete Mathematics or its equivalent

   4. Databases

   5. Operating systems

Graduation requirements

In addition to meeting the graduation requirements established in the Graduate Catalog, the student must meet one of the following options:

1. Option A: with Thesis

   1. Approve the defense of the research proposal and the thesis.

2. Option B: with Project Development

   1. Pass the course COMP 6980: Project Development

Requirements of the Master of Computer Science Program in Network Security and Computer Forensics (MS)

Students will have two (2) options to complete the degree.

 

Option A: with Thesis

Core requirements	12 credits
Major requirements	12 credits
Operational requirements	6 credits
Total	30 credits

Option B: with Project Development

Core requirements	12 credits
Major requirements	18 credits
Total	30 credits

Core requirements - 12 credits

COMP 5103	Analysis, design and implementation of algorithms	3
COMP 5115	Advanced topics in operating systems	3
COMP 5225	Data communicatios networks	3
COMP 5235	Information Security	3

Operational requirements - 6 credits

COMP 6990	Thesis I	3
COMP 6991	Thesis II	3

Major requirements - 12 credits

COMP 5240	Network security and cryptography	3
COMP 5345	Information systems security and cybersecurity	3
COMP 6030	Ethical Hacking	3
COMP 6215	Forensic Computing	3
COMP 6425	Forensic computing in network environments	3
COMP 6980	Project development in computer science	3

Students who select the thesis option will take the courses COMP 5240, COMP 5345, COMP 6030. Additionally, they will pass one of the following courses: COMP 6215 or COMP 6425. Students who choose option B must take and pass COMP 6980. Once approved, the student will obtain the degree.