Education for Network Security

From: Matthew Baran (mbaran79_at_yahoo.com)
Date: 06/14/03 

Date: 13 Jun 2003 22:15:39 -0700

Hello,
My name is Matt Baran and I am looking for some advice on education in
the Network Security/Information Systems Security field. I am hoping
that someone could possibly shed some light on which is the best way
for me to go or give me some advice on what they think is most
benifical.
Here is my background. I recently graduated from a small private
liberal arts college in Michigan with a degree in political science.
Currenly I hold a full time job with the University of Michigan as a
public safety officer. I have decided that I would like to go back to
school and study Network/Information Systems Security. There are not
many programs in Michigan that offer this and I cannot quit my job at
this point to move to a different state to attend school. I, however
have found a couple of programs that might work. There is an
associates in applied science for Network and LAN security at Baker
College in Michigan. Here I would be able to earn an associates and
have been told that I will be well prepared for the certification
exams. I will also be able to get basic programing and operating
systems courses in the mix as well. The other is an online bachelor's
degree at ITT tech in information systems security. I do know as much
about this program (other than the little description they have given
me) as they have been less than helpful in the admissions process but
it is a bachelor's degree.
I was curious if you knew anything about these two programs or any
other programs that might be good. I was curious as to how the
industry is moving as it seems more Network Security degrees are
popping up as the government (particularly the NSA) is pushing these
programs to colleges. In 5 years will the current certifications be
as important or carry as much weight with employers as a bachelors or
associates degree?
 
I know I have asked alot of information but if you have any input at
all please share with me. I want to make sure I get the best
education possible at this point and would like to know what employers
look at most favoralby and what direction you see it moving in the
next 5 years. Any advice you can give me is greatly appreciated.

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