SRA Option Descriptions
The SRA major looks at how to design systems that are secure, how to measure risk, and how ensure that proper levels of privacy are maintained for individual technology users, businesses, government, and other organizations.
Within the SRA major, there are three options. At the time when a student requests entrance to the SRA major, an option must be chosen.
The SRA major is based on an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates areas of study in information assurance (both digital and physical security), intelligence analysis, and cyber forensics. It also would provide leadership and venue-specific skills needed in this area.
Please note, not all options are available at all campuses, so be sure to check for availability at your campus.
Intelligence Analysis and Modeling Option
Teaches students how to calculate, evaluate, and predict risk in a variety of fields, including business and national security. To enter this option, you should be able to think critically and have an interest in learning how to protect vital infrastructure against subversive attacks. Students in this option complete projects such as evaluating the risk of putting information on Facebook according to the site’s privacy settings.
Information and Cyber Security Option
As people continue to shift more of their business and personal interactions to the Internet, the need for professionals who can keep information and data secure is growing. This option teaches students how to deal with security and privacy concerns in all types of organizations, and make sure that computer operating systems and related products are secure. For example, you will learn how to effectively “police” the area of cyberspace your employer occupies to ensure that it is free from cyber crime.
Social Factors and Risk Option
In this option, students explore the psychological and sociological causes of terrorism and crime, and how information technology is transforming each. In the classroom, students work on teams in which they role-play both terrorists and criminals and the intelligence and security officers combating them. This option also examines the privacy policies and legal regulations within companies and the government. Students learn to critically read privacy policies and understand government regulation so they can help improve their own privacy policies and ensure users that the data they provide is secure.
