The East Stroudsburg University Computer Security Program is housed in the ESU Computer Science Department.  The program includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Security and a Master of Science degree in Computer Science.  The department also offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science.

Because these degree offerings are housed in our Computer Science Department, the course work is challenging.  In the Bachelor’s programs, students are required to complete at least 12 credits in programming and development, courses in Computer Organization, Assembler, and Operating Systems, as well as an Internship.  Computer Security majors are further required to complete courses in Networking, Databases, and 15 credits in Computer Security topics. We also offer electives in Computer Forensics, Security in Web Programming, and Cryptographic Application Development. The six core Computer Security courses on the Bachelor's level are:

• CPSC 325 Fundamentals of Security Engineering: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to security engineering concepts and technologies. The core technologies of access control, cryptography, trusted computing bases, digital signatures, authentication, network firewalls, and secure network architecture are explained in detail. Legal issues, security policy, risk management, certification and accreditation are covered in their supporting roles. Case studies reinforce the lessons learned.
• CPSC 326 Risk Analysis/Certification & Accreditation: Computer Certification and Accreditation (C&A) teaches students to successfully perform US Government directed computer certifications leading to computer system accreditation. Department of Defense (DoD) 5200.28 and Federal Information processing Standard (FIPS) 102 guidelines are covered to ensure U.S. Government compliance. In-class exercises guide discussions while student projects reinforce the subject matter.
• CPSC 448 Applied Network Security: This course builds on the foundation laid in CPSC 445 by providing in-depth laboratory and classroom exercises using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technology. Students will configure network servers, routers, hubs, firewalls and intrusion detection devices to discover the effect each device can have on overall system security. In-class exercises guide discussions while student projects reinforce subject matter.
• CPSC 460 Applied Computer Cryptography: The focus of this course is developing computer algorithms for generating random numbers, symmetric and asymetric ciphers and cryptographic keys. Programming assignments of stream and block ciphers will reinforce ideas covered in CPSC 325. Students will be required to write basic public-key cryptography code as a final project.
• CPSC 461 Legal Impacts on Computer Security Solutions: This course in computer security focuses on the foundation laid in CPSC 325 and CPSC 326. Students are presented with the legal rationale behind the technical solutions studied in CPSC 325 and CPSC 326. Criminal, civil, regulatory and intellectual property law will be discussed in the context of professional computer environments. Federal and State computer security statutes will guide discussions. Student reports will reinforce the subject matter.
• CPSC 487 Security Engineering Internship: This course consists of involvement in ongoing network security tactics, techniques and procedures under direct professional supervision. This course may not be used as an elective in either the Computer Security major or the Computer Science major.

To help our students develop as critical thinkers, and because computer science and computer security are heavily based in mathematics, students are also required to complete at least 14 credits in mathematics at the Calculus level and above, as well as 1 year of a laboratory science. 

To help our students become good communicators, the following courses are required:

• ENGL 103 English Composition: This course entails the study and practice of expository writing and college-level research.
• ENGL 204 Technical Writing: This course acquaints students with the skills necessary for professional writing in such fields as engineering and the sciences. Students will learn to write effective proposals, operations manuals and a variety of technical reports.
• CMST 111 Speech Communication: This course includes an introduction to the study and application of some principles of dyadic communication, small group interaction, and public speaking, in addition to listening skills.

The goals Computer Security Program are strongly aligned with the standards set forth by the Committee on National Security Systems.

For educational resources on the web, visit CCSIA Resources and NIATEC.