Bachelor of Applied Science in Network Security & Forensics
What is Network Security and Forensics?
Computer crime is one of the fastest-growing types of crime in the world. Every aspect of our economy, industry, commerce, public safety and national defense relies on computer networks, which are complex and have built-in vulnerabilities. Network security and digital forensics - or cyber security – is the practice of protecting computers and networks against exploitation or attack. From the computers in our homes and embedded in our mobile devices, to the inventory systems that bring us our food, banking, automotive and communications, securing these networks has grown to become a cyber-battle, and the most pressing priority in our personal lives, our businesses, and our nation.
Network Security and Forensics (NSF) is an Information Technology degree program offered by Fountainhead College that trains students to prepare and protect networks, intranets, and websites. The NSF program's core focus is on securing computer networks and diagnosing problems, security risks, and cyber analysis processes. Network security and digital forensics professionals harden computer networks against unauthorized access and intrusion.
Demand for Network Security and Forensics Professionals
Network systems and data communications analysts are projected to be the second-fastest-growing occupation in the economy, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Identity theft, "phishing" emails, viruses, Trojan horses, denial of services attacks and industrial and governmental espionage are becoming more commonplace, creating a rising public awareness of risks to confidential information. These threats represent what the Department of Homeland Security considers America's most pressing problem: cyberwarfare. Increasing numbers of network security and forensics professionals are hired every year to help keep information secure and reliable. Businesses and government officials see network security and computer forensics analysts as integral to their IT infrastructure.
The Network Security and Forensics program provides technical career training to prepare students for occupations such as Computer Security Specialists. For related occupational information, please visit the U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET website.
SOC Codes (Standard Occupational Classification) related to Network Security and Forensics careers: 15-1122.00.
O*NET Online Report on the industry
Overview
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Network Security & Forensics program is a comprehensive baccalaureate degree program in the field of Information Technology that provides 66 semester credit hours of instruction to complement any accredited post-secondary computer-centric associate’s degree. Prospective students who have a non-computer-centric associate’s degree or higher degrees, who wish to enroll in this program, must be able to demonstrate proficiency in computer repair and operation, and in network configuration and administration. This can be demonstrated by acquiring certifications, or by special examination, at the discretion of the College. Day and evening classes meet 20 hours per week for four semesters (60 weeks), assuming the entrance criteria have been met.
Network Security & Forensics students benefit by Fountainhead College’s designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education (CAEIAE) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This prestigious designation recognizes Fountainhead’s NSF bachelor’s degree program as one of the best in the nation. This technology degree program is the only cybersecurity bachelor’s degree offered by the CAEIAE in Tennessee, and Fountainhead is the only college in the state that offers all six national certifications offered by the CAEIAE.
Outline
Typical Course Outline
Bachelor of Applied Science in Network Security & Forensics
| E103 | English Composition | 4 |
| H103 | US History 1 | 4 |
| M103 | College Mathematics | 4 |
| P101 | Psychology | 4 |
| Total Semester Hours 16 | ||
| E104 | Public Speaking | 4 |
| M102 | Personal Financial Planning | 4 |
| P102 | Cultural Studies | 4 |
| H104 | US History II | 4 |
| Total Semester Hours 16 | ||
| NSF401 | Security Management Practices | 3 |
| NSF412 | Operating System Hardening | 4 |
| NSF403 | Security Architecture & Models | 3 |
| NSF404 | Telecommunications & Net Security | 3 |
| NSF405 | Operations Security | 4 |
| Total Semester Hours 17 | ||
| NSF406 | Physical Security & Access Controls | 3 |
| NSF407 | Applications & Systems Dev Security | 3 |
| NSF408 | Bus. Continuity & Disaster Recovery | 3 |
| NSF409 | Cryptography | 3 |
| NSF410 | Law, Investigation & Ethics | 3 |
| NSF413 | Computer Forensics | 2 |
| Total Semester Hours 17 | ||
Totals:
Technical Training: 94 Semester Credit Hours
General Education: 32 Semester Credit Hours
Needed to Graduate: 126 Semester Credit Hours
Semesters may be offered out of the sequence shown.
Objectives
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Network Security & Forensics is awarded upon completion of 126 semester credit hours in the following areas: 94 technical management (60 from technical occupational associate program and 34 credit hours in security), in addition to 32 general education courses. This course of study is intended for students who are interested in complementing their previous associate's-level technical career training and experiences with additional security and general education courses in order to gain both the award of a bachelor's degree and network security-oriented job placement. Graduates are expected to obtain entry-level employment in a diverse range of positions from their associate's-degree field of study up to network security and forensics positions.
This program is designed to provide quality IT career training in the essentials of network security and forensics, including the comprehension and appreciation of security issues and forensic studies; the development of effective communication, interpersonal and critical thinking skills; and an understanding of security and how it influences business operations.
Award
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Network Security & Forensics degree will be conferred upon successfully completing the academic requirements and fulfilling financial obligations.
Placement & Tuition
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Q. How much will this program cost me? A.
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Q. What are my financing options to pay for this program? A. In addition to any grant and scholarship aid for which they are eligible:
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Q. How long will it take me to complete this program? A. This program is designed to take 16 months to complete. |
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Q. What are the chances of getting a job when I graduate? A. Graduates of Fountainhead College's Network Security & Forensics program for 2009-2010 have a total job placement rate of 95.7% and an in-field placement rate of 82.6%. Nineteen graduates were placed in their field of study out of twenty-three students who graduated from this program during this time period. Fountainhead College actively pursues 100% placement of its graduates, however, employment is not guaranteed. |
* Based on average of 4 semesters
** Estimated Supply Cost
Complete 
Cost & Expenditures Chart.
- Changes to an Enrollment Agreement may require a $100 fee.
- Student receives a receipt for all funds paid to the college.
- Student receives invoices for all supply, textbook and fee charges.
- Student must purchase all required equipment and supplies from the College.
- Preexisting credit may be transferred which would change the total tuition.
- Online programs require the student to visit the campus at the end of each semester.
- Online students are not required to purchase a laptop from the College.
- Other than the laptop, online students pay the same tuition and fees as residential students.
Faculty
Get to know your Network Security and Forensics Instructors.
Gerald Clevenger
Department Head & Instructor: Information Systems Security Officer, Network Security & Forensics
Gerald ClevengerGerald Clevenger is the lead instructor for the Network Security & Forensics Bachelor’s technology degree program. He has over 15 years of experience in information security. Mr. Clevenger served as Manager of Cyber Security Technical Operations for the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). He conducted security audits and assessments for the Department of Energy, as well as the Department of Interior. His technical achievements include Enhanced Intrusion Detection and Vulnerability Management. Mr. Clevenger has published various articles concerning the BSNSF methodology, the NIST Risk Management Framework, and has publications in security awareness training. He holds a CISSP and CRISC professional certification and a Masters in Information Security.
Courses Taught
- NSF401: Security Management Practices
- NSF412: Operating System Hardening
- NSF403: Security Architecture & Models
- NSF404: Telecommunications & Net Security
- NSF405: Operations Security
- NSF406: Physical Security & Access Controls
- NSF407: Applications & Systems Dev Security
- NSF408: Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Plan
- NSF409: Cryptography
- NSF410: Law, Investigation, & Ethics
- NSF412: Operating System Hardening
- NSF413: Computer Forensics
Education
- Master of Science in Information Security
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics
CISSP, SANS, GIAC, A+, Network+, SANS Firewall & Perimeter Protection
Certifications
- CRISC
- IAM
- IEM
- Comptia A +
- Comptia Net +
- CISSP
- Tempest
- SANS GIAC Security Essentials
- SANS GIAC Firewall Analyst
