What Jobs am I Qualified for with a Master’s in Information Assurance and Security?

Master's in Information Assurance and Security

A master’s degree in information assurance and security opens a wide range of doors for you. Public, private and non-profit organizations need computer experts to manage increasingly complex digital technologies. Here are just a few of the jobs you can pursue with a M.S. in computer and information security.

Penetration Tester

Do you want to combine your love of computers with your passion for social sciences? Do you like pushing boundaries, sneaking into places you shouldn’t be and pretending to be a black-hat computer hacker? Then you’ll love working as a penetration tester. You’ll be reponsible for testing security software for your clients. You might try brute-force hacking into a secured database or charming a front desk worker into giving you access to a server room. Penetration testers can work for a security agency or freelance. Either way, a graduate degree in information assurance and security will give you more credibility than just showing up and claiming you want to work in the field.

Computer and Information Systems Manager

Every organization needs Information Technology (IT) managers to manage data, keep records secure and train users on computer and software tools. In this role, you might manage a staff of a dozen tech support workers or be the only person in your department. You’ll keep software patched and properly registered, install new servers and desktops and ensure users are keeping their passwords safe. You’ll wear a lot of hats, but the pay-off is worth it. The U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the average annual salary for IT manager is $135, 800. You won’t start off making that much money, but a master’s degree in information assurance or computer security will help you climb the ladder quickly.

Security Software Developer

Once you understand what companies need for cybersecurity, you can write programs that meet those needs. This might mean creating a new anti-malware program or a company-specific password scrambler. You can work for a software company with a range of clients or directly for a specific corporation. Either way, you’ll need strong computer science skills, so this information security job is bet suited for those with a background in coding or programming.

Computer Forensics Officer

Law enforcement agencies are increasingly turning to computer experts to help track criminals and solve crimes. As a forensics officer, you’ll enjoy variety in your day-to-day work. You might find yourself writing a sophisticated program to catch white-collar embezzlement or adjusting the audio levels on a wiretap. Government workers don’t receive the same level of pay as their private-sector counterparts, but you’ll likely receive generous amounts of paid time off and highly subsidized health insurance offerings. Plus, you’ll head to work every day knowing you’re making the world a safer place. With a master’s degree in information security or assurance, you can start your government career at a higher payscale than your coworkers.

Related Resource: The 25 Best Master's in Information Assurance and Security Programs Online for 2018

Technology experts are always going to be in high demand. Whether you’re looking for a stable job in the federal government or an exciting adventure as a freelance computer expert, a master’s degree in information security can help you achieve your goals.