Program Overview

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Security and Risk Analysis is designed to prepare students to analyze risk, design secure systems, and ensure proper levels of privacy are maintained in business and government. This program focuses on the technologies, education, and policies to protect people, information, and other assets.

Program Details

• The program requires 120 credits.
• The tuition rate is $638 per credit for students with 59 or fewer credits and $685 per credit for students with 60 or more credits.
• The program is offered online, providing flexibility for students to study around their busy schedules.

Admission Requirements

• High school transcripts or GED transcript are required.
• Official college or university transcripts and/or official military transcripts are required for transfer students.
• English proficiency is required for international students, with minimum test scores for TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.
• A minimum of three and a half units of mathematics (selected from any combination of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry or higher math course) is required.

Program Structure

• The program includes prescribed courses for the major (30 credits) and additional courses for the major (21-23 credits).
• Students can choose from two options: Information and Cybersecurity or Intelligence Analysis and Modeling.
• The program also includes general education requirements, electives, and a capstone course.

Career Opportunities

• The program prepares students for careers in information security, network security, cyber security, intelligence, cyber intelligence, intel analytics, and cyber-crime prevention.
• Potential job titles include Information Security Specialist, Network Security Analyst, Security Analyst, Information Analyst, and IT Security Analyst.

Faculty

• The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in various fields, including business, information science, computer science, engineering, psychology, chemistry, and artificial intelligence.
• Faculty members have research interests in areas such as cybersecurity, risk analysis, artificial intelligence, and data science.

News and Recognition

• Penn State is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.
• The program is featured in U.S. News' 2025 'Best Online Programs' rankings.

Additional Information

• The program is offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology.
• Students can earn a Letter of Recognition and Certificate of Achievement from the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.
• The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in security and risk analysis, preparing them for careers in a rapidly changing field.