Information is only as valuable as its accuracy and availability, and data that is vulnerable to unauthorized access and disclosure, manipulation, corruption or destruction can be worthless.
That is where information assurance (IA) comes in.
IA minimizes the risk to data by developing and enforcing policies governing internal and external sharing with business partners, usage, processing, transfer and technical controls. The IA role also includes ensuring staff with data access are properly credentialled and trained.
Specialized examples of IA described by DevX include financial institutions using it to protect sensitive customer data, the healthcare industry deploying it to comply with patient privacy laws such as HIPAA, and government agencies using cryptography and digital forensics.
How Does Information Assurance Differ From Cybersecurity?
IA and cybersecurity are related operations that provide critical defense for digital assets, and the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. They are, however, distinct fields, according to Business Tech Weekly.
On the one hand, cybersecurity protects digital systems from outside hacking by ensuring unauthorized users cannot get into computers, networks and storage hardware. These users can range from state-sponsored cyberterrorists, organized crime and hacktivists. Developing and implementing policies governing vulnerability assessments (including ethical hacking) are part of cybersecurity professionals’ responsibilities. These professionals also work on detecting, mitigating and recovering from cyberattacks.
IA comprises a broader range of information protective measures and “takes a holistic approach to risk management,” the magazine notes, adding that it covers not only “the technical aspects but also the human, organizational, and legal factors involved in protecting information.”
Why Study Information Assurance Management and Cybersecurity?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the job market for information security professionals through 2032 will expand by 32%. This is more than 10 times faster than all other occupations.
An ideal way to prepare for a well-paying career in the high-demand field is through the Master of Science in Cybersecurity with Information Assurance – Management Emphasis online program from Southern Utah University (SUU). The 100% online curriculum allows students to explore subjects that lead to the mastery of expertise required for executive and senior management leadership, including:
- Understanding concepts in information security risks, threats and vulnerabilities
- Designing, applying and deploying enterprise cyber-risk management and assessment protocols
- Examining, analyzing and interpreting legal and ethical aspects of cybersecurity frameworks
“The high demand for professionals, the growing number of specialties, the stimulating nature of the work, the opportunity to solve complex technical puzzles, the attractive salaries … contribute to the appeal of a cybersecurity education,” according to BitSource.
Jobs in Cybersecurity Leadership
Graduates of the SUU M.S. in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – Management Emphasis online program are ready for C-suite and senior leadership positions such as the following:
Chief Information Security Officer. Professionals in this C-suite role direct the development of processes, key performance indicators and protocols. They are also responsible for setting a top-down workplace culture of security by setting policies for employee education, training and compliance with security standards. The average total compensation for CISOs is a median of $174,127 per Payscale.
Director of Information Security Analysis. This senior management role is responsible for developing strategic defenses of organizational information assets. In that role, directors work with stakeholders across the enterprise to ensure IA/cybersecurity policies and business objectives are aligned, establish governance protocols and ensure regulatory compliance. The average base salary is $159,754, per Indeed.
Business Process and Security Analyst. Analysts conduct security assessments, vulnerability testing and risk analysis, as well as internal and external audits. They are responsible continuously optimizing the company’s incident response and disaster recovery plans, verifying business partners’ security capabilities and collaborating with them to meet joint security requirements. The average annual compensation is $120,000, per Glassdoor.
Graduates of an advanced degree in cybersecurity, IA and management equips professionals with a handful of career opportunities. Not only will those with this degree reap the benefits of lucrative jobs, they will also have the flexibility and foundational skills to advance their careers.
Learn more about SUU’s online M.S. in Cybersecurity with Information Assurance – Management Emphasis program.
