Information Technology B.S. and Cybersecurity M.S.
Bachelor of Science, Master of Science (B.S., M.S.)
Combined
Allendale • Face to face • 141 Credits
Grand Valley State University combined degree programs offer current qualified undergraduate students the opportunity to complete both an undergraduate and graduate degree, meeting their unique personal, academic, and career goals. Pursuing a combined degree can reduce the cost and total time required to complete both.
Overview
Grand Valley offers a combined degree program in Information Technology (B.S.) and Cybersecurity (M.S.), designed to help students achieve both undergraduate and graduate degrees in an accelerated timeframe. This program prepares students to develop and maintain secure IT infrastructures, providing a strong foundation in both hardware and software management, as well as advanced cybersecurity knowledge. Qualified undergraduates can apply during their second academic year and complete both degrees, reducing the overall cost and time required.
The course topics in this program cover a wide range of subjects essential for IT and cybersecurity professionals. Students will study hardware and software selection, application management, and cybersecurity principles. The curriculum includes hands-on learning in state-of-the-art computer labs, collaboration with faculty on research projects, and courses that count towards both the B.S. and M.S. degrees. This comprehensive approach ensures students are well-equipped to handle current and future cybersecurity challenges.
Studying this program at Grand Valley offers numerous benefits. The program provides a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing students for the job market with valuable skills. All graduate faculty members hold doctorate degrees, ensuring high-quality education and mentorship. Additionally, the dedicated computer labs and opportunities for research collaboration enhance the learning experience. Completing this combined degree accelerates career trajectories, giving graduates a competitive edge in the field.
College of Computing
(616) 331-3051
[email protected]
gvsu.edu/computing
Career Opportunities
Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
Top skills- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Systems Evaluation
- Active Listening
- Systems Analysis
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 62,343.17 | 10% |
| $ 78,234.17 | 25% |
| $ 99,592.22 | 50% |
| $120,695.29 | 75% |
| $143,253.64 | 90% |
Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Complex Problem Solving
- Active Listening
- Judgment and Decision Making
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 71,359.75 | 10% |
| $ 83,357.46 | 25% |
| $104,927.86 | 50% |
| $137,528.37 | 75% |
| $168,512.75 | 90% |
Develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. Build, maintain and upgrade security technology, such as firewalls, for the safe use of computer networks and the transmission and retrieval of information. Design and implement appropriate security controls to identify vulnerabilities and protect digital files and electronic infrastructures. Monitor and respond to computer security breaches, viruses, and intrusions, and perform forensic investigation. May oversee the assessment of information security systems.
Top skills
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 48,847.49 | 10% |
| $ 64,895.22 | 25% |
| $ 93,489.60 | 50% |
| $123,191.40 | 75% |
| $146,616.36 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Monitoring
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 92,068.87 | 10% |
| $119,620.77 | 25% |
| $149,750.58 | 50% |
| $175,039.44 | 75% |
| $215,403.70 | 90% |
Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 61,630.68 | 10% |
| $ 79,562.28 | 25% |
| $103,281.46 | 50% |
| $130,213.76 | 75% |
| $163,844.79 | 90% |
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