Master of Business Administration (Information Assurance)
Hours: 33 Online
About
The Master of Business Administration (Information Assurance) at Fort Hays State University prepares students with critical skills in information security management. The program covers core principles of information assurance, including policy development, risk management, and regulatory compliance, paired with practical, hands-on training.
Designed to reflect current industry trends, this program equips students to manage complex cybersecurity challenges in today’s digital landscape. It is ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers in information security, providing a strong foundation in technical and strategic aspects of the field. Graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles in protecting organizational data and ensuring the integrity of information systems.
Why pursue a Master of Business Administration (Information Assurance) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Business Administration (Information Assurance) is structured to prepare professionals for the rapidly expanding field of information security management. The program integrates theoretical foundations with practical, hands-on learning in areas such as policy development, risk management, and regulatory compliance, all closely aligned with current industry practices.
Delivered entirely online, this program offers the flexibility working professionals need. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect emerging trends, technologies, and industry standards, ensuring students stay current and competitive.
Through instruction from experienced faculty and opportunities to engage with industry professionals, students gain a comprehensive educational experience. This combination of academic rigor, practical application, and flexibility makes it an excellent choice for those seeking leadership roles in information security.
Who is this program for?
This program is ideal for professionals looking to advance in information security management and gain specialized, in-demand skills in information assurance.
- Aspiring information security managers
- IT professionals looking to specialize in security
- Compliance officers
- Risk management professionals
- Recent graduates with a background in IT or business
Real-World Applications
Students acquire practical skills that directly translate to the workplace. Through coursework and assignments, they learn to create and implement security policies, manage organizational risks, and maintain regulatory compliance. Hands-on projects mirror real-world industry scenarios, enabling students to apply their knowledge in a structured and supportive environment. This practical emphasis prepares graduates to address the complex challenges of information assurance with confidence and competence.
The program’s strong focus on compliance and risk management further equips students to navigate the constantly evolving regulatory landscape of information security. By integrating real-world applications throughout the curriculum, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared to develop and implement effective information security strategies within their organizations.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University is committed to keeping pace with the latest developments in information security. The curriculum is continuously refined to incorporate new technologies, emerging threats, and evolving regulatory requirements, ensuring students receive relevant, up-to-date instruction. This proactive approach prepares graduates to adapt quickly and effectively to the rapidly changing information security landscape.
Students also benefit from faculty who are active professionals in the field, bringing practical experience and current industry insight directly into the classroom. Their expertise enriches the learning experience and equips students to become effective leaders in information security, capable of implementing innovative strategies and solutions throughout their careers.
Hands-on Activities
Experiential learning is a key component of the Master of Business Administration (Information Assurance) program, featuring hands-on activities like developing security policies, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.
Students also have opportunities for internships, research projects, and conference presentations, gaining practical insights and building professional networks. This focus on applied learning ensures graduates are well-prepared to address information assurance challenges in their careers.
What You’ll Learn:
- Risk management techniques
- Information security policies
- Compliance frameworks
- Data protection strategies
- Security training methods
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive online coursework
- Real-world case studies
- Hands-on policy development
- Compliance-focused assignments
- Collaborative projects
The core curriculum covers a comprehensive range of topics essential for mastering information security management. It provides a thorough understanding of security principles and practices while also exploring advanced subjects such as risk management, policy development, and compliance, ensuring a well-rounded education in information assurance.
Each course balances theoretical knowledge with practical application through activities like case study analysis, security plan development, and simulated security audits. This approach helps students grasp key concepts and apply them effectively in real-world situations. By addressing a broad spectrum of information security topics, the program prepares students to meet the diverse challenges of their professional careers.
INF 684G: Foundations of Information Systems Security
This course introduces the broad field of information security, taking a holistic approach that recognizes security involves far more than just hardware and software. Students are introduced to the technological tools used to protect information, including software, hardware, and network controls, as well as the protocols, processes, human factors, and management practices that shape effective security.
INF 880: Management of Information Security
This course introduces the fundamentals of information security management, focusing on the six Ps: Planning, Policy, Programs, Protection, People, and Project Management. Students learn to identify and prioritize information assets, assess the threats they face, and develop effective security strategies and architectures to protect them. The course also covers methods for detecting and responding to intrusions, along with the legal and public relations considerations related to security and privacy issues.
INF 885: Information Risk Management
This course offers an in-depth examination of the technology solutions that support risk management and disaster recovery within an enterprise networking environment. Students learn risk assessment methodologies used to identify potential threats and determine whether to avoid, transfer, mitigate, or accept those risks. The course also covers the techniques and technologies that help ensure IT system continuity in the event of disruptions or major disasters. Topics include Risk and Business Impact Assessments (BIA), disaster response and recovery strategies, business continuity planning, and the development of practical recovery plans.
Discover the full Master of Business Administration (Information Assurance) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates enjoy strong career prospects in the rapidly expanding field of information security. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to safeguard organizational data and effectively manage security risks, preparing them for a wide range of professional roles.
Information Security Manager
Information security managers develop and enforce security policies, oversee risk assessments, and ensure compliance with industry standards. They possess strong expertise in information security and lead security teams effectively.
Risk Management Specialist
Risk management specialists identify and mitigate information security risks by analyzing threats and implementing protective strategies. They require strong analytical skills to develop effective risk management plans.
Compliance Officer
Compliance officers ensure organizations follow information security regulations by conducting audits, developing policies, and training staff. Their role is vital for legal compliance and safeguarding sensitive data.
IT Auditor
IT auditors evaluate an organization’s security by conducting audits, reviewing policies, and identifying vulnerabilities. They recommend improvements to strengthen systems and ensure effective, compliant controls.
Security Consultant
Security consultants advise organizations on information security practices, develop and implement strategies, conduct risk assessments, and deliver security training.
MBA applications are accepted throughout the year, and admissions are made continuously. It typically takes up to four weeks for an application to be processed. To ensure admission for the upcoming semester, applicants are encouraged to submit their materials at least 30 days before the start of classes. Early submission helps prevent delays in the admission process. The FHSU Graduate School and MBA Committee will only review complete application packages, which must include the following:
- A paid graduate application
- Current resume
- Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework (in English)
- Two (2) letters of recommendation (must be signed and on letterhead to be official)
- Personal statement from student indicating reasons for seeking a Master of Business Administration degree, including professional and/or career goals and pertinent past work experience
- Other requirements as specified by the Fort Hays State University Graduate School
Apply through the FHSU Graduate School. - Please do not include a photograph on any application materials. Applications with photographs will not be reviewed.
- All application materials should be sent to the FHSU Graduate School via email at gradschool@fhsu.edu or mail:
Graduate School
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601
Questions regarding the application process can be directed to the FHSU Graduate School at 785-628-4236 or gradschool@fhsu.edu or Sarah Patterson, MBA Graduate Coordinator, at 785-628-5696 or gradcoordinator@fhsu.edu.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $12,396.78* (online) during their time as a student.
*These prices are based on calculating the GR resident/regional tuition rate for on-campus students or the FHSU Online GR tuition rate plus the tuition rate for the MBA by the number of hours needed (24 MBA and 9 graduate concentration courses) to complete this program. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year. The program coordinator is available to discuss how these programs can help students explore their interests and prepare for a variety of rewarding career opportunities.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
In addition to the Master of Business Administration (Information Assurance) program, Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that may be of interest to students.
- Master of Business Administration (Management Information Systems)
- Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management)
- M.S. in Computer Science
The MBA with a concentration in Information Assurance equips students with specialized skills in information security management, making them valuable candidates for higher-level positions in the field.
Yes, the program is designed to be flexible, offering online courses that allow working professionals to balance their studies with their job responsibilities.
The program includes hands-on assignments, such as policy development projects, risk management simulations, and compliance exercises that mirror real-world scenarios.
While there are no specific certifications, the skills and knowledge gained from this program prepare students for various industry-recognized information security certifications.
The curriculum is regularly updated to include the latest advancements and trends in information security, and faculty members bring their real-world expertise to the classroom.
Information about the Department of Informatics
The Department of Informatics at FHSU offers a flexible and forward-thinking education tailored to students' interests in data, analytics, and digital media. This dynamic program empowers students to customize their curriculum and develop cutting-edge skills essential for leadership in today’s technology-driven world. Whether studying on campus or online, students learn to leverage data and technology to solve real-world challenges and shape their own career paths.
As one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields, informatics opens the door to a wide range of high-impact, high-paying careers—from data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management. FHSU equips students with expert instruction, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong industry connections to help them succeed in a profession that has quickly become vital across nearly every sector.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Cybersecurity Club: The Cybersecurity Club is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of evolving cybersecurity principles and techniques. Open to all students, regardless of experience or skill level, the club welcomes anyone with an interest in topics such as network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, secure coding, cryptography, reverse engineering, and more. Through hands-on activities and collaborative learning, the club provides a supportive environment for exploring the many facets of cybersecurity.
- Tiger Media Network: TMN is the student-run news outlet at FHSU, offering hands-on experience in various aspects of media production. Open to students with interests in videography, photography, news writing, journalism, and related fields, TMN provides valuable opportunities to develop practical skills while contributing to campus news and storytelling.
- Advanced Technology Student Organization: The Advanced Technology Student Organization (ATSO) offers a collaborative learning environment for students interested in exploring the ever-evolving world of technology. The organization brings together members to support one another’s educational growth while promoting innovation and technological advancement. ATSO’s primary goal is to foster knowledge-sharing and unite students in driving both the organization and FHSU's continued progress in the tech field.
- MBA
- Online
