Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management)
Hours: 30 On-Campus Online
About
The Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management) at Fort Hays State University builds advanced expertise in information protection and risk management. The program prepares students for careers in cybersecurity, information security, and related fields. It is especially well-suited for professionals looking to advance in IT, risk management, or business administration, particularly those who enjoy collaborative, people-focused work.
Featuring a broad selection of courses, the program allows students to specialize in areas such as web security, policy development, and risk management. Its comprehensive curriculum equips graduates for a wide range of roles within the information security field.
Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management) provides a flexible, comprehensive curriculum designed to align with students’ career goals. With a wide range of course options, the program allows students to customize their studies in information assurance and risk management. It covers key areas such as policy, compliance, and governance, while emphasizing practical skills and applied knowledge.
Who is this program for?
This program is structured for a diverse group of individuals seeking to enhance their skills and advance their careers in information assurance and risk management. It supports professionals from a variety of backgrounds and career paths, including:
- IT professionals
- Career changers
- Recent graduates
- Business professionals
- Aspiring managers
Real-World Applications
Students apply information assurance principles in real-world contexts throughout the program. The curriculum encompasses essential areas such as policy, compliance, and governance, incorporating case studies and hands-on scenarios that enable students to apply theoretical concepts in practical solutions.
Beyond technical proficiency, the program also develops key soft skills, including communication and collaboration, to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the field. With this well-rounded foundation, graduates are ready to pursue careers such as cybersecurity consultants, information security managers, and other positions focused on protecting organizational data and systems.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University integrates the latest advancements and trends in the field to keep students at the forefront of industry developments. The curriculum covers key areas, including cybersecurity, risk management, policy, compliance, and governance, providing exposure to emerging technologies and current best practices.
With a strong emphasis on innovation and lifelong learning, graduates are well-prepared to address future challenges and capitalize on new opportunities in the evolving information assurance landscape.
Hands-on Activities
The Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management) emphasizes experiential learning by offering hands-on opportunities that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. Through lab exercises, simulations, and practical projects, students build expertise in key areas of information assurance.
The program also provides opportunities for internships, research, and conference participation, enabling students to gain professional experience and connect with industry experts. These applied learning experiences strengthen students’ technical and professional skills, preparing them for success in information assurance management roles.
What You’ll Learn:
- Understand advanced principles of information assurance
- Develop skills to identify and mitigate risks
- Gain expertise in policy development
- Explore privacy laws and other cyber-related governance
- Learn about best practices in information security
How You’ll Learn:
- Combine theoretical knowledge with practical application
- Participate in hands-on activities and case studies
- Engage in projects focused on real-world challenges
- Learn from experienced professionals in the field
The core curriculum offers a strong foundation in information security, risk management, and cybersecurity, with a focus on policy, compliance, and governance.
Students can also customize their education by selecting from a range of electives aligned with their interests and career goals. Elective topics include operating system security, penetration testing, and cybersecurity law, allowing for deeper specialization within the field.
INF 880: Management of Information Security
This course introduces the management of information security. It covers 6 Ps: Planning, Policy, Programs, Protection, People, and Project management. This course examines the skills necessary to identify and prioritize information assets and the threats to these assets. The course will also explore techniques for defining an information security strategy and architecture, as well as planning for and responding to intruders in an information system. Coursework will include a study of legal and public relations implications of security and privacy issues. Additional discussion will be provided on a disaster recovery plan for recovering information assets after an incident.
INF 885: Information Risk Management
This course provides an in-depth study of the technology solutions required to sustain Risk Management and Disaster Recovery operations in an enterprise networking infrastructure environment. This course will examine risk assessment methodologies to identify risks and the processes involved in choosing to avoid, transfer, mitigate, or accept those risks. The course will also explore techniques and technologies to maximize the likelihood of continued business operations of IT systems in the event of a disruption or major disaster.
INF 891: Graduate Capstone Seminar in Informatics
This is a culminating course for students seeking a graduate degree from the Department of Informatics. It applies to all master's programs within the Department of Informatics. This course consists of a structured seminar that allows students to reflect on experiences gained during their studies in Cyber Security, Information Assurance Management, Computer Networking and Telecommunications, Web Development, or other concentrations in Informatics, and synthesize that knowledge and experience in the form of a Capstone project.
Discover the full Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are well-prepared for a diverse range of career opportunities in information assurance, cybersecurity, and risk management. The curriculum equips students with the technical and strategic skills needed to thrive in professional roles across public and private sectors. Potential career paths include:
Information Security Manager
Information security managers oversee security policies, manage teams, ensure regulatory compliance, and protect organizational data. They develop security measures, respond to incidents, and strike a balance between security needs and business goals.
Risk Manager
Risk managers identify and assess information security risks, develop mitigation strategies, and ensure organizations are prepared for potential threats. They analyze risks, create management frameworks, and communicate with stakeholders, playing a vital role in organizational security.
IT Consultant
IT consultants advise organizations on information security and technology, helping develop strategies and implement solutions. They often work on projects that address diverse technical and cybersecurity challenges across multiple clients.
The Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management) at Fort Hays State University welcomes applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The admissions process is structured to ensure that prospective students are prepared for the program’s academic rigor and professional expectations. Admission requirements include:
Academic Achievement
Applicants must demonstrate academic readiness by maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA in their last 60 undergraduate credit hours or by holding a graduate degree from an accredited institution. This requirement ensures students have the foundational knowledge needed to succeed in the program. Exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis for those with relevant work experience or professional certifications.
Personal Statement
Applicants must submit a 1–2-page personal statement outlining their professional goals and motivation for pursuing graduate studies in Information Assurance Management. This essay enables the admissions committee to assess the applicant’s passion, career objectives, and alignment with the program.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation to support their academic and professional potential. One letter should be from a professor, academic advisor, or someone familiar with the applicant’s educational background. The other should come from a professional mentor or supervisor who can attest to the applicant’s leadership, work ethic, and potential for success in information assurance management.
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 $2,559.42* (on-campus) or $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($284.38/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate (348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
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
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that align with students' interests and career goals in information assurance, cybersecurity, and technology management. These programs provide additional opportunities for specialized study and professional development:
- Master of Business Administration (Information Assurance)
- M.S. in Computer Science
- Master of Professional Studies (Cyber Security)
The core courses include web security, information security policy development, information security management, and information risk management.
Our Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management) program combines technical courses with managerial and strategic topics, ensuring students develop a well-rounded understanding of information assurance and management.
Students can choose from elective courses specializing in operating system security, penetration testing, and law of cyberspace, among others.
The program includes a capstone project, where students apply their knowledge to real-world challenges and gain practical experiences through lab exercises, simulations, and internships, providing hands-on learning opportunities.
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.
- Master's
- On-Campus
- Online
