Computer Training Program Designed for Working Professionals Available Spring Quarter 2003

With terror alerts becoming a frequent occurrence and the threat of war looming, many industries have stepped up security measures. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in the information technology sector. However, for IT and other technology professionals, there are few places to go to receive additional training in network security techniques.

That will change in April, when DePaul University’s School of Computer Science, Telecommunications and Information Systems (CTI), in conjunction with the school’s Institute for Professional Development, will begin offering a certificate program in network security. The 11-week course, which will meet twice per week, is designed to help working professionals in the IT, information services and other technology-related fields to benefit from additional training and instruction in network security, host security and information assurance.

The course will cover a number of security related issues, including securing networks, servers and Internet access; developing security policies; managing a secure environment; wireless security; firewalls; and intrusion detection. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to work hands-on in a state-of-the-art laboratory.

"The laboratory is very comprehensive, featuring a number of different platforms and products," said Jean-Philippe Labruyere, CTI instructor and lead faculty member for the course. "This will allow students to learn in the network environment, while applying and implementing their knowledge on some cutting-edge equipment."

In addition to lectures and lab exercises, students in the course will work in teams on case studies to develop solutions to real-world network security problems and issues of information assurance.

DePaul CTI is one of the largest computer science programs in the country. The undergraduate program enrolls nearly 1,800 students and offers six different degrees. More than 2,400 students are enrolled in the graduate program, which offers nine different master’s degrees, including three via distance learning. DePaul CTI also features a doctoral degree program in computer science. For more information on DePaul CTI or how to register for the new network security certificate program, visit www.cs.depaul.edu.