INDS B.S.: Cybersecurity and Counterterrorism
Spring 2018 Capstone
My INDS Degree
For my degree, I plan to pursue a path in the field of Cyber Security and Counterterrorism. The field cybersecurity is defined by the NICCS (National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies) as “The activity or process, ability or capability, or state whereby information and communications systems and the information contained therein are protected rom and/or defended again damage, unauthorized use of modification or exploitation.” Today, cyber-attacks can come from anywhere, be it domestic or international, due to increased globalization and connectedness between nations. These attacks can range from the stealing of personal information to large scale, sophisticated attacks on government infrastructure.
Post Graduation Plans
My immediate post-graduation plan is to pursue a job in either the private or government sector. Depending on the opportunities presented, I plan to choose the position that best fits my skills. I would prefer to work in counter terrorism or domestic security with an agency such as the Secret Service, NSA (National Security Agency), FBI, or private sector companies such as Raytheon or Lockheed Martin. With the knowledge and background provided by my degree, I have looked into, and a, eligible for, a number of entry level positions in the government and private sector. These jobs would include an all-source analyst, Entry Level Counterterrorism Intelligence Analysts with the NSA and FBI, Entry Level Cyber Security Analysts with the NSA, or a position with an organization such as DTRA (Defense Threat Reduction Agency). While (ideally) I would put my abilities to use in support of domestic security from foreign actors, I would also welcome the chance to work on an international level.
Eventually, I plan to pursue my masters in cybersecurity after I gain work experience in the field as well as possible financial support. While I am not sure which route, I will choose in regards to the institution, I have an interest in the programs at Northeastern and UMBC/College Park. The combination of my traditions in related disciplines will give me a unique background. BY understanding the intersection and relation of those disciplines, I will be able to provide a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity and counterterrorism efforts.
Courses In My INDS Degree
✅ Gain Knowledge of information systems and security in order to anticipate potential vulnerabilities in computer systems. (IS 300, IS 303, IS 304, IS 247, IS 310, CYBR 620, CYBR 621, CYBR 622)
✅ Understand the social conditions and tensions that give rise to criminal behavior and aggression, as well as the role ethnic relations play in specific people’s motivations. (SOC 371, SOC 321, SOC 397, PSYC 285, PSYC 342)
✅ Understand how the evolution of cyber capabilities and nuclear weapons affects the development of American foreign policy and international relations.(POLI 280, POLI 390, POLI 489, GLBL 301)
✅ Gain and understanding of the interdisciplinary research process and apply it to my Capstone Project. (INDS 330, INDS 335, INDS 399, INDS 430, INDS 480, INDS 490, STAT 351, ENGL 392, PSYC 324, GES 286, GES 386)