Graduate Certificate. Cloud and Operational Technology Security (15 credits)
Required Courses (6 credits)
INFS 676 Cloud Security and Virtualization (3 credits)
This course delves into fundamental principles and advanced strategies for securing applications deployed on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Students will explore key topics such as identity and access management, encryption methodologies, secure development practices, and the implementation of robust monitoring and incident response protocols. This course focuses on the expertise needed to effectively develop, configure, maintain, and monitor secure applications in diverse cloud environments. (Prerequisite: INFS 682)
INFS 677 OT Security and Industrial Control Systems (3 credits)
This course focuses on the unique security challenges and best practices associated with operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS). Students will learn about the critical components of OT and ICS environments, such as SCADA systems, PLCs, and other industrial devices. They will explore the potential risks and vulnerabilities in these systems and develop strategies for securing them against cyber threats. Additionally, the course will cover methods for monitoring, detecting, and responding to incidents in OT/ICS environments, as well as the integration of IT and OT security strategies within organizations. (Prerequisite: INFS 683)
Complementary Courses (9 credits from the following):
INFS 674 Advanced Threat Intelligence and Analysis (3 credits)
Advanced Threat Intelligence & Analysis is an immersive course tailored to empower cybersecurity professionals with essential skills to combat the dynamic digital threat landscape. Through a blend of theoretical concepts and hands-on practice, this course will cover malware analysis techniques, cyber threat intelligence gathering, Dark Web investigations, and proactive cyber threat hunting strategies, including retro-hunting methodologies. This course also delves into cyber threat attribution, Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT), vulnerability assessment, IoT security, and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools, equipping graduates to play pivotal roles in defences against emerging cyber threats. (Prerequisites: INFS 681, INFS 682, and INFS 683)
INFS 675 Secure Application Development and Testing (3 credits)
This course is designed to meet the rising need for skilled professionals capable of designing and developing software applications against cyber threats. This course delves into the realms of secure coding practices, proper handling of authentication and authorization, and resilient software architecture design. Through hands-on experience in vulnerability assessment, security testing techniques for continuous integration, and secure deployment strategies, this program empowers software developers and cybersecurity practitioners to proactively identify, address, and mitigate potential vulnerabilities, improving the resilience and integrity of applications in the face of evolving cyber risks. (Prerequisite: INFS 681)
INFS 678 Incident Response and Digital Forensics (3 credits)
This course focuses on the critical aspects of incident response and digital forensics, including the identification, containment, eradication, and recovery from cybersecurity incidents. Students will learn to develop effective incident response plans, conduct digital forensic investigations, and use forensic tools and techniques to analyze and preserve evidence. (Prerequisite: INFS 683)
INFS 685 Artificial Intelligence for Cybersecurity (3 credits) [The course will be offered after launching the Master's program in Cybersecurity Analytics, which is pending approval.]
This course explores the fusion of AI and cybersecurity, offering insights into data science basics, interpretability, and ethical AI. Covering feature engineering, anomaly detection, and ethical considerations, it empowers students to utilize AI for threat intelligence while emphasizing ethical and secure practices in cyber defence strategies. (Prerequisites: INFS 631 and one of INFS 681, INFS 682, or INFS 683)