M.S. in Mathematics - Information and Security, Pathway - 2 Semesters

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Mathematics with a concentration in Information and Security at American University in Washington D.C. is designed to provide students with advanced mathematical and computational skills essential for addressing complex challenges in information security, cryptography, and data protection. The M.S. in Mathematics - Information and Security program at American University offers a rigorous academic curriculum, hands-on learning experiences, and robust professional development opportunities to prepare students for successful and impactful careers in the field of information security. With its STEM designation, interdisciplinary approach, and focus on practical skills, the program equips students with the expertise needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Curriculum:

1. Advanced Curriculum: The M.S. in Mathematics - Information and Security program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers foundational concepts in mathematics, computer science, and cybersecurity. Students study topics such as cryptography, number theory, network security, data privacy, and cryptanalysis, gaining a deep understanding of mathematical principles and their applications in securing digital systems and communication networks.

2. Specialized Tracks: The program may offer specialized tracks or elective courses tailored to students' interests and career goals. These tracks may include areas such as applied cryptography, cyber defense strategies, blockchain technologies, secure coding practices, and risk assessment methodologies. Students have the flexibility to customize their coursework to focus on specific areas of interest within the field of information security.

3. Hands-on Experience: Students gain hands-on experience through practical projects, laboratory exercises, and collaborative research initiatives. They may have the opportunity to work on real-world problems in partnership with industry sponsors, government agencies, or research centers, applying their mathematical skills to develop innovative solutions for protecting sensitive information and combating cyber threats.

4. Interdisciplinary Approach: The program takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from mathematics, computer science, engineering, and information technology. Students learn to integrate mathematical modeling, algorithm design, and computational techniques to analyze security vulnerabilities, design secure systems, and mitigate risks associated with data breaches and cyberattacks.

5. Faculty Expertise: The program is led by a team of accomplished faculty members with expertise in mathematics, cryptography, computer security, and related fields. Faculty mentors provide personalized guidance, mentorship, and support to help students succeed academically and professionally. They also engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in information security and cryptography.

6. Professional Development: The program emphasizes professional development and prepares students for successful careers in academia, industry, government, and nonprofit organizations. Students have access to career counseling services, networking opportunities, and internship programs that enable them to gain practical experience, build professional connections, and explore career pathways in the field of information security.

7. STEM Designation: The M.S. in Mathematics - Information and Security program is designated as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program. This designation provides international students with the opportunity to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, allowing them to gain valuable work experience in the United States after graduation.

8. Research Opportunities: Students have the opportunity to engage in independent research projects under the guidance of faculty mentors. They may collaborate on research papers, present their findings at conferences, and contribute to scholarly publications in leading journals. Research experiences enhance students' critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and professional credibility within the field.

9. Industry Partnerships: The program maintains strong partnerships with industry leaders, government agencies, and cybersecurity organizations. These partnerships facilitate internships, guest lectures, and career placement opportunities for students, allowing them to gain real-world experience and establish connections with potential employers in the cybersecurity industry.

10. Alumni Success: Graduates of the M.S. in Mathematics - Information and Security program have gone on to pursue rewarding careers in various sectors, including cybersecurity consulting firms, government agencies, financial institutions, technology companies, and research laboratories. Alumni leverage their specialized skills and knowledge to address pressing cybersecurity challenges, protect critical infrastructure, and safeguard sensitive information in an increasingly digital world.

Entry requirements for Postgraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate students applying to American University are expected to demonstrate strong academic qualifications in their previous studies. While specific requirements may vary depending on the program, applicants typically need to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The academic qualifications requirement generally falls within the range of 83% to 86%, depending on the program and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 6 is required with no band less than 5.5.
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The minimum TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score 74 with no band less than 20 is required.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The minimum PTE Academic score required is 50 with no band less than 46.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): The minimum DET score of 100 is required with no sub-score below 90.

American University (AU) in Washington D.C., USA, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing financial assistance to international students through various scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and make an American University education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.  

Global Leader Scholarship: The Global Leader Scholarship at American University is a merit-based award offered to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

International Peace Scholarship: The International Peace Scholarship is awarded to international students who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and social change. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs at American University.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have overcome significant obstacles and challenges to pursue their education and demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

AU International Merit Scholarship: The AU International Merit Scholarship is awarded to international students with exceptional academic achievements and strong leadership qualities. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at American University.

AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students: The AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students is awarded to academically talented international students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academic excellence. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students at AU.

AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students: The AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students is awarded to outstanding transfer students from international institutions who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate transfer students at American University.

AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students is awarded to top-performing international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a commitment to service. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for eligible undergraduate students at AU.

These scholarships for international students at American University reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. By providing financial assistance and support to talented and deserving students from around the world, American University seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community and prepare students to become global leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. International students interested in applying for scholarships at American University should review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the university's official website and contact the Office of Admissions for further assistance.

Graduating from the M.S. in Mathematics - Information and Security program at American University in Washington D.C. opens up a wide range of career opportunities in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity. The M.S. in Mathematics - Information and Security program equips graduates with the technical skills, analytical abilities, and practical knowledge needed to excel in diverse roles within the cybersecurity field. With the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals across industries, graduates are well-positioned to pursue rewarding and impactful careers in this dynamic and critical field.

1. Cybersecurity Analyst: Graduates may work as cybersecurity analysts, responsible for monitoring, detecting, and responding to security incidents and threats within organizations. They analyze data, identify vulnerabilities, and develop strategies to protect systems, networks, and data from cyberattacks.

2. Cryptographer: With a strong background in mathematics and cryptography, graduates can pursue careers as cryptographers, designing and implementing cryptographic algorithms, protocols, and systems to secure digital communication, transactions, and information exchange.

3. Security Consultant: Graduates may work as security consultants, advising organizations on best practices for securing their IT infrastructure, assessing security risks, and developing comprehensive security solutions tailored to their specific needs and compliance requirements.

4. Security Engineer: Graduates can work as security engineers, designing, implementing, and maintaining security systems and technologies such as firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, encryption mechanisms, and authentication mechanisms to protect against cyber threats.

5. Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker): Graduates may become penetration testers, conducting security assessments and vulnerability tests to identify weaknesses in systems and networks. They simulate cyberattacks to assess security defenses and recommend measures to improve resilience against cyber threats.

6. Security Architect: Graduates can pursue roles as security architects, responsible for designing and implementing secure IT architectures, frameworks, and solutions that meet business objectives while mitigating security risks and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

7. Data Security Analyst: With expertise in data protection and privacy, graduates may work as data security analysts, focusing on safeguarding sensitive data, ensuring compliance with data protection laws, and implementing security measures to prevent data breaches and unauthorized access.

8. Cybersecurity Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers in cybersecurity research, conducting innovative research projects to advance knowledge in areas such as cryptographic algorithms, security protocols, threat intelligence, and risk assessment methodologies.

9. Security Operations Manager: Graduates may take on leadership roles as security operations managers, overseeing security operations centers (SOCs) and incident response teams, coordinating security efforts, and ensuring timely detection and response to security incidents.

10. Academic and Research Positions: Graduates with a strong academic background may pursue teaching and research positions in academia, contributing to the education and training of future cybersecurity professionals and conducting research in cutting-edge areas of information security.