Projects / Thesis
The MSISPM Project or Thesis is designed to capture the essence of knowledge gained by the students from the coursework and apply it towards research or new application initiatives. The project or thesis should be on a topic in an area of research or application that is interesting and relevant to information security. Research may include working on existing projects, designing new areas of research, or assisting faculty to further their work on their current research.
Information Security Project
The Heinz School recognizes that classroom instruction can only take you so far. The best learning opportunities are those when you must apply your skills in the real world. That is why one option for the capstone experience in the MSISPM program is the Information Security Project. Working in a group for a real client, students will tackle a real issue that 'synthesizes' their coursework in security technology, policy, economics, statistics, financial analysis, professional writing and speaking. Their work will be guided - and challenged - by a faculty advisor. Students will frame the problem, conduct the analysis, make recommendations and present their findings.
Sample project reports:
- First Responders Guide to Computer Forensics
- System Quality Requirements Engineering (SQUARE) Methodology: Case Study on Asset Management System
Thesis
Students may choose to complete a thesis in lieu of a systems synthesis project. A MSISPM thesis will consist of a student working by himself/herself on research related topics with sponsorship from a faculty member at CMU. Thesis topics must be approved by the program director.
Sample Thesis:
