SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 26, 2006 -- The changing landscape of information technology and security is calling for IT professionals with a strong mix of business and technological acumen, said Capella University's Dr. Keith Morneau at the IT Security World Conference & Expo in San Francisco. This essential combination of skills is necessary so that IT professionals can defend against security breaches, stay abreast of technological developments, and shoulder added responsibilities, such as regulations that govern the security, accuracy and the reliability of the systems that manage and report financial data.

"To survive and adapt, the new IT professional must take a solutions- oriented approach that draws on best practices, innovation and creativity," said. Dr. Morneau, EdD, faculty chair of information technology in the School of Undergraduate Studies at Capella University, an accredited online university and a leader in online education.

Dr. Morneau also pointed out the need for IT professionals to help educate their publics about basic security procedures. "The number one issue in security today is 'social engineering,' the techniques perpetrators use to trick employees or consumers into divulging passwords and other confidential information," he said. Another all-too common problem: passwords and codes are posted next to the computer for convenient access by the user -- and, unfortunately, for the crook.

About Capella University

Founded in 1993, Capella University is an accredited* online university that offers graduate degree programs in business, information technology, education, human services, and psychology, and bachelor's degree programs in business and information technology. Within those areas, Capella offers 83 graduate and undergraduate specializations and 17 certificate specializations. The online university currently serves 16,000 students from all 50 states and 63 countries. It is a national leader in online education, committed to providing high-caliber academic excellence and pursuing balanced business growth. Capella University is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Capella Education Company, headquartered in Minneapolis. For more information, please visit http://www.capella.edu or call 1-888-CAPELLA (227-3552).

*Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, located at 30 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504, (312) 263-0456, http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org .