Computer Forensics Degrees
Computer Forensics is relatively new field which involves the investigation of computer storage media for the purposes of law enforcement, company monitoring, and computer crime prevention. Computer Forensic professionals may have titles such as Digital Media Analyst or Computer Forensic Investigator. Degree programs in this field are becoming more common as the demand for specialists in this area increases.
Crime investigation is changing as increasingly, criminal evidence can be found on computer and other digital storage devices. As a result, computer forensics has become a core focus of many law enforcement investigations as well as internal company inquiries. Computer Forensic degree programs combine training in both law and technology so that graduates are well prepared for their future positions helping to track down criminal evidence.
Degree Options
- Associate's Degree – An associate's degree in computer forensics is appropriate for some entry level jobs in computer forensics and may be a good choice for law enforcement or computer professionals who want to gain additional education specific to this field.
- Bachelor's Degree – Bachelor's degrees in computer forensics will enable graduates to work in law enforcement or in computer security for a company or government organization.
- Master's Degree – Master's degrees are often obtained by professionals who have a bachelor's degree in law enforcement or in computer science. These degrees enable individuals to become experts in the field of computer forensics and obtain higher-level positions in their organization.
Certificate programs are another option for those seeking to specialize in this field. These programs usually require a candidate have a bachelor's degree or higher in either law enforcement or computer science.
Schools
Computer Forensics programs can be found at various types of schools including community colleges, technology colleges, criminal justice colleges and universities, including many online schools. While the largest numbers of programs are associate degree and certificate programs, the numbers of bachelor's and master's programs is increasing steadily.
Coursework
Computer Forensics majors take both law enforcement and computer technology courses such as those listed below:
- Theories of Criminal Behavior
- Computer Crime: Legal Issues & Investigative Procedures
- Internet Vulnerabilities and Criminal Activity
- Network Security, Data Protection & Telecommunication
- Law & Evidence
- Advanced Crime Scene Investigation
- Forensic Management of Digital Evidence
- Professional Ethics
- Field Work / Internship
Aptitudes and Interests
Individuals that choose a career in Computer Forensics should be meticulous, detail oriented and persistent. They should be the type of person who will follow procedures without fail and who take their job very seriously. They should be able to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally as they may appear in court regularly.
Career Options
Graduates of a Computer Forensics program may be employed by a law enforcement agency such a police force, the FBI or a prosecutor's office. Alternately, they may be employed in the computer security department of a corporation, insurance company or a consulting firm.
- Computer Forensics Investigator
- Computer Forensics Consultant
- Corporate Security Analyst
Related Majors
Degrees related to Computer Forensics include:
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Information Systems Security
- Criminal Justice
- Forensic Science
How To Evaluate Computer Forensics Degree Programs
A few considerations for someone choosing a program in Computer Forensics are discussed below:
- Fieldwork – Some programs provide opportunities for students to work with a law enforcement agency or private company so prospective students should verify the types of fieldwork available are related to their future career goals.
- Related Programs - Schools that offer other computer science and criminal justice programs are likely to have more robust course options and a higher level of expertise in the skills being taught.
- Flexibility - For individuals who plan to work while attending school, a program that offers online courses and/or evening courses may be a good choice.
Resources
Computer Forensics World - User Community
The International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists
High Technology Crime Investigation Association
International Information Systems Forensics Association
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