Through online degree programs in computer
and digital forensics, students learn to search computers for evidence
of a crime. Programs may result in a Bachelor of Science in Computer
Science (with a concentration in computer digital forensics) or a
similar Bachelor of Science in Computer and Digital Forensics. Other
options include a Digital Forensics Graduate Certificate or a Master of
Science in Digital Forensics.
Online Bachelor of Science in Computer and Digital Forensics
This science-intensive bachelor's degree program teaches computer science and investigation techniques. Students familiarize with concepts in forensic analysis, computer security and information recovery. They learn to study records for proof of law, gather computer-related forensic evidence and present their finding in a court of law. To be eligible for this degree program, prospective enrollees must have a high school diploma or its equivalent.Program Information and Requirements
This bachelor's degree program typically takes four years to complete, and may be completed entirely online; however, schools may require the fulfillment of internships. Students typically log on to a school's Web-based interface to download and complete assignments, watch pre-recorded video lectures, interact with others students and participate in class discussions. Through video demonstrations, they can learn to conduct forensic investigations and gather evidence.To complete the degree program, students must have plug-ins such as Adobe Flash and Acrobat Reader. Software programs, such as Microsoft Office, and hardware, including a printer and a Webcam, may also be required. A working computer and reliable Internet access are also necessary.
List of Common Computer and Digital Forensics Courses
Through an online degree program, students take courses on a flexible schedule, so they can complete computer and digital forensics courses whenever they're available. Students must complete general education classes as well as major courses.Forensic Accounting Course
Students study fraud prevention and the nature of theft in computerized accounting. They learn to investigate and manage fraud, while understanding its prevalence and ways to detect it.Evidence and Procedure: Digital Crime Course
Students become familiar with techniques and procedures for investigating computer-based crimes. They study legal procedures and practical applications of law while learning about common illegal digital activities.Computer Ethics Course
This course covers ethical and legal concerns regarding computer software programs and networks. Students study policies for ethical computer use and discuss concerns for information safety.Cyber-Crime Course
Through this class, students study cyber-crimes such as embezzlement, mortgage fraud and identify theft. They learn about 21st century crime and how it affects taxpayers.Career Information for Graduates
Upon completion of a bachelor's degree in computer forensics, students can seek careers as computer forensics technicians, information analysts or network systems administrators. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for systems administrators was $66,310 in May 2008. Forensic science technicians made a median annual salary of $47,680 (www.bls.gov).Online Graduate Certificate in Computer and Digital Forensics
To be eligible for this graduate certificate program, applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree--preferably in computer science or computer engineering. Students learn to analyze computer network policies using forensic tools and data recovery techniques. They train to uncover fraud, gather forensic evidence and present it to a court of law through classes in digital communications, network forensics and computer investigations. There are only a few graduate certificate digital forensics programs available online.Program Information and Requirements
Computer forensics graduate certificate programs can typically be finished entirely online. Students log on to programs such as Blackboard, where they can watch video lectures, interact with classmates, read professor's notes, download assignments and turn in completed coursework. Requirements include a working computer with a word processing program, certain hardware and reliable access to the Internet.Sample Graduate Certificate Computer and Digital Forensics Courses
The online graduate certificate program allows participants to complete what typically amounts to 15 credits at their own pace. Common classes are discussed below.Fundamentals of Computer Science and Forensics Course
This course familiarizes students with how computer systems work. They analyze potential computer threats and learn to use computer forensics to catch and reduce them.Investigations in Digital Forensics
This course covers malicious computer software and the threat presented to computer and network systems. They learn to study, analyze and document forensic procedures and digital evidence.Tools in Forensic Analysis Course
Students learn to find computer evidence that has been unsuccessfully erased, including deleted files, e-mail messages and documents. They gain practical experience conducting investigations and recovering files that could be necessary for a criminal investigation.Career Information for Graduates
With a graduate certificate in computer and digital forensics, students can pursue roles as systems analysts or forensic accountants. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for forensic accountants was $59,430 in May 2008. Systems analysts made $75,500.Online Master of Science in Computer and Digital Forensics
The online master's degree program in computer and digital forensics is intensive to the sciences and there are only a couple of them available. Through the program, students study computer concepts related to analyzing computer information to use it in the legal system. They acquire skills in identifying fraudulent activities and uncovering information that could solve computer crimes such as identity theft, cyberstalking, terrorism and money laundering. To be eligible for enrollment, potential students must have at least a bachelor's degree, preferably in computer science or a related field. Although there are only a few computer and digital forensic programs available online, related programs that are available include computer science and computer engineering.Program Information and Requirements
The average time required to complete the master's degree program is about two years. Although some programs are available entirely online, others are hybrid programs--which means some components, such as residencies, may need to be completed on-campus. An internship is also commonly required, but may be completed online.To participate, students must log on to a school's distance-learning system through a personal account to watch video lectures, complete assignments and interact with peers. They must be able to get online frequently, preferably through an owned computer. They may also need a word processing program, Adobe Flash and Acrobat Reader. Other specifics vary by program.
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