What Are the Core Courses for a Degree in Computer Forensics?
A degree in computer forensics can lead to a number of careers in the technology world, including computer security and cyber investigation. To learn about the core courses that make up a degree program in computer forensics, continue reading.
Overview of a Computer Forensics Degree
Experts in this field frequently use their education to track down people who use the computer or the Internet to commit cyber crimes, especially in light of the increasing risk of identity theft. Though every school has a slightly different program, the core curricula for computer forensics degrees are generally the same. Curricula include the two main aspects of the field: legal (knowledge of law enforcement and criminal justice systems) and technological (computer hardware and software security). Topics for each group of courses are listed below.
Important Facts About This Field of Study
| Degree/Certificate Levels | Certificates, Bachelor of Applied Science, B.S., and M.S. Degrees are offered |
| Prerequisites | Frequently none for bachelor's programs; some master's programs may consider work experience as well as a bachelor's degree in an analytical field |
| Specializations | Criminal Justice, Computing, and Forensic Science are some examples |
| Possible Careers | Digital forensic investigator, computer programmer |
| Median Salary (2021) | $66,850 (forensic science technicians) |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031) | 11% growth (forensic science technicians) |
Criminal Justice Core Courses
- Crime scene and investigation covers the protocol involved in a crime scene investigation, including how to collect and preserve evidence.
- Criminal law covers the duties of those in law enforcement in terms of following and enforcing the law while maintaining the rights of the individual.
- Criminal procedures help students become familiar with the constraints set in place by the Constitution, including laws regarding search and seizure, interrogations, confessions, and witness identification.
- Cybercrime examines threats from breaches in cybersecurity and the changing role of law enforcement officials in detecting evidence and determining how to prosecute cyber criminals without violating their rights.
Computer Security Core Courses
- Computer forensics teaches the basics of the field, including data hiding and recovery, encryption techniques, how to analyze data, and methods of surveillance.
- Identity theft forensics covers techniques used by criminals to steal people's identities and the clues they leave behind on the computer system, giving students insight into catching these con-artists.
- Computer forensic methodologies cover the history of computer forensics, techniques for tracking cybercrime, and the incorporation of the law and ethical behaviors into these techniques.
- Operating systems courses examine security issues common to operating systems and possible solutions.