What Is Forensic Computer Science? Degrees & Career Opportunities
Forensic computer science is a field in which computer science principles are applied to gathering evidence for legal cases. There are several types of forensic computer science and several careers in this field.
Forensic science is a term that describes when science is used to help solve crimes. Some forensic scientists work on crime scenes, while other forensic scientists work on computers and other tech.
Forensic computer scientists look for digital evidence, as opposed to things like fingerprints or DNA that crime scene technicians look for. Below, we've broken down what you need to know about forensic computer science.
What Is Forensic Computer Science?
Forensic computer science, also called computer forensics, cyber forensics, or digital forensics, is a branch of computer science focused on finding evidence to solve crimes or help law enforcement with criminal cases.
Sometimes, this evidence is for cybercrime, or crimes committed digitally. Other times, this evidence contributes to more physical cases, like theft or fraud.
There are several different types of forensic computer science that are listed below.
- Database forensics investigate databases, including database logs and metadata, to identify suspects and reconstruct events.
- Disk forensics examine digital storage devices like disks and hard drives for evidence, including deleted files and user activity.
- Email forensics look for evidence within emails, which may require things like metadata analysis and email tracing.
- Malware forensics investigate malware, which is malicious software meant to harm or attack computer systems.
- Memory forensics are focused on a computer or device's short-term storage, also called memory.
- Mobile phone forensics examine mobile devices, which may include extracting data like deleted messages, call logs, and media.
- Network forensics use special tools to analyze network traffic data to find evidence and reconstruct events.
While all types of computer forensics require some amount of computer science knowledge, each type uses specific methodologies and digital forensics tools for their investigations.
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What Careers Are Available in Forensic Computer Science?
There are multiple careers available for those who have studied computer science.
- Cybersecurity analysts are responsible for securing an organization's computer systems and computer networks, including preventing data breaches and patching vulnerabilities.
- Digital forensic analyst, also called forensic computer examiners, investigate and analyze digital evidence and may also be required to present their findings in court.
- E-discovery specialists work with legal teams to identify and collect electronic data needed for court cases.
- Incident response analysts identify, investigate, and resolve security incidents, often working closely with cybersecurity analysts.
Digital forensic analysts and forensic computer examiners do what most people think of when someone says ''computer forensics.'' However, all the careers listed above require knowledge of computer forensics.
What Degree Do You Need To Be a Forensic Computer Scientist?
In most cases, forensic computer scientists need to hold at least a bachelor's degree, although this varies by occupation and location. Master's degrees and certificates are also available.
Digital forensics or computer forensics may be a major on its own or may be a specialization within criminal justice, computer science, or cybersecurity degrees. These programs often blend concepts of criminal justice and computer science.
Common topics covered in these degree programs include:
- information systems and operating systems
- data recovery
- digital devices and digital data
- cyberattacks and network security
- programming languages
- court of law and court procedures
- forensic processes, forensic techniques, and chain of custody
FAQs About Computer Forensic Science
Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about computer forensic science careers and degrees.
Are Computer Forensic Science Degrees Available Online?
Some colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in computer forensic science online, and several offer online master's degrees in computer forensic science.
Additionally, several colleges and universities offer computer forensic science certificate programs online. These can be stand-alone certificates or used to boost degrees in computer science, cybersecurity, or criminal justice.
Are Computer Forensic Scientists in Demand?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job demand for digital forensic analysts is expected to grow by at least 9% by 2032. They expect to see over 33,000 new job openings during this time.
What Is the Work Environment Like for Computer Forensic Scientists?
Computer forensic scientists work with law enforcement agencies, including local agencies and federal agencies like the FBI. Computer forensics professionals often work in an office setting but may need to visit crime scenes as part of their digital forensics investigation.
The hours for computer forensic experts can vary depending on your role and employer. Some may have set hours, while others may be on call.
Additionally, depending on your specific job, you may be subjected to disturbing images and information while investigating computer crimes. However, there are plenty of cybercriminals involved in white-collar crime as well.
