About Computer Forensic Degree

Computer forensics is a growing field and is attracting many young students today. This is a branch of digital forensic science that aims towards examining digital media in a forensic manner, to help identify, recover, analyze, and present facts. In this fast growing economy, computers and technology have become a basic need of life. We perform a number of simple and complex tasks online, and are always connected to tech based devices in one way or another. Apart from this, many organizations are operating their businesses online, and provide a wide range of computer based services to everyone. For example, online banking and shopping are steadily becoming a norm of our society. Keeping in mind the benefits of technology driven lives, it would be wrong to deny the growing risk of digital fraud. Cybercrime is one term used to define the criminal activities that take place online. Data stored in media devices is vulnerable to expert hackers ho can misuse such data and cause chaos. Suck risks and issues have pushed the demand for computer forensic experts and professionals.

Where can I get a Computer Forensics Degree

What courses do I have to take to earn a Computer Forensics Degree

How do I pay for my Computer Forensics Degree

Computer Forensics Degree

To join this lucrative field, you will need to equip yourself with a college degree in this specific area. Computer forensic degrees are offered by a number of colleges in all states. These degree programs are aimed towards equipping students with skills needed to succeed in today’s dynamic technology industry. If you are looking for a career in this field, you can start off by enrolling in an associate or a bachelor degree in computer forensics.

The coursework will mainly entail theoretical subjects and practical subjects. It is important that students develop a comprehensive understanding of computer related concepts. Some of the main course subjects include networking fundamentals, operating systems, law of searching, digital evidence, criminal investigation, and criminal procedure. Computer forensics sheds light upon important legal aspects and principles that are used. Side by side, the program will also focus on providing students with hands on experience through practical subjects. These subjects are covered in computer based classrooms. However, the curriculum may vary slightly from school to school and will depend upon the type of program as well.
Online education is another mode through which you can pursue a computer forensics online degree. Computer forensics online degree programs will allow you to study at your own pace and time. The coursework is completed with the help of online lectures, classroom conferencing, and video tutorials. This mode of learning is gaining immense popularity and has made higher education more accessible.

Career Prospects

A computer forensic degree will enable you to qualify for job positions such as computer forensic technicians. You will be required to work in different kinds of digital fraud cases and investigate digital facts. The income level will vary from job to join and will also depend upon the location. You can gradually move up the corporate ladder with more experience on the job. Computer forensic technicians are predicted to grow in demand as technology industry is growing.

What is computer forensics?

Computer forensics is a relatively new discipline within the field of forensic sciences. There are several definitions and descriptions of what computer forensics is. Forensics means and pertaining to, connected with, or used in courts of law, and is generally thought of as using different disciplines of science to gather evidence to present in court. So, basically computer forensics is bringing computer evidence into court. Like other forensic fields, computer forensics is used to find out what happened, how it happened, when it happened, and who was involved. Another way to think of computer forensics is the lawful retrieval and analyzing of data created and stored on computers to bring and present in a courtroom as evidence. If you would like to get started on this exciting and new career path you should start by looking into earning a computer forensics degree.

Where can I get a Computer Forensics Degree?

Since a computer forensics degree is a new discipline there are few schools that offer it. There are several online schools that offer the degree and a quick online search will help you find those schools. Most schools do see the demand for this degree increasing. Computers are now essential for most businesses, and the need for cyber security, data storage, data retrieval, and knowledge of computers systems is greatly needed. Schools that don not offer a computer forensics degree do offer other degrees with a concentration in computer forensics. Those degrees are usually through other programs like computer science, information technology, information systems, or electrical engineering. Another option is for students to major in one of these degrees and minor in forensics.

What courses do I have to take to earn a Computer Forensics Degree?

As stated, a computer forensics degree is a new discipline; so many schools are still working on a curriculum for the degree. Classes for computer forensics generally consist of a mix of computer, science, and law classes. Students will take classes to teach them the skills and knowledge in computer operating systems, programming languages, common software applications, and various digital storage devices. Students will also learn general forensics techniques, investigative techniques, use of forensics software tools, how to collect evidence, how to examine evidence, how to present testimony in a criminal case, research, and strategies. On the law side, students will take classes in ethics, criminal law, criminal procedure, and possibly other law related classes. All of these classes help to build the technical, analytical, and critical thinking skills needed to successfully complete a computer forensics degree.

How do I pay for my Computer Forensics Degree?

If you cannot afford to pay for school yourself then you can apply for scholarships, grants, and loans. There are thousands of scholarships that are available for potential students. You should also look locally for opportunities. There are plenty of organizations that might offer scholarships specifically to students pursuing a degree in the criminal justice field. Students should also look at the availability of grants. The most known and widely available is the Pell Grant offered by the federal government. The great thing about scholarships and grants is that they are awards that do not have to be repaid. If you have exhausted your scholarship and grant opportunities then the last option for financial aid is taking out a loan. You should start with applying for federal loans like the Stafford loan or Perkins loan. These come with great, low interest rates and can be subsidized.