A rapidly growing field, computer forensics can offer an individual a highly paid and respected career, especially if they have computer forensics degrees. While the degree requirements are still quite fluid, there is no mistaking the need for specialists in computer forensic science. Computers run our modern world, it is difficult to imagine life proceeding without the use of computers.
Businesses and corporations depend upon the data stored in their computer banks for the smooth running of their operations. Law enforcement needs computers to keep track of criminals and their activities as well as the day-to-day running of these departments. Governments at all levels, local, state, and federal, are able to run effectively because of computers. Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, from the specious to the criminal, there are those who try to interrupt the smooth running of these facets of our lives. It is here that those who have received a degree in computer forensics will make their contribution.
Realizing that expertise in computer forensics is absolutely necessary, quite a few institutions have begun to offer courses or degrees in this area of computer science. An associates degree is one that will allow the individual to begin working in this field in as little as two years. While this will be considered an entry level degree, many who begin this way will further their education while working. Universities and colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in computer forensics often stress a major in Information Technology (IT), with a minor in forensics. A thorough knowledge of computers is necessary in order to be able to properly fulfill the requirements of forensics in this field.
Acquiring a computer forensics degree will allow the graduate to apply their knowledge and expertise to many facets of business and law enforcement. The student will learn investigative techniques, understand the use of forensic software tools, collection of evidence (and the preservation of the same), examination of the evidence using forensic knowledge, and how to present testimony in a criminal case. A computer forensics degree will prepare the student to learn the skills and techniques that will enable them to enjoy a career, rather than simply a job,
Depending on established programs and protocols to learn computer forensics will establish the student’s bona fides. Computer forensics is a serious, technologically-oriented science, and the best way to prepare for a degree is to enroll in an accredited college or other institute. The degree obtained will prepare the student for employment in government or private industry. And, once an associates or bachelor’s degree has been obtained, the careerist can further their education and receive a master’s or even doctor’s degree in computer forensics.
There are over one billion users of computers worldwide, and many of these users will eventually need the skills of a computer forensics specialist. Hackers and crackers are not going to go away. Identity theft is here to stay, and this is a crime that makes no distinction between economic classes. Criminals are brewing up new viruses and other computer dangers every day. The risks to any computer are great, and it is the holder of a computer forensics degree that will be best able to deal with these problems. A degree in computer forensics can result in an annual salary of up to $100,000, especially with more advanced degrees in Cyber Security and Criminal Justice. Take some time to look into the various degree programs, both online and on campus, to see whether computer forensics is for you.
These small universities offer surprisingly superior computer forensics degrees that will give you the edge in today’s competitive market. All of these programs are on-campus study opportunities; if you would like to learn about online computer forensics degree opportunities, click here. These computer forensics programs are also full-degree programs, designed to provide you with a complete college education with a solid IT foundation. If you have already earned your IT degree and are working in the field, you can skip the basic stuff and choose a computer forensics certificate program instead – certificate programs are designed to build on your existing knowledge so they omit general courses like basic hardware, operating system and networking and include only computer forensics choices. However, if you are just beginning your IT education and would like to specialize in computer forensics, these universities will teach you everything you need to know to excel in the field.
University of Rhode Island – Computer and Digital Forensics
The University of Rhode Island offers an unusually comprehensive computer forensics degree program. Unlike other courses that include computer forensics as part of a larger program, this program is dedicated solely to the study of computer forensics theories, techniques and practical application. Courses include Computer Forensics, Network Forensics, Forensic Analysis Tools, and internships. Students can opt to take all or part of the program as an undergraduate minor, master’s degree, PhD, graduate certificate or professional certificate. The university has a practicing computer forensics lab on campus, providing students with hands-on training in a real-world environment. If you are serious about become a computer forensics expert, this may be the program for you.
George Washington University – High Technology Crime Investigation, Master’s Degree
George Washington University’s High Technology Crime Investigation graduate program provides a wealth of courses in computer forensics and related fields. Courses introduce students to legal requirements of computer forensics activities, networking, computer forensics techniques to help learn the technology aspects of this career choice. Unique among the programs offering computer forensics degrees are a forensic psychology class which provides students with skills to understand the thought process of a cybercriminal and crisis management instruction which prepares students for the pressures of the job. The campus, located in Arlington, Virginia, is just minutes from Washington, D.C., providing students with a variety of internship opportunities in both government and private investigative firms. This hidden gem of a computer forensics program is definitely worth considering.
University of Maryland University College – IT, Information Assurance Specialization, Master’s Degree
The University of Maryland University College offers an Information Technology graduate specialization in Information Assurance will help you start a career in computer forensics. In addition to a dedicated course in computer forensics that covers data recovery tools and techniques, the program also includes instruction in network and internet security, cryptology and data protection, intrusion detection and prevention and many other skills you will need to provide a full line of services as a computer forensics expert. The program’s computer forensic degrees have been recognized as Professional Science Master’s Degree Program though the Council of Graduate Schools.