Computer Forensics
The world of cybercrime is evolving. Cyber criminals have gotten more sophisticated and more meticulous in finding new ways to hide their tracks. After an organization experiences an attack, hack, or breach, it’s left to pick up the pieces and begin planning how to mitigate a future cyber threat. Fortunately, more and more people are training to become computer forensics experts, who function primarily to investigate cyber attacks in order to build safeguards against future hacks. In this guide, we break down what computer forensics experts do, how to apply to get a degree in the field, and what related careers to expect from completing a digital forensics program.
Overview
A branch of forensic sciences that primarily helps law enforcement or other security personnel build cases against cyber criminal activity, the field of computer forensics relies on the thorough gathering of evidence from digital sources to draw conclusions and report analysis. The primary goal for computer forensic scientists and programmers is to build security frameworks that protect against hacks, breaches, and leaks. The way that cybersecurity professionals achieve this goal is by analyzing the evidence left behind in previous attacks. These threats can be both real or simulated, depending on the context in which a computer forensics professional is working. While security professionals working in government agencies or in law enforcement will likely be responding to real attacks, those working in private sector industries may run tests to improve overall cybersecurity practices.
Importantly, computer forensics can be studied in a variety of contexts. Certificate programs, bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, and even doctoral concentrations cover the field of computer forensics, making it one of the leading cybersecurity degree and career options for up-and-coming investigators.
Some topics that computer forensics programs cover include:
- Cyber Forensics Measures and Technology: This kind of course primarily explores the different kinds of hardware and software that investigators must become familiar with in conducting computer forensics evidence gathering. Because not all cases or attacks on data or information happen on computers, investigators must engage with the reality that other hardware is vulnerable and susceptible to hacking. Additionally, a course like this will introduce budding forensics experts to the cyber investigation process, where the gathering and analysis of different incidents, code, and programs is necessary.
- Forensic Incident Response: While incident responders are principally responsible for limiting the harm done by a cyber hack, computer forensics investigators must intervene after an attack to explore the best ways to proceed with the crime scene. This course primarily covers both the practice and theory behind the forensic investigative work that cybersecurity experts must commit to after a breach.
- Cybersecurity Foundations: In order to understand how best to intervene as a computer forensics investigator, students must learn the other facets of cybersecurity. As most computer forensics experts will work on teams of security professionals throughout an investigation, it’s important that they understand what roles other team members fill. When everyone stays on the same page after a cyber attack, teams can typically find the best possible solutions.
- Investigating Crimes in Digital Spaces: For computer forensics experts, crime scenes can usually be found in code, software, or other programs. Because it exists outside of a physical domain, the laws and procedures that go into the investigation are unique and require specific skills and tools. In this course, students will gain a better understanding of how to approach a crime scene and proceed with evidence gathering, analysis, and investigation.
- Network Forensics: Because so much of the cybercrime that occurs today happens through the exchange of information or through the uploading and downloading of data, computer forensics experts must have an advanced understanding of network security. This course typically explores the industry best practices surrounding network administration and defense, with a focus on threat and attack response.
Computer Forensics Admissions Requirements and Application Process
Computer forensics programs have different admissions requirements and application processes depending on their level, duration, and school. For example, graduate certificates have very different requirements than undergraduate degrees. In this section, you can learn about what application requirements to expect for different kinds of programs.
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics
For online bachelor’s degrees in computer forensics, the required application materials will resemble what other bachelor’s degrees expect, for the most part. Materials include:
- Official High School Transcripts or GED Equivalent: Most online computer forensics degrees will require some kind of academic record in the form of high school transcripts or proof of completing a GED. For returning or transfer students, this portion can sometimes be replaced with transcripts from the previously attended institution.
- Personal Statement: Across approximately 300 words, the personal statement is a good introduction to the student’s professional and academic goals. It’s also a good insight into how the student’s life has led to this moment, where continuing in an academic journey is necessary for personal and career objectives.
- Letter(s) of Recommendation: While some schools may only require one letter of recommendation, others will require three. These referee reports should be submitted by people who can speak to the applicant’s prowess as a student and/or a professional.
- ACT or SAT: The ACT or SAT scores are helpful indicators for where a student stands on certain core subjects entering into an undergraduate program. Through this lens, advisors can help incoming students plan their schedules with classes that will most benefit their academic journey.
Master’s Degree in Computer Forensics
Similar to the requirements of the bachelor’s degree in computer forensics, the Master’s degree application materials include:
- Undergraduate program transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation
- Resume
- Personal Statement
- GRE (sometimes optional)
Fees and Tuition
The average cost of an online bachelor’s degree comes out to be approximately $19,000, according to U.S. News. This figure will of course fluctuate when considering degree options between state and private schools. Public universities, with typically larger student bodies and funding from state / federal governments, are usually able to charge less for a degree, while private institutions will on average have a higher price tag.
The Value of an Online Computer Forensics Degree
An online degree in computer forensics will propel any cybersecurity professional into new career advancement opportunities otherwise unavailable. While the initial cost of an online degree may serve as a barrier to entry, the return on investment will certainly make up the difference. In a field that continues to grow exponentially, it’s never been a better time to join the cybersecurity field with a degree in computer forensics.
Forensics Careers
Computer Forensics Expert
Responsible for spearheading investigations into cyber crimes, computer forensics experts must apply careful methods in evidence collection, analysis, and reporting to ensure attacks, hacks, or breaches cause the least amount of damage as possible. According to Payscale, computer forensics experts earn an average yearly salary of $74,618.
Penetration Tester
In a similar vein, penetration testers push the limits of cybersecurity frameworks that an organization has created. The goal with these tests is to improve overall security measures to mitigate the threat of cyberattacks, hacks, breaches, and leaks. Penetration testers earn an average yearly salary that ranges from $70,000 to $169,000, according to ZipRecruiter. Payscale finds the average salary of a penetration tester in the United States to come out at approximately $87,737.
Information Security Analyst
As primary safeguards to cyberattacks in a proactive capacity, information security analysts ensure that organizations’ sensitive data is kept safe. By using the most up-to-date security software, these cybersecurity positions manage different networks and protect critical organizational systems. These positions earn an average yearly salary of $103,590 and are expected to grow by 33% through 2030.
Best Programs for an Online Computer Forensics Degree
While there are many schools across the country beginning to offer degrees in cybersecurity, fewer have created curriculums that center on or showcase the importance of computer forensics. The following are a sample of the leading online computer forensics degrees at the bachelor’s and Master’s levels.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Computer Forensics
Some of the best online bachelor’s degrees in computer forensics include:
- Utica College’s online B.S. in Cybersecurity: Network Forensics and Incident Response Specialization: This degree option can be completed in 2-4 years, features a generous transfer policy to returning students, and costs $475 per credit.
- Champlain College’s online Computer Forensics and Digital Investigations: Across 120 total credits, students can complete this degree in approximately 4 years.
- University of Charleston’s online Bachelors in Cybersecurity: As a degree completion program, this degree is designed for returning students to be completed in just 2 years.
Master’s Degrees in Computer Forensics
For those wanting to get a Master’s in computer forensics, two of the best degrees include:
- University of Central Florida’s online Digital Forensics, MS: In 30 credits that cost $327.32 per credit for in-state attendees, students can complete the online program and advance their careers.
- University of the Cumberlands online Master’s in Digital Forensics: This online Master’s degree features 31 credits along with a policy that allows transfer students to apply 9 previously completed credits to the degree.
For more information on the best cybersecurity schools to get a career advancing degree, be sure to check out our schools guide.