What Will I Learn in a Computer Forensics Degree Program?

Studying for a degree in computer forensics will give you the skills you need to do well in a job that detects and prevents computer crime. In your studies, you will focus on collecting electronic evidence, developing a defensible forensic process, legal considerations and information technology security tools. Your courses will include core ones on information technology such as operating systems, programming, databases and computer system concepts. In addition to information technology courses, you will take specialized classes in computer forensics, such as on investigation, counterintelligence, analysis and network security.

BS in Computer Forensics	BA in Forensics	MS in Computer Forensics

What Can I Do With a Computer Forensics Degree?

As a computer forensic investigator, you will recover, analyze and present data from computers. You'll work closely with individuals, businesses and government agencies to investigate information found on computers and other devices. This data is most often used in investigations or as evidence. You will share information about intrusions, as well as recover data, files and emails. Computer forensic investigators work in private detective agencies, law firms, state and local governments, stores and financial institutions. Common job titles for computer forensics graduates are security network analyst, counterintelligence analyst, IT investigator and computer forensics specialist. Some computer forensic investigators are self-employed or work on computer forensics as a second job.

What Is the Career Outlook for Computer Forensics Degree Students?

Computer forensics investigators will benefit from very fast employment growth in the next few years. Employment of investigators should grow 22 percent by 2018, which is much faster than average employment growth. Computer forensics investigators in particular are valuable because of increasing criminal activity on the Internet. Although employment growth is healthy, competition is high for the best positions in computer forensics. However, with a bachelor's degree in information technology in computer forensics, graduates should have good opportunities available.