Computer Forensics Certificate prepares graduates to work in the Information Technology and Criminal Justice fields as Computer and Digital Forensics Investigators. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition, employment of computer forensics specialists is expected to increase by 22 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Competition will be high for these positions, requiring advanced technical and investigative skills and knowledge. Demand for these workers will result from the increase use of digital devices by individuals and businesses, as well as the increase in criminal activity on the Internet, such as identity thief, electronic harassment, illegal obtainment of copyrighted materials, and malware activities.
“Computer forensics, also called cyberforensics, is the application of computer [and/or digital technology] investigation and analysis techniques to gather evidence suitable for presentation in a court of law. The goal of computer forensics is to perform a structured investigation while maintaining a documented chain of evidence to find out exactly what happened on a computer and who was responsible for it.” (http://searchsecurity.techtarget.com)
Gainful Employment Disclosure
The CIP Code is 11.1003. See http://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/CIP?s=11.1003&g=Gofor more information.
The cost of this program is $6,583. Books and materials cost an additional $840.
Courses
Semester 1
Windows Client Operating Systems
Computer Hardware and Support
Introduction to Criminal Justice
Networking Technologies
Semester 2
Evidence & Court Procedure
Unix Operating Systems I
Computer Forensics
Criminal Investigations