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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
Duration
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Cybersecurity | Information Technology | Network Security
Area of study
Information and Communication Technologies
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


The Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics program at the University at Albany prepares students to investigate and respond to cyber incidents, with a focus on gathering and analyzing digital evidence, identifying threats, and developing incident response plans. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field of digital forensics and cybersecurity. Graduates of the program can pursue careers in a variety of fields, including forensic technology analyst, cyber threat analyst, and security operation center analyst.

Program Outline

Students will learn how to gather and analyze digital evidence, identify and prevent threats, and develop incident response plans. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field of digital forensics.


Objectives:

The objectives of the program are to:

  • Provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to investigate and respond to cyber incidents.
  • Prepare students for careers in digital forensics, cyber security, and related fields.
  • Equip students with the ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively.
  • Develop students' understanding of the legal and ethical issues surrounding digital forensics.

Program Description:

The program consists of 120 credits, including foundational courses in information systems, law, and statistics, core competency courses in networking, cryptography, and cybersecurity, and concentration courses in computer forensics, mobile forensics, and cyber defense. Students will also complete a capstone course in advanced digital forensics. The program is a designated Center of Academic Excellence – Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE) institution through the National Information Assurance Education Training Program (NIETP). This designation recognizes the program's high quality and commitment to preparing students for careers in cybersecurity.


Outline:


Program Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

  • Computer forensics: This course covers the principles of computer forensics, including the collection, preservation, and analysis of digital evidence.
  • Mobile forensics: This course covers the investigation of mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets.
  • Cyber defense: This course covers the principles of cyber defense, including intrusion detection, prevention, and response.
  • Database security and forensics: This course covers the security of databases, including the prevention, detection, and investigation of database attacks.
  • Forensic accounting and fraud examination: This course covers the principles of forensic accounting, including the detection, investigation, and prevention of fraud.
  • Risk analysis and security policies: This course covers the principles of risk analysis and security policy development.
  • Cyber incident response and penetration testing: This course covers the principles of incident response and penetration testing.
  • Multimedia forensics: This course covers the analysis of multimedia evidence, such as images, videos, and audio recordings.

Structure:

The program is divided into four years, with each year consisting of two semesters.


Assessment:


Assessment Methods:

Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, including:

  • Exams
  • Assignments
  • Projects
  • Presentations

Assessment Criteria:

The assessment criteria for each course will be provided by the instructor.


Teaching:


Teaching Methods:

The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

  • Lectures
  • Discussions
  • Hands-on labs
  • Case studies

Faculty:

The faculty in the program are experts in their field and have extensive experience in digital forensics and cyber security.


Unique Approaches:

The program uses a number of unique approaches to teaching, including:

  • The use of a state-of-the-art quarantined research lab, where students can gain hands-on experience in investigating cyber incidents.
  • The INSURE National Security Program, which allows students to collaborate with digital forensic and cybersecurity experts in government agencies and national labs.

Careers:


Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in a variety of fields, including:

  • Forensic technology analyst
  • Cyber threat analyst
  • Cyber intelligence analyst
  • Security Operation Center (SOC) analyst
  • Risk advisory consultant
  • Pentester
  • Systems engineer
  • Malware analyst
  • Vulnerability researcher
  • Threat hunter
  • Cybercrime investigator
  • Fraud investigator
  • Cyber exploitation analyst
  • Data recovery expert
  • Cyber defense analyst
  • Digital forensics response analyst
  • Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) analyst
  • Computer Security and Incident Response Team (CSIRT) analyst
  • Digital evidence technician
  • Incident response specialist

Opportunities:

There is a growing demand for skilled professionals in the field of digital forensics and cybersecurity. Graduates of the program will be well-positioned to take advantage of these opportunities.


Outcomes:

In 2018, UAlbany’s class of digital forensics majors achieved 100% placement within 6 months of graduation. This degree also prepares you for advanced study in a master’s or PhD program in digital forensics, cyber security, and related fields.


Other:


Student Learning Objectives:

The student learning objectives for the program are:

  • Students will be able to define federal and state laws and legal processes relevant to cybercrime investigations.
  • Students will be able to identify and define computer forensics analysis concepts, tools, and technologies.
  • Students will be able to utilize appropriate methods collecting and preserving digital evidence at cybercrime scenes.
  • The student will be able to identify federal and state legal statutes, case law and government regulations relevant to network data preservation and incident forensic response.
  • Students will be able to prepare a comprehensive written report and present forensic findings to a panel of subject matter experts.
  • The student should be able to effectively provide testimony during direct and cross-examination.

Living-Learning Communities:

The University at Albany offers living-learning communities for students interested in digital forensics. These communities provide students with the opportunity to live and take classes with other students who share their interests.


Study Abroad:

The University at Albany encourages students to study abroad. Studying abroad can provide students with a global perspective and help them develop their language skills.


Undergraduate Research:

The University at Albany offers a variety of undergraduate research opportunities. Research can provide students with hands-on experience in their field and help them develop their critical thinking skills.


Sample Employers:

Graduates of the program have been employed by a variety of organizations, including:

  • Key Bank
  • MVP Healthcare
  • Central Hudson Gas & Electric
  • EY (Ernst & Young)
  • PwC
  • KPMG
  • Deloitte
  • Accenture
  • Center for Internet Security (CIS)
  • Rational Enterprise
  • Raytheon
  • FireEye
  • General Electric
  • Major League Baseball
  • Cisco
  • Gartner
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • National Security Agency (NSA)
  • Department of Defense
  • Regeneron Pharmaceuticals

Sample Job Titles:

Graduates of the program have held a variety of job titles, including:

  • Forensic technology analyst
  • Cyber threat analyst
  • Cyber intelligence analyst
  • Security Operation Center (SOC) analyst
  • Risk advisory consultant
  • Pentester
  • Systems engineer
  • Malware analyst
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Overview:

University at Albany, also known as the University at Albany - State University of New York, is a public research university located in Albany, New York. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and has a long history, having been established in 1844. The university is known for its diverse academic programs, strong research focus, and commitment to public engagement.


Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

    Academic Advising:

    Provides guidance and support to students in choosing courses, planning their academic careers, and navigating university resources.

    Libraries:

    Offers access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.

    Career Services:

    Assists students in exploring career options, developing job search skills, and connecting with potential employers.

    Student Life:

    Provides opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events.

    Residential Life:

    Offers on-campus housing options for students, fostering a sense of community and providing support services.

    Dining:

    Provides a variety of dining options on campus, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.

    Athletics:

    Offers a variety of intercollegiate sports programs for students to participate in or cheer for.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at University at Albany can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events. The campus is located in a city setting, providing easy access to cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and dining options.


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Diverse Academic Programs:

    The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, allowing students to pursue their interests and career goals.

    Strong Research Focus:

    The university is a leading research institution, providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty experts.

    Commitment to Public Engagement:

    The university is deeply committed to serving the community and addressing societal challenges through research, outreach, and public service initiatives.

    Faculty Access:

    The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to interact with and learn from their professors.

Academic Programs:

The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

    Undergraduate Programs:

    Over 50 undergraduate majors across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences, business, education, and engineering.

    Graduate Programs:

    A wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, in fields such as business, education, public health, criminal justice, and the sciences.

    Online Learning:

    Offers a variety of online courses and programs for students who prefer flexible learning options.

Other:

The university has a strong alumni network, with over 195,000 alumni who support the university and its students. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as nanotechnology, public health, and environmental science.

Total programs
254
Average ranking globally
#425
Average ranking in the country
#129
Location
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