Bachelor’s Degree Specialization in Computer Forensics

Program Overview

It covers digital investigations, evidence collection, and cybersecurity planning. Graduates can pursue careers as computer forensics investigators, digital forensics analysts, or information security analysts. The program integrates industry-recognized certifications and provides a laptop for students.

Program Outline

The program aims to equip students with the skills to protect companies from cybercriminals. It focuses on developing deductive and inductive reasoning skills for investigating cybercrimes, conducting digital investigations, collecting digital evidence, and preventing cyberattacks. The specialization builds upon a "Tech Core" curriculum covering operating systems, programming, hardware, connectivity, and security, relevant to the Internet of Things (IoT) economy. The program teaches students to use computer forensic software applications, understand relevant laws and ethics, recover lost data, decrypt files, and prepare court-ready evidence. Graduates may assist in the prosecution of cybercriminals, solve cybercrimes, and help law enforcement recover data from cyberattacks and suspect devices. It does state that the program includes all courses within the Programming Essentials Certificate Program and the Information Technology and Networking Associate Degree, allowing students to earn these credentials along the way.

Careers:

Graduates of the Computer Forensics Specialization may pursue careers such as:

• Computer Digital Forensic Investigator: These investigators use technology and detective skills to uncover evidence of computer-related criminal activity, specializing in data recovery and presenting evidence in court.
The text notes that employment in this occupation may require years of relevant experience and that applicants may be subject to pre-employment screenings.
• Digital Forensics Analysts: These analysts conduct investigations into computer-based crimes, analyze digital evidence, and investigate computer security incidents to mitigate vulnerabilities.
They also preserve and present evidence for various investigations.
• Computer Systems Analysts: These analysts solve complex application problems, system administration issues, or network concerns.
They perform systems management and integration, improve existing systems, and review computer system capabilities.

Other:

• Accreditation: DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The Cybersecurity curriculum is also acknowledged and verified by the National Initiative for Cyber Security Careers and Studies (NICCS).
• Program Length: The program can be completed in a minimum of 2 years and 8 months (with year-round, full-time enrollment) or a normal 4 years (with standard semester scheduling).
• Laptop: Students receive a complimentary laptop as part of the program.
• Certification Exam Reimbursement: DeVry offers reimbursement of up to $300 towards one industry certification exam (CompTIA A+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Cloud Essentials+, CompTIA Security+ are mentioned as examples, but others may be eligible).
• Scholars Program: The Future Cyber Defenders Scholars Program is mentioned as an opportunity for students.
• Knowledge and Skills Covered: The program covers topics such as digital crime evidence and procedure, digital forensics, information systems security planning and audit, computer ethics, complex problem-solving, and structured analysis and design.