Program Overview

Introduction to the Cyber Criminology and Cybersecurity Online Graduate Certificate

The online Cyber Criminology and Cyber Security certificate from Michigan State University explores topics in digital forensic investigation, cybercrime, cyberwarfare, and more. This 100% online program can be completed in 1–2 years and consists of 15 credit hours, with a cost of $892 per credit.

Program Details

Certificate Overview

The program does not require technical experience, making it a great option for anyone wanting to add cyber criminology and cybersecurity expertise to their résumé. Key features include:

• Learning from world-renowned faculty
• Receiving personalized advising
• Preparing for additional credentials
• Applying without work experience
• Test scores are not required

Required Courses

The certificate requires the completion of the following five courses:

1. CJ 872 Open-Source Information Analysis (3 Credits): Apply modern intelligence techniques to collect and analyze open-source information.
2. CJ 874 Cybercrime, Deviance and Virtual Society (3 Credits): Explain the four forms of cybercrime, cyber-terror, cyberwarfare, and their impacts on individuals, organizations, and government.
3. CJ 875 Digital Forensic Investigations (3 Credits): Focus on the field of digital forensics and its use to gather evidence and interpret information for criminal and civil litigation.
4. CJ 876 Data Systems/Infrastructure (3 Credits): Examine the networked resources that support the internet and the basics of the OSI model.
5. CJ 877 Cyber Terror and Cyber Warfare (3 Credits): Examine the use of technology and the internet in the furtherance of terror and extremism across the globe.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can apply their skills in several fields, including digital forensics, law enforcement, cybersecurity, or intelligence analysis. Potential career paths include:

• Information Security Analyst, with a median salary of $124,910 per year
• Detective or Criminal Investigator, with a median salary of $93,580 per year

Admission Criteria

To apply for the Cyber Criminology and Cybersecurity certificate, the following are required:

• Online Application Form
• Application Fee: $75
• Degree and Minimum GPA: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• Application Essay: A personal statement addressing reasons for pursuing the degree, goals, and any prior coursework or low GPA
• Résumé: Optional but encouraged
• Transcripts: Official transcript from each institution attended
• TOEFL or IELTS (for international students only)

Tuition and Fees

• Cost per Credit: $892
• Estimated Total Tuition: $13,380
• Total Credits: 15

Program Outcomes

Upon completing the program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of social and legal concepts of cybercrime and cyberterrorism
• Demonstrate knowledge and comprehension of the architecture of computer systems and networks, basic principles of cybersecurity, and application of cybersecurity strategies
• Conduct appropriate digital forensics techniques and procedures within legal and ethical parameters to produce complete and reliable digital evidence for criminal and civil courts