Program Overview

Computer Forensics Graduate Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics provides a unique graduate training opportunity for those who deal directly or indirectly with digital evidence. The National Center for Forensic Science (NCFS), the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and the Department of Chemistry jointly sponsor an interdisciplinary Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics. This web-assisted certificate program provides a unique opportunity for graduate training to professionals and paraprofessionals who deal directly or indirectly with digital evidence, including law enforcement investigators, forensic laboratory analysts, lawyers and judges, and corporate computer security specialists.

Program Overview

The Computer Forensics certificate requires four graduate courses (12 credit hours) in forensics study. The Interdisciplinary Studies Program offers a Master of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Computer Forensics, and the recently approved Master of Science degree in Digital Forensics provides further graduate work in digital forensics.

Degree Requirements

Required Courses

• Complete all of the following:
  • Complete at least 4 of the following:
    • CHS5504 - Topics in Forensic Science (3)
    • CHS5518 - The Forensic Collection and Examination of Digital Evidence (3)
    • CHS5596 - The Forensic Expert in the Courtroom (3)
    • CGS5131 - Computer Forensics I: Seizure and Examination of Computer Systems (3)
    • CNT6418 - Computer Forensics II (3)
  • A graduate-level digital evidence course approved by the graduate program director may be used to substitute for CGS 5131 or CNT 6418.

Grand Total Credits: 12

Application Deadlines

• Spring: December 1
• Fall: July 1 Application deadlines are subject to change.

Program Details

The Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics is designed for professionals and paraprofessionals who deal with digital evidence. The program provides a unique opportunity for graduate training in computer forensics, with a focus on the collection, examination, and analysis of digital evidence. The certificate program requires 12 credit hours of graduate coursework, which can be completed online or on campus. The program is interdisciplinary, with courses offered by the National Center for Forensic Science, the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and the Department of Chemistry.