Forensic Computing MSc/PgDip/PgCert

www.cranfield.ac.uk/cds/forensicssecurity/page47137.html

Course length

Full-time MSc: 1 year
Part-time MSc: normally 3 years; PgDip: normally 2 years; PgCert: normally 1 year.

Course description

Forensic Computing is a dynamic area of criminal investigation, with new tools, techniques and methods constantly available to both the investigator and the investigated.

The course is taught by both Cranfield University lecturers and by visiting external consultants, many of whom are world leaders in their field and who understand the problems of translating theory into practice. Cranfield is also a leader in terms of cutting edge forensic computing research, and this research is fed directly into course material.

The course provides a sound and broadly based introduction to the fundamentals of digital forensics, illustrated with real case examples and hands on experiences. Modules cover not only technical subjects in significant detail, but also include legal issues and courtroom skills. Knowledge of these topics is vital to the practicing professional in this field.

Modules available include:

Introduction to the Forensic Process
Forensic Computing: Foundations
Legal Issues and Courtroom Skills
Forensic Computing: Networks
Forensic Computing: Internet
Advanced Forensic Computing
Corporate Security
Mac OS X Forensics
e-discovery
Forensic Computing Using Linux
Programming for Practitioners
The MSc Project

The course is available in full-time and part-time variants. The part-time course is designed for those already in employment, mainly law enforcement, government staff, security consultants, accountancy and banking organizations, corporate security personnel and other associated agencies. The majority of part-time students are sponsored by their employers and continue to work for them on completion of the MSc, perhaps at a more senior level.

The full-time course is suitable for those who have recently completed a degree in a related subject e.g. Computer Science, who now wish to specialize in Forensic Computing. It is also suitable for those who have completed a BSc in Computer Forensics, Digital Forensics or Cybercrime Forensics, and who now wish to deepen their knowledge, enhance their skills and increase their employability.

The course comprises taught elements and directed private study. The taught elements take place at the Shrivenham campus, based at a secure Ministry of Defence site in Shrivenham, Oxfordshire. In addition, students also have access to a bespoke lab at the Centre, equipped with the latest forensic software to assist with assignments.

Entry requirements

The normal entry qualification for enrolment to read for the PGCert/PGDip/MSc is a 1st or 2nd Class Honours Degree in a technical area such as: Computer Science, IT, Software Engineering, Computer Security, Forensic Computing. A joint subject degree; where one of the subjects is in a technical computing related area such as IT, computer science or computer security. A degree in Criminology or Law may be considered if the applicant has a strong IT background.

A lesser qualification together with appropriate work experience may be accepted. Applicants will be required to provide evidence of relevant investigative and technical experience at an acceptable level. Where required, guidance may be sought, by those who do not have the formal qualifications necessary to enrol immediately onto the programme, as to the best study route to take.

Subject to confirmation from the University, all non-law enforcement applicants will be asked to supply a completed Subject Access Form from their local constabulary or its equivalent from an international applicant, detailing any criminal convictions (at a cost of £10 to the applicant; this process takes up to 40 days).

The course is delivered on a military site and therefore all applicants will have to go through a security clearance procedure to be accepted on to the course.

Fees

Please contact Lindy Sheppard (see below).

Contact Person

Lindy Sheppard
Manager of Centre for Forensic Computing
l.c.sheppard@cranfield.ac.uk
Tel: 44 (0) 1793 785270
Fax: +44 (0) 1793 784229