Forensic Computing BSc Honours

http://www.dmu.ac.uk/Subjects/Db/coursePage2.php?courseID=1083

Course length

Four years sandwich

Course description

The course is built around three major strands:

- Technical (what is possible)
- Professional (what is permissible)
- Practical (what is appropriate).

The technical strand develops a thorough understanding of computer hardware, software and networking. From this flows the ability to work with computers in a forensically sound manner including protecting computer systems, recognising the signs of attack, exposing hidden evidence and handling that evidence after an incident has occurred. Topics include:

- Computer hardware and communication devices
- Data storage, transmission, authentication, encryption and hiding (steganography)
- Operating systems (Linux, BSD, OS X, Windows), system software and programming, web systems, and malware
- The Internet, wireless communications and network protocols.

The professional strand establishes the context in which forensic computing specialists work. It deliberately balances the possibilities that the technical strand opens up with the professional responsibilities of investigating and handling digital evidence. Topics studied include:

- Ethics and its relation to the law and forensic computing
- Computer law, legal processes and digital evidence
- The regulatory framework of digital investigation.

The practical strand provides the knowledge and skills necessary to design and undertake forensic investigation of a wide range of incidents involving computers, networks and other sources of digital data. Topics studied include:

- Preparing for an investigation, initial incident response strategies and the forensic acquisition of digital evidence
- Analysing digital evidence using cutting-edge investigative tools
- Reporting the outcomes of a forensic investigation in a manner acceptable to the courts and other organisations.

Teaching/assessment

A variety of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials/group work, computer lab sessions and self-directed study. Assessments involve a wide range of activities including examinations, essays, presentations, programming and penetration testing exercises, and the practical investigation of suspect machines, networks and digital devices in a time constrained manner.

Entry requirements

Normally 280 UCAS points from a minimum of two subjects at A Level (or equivalent - BTEC Diploma/Certificate, Advanced VCE(s), Advanced GNVQ, Scottish Higher and Irish Leaving Certificate) and

Normally five GCSEs at grade C or above (or equivalent), including English and Maths

We are also keen to talk to mature students (21+) with relevant industry experience and/or training who do not meet the formal qualifications.

Fees

2009/10

Standard fees for Home/EU students are £3225 per person per year (fees are subject to change)

Further information can be found on the faculty fees and scholarships pages

Contact Information

Email: technology@dmu.ac.uk
Tel: (0116) 257 7456

MSc Forensic Computing

http://www.dmu.ac.uk/faculties/technology/courses/postgraduate/msc-forensic-computing.jsp

Course length

One year (optional placement for one year).

Course description

Semester One (September to January)

- Topics in Forensics and Security
- Forensic Tools and Techniques
- Live Forensics and Reversing
- Computer Law and Ethics

Semester Two (February to May)

- Research Methods
- Digital Evidence and Incident Response
- Secure Web Systems
- Professional Practice and Responsibilities

Semester Three (June to September)

- MSc Forensic Computing Project (Dissertation)

Optional Placement

The Faculty is offering a great opportunity to boost your career prospects through an optional twelve month placement as part of your postgraduate studies. The Faculty has a dedicated Industrial Placement Unit which will help you obtain a one year placement. Once in placement, you will be supported by your visiting tutor to ensure that you gain maximum benefit from the experience. Placements begin after the taught component of the programme has been completed – usually around June – and last for 12 months. When you return from work placement you then begin the dissertation stage of your programme.

Teaching Styles And Methods

Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials and laboratory work. A strong emphasis is given to real world problems. Assessment is by a combination of coursework, projects and lab-based Assessments.

Entry requirements

Applicants will be expected to possess the equivalent of a British Honours Degree (2:2 minimum) in a relevant subject.

Students without formal academic qualifications but with extensive industry experience will be considered on an individual basis.

For non-native speakers, there is an English language requirement equivalent to IELTS 6.0

Fees

2009/10

See http://www.dmu.ac.uk/faculties/technology/How_to_apply/finance/tech_pg_tuition_fees.jsp

Contact Information

Email: technology@dmu.ac.uk
Tel: (0116) 257 7456