M.Sc. in Security and Forensic Computing

http://www.dcu.ie/prospective/deginfo.php?classname=MSSF&mode=full

Course length

1 year / 2 years, Full-time/Part-time

Course description

Forensic Computing is often regarded as a primarily computer-related problem with technical solutions. In reality, however, Forensic Computing actually draws on a number of disciplines: namely, computer science, information systems, law, and social science. Accordingly, DCU's M.Sc. in Security and Forensic Computing adopts a holistic approach to the study of Forensic Computing, and provides students with an understanding of the legal, technical, information management and ethical issues impacting on the discipline. Hence, graduates are thoroughly prepared to undertake their work in a structured manner consistent with evidential requirements.

Delivered on full-time basis over one calendar year or part-time over two years, the uniqueness of this Masters degree lies in its blending of the practical commercial examination of Forensic Computing with the theoretical study of the prevention of digital crime. Interactive learning methods- including laboratory work, presentations, seminars and guest lectures- are employed so to that students learn to effectively evaluate and apply theoretical material to practical assignments. By so doing, participants also develop vital professional and interpersonal skills in such areas as teamwork, communication, research and critical thinking.

During the final semester, from May to August, students draw on knowledge gained over the first two semesters to work on a "Practicum", or major project of a practical nature. Here, the students, individually or in small teams, develop prototype secure software systems to solve a real-world problem or, alternatively, analyse forensic approaches and propose improvements.

The projects, which may be provided by external clients or involve some of the students' or staff's own ideas, typically require the preparation of a feasibility study, followed by creation of a project plan and development of a software application or rigorous theoretical analysis. Importantly, this Practicum element allows students, where applicable, to work on in-house problems for their respective sponsoring organisations.

Entry requirements

Because of the rapid speed of developments in the Forensic Computing and Security fields, the programme is beneficial to both recent graduates wishing to keep abreast of developments in these areas, and also those already in employment who wish to update their skills through full-time study. Applications are, therefore, invited from candidates who have, at a minimum, an Upper Second Class Honours (H2.1) degree in Computer Science, Computing, School of Computing, or a discipline with a strong Computing content. In exceptional circumstances, applications from candidates with Lower Second Class Honours (H2.2) computing degrees will be considered. Applications are also welcome from Honours graduates of other disciplines who have significant experience in the security or software development sectors.

International Applications

International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language.

Fees

See http://www.dcu.ie/finance/fees/schedule.shtml

Contact Person

Ms Julie Ann Ennis
jennis@computing.dcu.ie
Tel: +353 1 700 5237