M889 Computer Forensics and Investigations

http://www3.open.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/course/m889.htm

Course length

24 weeks starting in either November or May.

Course description

In M889, you will learn how to deal with situations where security measures have failed; or where some malicious activity has occurred, or is alleged to have occurred, involving computing equipment. You will develop an understanding of the necessary investigatory disciplines. You will also be introduced to key legislation applicable in England and Wales (the majority of which also applies in Scotland and Northern Ireland) and briefly examine relevant EU and International Law.

The course will provide some initial practical experience in using real computer forensic tools to investigate a problem. This will give you an opportunity to learn about the range of forensic artefacts we create in our modern digital life, such as web browsing, email and other activities. In addition, you will learn how to develop a forensic readiness program for an organisation, as well as how to critically evaluate forensic tools and keep up to date with new developments in computing forensics research. Please ensure that you read the entry requirements below as having access to an organisation is an essential part of the course.

This course provides an introduction to the techniques of forensic computing. By completing the course, you will be both a technical and a management asset in almost any organisation, but you would need to complete further courses to become a fully qualified forensic technician or investigator.

Entry requirements

There are no entry requirements, but we assume that you have already studied to HNC/HND level or have equivalent experience from your employment.

It is an advantage to have some experience working in an environment where information security is an issue. Throughout the course you will be asked to relate course concepts with the practice in an organisation with which you are familiar. In the final part of the course assessment, you will be asked to analyse the forensic readiness of a medium to large organisation, for which you will need their permission and cooperation. This could be your employer, or any suitable organisation to which you have access. Obtaining the information and documentation that you need may take some time, and could require the active support of your manager or person responsible for the organisation. We recommend that you make any necessary arrangements before the start of the course although you do not need to start collecting the documentation until during the course. If you require any further information please contact the Postgraduate Technology and Computing Office (telephone 0115 971 5566, or email us).

If you have any doubt about the suitability of the course, please contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service.

Fees

2010

£945.00 (fees may vary by country)

Contact Person

Blaine Price
Chair (course leader)
B.A.Price@open.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)115 971 5566