Certification Order..

Another avenue, if one already has IT training/experience, is to get a Federal (USGOV) IT position, show motivation and diligence in one's position, and express and demonstrate interest in forensics.

Federal agencies have "free" access and will send IT personnel to Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA) for training in various IT security and forensics courses. In just six weeks, one can have an exclusive computer forensics certification based on intensive, practical curriculum and other relevant IT training.

Result Great training, job security, and less impact on the wallet.