Newbie... Champlain or Devry

Hello,

1.) If those are your only two choices, from looking at course content, topics and faculty teaching/developing the courses…I would go for Champlain. Personally, I attended Bloomsburg University, in Bloomsburg PA for their Computer Forensics Bachelor Degree. From the location you gave on the forums, it's only about 3 hours away (depends how fast you drive 😉 ). I would suggest considering this at the very least. The classes include file systems, EnCase & FTK, Mobile Devices, and I believe even a Linux forensics course. They also have a lab which gives you access to all hardware/software you need to practice the skills you learned and will use in the real world.

2.) I believe the "Online only" Stigma is a bit outdated. If you feel you would do well in an online environment, I say go for it. Both Online and traditional campuses have ups and downs.

3.) Depends what your overall goal is and I think it might be important for you to think about that right now. Is your overall goal to get a job in Computer Forensics? If so, your actions, education, work expereince, internship experience should lead you to that goal.

Maybe you could do two majors?

I would suggest looking around this forum for resources such as recommended books, websites, free training or free resources dealing with Computer Forensics. If you do choose Computer Forensics, I would suggest taking advantage of all the free resources, buy and read books, take advantage of college resources if you choose to go that route. Maybe attend a conference. Really, just immerse yourself in the field and these forums are a good place to start.

As long as you put the effort in, are patient and keep your overall goal in mind, you will do well.

If cost is of no issue, then Champlain would win hands down (and really no comparison between DeVry (no offense to DeVry grads)). Do realize, though, that the Champlain program will run you around 80k… search the web for other distance education degrees.

Online / Distance Education Degrees are as recognized as if you attended a B&M (Brick & Mortar) school - the difference not being quality of education, but determination and ability to complete work on your own or with very little interaction between other students.

Before jumping into a degree, you need to check into what the local market requires for you to get into this field Do you want to be a Law Enforcement Officer for a local, state or federal agency? If not, what is the private sector job market like? Do you need to have a P.I. License? What do you think it'll be by the time you graduate in four years time? Are you willing to relocate to follow that dream?

Perhaps you're better off getting some certifications which you could then perhaps roll into the Bachelors Degree…

There are other threads on this forum that discuss certs and education, I assume you've perused those prior to posting? )

Thanks for the responses,
@ForensicRanger I want to get a degree as well as certifications, the reason being i like having a solid foundation including theory etc.

Also if Champlain is not a option, does anyone have any other recommendations for Online study (I work full time).

Thanks again,
Tzvi

@ForensicRanger, I am not sure where you got the $80k for the champlain online program from, the Champlain undergrad online program is closer to $65k, if you cannot get any credits. If you have prior work experience or another degree you can probably get credit from a course or two.

@Tzvi there are a number of different programs around the place that you could consider (of which Champlain is one). I suggest you have a look at the education listing here http//www.forensicfocus.com/computer-forensics-education-directory, hopefully you will be able to something that suits your needs. If you want more details on Champlain pm me and I will put you in touch with the right people.

I just graduated from Champlain in May so I am biased. Great instructors and great classes. I did all of it entirely online since I live in Illinois.
Having said all of this, I am still looking for my first position in the computer forensics field.
Libby Baugher

Please accept my apologies - it's a mere $65k, not the outrageous $80k I posted. Even using PLAR and CLEP/DSST, it is still a costly programme…

Also, I never critized the programme - I am sure it is great, however the price tag associated to it is steep… particularly when you spend it and don't have a job…

tibbs66 No contacts through the University that could help you land that first job?

Hi Libby
If you have not already contacted Mark Zammuto at the Career services center I suggest you do so. He gets quite a few job request coming in and will help you find that job.
Good Luck

Mike

DF career services site http//www.champlain.edu/Career-Services/Students/Major-Specific-Resources/Computer-and-Digital-Forensics.html

Find your advisor http//www.champlain.edu/Career-Services/Meet-Your-Advisor.html

I am about to graduate from Devry and I have been in contact with the headquarters about changing some of the courses as they do not fit with Computer Forensics or Network Sec. Case in point I just finihed my ASP.net class and about to move to another programming class Java.

Although I understand the importance of understanding what I am looking at in an investigation when I encouter programming there is absolutley no reason that I need to take 5 programming courses. Even the Dean and the teachers I have spoken to agree with me. one class is fine.

I am trying to have them change the classes to more Networking and less programming. Seeing as I only took 1 Networking class.

But as whole in my 3.5 yrs at Devry I have been very happy with the education and the quality. The cost sucks but that's the price of provate schools that have better class schedules with my FT job and family.

Josh,

No offense, but you got taken for a ride. Devry is a fly by nighter school. No two ways about it. (They have changed their name a few times in the Boston area.)

I am not saying this to take away from Devry grads who are doing well for themselves. But, Devry over-charges at best, and they pedal snake oil at worst.

I cannot speak about Champlain.

Colleges in the US tend to offer certifcate programs. Those are cheaper, and there is often financial aid available.

Dom
-back to lurking.