What Are the Different Types of Computer Forensics Programs?

There are many different types of computer forensics programs offered by different colleges and schools, though a few basic categories are quite common. Undergraduate training is typically a program that culminates in a bachelor’s or associate’s degree and usually focuses on general computer studies with some focus in computer forensics. Graduate programs are offered by many schools for students who already have a bachelor’s degree and wish to focus even more extensively on computer forensics practices and methods. There are also some computer forensics programs that are meant for career development, which may not award a degree but provide someone with the practical skills and knowledge needed to work in computer forensics.

Computer forensics programs are typically offered by colleges and universities for those interested in working in computer forensics. Undergraduate programs are fairly common and typically offered by schools that have a college of computer studies or technology. These computer forensics programs usually culminate in an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree, depending on how long the program requires for completion and the subject matter covered. Undergraduate programs often provide a broad education, however, so these degrees usually work well for those interested in general computer studies and utilizing common applications for computer forensics.

Once an undergraduate program is completed, then someone may want to consider computer forensics programs offered at a graduate level. These programs typically result in a master’s degree or doctorate. While undergraduate courses are often used to provide a great deal of broad or general knowledge, graduate level computer forensics programs tend to give students a more focused education. These programs are often best for people interested in teaching computer forensics to others, those interested in working at high levels in law enforcement, and those who wish to perform research and work on developing new methods for computer forensics.

Some schools also offer computer forensics programs that are not designed to award a degree at completion, but instead are meant for professional training. These programs are often intended for someone who has a background and experience working with computers, but who wishes to be specifically capable of performing computer forensics. Such programs may reward students with certification upon successful completion of them, and this certification is often used to demonstrate that someone is qualified to work in the industry. Many of these different types of computer forensics programs can be completed in classrooms, as well as through online programs that allow students to more easily learn according to their own schedules.