Digital Forensics

Intro

Why choose this course?

This course provides students with advanced knowledge in Forensic Science and Computer Techniques and Tools; exactly the knowledge required by practising Digital Forensic Scientists.

Viewed as a whole, computing tools and techniques are becoming critical to the normal investigative process. Some crimes can only be prosecuted as a result of such investigations. You can become involved in the detailed examination of evidence, helping to prosecute the guilty and clear the innocent.

This course takes graduates who have skills, knowledge and understanding of computing and introduces them to the key skills and knowledge required to:

• investigate computer misuse
• act as an expert witness in this area
• assess and remedy breaches in security
• reconstruct criminal activity involving all forms of digital technology, including computers, the Internet, and mobile phones.

What you study

What you learn
You will learn a wide range of techniques and competencies relating to digital forensics. The core theme within the course considers digital forensics in mainstream computing, mobile computing and Internet applications. You will also be introduced to penetration testing, and consider legal issues. There is also a module about National Security Informatics.

In the Master’s stage, what you learn is up to you. Having chosen a specialist topic, you will be guided through your studies by a dedicated supervisor.

How you learn
In the taught phase you will learn through group work, discussion, practical workshops, guided reading and lectures, and use a variety of online materials. Realistic case studies are used throughout. You will focus on practical skills in lab workshops, for example, database and web application implementation. The number of classes is deliberately kept low (no more than about 12 hours per week) to give you sufficient time for personal study and exploration, and discussion with fellow students. When you start the Masters phase, you will already have completed a research proposal. Throughout your Masters project, you will have weekly group meetings and regular contact with two supervisors, one for general issues such as project management and one specialist.

How you are assessed
Various assessment methods are used as appropriate, and include portfolios, coursework, mini research projects, presentations and prototypes, and some class tests. The Masters stage is assessed via a dissertation.

Entry routes

A minimum of lower second class Honours degree, or a degree with relevant experience, in computing or a related subject.

Other qualifications may be considered on an individual basis.

Overseas/EU
All applicants are required to provide certified proof of competence in English Language and the University's minimum requirements are listed here.

More info

This course is ideal for those who aim to have a career in any organisation with a large, complex IT infrastructure as well as in law-enforcement, the security sector and specialist digital security firms. There, they would take on specialist roles as digital analysts/investigators as well as more general roles such as network managers, system administrators and system security specialists. Other opportunities exist within consultancy and in auditing organisations that employ security professionals to audit the computer systems of other companies.

More information
Digital Forensics Leaflet - New 

Fees & Scholarships

Fee quoted is the total cost providing that the MSc follows on immediately after the PG Dip element and is completed within the same academic year as started.  Fees may be subject to increase.