Best Bachelor's Degrees in Computer Forensics

Degrees in computer forensics and connected fields exist at all levels: associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral. Computer forensics is often a concentration within a cybersecurity, computer science, or criminal justice degree rather than being an independent degree program in its own right. Computer forensics degrees are offered by a variety of public and private universities in both on-campus and online formats.

Associate Degrees in Computer Forensics

There are few degrees specifically in computer forensics at the associate level. However, students interested in computer forensics could pursue an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Computer and Information Science or an Associate in Applied Science in Cybersecurity. In addition to these degrees, some associate programs in computer science have concentrations in cybersecurity or network security.

These degrees would provide valuable training and potential transfer credits that could be used towards earning a bachelor's degree in a more focused program. The majority of these programs are online rather than on campus.

Bachelor's Degrees in Computer Forensics

A Bachelor of Science in Computer and Digital Forensics or Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity combines elements of computer science, criminal justice, and cyber security. Students learn the essential skills of the field including, coding, network security, and investigative methods. These degree programs frequently emphasize practical experience in addition to classroom teaching. They often give students the opportunity to work with and learn alongside professionals in the field through internships and other work opportunities in order to develop necessary skills and gain valuable experience.

Master's Degrees in Computer Forensics

A Master of Science in Digital Forensics or Master in Technology degree is designed for students with a bachelor's degree and existing experience in the field. Like bachelor's degrees in this field, these are multidisciplinary degrees that combine computer science with criminal justice education. Master's degrees in the computer forensics field offer advanced training in the skills and techniques of the field and take about two years to complete.

Doctoral Degrees in Computer Forensics

At the doctoral level, computer forensics is typically offered as a specialization within a larger degree, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Technology. However, there are a few options for a PhD in Cyber Defense or Digital and Cyber Forensic Science. These programs are designed for experienced professionals in the field who are interested in advanced research at the cutting edge of forensic developments. Students pursuing a doctorate in the field conduct investigations in labs, teach undergraduate students, and advance the field as a whole.

Certificates in Computer Forensics

A Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics is designed for mid-career professionals who already work within information and network management fields and would like to expand their skills into computer forensics. Graduate certificates offer advanced training in computer forensics for individuals who already possess skills in systems and network management. Many certificate programs in computer forensics are offered online as well as in person.

1. Farmingdale State College

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$8,538	55%	52%	74%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

2. Robert Morris University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$31,200	84%	65%	99%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

3. University of Central Oklahoma

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$7,753	84%	36%	91%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

4. Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$10,958	84%	60%	90%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

5. University of Baltimore

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$9,096	78%	41%	97%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

6. University of Wisconsin-Platteville

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$7,623	85%	56%	86%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

7. Tiffin University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$26,110	69%	39%	100%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE Credits

8. CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$7,470	41%	52%	85%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

9. Waynesburg University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$25,570	93%	66%	100%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

10. SUNY College at Plattsburgh

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$8,872	58%	68%	94%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

11. Virginia Commonwealth University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$14,596	87%	67%	81%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

12. West Virginia University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$8,976	84%	61%	94%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

13. Ashland University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$21,965	71%	65%	99%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

14. York College of Pennsylvania

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$20,885	69%	63%	100%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits

15. The University of Tampa

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$29,992	45%	58%	97%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

16. University of North Dakota

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$9,736	81%	61%	92%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

17. George Mason University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$12,564	87%	71%	74%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits

18. Towson University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$10,198	76%	71%	81%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

19. Florida State University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$6,517	36%	83%	97%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE Credits

20. Davenport University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$19,338	82%	49%	98%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits

21. San Jose State University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$7,852	64%	64%	73%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

22. Pennsylvania State University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$18,450	76%	71%	73%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE Credits

23. University of the Incarnate Word

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$32,576	94%	51%	99%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE Credits

24. King University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$30,616	62%	59%	92%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

25. Northeastern State University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$6,915	100%	33%	93%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

26. University of Southern Maine

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$9,226	81%	40%	97%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

27. Fairmont State University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$7,738	85%	41%	98%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

28. Utah Valley University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$5,820	No Available Data (2019-2020)	32%	74%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

29. University of Alabama at Birmingham

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$8,568	74%	63%	95%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits

To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit Study.com's ranking methodology page.

Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Computer or digital forensics can be a concentration within another degree. These programs can include computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or criminal justice degree programs.

Some programs may offer concentrations within a computer forensics degree, such as cyber investigation, or cybersecurity. These concentrations help to better focus a student's curriculum to suit their interests.

The curriculum for a computer forensics degree is multidisciplinary with classes in computer science, criminal justice, and other fields. Students complete extensive coursework in higher level math and statistics, computer coding, network security, and investigative methods.

Typical courses and their subjects from the best computer forensics schools include:

Cybercrime and Digital Forensics	Types and forms of cybercrime, identifying and protecting evidence.
Network Security	Current best practices in network security, types of threats and security methods.
Criminal Law	Introduction to the basic concepts of criminal law and the criminal justice system.

Sources; Purdue Global, Champlain College

Internships and practical experience are an important aspect of the curriculums of many computer forensics degrees. These are intended to give students direct hands-on experience early on in their careers in order to prepare them for the fast-paced nature of the field.

It typically takes about four years to earn a bachelor's in computer forensics. Some programs can be completed in as few as two and half years if students have already completed general education requirements. Students may also be able to shorten this time using transfer credits from an associate degree or summer classes.

A university's accreditation is an important measure of the quality and reliability of its programs. Accreditation is a review of a university or other institute of higher education to determine if it meets a set standard of performance and quality.

In the United States, university accreditation is conducted by regional accrediting bodies. These include the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, and others. These regional organizations are supervised by the Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to confirm they meet standards of quality.

Prospective students may also consider accreditation from organizations within their field of choice. Computer science programs are specifically accredited by the Computer Sciences Accreditation Board (CSAB), a member of the larger Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

It is always important to confirm a university's accreditation because enrollment in an accredited program is a prerequisite for receiving federal student aid.

There are several certifications in computer forensics offered by a variety of organizations. They include:

• Certified Computer Examiner (CCE): This certification is issued by the International Society for Forensic Computer Examiners (ISFCE) after an extensive testing process. To be eligible, an applicant must submit to a background check and sign the IFSCE Code of Ethics.
• Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE): This certification is issued by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) and requires a two-stage testing process. The first is a peer-review stage that is overseen by a licensed professional. The second stage is an independent written and practical examination.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): This is issued by ISC2 and is a certification for network and information security professionals, this requires a rigorous set of tests on eight core competencies of the field.

The field of computer forensics is large and growing fast. A bachelor's degree in computer forensics can open many opportunities for students. Computer forensics professionals may work in the private or public sectors. They can be computer forensics investigators, analysts, forensic technicians, security consultants, information security analysts, and more.

How to Become a Computer Forensics Analyst

Computer forensics analysts or computer forensics examiners are a type of forensic technician or information security analyst who provide support to law enforcement by investigating cybercrimes. They collect and analyze data while upholding rigorous standards as they gather crime scene evidence. Cybercrimes can include scams, identity theft, and other forms of electronic fraud.

A bachelor's degree in computer forensics, information technology, or computer science is essential to becoming a computer forensic examiner or computer forensics investigator. Previous work experience that is gained through internships or related positions is also very helpful when seeking a position as a computer forensics analyst. There are several certifications that are useful for a prospective computer forensic analyst or examiner, including the CCE and CFCE certifications.

The average salary for a computer forensics analyst is $74,199 according to Payscale.com. The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not have specific data on computer forensics analysts, but does provide data on forensic technicians, a related career. In 2019, forensic technicians made a median salary of $59,150, and the field is expected to grow 14% in the next decade.

How to Become an Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts provide support for an organization's information and network security system. They analyze and assess these systems for weaknesses and potential threats, and may help investigate online security breaches. They utilize computer and network programming skills to prepare for and respond to breaches of network security.

A bachelor's degree in computer science, computer forensics, or a related field is the minimum education requirement for becoming an information security analyst. Students interested in these positions may enhance their marketability by gaining work experience through internships and related positions, by pursuing a graduate level degree, or gaining a certification, such as the CISSP certification.

According to the BLS the median salary of an information security analyst was $99,730 per year in 2019, and the job growth rate is 31%, which is well over the average for most jobs.

There are many financial aid options for students interested in pursuing bachelor's degrees in computer forensics, including federal student loans, scholarships, and internships.

The first step to securing financial aid is to complete the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA. The FAFSA is used to assess your financial need for aid. Students enrolled in an accredited university may be eligible for federal student loans and work-study programs.

Many universities also utilize FAFSA information to determine a student's eligibility for need-based scholarships or grants. Universities may also offer merit-based scholarships for qualifying students, and frequently have a page that lists scholarships that their students may apply for. When considering a program, take a look at listed scholarships to see if there are any you might apply to.

Many computer forensics programs require or encourage their students to complete internships as a part of their course of study. In addition to valuable practical experience, these may be paid internships that could help offset the costs of tuition and fees.

Choosing a computer forensics school and program involves several different factors. These include curriculum, cost, and location.

• Curriculum: When you are exploring degree programs and schools, make sure to pay attention to the curriculum offered. Does the school offer any courses you are interested in? Do you have any transfer credits that might eliminate requirements for the general education or core curriculums? Does the school have internship programs or study abroad opportunities? All of these questions may play a role in deciding on a program.
• Cost: The costs of a bachelor's degree can vary greatly depending on the type of school or program you are considering. Is the school a state or private school? If it is a state school, would you be eligible for in-state or out-of-state tuition? What financial aid opportunities does the program offer? Are there any that are unique to this school that you could be eligible for?
• Location: Location can be an important factor when selecting an on-campus degree program. You are likely going to be living in this location for two to four years, do you like it? Would you rather live in a large city or a small college town? Location also plays a role in determining costs when it comes to in-state vs. out-of-state tuition.

Each of these factors and questions can be considered when choosing a computer forensics degree program.

There are many professional associations in computer forensics, here is a brief sample of them:

• International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists: An International non-profit of computer forensics professionals that offers professional development opportunities, certifications, and networking support.
• International Society for Forensic Computer Examiners: A private certification and research organization for computer forensics professionals.
• American Academy of Forensic Sciences: A multidisciplinary organization that promotes the advancement of forensic sciences through networking, journal publications, and conferences.