What Does a Computer Forensics Investigator Do?

A Computer Forensics Investigator is trained in combating crimes ranging from crimes against children to file system recovery on computers that have been damaged or hacked. The Computer Forensics Investigator, also known as a Computer Forensics Specialist, recovers data from digital media that will be used in criminal prosecution. Digital media refers to all methods of electronic data storage and transfer devices including computers, laptops, PDAs and the images, spreadsheets and other types of files stored on these devices. Once a Computer Forensics Investigator retrieves the necessary information they will prepare very detailed and technical written reports on the collected data that will later be presented in court. Part of the Computer Forensics Investigator job description is to testify in court regarding the information they had recovered and the methods they used to recover that information.

Computer Forensics consulting firms or Freelance Computer Forensic Investigators are also hired by large corporations to test the information systems security they have in place. Computer Forensic Specialists will mimic how a malicious hacker might attempt to gain access to a corporation’s computer network.

Requirements and Qualifications to Become a Computer Forensics Investigator
Being that computer forensics is such a new field there has not been a consistent range of requirements or qualifications set across agencies. Many individuals gained their training and skills in computer forensics by working in law enforcement or the military. Now that many colleges are offering computer forensics degrees and related information systems – security degrees/cyber crime degrees, an education has become a minimum requirement to stay competitive in the industry.

Top Computer Forensics Schools

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Top Computer Forensics Schools

Computer crime is one of the fastest growing areas of crime in the world. With the internet expanding its boundaries and email becoming the more prevalent way to communicate in business as well as on a personal level, personal and corporate computers have become extremely vulnerable to attack. This has created an increased need for individuals educated in computer forensics or computer forensic investigators.

Computer Forensics Investigator Job Outlook and Salary
Computer forensic jobs are forecasted to grow faster than the average with most of the job growth being in law enforcement agencies and corporations. For individuals with a master’s degree, growth in freelance and consulting firms will be significant. Computer forensics salaries vary significantly depending on whether you work for a law enforcement agency or in a corporate setting and what level of education is attained, thus a computer forensics investigator salary can be anywhere from $50,000 to over $100,000 annually. Freelancers and those working in consulting firms can earn significantly more money. Some computer forensics careers will require certifications such as, CISSP, CISM, CISA, or CCSP.

The Computer Forensics degree programs offered here will provide you with the skills to succeed as a computer forensics investigator.

1. University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix makes higher education highly accessible.

Computer Forensics Programs
* BS in Information Technology Information System Security

2. AIU Online
Earn your Associate’s, Bachelor’s completion- even an MBA- from the comfort of home at AIU Online. Choose from career-track programs such as Visual Communication, Information Technology and more.

Computer Forensics Programs
* Bachelor’s (BIT) Internet Security

3. Strayer University Online
Strayer University Online offers degree programs designed to fit your busy schedule. Attend real-time courses via the Internet, or complete coursework at times most convenient to you.

Computer Forensics Programs
* BSIS: Computer Security
* BSIS: Security Administration
* Diploma: IS: Computer Security

4. Jones International University
Earn a high quality degree in Business, IT, Education, or Communications. Jones International University® offers self-paced bachelor’s and master’s degrees tailored to your needs.

Computer Forensics Programs
* MBA in Information Security Management

5. Virginia College Online
Earn your associate’s, bachelor’s or master’s degree from Virginia College Online. Our extensive programs are offered 100% online, so you can launch the career of your choice from the comfort of your own home.

Computer Forensics Programs
* BS Network Cybersecurity
* MS Cybersecurity

6. Champlain College
Take your career to the next level. Champlain College Online can help you develop the skills you need to achieve your goals and transform your career. Our accelerated, flexible online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs have been designed to teach you the latest concepts in business and technology.

Computer Forensics Programs
* Computer & Digital Forensics

7. Utica College
Help combat economic crime. Train for a high-paying, in-demand career with an online Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in economic crime prevention from Utica College.

Computer Forensics Programs
* Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Economic Crime Investigation
* Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Cybercrime investigation
* Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Information Assurance

8. Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University
Earn a respected degree. When you choose Keller to pursue your advanced education, you will earn a graduate degree from an accredited, nationally respected university recognized by leading employers across a wide range of industries.

Computer Forensics Programs
* Certificate Information Security

9. Brookdale Community College
Brookdale Community College offers IT certifications that you can earn on your terms, online or on campus. All of our programs offer a satisfaction, money-back guarantee.

Computer Forensics Programs
* Cisco Certified Security Professional (CCSP)
* CompTIA Network+
* CompTIA Security +

10. Heald College
Heald College offers 18-month associate degree programs that will prepare you for a career in Business, Technology, or Healthcare. Small class sizes, hands-on instruction.

Computer Forensics Programs
* Network Security

11. Louisville Technical Institute
All the schools in the Sullivan University System focus their programs on career-specific courses only”so you can get the education you need faster.

Computer Forensics Programs
* Information Systems Security

12. Rasmussen College
Rasmussen College is a private, for profit, two-year degree granting college with campuses in Brooklyn Park, Eagan, Mankato, Minnetonka, and St. Cloud.

Computer Forensics Programs
* Info. Systems Mgmt. Associate Degree Network Security and Forensics Technology

13. Strayer University
Get the right foundation for your future with a degree from Strayer University. Evening, weekend and online classes are all available to meet the needs of busy adults.

Computer Forensics Programs
* BSIS: Computer Security
* BSIS: Security Administration
* Diploma: IS: Computer Security

14. TechSkills
TechSkills offers affordable, flexible IT and business certification training that fits your busy lifestyle. Get the skills you need for a successful career”start today.

Computer Forensics Programs
* CompTIA Security+

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