How to Become a Computer Forensics Analyst
Overview & Salaries
Recommended Degree:
The right degree for you to become a computer forensic analyst depends on the company you apply for. Most entry level positions require at least a bachelors degree in computer science, information technology, or systems analysis. It may also help to have a certificate, minor, or associates degree in criminal investigations. If you are looking to get into a more competitive position or management position, then a masters degree in computer science or information technology along with relevant work experience can help you stand out in the hiring process. There are also a number of computer programming certificates offered by companies like Oracle that can help enhance your skill set. To learn more please click out Education Required tab up top.
You can launch your career path today by signing up for free information from one of our accredited colleges below that offer programs to help get you started as a computer forensic analyst.
How Much Does a Computer Forensic Analyst Make?
$79,680 (national median salary, to see salaries in your state click on the “Best Places to Work” tab up top)
Expected Growth from 2012-2020:
+127,700 additional people employed
(all information above provided by the 2012 BLS Computer Systems Analyst page)
The Best Places to Become a Computer Forensic Specialist
Computer forensic specialists are employed by a whole host of agencies both public and private from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to private investigation firms.
The responsibilities of these professionals is great and high demands are placed on personal integrity and honesty of investigators. While these jobs are at times dangerous, they are also rewarding.
Employment and Information Data for Computer Forensics Analyst
Why Become a Computer Forensics Analyst?
Forensic science technician positions will continue to be in demand over the next decade growing by 19% from now until 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Criminal activity isn’t just a physical event anymore. Today, computer forensic professionals are just as likely to be hardened detectives as they are pocket protector wearing geeks.
As our world has gotten more and more wired, a great deal of crime occurs behind closed doors. Cybercrime is not only a serious threat to individuals but also nation states whose infrastructures (think power grids and banking systems) are only as strong and safe as their networks.
Recommended Courses to Help You Become a Computer Systems Analyst
- Criminal Law
- Cyber Crime/Criminal & Civil
- Introduction to Networking/Security
- Intro to Forensic Science with Lab
- Introduction to Computer Theory
- Systems Software
- Introduction to Digital Forensics
- Law of Digital Evidence
- Technical Writing
- Anti-Forensics & Network Forensics
Degree Options for Computer Forensics Analyst Careers
Although you don’t need a degree, formal training is highly recommended and many agencies require formal training and certification. Below are some education options for forensic analyst.
Certificate
A computer forensics certificate will provide you with the basics in both computer science and law enforcement techniques.
Associate’s Degree
A computer forensics associate’s degree provides a wide range of computer science and law enforcement techniques. By blending the two curricula together it presents a complete picture how they work hand in hand.
Bachelor’s Degree
The computer forensics bachelor’s degree provides students with courses focused on the latest technologies and theory in computer forensic sciences as well as hands on experiences of theory and applications.
Graduate’s Degree
A master’s degree and Ph.D. in Computer and Digital Forensics is often a stepping stone to academia or advanced laboratory work for some of the country’s top agencies and businesses.
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