The Certificate in Digital Forensics will educate students in the foundations of digital forensics and its application in the criminal justice system and in corporate investigations. According to the National Institute of Science and Technology, digital forensics is the application of science to the process of identification, collection, examination, and analysis of data stored in computers, while preserving the integrity of the information and maintaining a strict chain of custody. Students will learn how to handle and manage digital evidence (e.g., data stored on a person’s hard drive or cell phone) from discovery to preservation using technologies such as forensic software or a hex editor. Graduates will thus receive a foundation that will enable them to identify, collect, examine, and analyze digital evidence and present their findings as effective witnesses in civil and criminal court cases.
Program Highlights
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Full-time, part-time, and non-degree students may enroll in the certificate program and may complete requirements in as little as one year.
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Law enforcement professionals, cybersecurity professionals, and students in bachelor’s degree programs in cybersecurity, cyber operations, criminal justice, and interdisciplinary studies (cybercrime major) may find this certification highly desirable in pursuing their career options.
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Forensic Science Technicians
Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.
Digital Forensics Analysts
Conduct investigations on computer-based crimes establishing documentary or physical evidence, such as digital media and logs associated with cyber intrusion incidents. Analyze digital evidence and investigate computer security incidents to derive information in support of system and network vulnerability mitigation. Preserve and present computer-related evidence in support of criminal, fraud, counterintelligence, or law enforcement investigations.
Intelligence Analysts
Gather, analyze, or evaluate information from a variety of sources, such as law enforcement databases, surveillance, intelligence networks or geographic information systems. Use intelligence data to anticipate and prevent organized crime activities, such as terrorism.
Requirements
Students must complete 12 total credit hours, including two required core courses and two elective courses from a restricted list.
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Featured Courses
This course introduces tools and techniques used to secure and analyze large computer networks and systems. Students will explore and map networks using a variety of diagnostic software tools, learn advanced packet analysis, configure firewalls, write intrusion detection rules, perform forensic investigation, and practice techniques for penetration testing. Prerequisite: MATH 162M or permission of the instructor.
This course is part of the Day One Access program; you should not purchase any course materials denoted by the Day One Access logo as they are part of your course registration. In the event you drop this course from your schedule on or prior to the last day of DROP/ADD period, your account will be fully refunded automatically if you received a digital textbook. If you received a physical textbook you will need to return the textbook to the store and your account will be refunded at that time.
The purpose of this interdisciplinary course is to introduce students to the ways in which computers are involved in the commission and the investigation of crime. Students will learn the fundamentals of cryptography and steganography and the tools used to perform these activities Students will also use forensic software to identify, gather, and verify relevant digital evidence. Cross-listed with CRJS 409. Prerequisite: CRJS 310 or permission of instructor.
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Other fees are assessed for special services and certain academic programs. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
Contact
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