Best online computer forensics degrees 2021: Top picks
The ever-increasing number of data applications and cyberattacks has created a massive demand for information security professionals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects information security analysts to be one of the fastest-growing occupations in the country between 2020 and 2030. With a computer forensics degree, graduates can qualify for these promising positions, along with many other computer occupations. Computer forensics professionals possess the skills to protect against, investigate, and recover from cyberattacks. Training in this discipline equips students with valuable security, analytical, and communication skills that they can apply in various careers and industries. On this page, we examine the computer forensics degree and rank the top programs in the field. The best online bachelor's in computer forensics degrees We have listed and ordered the top computer forensic degrees in the nation using ZDNet's ranking methodology . We collect and curate data from publicly available national datasets and then apply our proprietary algorithm to determine what programs make the list. Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard . 1. Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology About the program: OSUIT's 121-credit online information technologies program features a cybersecurity and digital forensics concentration . This track provides students with training in enterprise security management, network security, applied cryptography, and secure system administration. Accreditation: Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 2. Dakota State University About the program: DSU's 120-credit online computer forensics degree combines leadership, computer systems, and cybersecurity training. The forensics specialization includes courses in operating environments and computer and windows forensics. Accreditation: Dakota State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 3. Keiser University About the program: Keiser's online computer forensics degree completion program features 60 upper level credits. Some of the required courses include systems design, cybercrimes, and computer system forensic analysis. Accreditation: Keiser University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 4. Champlain College About the program: Champlain's 120-credit online computer forensics degree features 63 professionally focused credits in courses like malware forensics, digital forensic analysis, and criminal investigation. Accreditation: Champlain College is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). 5. City University of Seattle About the program: CityU's 180-quarter credit online data science degree features a cybersecurity specialization. For this concentration, students complete courses in data and network security. Accreditation: City University of Seattle is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). What to expect in an online bachelor's in computer forensics degree program In general, a computer forensics degree at the bachelor's level provides students with digital investigative skills and techniques. They learn to secure and protect the privacy of computer systems, networks, and users. To accomplish this, the programs combine theoretical and practical training using various operating systems, applications, and software. While students usually work independently, some group assignments may be required. Several courses throughout the training will feature practical projects and lab work, and many programs offer practicum or internship opportunities for more hands-on training. While computer forensics is often a specialization within a computer science discipline, some programs allow learners to pursue a more focused track, such as data loss prevention and incident response. Computer forensics courses The courses in a computer forensics degree may touch on various aspects of computer science, including computer engineering, systems management, and cybersecurity . The following courses highlight some of the more forensic-focused topics students might encounter. In this course, students learn to use the most popular forensics tools and techniques. They look at investigative methods, including the collection and reporting of evidence. Students in this course study the privacy laws and ethics in the digital world. They analyze philosophical and legal issues in the field, including hacking, piracy, and copyrights. This course familiarizes students with common ne