Digital Forensic Investigation

This certificate is designed to provide a basic introductory pattern of coursework to prepare participants to enter the professional field with academic and technical knowledge and skill in criminal investigations involving the collection and analysis of digital evidence. The successful participant will gain sufficient skill and understanding of criminal investigative procedure, criminal and procedural law, legal aspects of evidence and cybercrime, how digital machines and data are used in criminal actions, and proper evidence collection and handling procedures. 

It is expected that 10-15 students will complete the program in the first year, with a 2-3% annual growth. 

Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to:

Understand, analyze, and demonstrate a proficient level of knowledge in criminal law, criminal procedure, Constitutional criminal law, rules of evidence, and chain of custody issues both general to criminal investigations and specific to digital evidence. 

Demonstrate technique and skill in basic evidence identification, collection, handling, packaging, storage, and analysis, with a specific focus in digital hardware and data. 

Understand and demonstrate a proficient skillset and knowledge in basic operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS systems. 

Understand and demonstrate a proficient skillset and knowledge in forensic digital analysis software programs and platforms. 

ADJ-2 Principles and Procedures of the Justice System 3.0

ADJ-13 Criminal Investigation 3.0

ADJ-31 Cybercrime & Digital Forensics 3.0

CIS-1A Introduction to Computer Information Systems 3.0

CIS-21 Introduction to Operating Systems 3.0

CIS-27A Computer Forensics Fundamentals 3.0