Administration of Justice: Cyber Crime Investigations

The Cyber Crime Investigations Certificate provides students with the skills to investigate technology-related crimes in a digital environment. Topics include digital evidence collection, cybercrime laws, and online investigative techniques. This program prepares students for entry-level or advanced roles in law enforcement, investigations, and cybersecurity.

Currently an average of 346 (three year average) complete an Administration of Justice certification.  Based on those numbers and the total Administration of Justice certificates that East Los Angeles College provides, it is projected that approximately 56 students will complete this certificate on a annual basis. 

The Cyber Crime Investigations Certificate prepares students with the skills and ethical foundation to investigate cyber-related crimes. Recognizing that digital technology is involved in nearly all crimes today, students learn to analyze digital evidence, apply relevant laws, and use investigative tools. The program supports entry and advancement in law enforcement, cybersecurity, and digital forensics careers.

To earn the Cyber Crime Investigations Certificate, students must complete a combination of foundational and specialized coursework designed to build investigative and technological competencies. Required courses include Criminal Investigations, which provides core investigative principles and procedures; Introduction to Cyber Investigations, which focuses on digital evidence, cybercrime methods, and online investigative techniques; and AI for Administration of Justice, which introduces the use of artificial intelligence tools and their application within modern justice systems. Together, these courses ensure students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to investigate crimes in an increasingly digital and technology-driven environment.

The place of program in the college's curriculum would be within the Administration of Justice program.  

Currently, there are no comparable programs within the Los Angeles region that focus specifically on cyber crime investigations. While there are numerous Cybersecurity certificate programs available, those programs are distinct in that they emphasize system protection and network defense rather than the investigative techniques, legal considerations, and evidence analysis central to cyber crime investigations. This certificate is designed to fill that gap by preparing students to investigate and respond to crimes involving digital technologies.

Annual enrollment is projected to begin with approximately 20–30 students in the first year as the program is introduced and awareness grows. Enrollment is expected to increase to 40–60 students annually within two to three years due to the rising demand for cyber-related skills in the administration of justice field. Growth will be supported by strong interest from current students, working professionals, and those seeking career advancement in law enforcement and cybersecurity-related roles.

This is a new request.