Computer forensics can be studied online through degree programs, individual courses, or certification boot camps. The courses cover data recovery, analysis, and documentation, and may include general computer courses. Online labs provide hands-on experience.
Computer forensics focuses on analyzing data that can be used as evidence in a crime. In any computer forensics program, you’ll learn the basics of finding that evidence, extracting data, documenting your findings, and interpreting the information gained in the process. Data recovery techniques are also covered so that you learn how to recover and analyze data from various types of digital storage media. Jobs in the field of computer forensics require you to have training in the field, specific certifications, and possibly a college degree. You have several options for studying computer forensics online, including undergraduate and graduate online programs, individual online courses, and certification boot camps.
One of the most common ways to study computer forensics online is to pursue a degree program. Traditional colleges and virtual universities offer programs in computer forensics, information security, and information assurance. If you enroll in a degree program, you will also take general computer courses in networking, programming, systems design and databases, along with your courses in digital forensics, data recovery, network intrusion and legal aspects of the field. Graduate programs tend to focus primarily on computer forensics courses and may require you to have an undergraduate degree in information technology or security. Online labs are common for degree programs and help to gain hands-on experience analyzing and retrieving data.
If you don’t want to take a full degree program, you can take individual computer forensics courses online. If you prefer to study on a university course, you also have the option to audit a course and not receive a college grade or credit. In addition to online classes through accredited universities, many sites offer streaming video courses and interactive classes that teach about computer forensics. Many of these courses allow you to work at your own pace and may not include homework like online colleges do.
Taking an accelerated training course toward an information technology security certification is another common way to study computer forensics online. Courses can last for a week and often include live instruction via video conferencing. You’ll be able to preview lessons, take practice tests, and work in online labs to learn new computer forensics techniques. Most of these programs are geared toward preparing you to pass an exam; therefore, you may be asked to take the certification exam at the end of the boot camp.
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