Computer Forensics Degree

Program Overview

Missouri Southern State University's Computer Forensics program combines Computer Information Science and Criminal Justice Administration, preparing students for careers in investigating digital evidence for legal purposes. The curriculum covers topics in both fields, and assessment methods include exams, projects, and presentations. Graduates are qualified for roles such as computer forensics investigator, cybersecurity analyst, and digital forensics examiner.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Computer Forensics degree option at Missouri Southern State University results in a double major in Computer Information Science (CIS) and Criminal Justice Administration. The program prepares students for careers in computer forensics, where they will investigate evidence left on a user's local machine or ISP server to convict or exonerate accused criminals.

Outline:

The program's curriculum covers a wide range of topics in computer science and criminal justice, including:

• Computer Science:
• Object-oriented programming
• System concepts
• Operating systems
• Networking
• Database design
• Team-based project management
• Criminal Justice:
• Criminal investigation
• Evidence collection and analysis
• Cybercrime law

Assessment:

The program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Exams: Written and practical exams are used to assess students' knowledge of the course material.
• Projects: Students complete projects that require them to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems.
• Presentations: Students give presentations on their research and projects.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty who are experts in computer science and criminal justice. The faculty use a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Lectures are used to introduce new concepts and material.
• Discussions: Discussions are used to encourage students to think critically about the course material.
• Hands-on activities: Hands-on activities allow students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems.

Careers:

Graduates of the Computer Forensics program are qualified for a variety of careers in computer forensics, including:

• Computer forensics investigator: Computer forensics investigators investigate evidence left on a user's local machine or ISP server to convict or exonerate accused criminals.
• Cybersecurity analyst: Cybersecurity analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.
• Digital forensics examiner: Digital forensics examiners recover and analyze electronic evidence from computers, mobile devices, and other digital devices.
• Information security analyst: Information security analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's information systems and data.