Master of Science in Digital Forensics (MS)

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Digital Forensics (MSDF) program at the University of Central Florida offers a comprehensive graduate education in digital forensics science and practices. Designed for working professionals and individuals pursuing advanced studies, the program prepares students for careers in digital forensics examination, tool development, administration, and research. The program's online format provides flexibility and accessibility, while its collaborations with various academic departments and industry partners ensure cutting-edge education and industry alignment.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Digital Forensics (MSDF) program at the University of Central Florida (UCF) is designed to provide a comprehensive graduate education in the science and practices of digital forensics. The program aims to prepare students for careers in digital forensics examination, forensic tool development, tool verification and validation, security and forensics administration, and to equip them with the knowledge and skills to pursue advanced studies and research in computer technology or computer crime-related disciplines.

Objectives:

The program's objectives include:

• Equipping MSDF graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate as an effective team member or team leader in digital evidence investigations.
• Preparing MSDF graduates for professional careers in digital forensics examination, forensic tool development, tool verification and validation, security and forensics administration.
• Providing MSDF graduates with the knowledge and skills to pursue advanced studies and research in computer technology or computer crime-related disciplines.

Program Description:

The Digital Forensics MS degree is comprised of 30 hours of study beyond the bachelor's degree with required, intensive specialization in topics related to digital forensics. The degree program prepares students, including working professionals, who will pursue the degree on a part-time basis to gain the knowledge and skills required to work as an examiner in the field. The program may also be taken by those who have an interest in scientific applications and research in the field, and who would like to continue to a doctoral degree program or law school after completion.

Careers:

The program prepares students for a career in digital forensics examination, forensic tool development, tool verification, and validation, security and forensics administration, or to pursue advanced studies. Graduates can find employment in a number of industries from government to law enforcement to the private sector.

Other:

• The program is available 100 percent online.
• Students choosing the thesis option will be required to have a one-time on-campus thesis defense before they can graduate.
• UCF also provides a Computer Forensics Graduate Certificate, which requires completing 12 credit hours.
• The Master of Science in Digital Forensics degree is a collaborative effort between various UCF academic departments — Computer Science, Forensic Science of Chemistry, Criminal Justice and Legal Studies — and the National Center for Forensic Science.
• The National Center for Forensic Science is a State of Florida Type II Center and a member of the National Institute of Justice Forensic Resource Network of the Department of Justice, serving the needs of state and local law enforcement and forensic scientists.
• The program is ranked No.
1 online master’s in computer forensics program in 2020 by intelligent.com.
• The program is named one of the "Most Affordable Online Programs in Cyber Security in 2018" by cybersecuritydegrees.com.
• Job growth for digital forensics grads is projected to increase 12% nationwide.
• Median pay for digital forensics grads is $103,000.