Do you like to solve puzzles? Do you find yourself watching crime shows or reading mysteries frequently? If so, you might be interested in a career in Computer Forensics. In this technological age, computers are often used in criminal activity, which has created new opportunities for people who would like to combine their love of technology with an interest in law. Computer Forensics Specialists gather digital information that can be used as evidence in criminal or civil cases. They work on cases that involve crimes such as destruction of information, corruption, fraud, blackmail or piracy.
Career Preparation:
In high school, take as many technology classes as possible. Be sure to work hard in your English classes as well; you will need good writing and communication skills to share your forensic findings. If your school offers any law classes, try those out too.
A Computer Forensics Specialist will require at least a Bachelor’s Degree. It is recommended to major in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, or another technology-related major in college if you plan to pursue this as a career.
Career Possibilities:
Computer Forensics Specialists can work in the government, in the military, for law enforcement agencies, or in the business world.
A selection of College Options:
George Mason University offers majors in Computer Science and Information Technology. The Information Technology major offers several pertinent classes such as IT 357 “Computer Crime, Forensics and Auditing”.
Virginia Tech offers majors in Computer Science, Computer Engineering and Information Systems. Planning a Cyber Security minor will combine Computer Science, Finance and Math classes to give students a specialization in Cyber Security.
Many other colleges in Virginia offer degrees in Computer Science or other technology-related fields.
Want to know more?
Be a Computer Forensics Specialist
(Learn more about what Computer Forensics Specialists do and what jobs are available)
Profession that hunts cyber criminals
(Computer forensics—it’s like CSI without the blood)
Who is interested in this career anyway?
(This news story explains the government’s interest in cyber security)
What does this career look like?
(This video features Chris Kimmel, whose job is to get rid of malware and recover files that show evidence of criminal activity)
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