Career Karma
The best computer forensics bachelor’s degree program will help you develop in-demand skills that make you stand out when applying for computer forensics-related roles. Earning your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics validates your proficiency and ability to get the job done.
According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, computer forensics bachelor’s degree jobs comprise some of the fastest-growing occupations. Below, we will explore how you can tap into this increased demand and why attending the computer forensics bachelor’s degree programs is beneficial.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics?
You can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics at Arizona State University, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, University of Central Oklahoma, Utah Valley University, and Waynesburg University, among many others.
What Schools Offer the Best Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
- University of Central Oklahoma
- Utah Valley University
- Waynesburg University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics?
The admission requirements for a computer forensics bachelor’s degree are a high school diploma or GED. Most universities require you to submit your official high school transcripts or GED results. Some schools will require you to submit SAT/ACT scores, and a personal statement.
Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Offical academic records
- SAT/ACT scores
- Personal statement
- Minimum GPA score (determined by the school)
How to Get a Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree
You get a computer forensics bachelor’s degree by fulfilling the program’s graduation requirements. To graduate with a bachelor’s degree in computer forensics, you need to complete 120 credits and maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics?
You need 120 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics. Some universities may require you to complete up to 126 credits to graduate. The school divides the credits into major courses, general education courses, electives, and capstone projects.
Computer Forensics Degree Requirements
- Major courses
- General education courses
- Electives
- Capstone project
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA
Best Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Computational Forensics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania | Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Christian Brothers University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Davenport University | Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Florida State University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Criminology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Pennsylvania State University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| University of Central Oklahoma | Bachelor of Science Forensic Science – Digital Forensics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Utah Valley University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Computer Forensics and Security Emphasis | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Waynesburg University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Forensics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Schools for Computer Forensics: Top Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best computer forensics bachelor’s degrees offer a combination of affordability, value, and quality. They prepare students for a forensics career by equipping them with critical thinking and analytical skills and in-depth knowledge of digital forensics tools. Below are some of the best schools that include those qualities.
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Arizona State University | Glendale, AZ
Arizona State University (ASU) is best-known as an innovative and research-driven university. As of fall 2021, the university has more than 54,000 students enrolled in its 87 academic programs.
Bachelor of Science in Computational Forensics
ASU’s Bachelor of Science in Computational Forensics requires students to complete 120 credits spread out across eight terms. Students must achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 to graduate. Students take various courses such as computer science, computer forensics, calculus, design, and analysis of experiments, data science, database developments and applications, and big data systems. Graduates of this program have taken on roles as crime scene investigators, computer scientists, information technology managers, data analysts, and biostatisticians.
Bachelor of Science in Computational Forensics Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $864/credit (in-state); $1,240/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 66%
Bachelor of Science in Computational Forensics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 GPA (for competency courses)
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT
- Application Fee: $50 (residents); $70 (domestic non-residents)
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: Top 25 percent in high school graduating class, high school transcripts
Applying to Arizona State University
- Fill out the undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit an official copy of your high school transcripts.
- Submit your SAT/ACT scores (optional).
- Check your application status.
- Fill out and submit the FAFSA form.
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania | Bloomsburg, PA
Founders established Bloomsburg University in 1839 to make college education accessible to anyone interested in bettering their lives. The university offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs, with a total enrollment of 7,745 students.
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity
Designated a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education, this program is jointly sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency (NSA). Students need a minimum of 120 credits to graduate.
This program equips students with hands-on training for careers in computer forensics through core courses, general education courses, and electives. Some of the main courses covered in this program include digital forensics software, statistics, calculus, database design, Python programming, and other topics in cyber security.
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition and Fees: $322/credit (in-state); $805/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 58%
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not specified
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: $35
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: Top 30 percent in high school graduating class, an average grade of B+ in high school, transcripts
Applying to Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
- Fill out and submit the online application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit a copy of your official high school transcripts.
- Submit your SAT/ACT scores (optional).
- Check your application status.
Christian Brothers University | Memphis, TN
Founded in 1871 by a Catholic teaching order, Christian Brothers University offers a liberal arts education promoting the core values of the Lasallian tradition of faith, service, and community. The university has a total student population of 1,746 from 30 states and 28 countries enrolled in its undergraduate and graduate programs.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
Students need to complete 123 credit hours to graduate. The program features a combination of business, computer science, and engineering courses. These include database design, networks, programming, data structures, digital design, digital forensics, information security, and management information systems.
It is a proven career track to a forensic analyst, network/system/web penetration tester, forensics expert/information security crime investigator, malware analyst, security architect, and incident responder position.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $495 to $505/credit hour
- Required Credits: 123 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 57%
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: $0
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: Academic recommendation, personal writing sample, official high school transcripts
Applying to Christian Brothers University
- Fill out and submit a completed application form.
- Submit your official high school transcripts.
- Submit your SAT/ACT scores.
- Check your application status.
Davenport University | Grand Rapids, MI
Founded in 1866, Davenport University is one of the largest private, non-profit colleges in the United States. It offers over 60 academic programs, with a total enrollment of more than 6,000 students.
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics
This program is part of the Designated Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence by the Department of Defense. It equips students with the techniques, knowledge, and skills to secure and recover information from mobile devices, operating systems, file systems, and networks. It opens up a wide range of career opportunities in government, business, medicine, education, and many other industries.
The minimum graduation requirement is the completion of 120 credits. Students must complete 33 to 34 credits in foundations of excellence, nine to 10 credits in foundations of business, 21 credits in foundations of digital forensics, 45 credits in major courses, and 10 to 12 credits in open electives.
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $885/credit
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 52%
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not specified
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT
- Application Fee: $0
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official high school transcripts
Applying to Davenport University
- Fill out and submit an online application.
- Submit your official transcripts.
- Submit your SAT/ACT scores.
- Check your admissions status.
- Fill out and submit the FAFSA form.
Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL
Founded in 1851, Florida State University is a research-driven university known for its film school and criminal justice programs. The school offers close to 300 programs and has a total enrollment of 45,493 students from 130 countries.
Bachelor of Science in Cyber Criminology
Students enrolled in this program must complete 120 credits, including 16 credits in prerequisite courses, 52 credits in major courses, 36 credits in general education courses, and some elective courses.
The topics covered include data structures and algorithms, computer security, calculus, programming, criminology, and cyber crime detection and forensics. Graduates of this program work as information crime specialists in law enforcement agencies or as network security specialists within various organizations.
Bachelor of Science in Cyber Criminology Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition and Fees: $23,790/year (in-state); $38,036/year(out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 84%
Bachelor of Science in Cyber Criminology Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not specified
- Standardized Tests: $30
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: Official high school transcripts, essay
Applying to Florida State University
- Fill out and submit the online application form.
- Pay the application fee.
- Use your high school transcripts to complete an SSAR.
- Choose an essay question and complete and submit your essay.
- Fill out and submit the Residency Declaration form.
Pennsylvania State University | University Park, PA
Founded in 1855, Pennsylvania State University is a research-driven university offering one of the best computer forensics bachelor’s degree programs. The university began as a college of agricultural sciences but has grown to become one of the top institutions of higher learning in the country. It has more than 440 programs and a total enrollment of 88,914 across all of its campuses.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
The graduation requirement for this program is the completion of 123 credits and a minimum GPA of 2.0. Students gain hands-on experience in various topics such as application development, geopolitics, law and policy, economics, healthcare, and custom application focus.
Graduates of this program take on various roles such as cyber security analyst, forensic analyst, infrastructure analyst, digital network exploitation analyst, cyber threat advisor, penetration tester, and incident responder.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition and Fees: $898/credit (in-state); $1,541/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 123 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: Not specified
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not specified
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or GED
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts
Applying to Pennsylvania State University
- Review the admission requirements and deadlines.
- Fill out and submit your application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit your official high school transcripts.
- Submit your SAT/ACT scores.
- Check your application status.
University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham, AL
Established in 1936, University of Alabama at Birmingham is a research-driven university and academic medical center best known for its interdisciplinary and innovative approach to education. It offers 172 undergraduate and graduate programs and has a total enrollment of more than 22,000 students.
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics
The Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics program offers a unique blend of computer science and criminal justice. Students must complete 120 credits and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.3 to graduate.
The department divides courses into criminal justice, computer science, electives, and capstone projects. Some noteworthy courses include computer forensics, discrete structures, financial crimes and investigations, systems programming, introduction to computer science in Python, and a digital forensics capstone. This program prepares students for computer forensics job opportunities in local, state, and federal law enforcement and private for-profit and non-profit organizations.
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition and Fees: $357/credit hour (in-state); $850/credit hour (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 61%
Bachelor of Science in Digital Forensics Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not specified
- Standardized Tests: ACT/SAT (optional)
- Application Fee: $40
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: Official high school transcripts
Applying to University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Fill out and submit your application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit your official high school transcripts.
- Submit your ACT/SAT scores (optional).
University of Central Oklahoma | Edmond, OK
University of Central Oklahoma dedicates itself to providing transformative educational experiences to its students. It offers 199 undergraduate and graduate programs, with a total student enrollment of close to 14,000 students.
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science-Digital Forensics
This is one of the best computer forensics bachelor’s degrees in the US. It covers forensic science, crime scene processing, digital evidence, computer and network security, and cyber crime. To graduate, students must complete 124 courses and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA.
This Bachelor of Science (BS) in Forensic Science-Digital Forensics is not a stand-alone program. Students must combine it with a BS in Software Engineering, BS in Computer Science-Information Science, BS in Computer Science-Applied, BS in Computer Science, or BBA in Information and Operations Management – Management Information System.
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science-Digital Forensics Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $268/credit (in-state); $630/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 124 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 35%
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science-Digital Forensics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.7
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: $40
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: Official high school transcripts, top 50% of high school graduating class, state-required immunization
Applying to University of Central Oklahoma
- Fill out and submit your application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit official high school transcripts reflecting your class rank and unweighted GPA.
- Submit ACT/SAT scores (optional).
- Provide proof of immunization records for required vaccines
Utah Valley University | Orem, UT
Utah Valley University is best known for its high moral climate and integration of community college and college education. It offers 208 undergraduate and graduate programs, with a total enrollment of over 40,000 students.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Computer Forensics and Security Emphasis
This program equips students with the essential technical skills to install, maintain, and manage the computing infrastructure of organizations. To graduate, students must complete 122 credits and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. The total program credits include 38 general education credits, 63 discipline core credits, 12 emphasis credits, and nine emphasis elective credits.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Computer Forensics and Security Emphasis Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition and Fees: $2,953/semester (in-state); $8,403/semester (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 122 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 32%
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Computer Forensics and Security Emphasis Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not specified
- Standardized Tests: ACT/SAT (for merit-based scholarship purposes)
- Application Fee: $35
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: Official high school transcripts
Applying to Utah Valley University
- Submit your admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit your official transcripts.
- Submit your ACT/SAT scores.
Waynesburg University | Waynesburg, PA
Founded in 1849, Waynesburg University is best known for its program offerings, affordability, and value. It offers over 70 programs, with a total enrollment of 1,736 students and an average class size of 15 students.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Forensics
This program teaches students essential computer forensics knowledge and the latest theories, preparing them to tackle forensic investigations involving electronic crime and digital devices. It offers a gateway to work in both governmental and corporate security teams.
To graduate, students must complete 124 credits. The required courses include Computer Forensics, Computer Security, Applied Statistics, Computer Programming, Database Management, Data Structures, Criminal Procedure, Criminal Law, and Criminal Justice Administration.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Forensics Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $750/credit
- Required Credits: 124 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation rate: 65%
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Forensics Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not specified
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT
- Application Fee: $20
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or GED
- Other Requirements: official high school transcripts
Applying to Waynesburg University
- Fill out and submit your online application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit a copy of your official high school transcripts or GED.
- Submit your SAT/ACT scores.
- Fill out and submit the FAFSA form.
- Check your application status.
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What Is a Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree?
A computer forensics bachelor’s degree is a four-year credential that attests to your knowledge of the intersection of criminology, science, and technology. It covers topics such as criminal justice, digital forensics, data structures and algorithms, systems programming, calculus, statistics, cyber security, management information system, and system design. Professionals with a computer forensics bachelor’s degree can become digital forensics analysts, computer forensics technicians, and information security analysts.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics?
A bachelor’s degree in computer forensics is very important. It is usually the minimum requirement for jobs in computer forensics-related fields. You will want to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics if you are interested in acquiring the fundamental skills for a career as a computer forensics specialist.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Computer Forensics?
The types of bachelor’s degrees you can get in computer forensics are a bachelor of science and a bachelor of arts. Of these, the bachelor of science is the more common option.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science Degree or Bachelor of Arts Degree in Computer Forensics?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Computer Forensics because it offers better employability after graduation. According to PayScale, someone with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Forensics earns $68,000, on average, per year.
What Is the Difference Between a Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree and a Computer Forensics Certificate?
The difference between a computer forensics bachelor’s degree and a computer forensics certificate is the amount of content covered, duration, and level of education. A degree of this type usually requires you to complete 120 credits over four years, while a certificate takes a couple of months.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics?
It costs around $28,775 to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics. This figure might be higher or lower depending on whether you attend a public or private university. It costs around $21,035 to attend a public university, $48,965 to attend a non-profit private university, and $27,696 to attend a for-profit university.
The cost may also vary depending on whether you live on or off-campus. You will spend around $35,331 with an on-campus living arrangement and between $24,575 to $35,306 with an off-campus living arrangement.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to get a computer forensics bachelor’s degree. The minimum graduation requirement for most Bachelor’s Degrees in Computer Forensics is 120 credits. You will have to take 15 credits per semester to graduate in four years.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics?
It is hard to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics because it requires a significant technical and analytical aptitude. Most computer forensics programs cover statistics, calculus, data structures and algorithms, forensic analysis, and programming. These are very demanding courses.
Why Should You Get a Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree?
You should get a computer forensics bachelor’s degree if you want to gain skills in evidence collection and digital evidence analysis to help solve criminal investigations. A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics offers a career path to roles such as security analyst, forensic investigator, forensic computer examiner, systems analyst, and forensics analyst in private companies and government agencies.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Computer Forensics?
Courses you need to take in a bachelor’s degree program in computer forensics include database management, data structures and algorithms, digital forensics, network security, and programming fundamentals. You will also learn calculus, statistics, and other mathematics courses.
Database Management
This course develops students’ understanding of databases. They learn how to design, implement, and maintain databases using database reports and create tables and forms. Students will have the skills to develop multiple table systems with screens, reports, and updates.
Data Structures and Algorithms
This course teaches students about designing and analyzing efficient algorithms and data structures. It covers randomized algorithms, approximation algorithms, graph algorithms, and algorithm design methods.
Digital Forensics
This course helps students gain in-depth knowledge in identifying, collecting, and preserving digital evidence. You will learn essential scientific principles used in digital forensics, understand concepts such as file hashing, grep, report writing, and keyword lists, and explore legal considerations in digital forensics.
Network Security
Students learn to develop preventative measures in securing both the physical and digital aspects of a network. You will learn how to protect sensitive information that may be harmful to an organization when in the wrong hands.
Programming Fundamentals
Learning programming fundamentals will help you become a better programmer using languages such as Python, C, C++, and JavaScript. It will help you understand how computers and other digital devices work, which is essential for computer forensics professionals.
Continuing Education Paths for Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Computer forensics graduates can earn a certification or Master’s Degree in Computer Forensics to expand job opportunities, improve their resume, or advance their careers. The most common professional certifications for computer forensics include Certified Computer Examiner (CCE), Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI), Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE), Certified Digital Forensics Examiner (CDFE), Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), Certified Forensic Analyst (GIAC), and Cybersecurity Forensic Analyst (CSFA).
Related Computer Forensics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best computer forensics bachelor’s degree programs are accreditation, career services, cost, graduation rate, and student-to-faculty ratio.
Accreditation
Attending an accredited computer forensics bachelor’s degree program ensures that you get an education that meets acceptable quality standards. It also allows you to apply for federal student aid.
Career Services
You should consider whether the program offers career services such as job placement, job interview prep, resume and cover letter writing, networking, and internships. This will help your transition into the computer forensics job market.
Cost
The cost of various computer forensics programs will inform the decision of which ones are within your budget. You may consider a public institution over a private institution for affordability. Living off-campus with your family generally costs less than living on campus.
Graduation Rate
Graduation rates predict how likely a student is to graduate after enrollment. You should look for a program or institution with high graduation rates.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
This ratio measures the number of students enrolled in a school in comparison to the number of faculty members. Programs with a low student-to-faculty ratio are more personalized, which allows for better education, connections, and participation.
What Is the Most Affordable Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable computer forensics bachelor’s degree for in-state students is Utah Valley University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Computer Forensics and Security Emphasis, with a total cost of about $23,624. University of Central Oklahoma’s Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science – Digital Forensics is the most affordable option for out-of-state students, with a tuition cost of approximately $45,000.
Salary and Job Outlook for Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The salary and job outlook for computer forensics bachelor’s degree graduates are bright, with some computer forensics occupations projected to grow by 33 percent. Students who graduate from a degree program of this type can apply to various jobs in the public and private sectors as cyber security analysts, computer forensic analysts, security architects, and information security analysts.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a computer forensics bachelor’s degree. These degree programs prepare students for employment after graduation through career services such as job placement, job interview prep, resume and cover letter writing, and networking. Some programs offer internships with the FBI and NSA, which can be a great resume builder.
What’s the Average Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a computer forensics bachelor’s degree is $68,000. Your actual salary will depend on your specific job role. For example, working as a cyber security analyst will make you an average annual salary of $61,115, while a senior systems engineer role will make you $120,851 per year on average.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree?
Jobs you can get with a computer forensics bachelor’s degree are in both government agencies and private for-profit and non-profit organizations. Some of the positions include cyber security analyst, digital forensic analyst, information security analyst, malware analyst, and security architect.
Computer Forensics Degree Jobs
- Cyber security analyst
- Digital forensic analyst
- Information security analyst
- Malware analyst
- Security architect
Potential Careers With a Computer Forensics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics?
You can make between $61,930 and $159,010 per year with a computer forensics bachelor’s degree. Most of the highest-paying computer forensic jobs require a high standard of demonstrated analytical and technical skills and experience. They range from a digital forensics analyst to an IT security manager.
Highest-Paying Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| IT Security Manager | $159,010 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
| FBI Agent | $66,020 |
| Digital Forensics Analyst | $61,930 |
Best Jobs for Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best computer forensics bachelor’s degree jobs pay between $61,930 and $159,010. They include an IT security manager, information security analyst, computer systems analyst, FBI agent, and a digital forensics analyst.
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IT Security Manager
IT security managers are responsible for an organization’s data and network security. They collaborate with the top-level management to enhance information security and develop security policies.
- Average Salary: $159,010
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 482,000
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey, Washington, Washington DC
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts design and implement security guidelines to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems. They monitor software breaches, check for vulnerabilities, develop security standards, and make security recommendations to organizations.
- Average Salary: $102,600
- Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 141,200
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, Maryland, Iowa, Washington DC
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer systems analysts, also known as systems architects, study computer systems and apply data modeling techniques to design improvements that make organizations more efficient. They also oversee the installation and configuration of new systems and test them to ensure they are working correctly.
- Average Salary: $99,270
- Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 607,800
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington DC, Massachusetts, Washington, New Jersey
FBI Agent
The Federal Bureau of Investigation agents are responsible for investigating, gathering evidence, and pursuing crimes that violate federal law. They focus on crimes against public agencies, like those that cross state lines and medicare fraud.
- Average Salary: $66,020
- Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 795,000
- Highest-Paying States: N/A
Digital Forensics Analyst
Digital forensics analysts, or forensic computer examiners, collect and analyze data to solve scams, identity theft, and prevent electronic fraud crimes. They rely on the general forensic science standards of evidence gathering to maintain the integrity of their findings.
- Average Salary: $61,930
- Job Outlook: 16% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 17,200
- Highest-Paying States: Illinois, California, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon
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Best Jobs According to Your Major
[query_class_embed] jobs-for-*subject-majors
Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics is worth it. With tuition costs of as little as $23,624, and salaries as high as $159,010, a computer forensics bachelor’s degree offers value and investment return. The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects that computer occupations will grow by 13 percent between 2020 and 2030, which is above the national average of eight percent for all occupations.
The demand for information security analysts should grow by 33 percent during this period, while that for digital forensic analysts and IT security managers is not far behind. Therefore, getting a computer forensics bachelor’s degree is a worthwhile investment for the future.
Additional Reading About Computer Forensics
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/computer-forensics/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/computer-programming-masters-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/computer-programming-degree/
Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Yes, you can earn a computer forensics bachelor’s degree online. Some of the best online computer forensics schools include Southern New Hampshire University, University of Maryland Global Campus, and Keiser University-Fort Lauderdale.
Yes, computer forensics is a good career. The average salary of this occupation is decent and its high job growth guarantees that computer forensics graduates will have an easy time finding jobs.
You will need a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics for a career in computer forensics. Other common career paths include a degree in cyber security, computer science, and cyber criminology.
No, you don’t need a computer forensics master’s degree to get a job in computer forensics. However, you will need to hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Forensics or a related field, which is the minimum requirement for most jobs.
The post Best Computer Forensics Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries appeared first on Career Karma.
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David Njue
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