Associate in Science, Liberal Studies

 Program Description:

The Computer Forensics Associate in Science, Liberal Studies degree program is designed to provide the education and training needed for employment in this newly emerging field (also know as Digital Forensics), as well as for transfer to a four-year degree program in Computer Forensics or related programs, such as Computer Science and Information Technology. This field is ideal for individuals interested in how computer technology can be applied to the investigation of computer-related crimes.

Coursework includes learning about the principles, procedures, techniques, and hardware and software tools used to collect, investigate and analyze digital evidence related to criminal investigations. Hands-on training is provided in MCC’s new, state-of-the-art Digital Forensics Laboratory on the Lowell campus. Coursework also includes criminal law, criminal investigation, evidence and court procedures, as well as operating systems, networks and security.

Career and Transfer Outlook:

Degrees in computer forensics (CF) prepare students for jobs such as CF analyst, CF examiner, and CF specialist in private industry, as well as in local, state and federal agencies. The program also helps prepare students for the Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) exams. Students completing this program may choose to immediately enter the field or continue their studies in a four-year college program. There is growing need for trained computer forensics professionals in federal, state and local agencies law enforcement organizations, and in the Private sector. Computer crimes have increased dramatically, creating a need for qualified, trained personnel.

Helpful Hints:

Additional coursework may be required based on college placement testing. Students are urged to meet with their academic advisor for proper course sequencing.

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the Computer Forensics program will achieve the learning outcomes of the Liberal Studies degree program. Additionally, graduates are prepared to:

• Assess a crime or incident scene to select and apply the most appropriate industry-accepted procedures to the retrieval, recovery and preservation of digital evidence, including network data;
• Collect, analyze and evaluate evidence data using industry-standard computer forensic software and hardware;
• Retrieve and recover files on various types of storage devices, using different operating systems and network systems;
• Communicate clearly, accurately and effectively, both verbally and in writing;
• Prepare written computer-forensics investigation reports that can be admissible in the courts;
• Collaborate with others to conduct a proper computer-forensics investigation;
• Discuss and apply the rules of evidence and court procedures, and the legal and ethical issues related to the acquisition and analysis of digital evidence;
• Describe the functions and interrelationships of the major components of the criminal justice system.