Degree in Computer Forensics & Information Systems Security Degree

Computer Forensic Degrees and Information Systems Security Degrees as requirements for entry into the field

Within the public sector, there have been two trends for the career paths of computer forensic examiners. State and local law enforcement agencies employ both sworn and civilian computer forensic examiners. Traditionally, law enforcement agencies have chosen computer forensic examiners from the ranks of their already employed agents, officers or detectives. A technology background or degree will typically help catapult these examiners into a full-time position, but the trend has been to identify and train experienced officers capable of performing the job.

More recently, law enforcement agencies are identifying the need to recruit officers or agents that are already trained and experienced in computer forensics. This includes now the recruitment of civilian examiners and civilian contractors capable of conducting examinations and audits as well as advising on information security issues. Prior experience, whether by internship or prior employment, combined with a technology degree, specifically computer forensics, and certifications are all key selling points for examiners looking to break into the public sector. Other skills and abilities coveted in the public sector to complement the above are legal experience, investigative experience, and the ability to communicate both orally and in writing.

Private sector examiners take part in everything from the forensic examination of a single computer to large-scale data mining projects in large e-discovery cases. On the private side of the field, forensic examiners are typically well-versed in both information security and forensics. In many ways, private sector forensics is focused on the protection of information.

Here’s why. Information security is a separate field from forensics, but the two often collide. Information security is the practice of securing a company’s information assets. This can include client information, secret company data, intellectual property, and privileged information. Information security is thus proactive in nature. Computer forensics is typically more reactive, responding to and understanding incidents involving technology. But here is where the two worlds collide. Private forensic examiners are typically called in to detect and investigate information security incidents to not only seek the appropriate remedy, as in a civil suit, but also to prevent further incidents. Beyond this, private sector examiners perform large-scale data recovery and electronic discovery jobs.

Private sector forensic examiners are more likely to have technology, computer forensics, and information systems security degrees. More and more, private firms are employing candidates with forensics degrees. Certifications are a huge plus, as are experience in investigations, and an ability to communicate orally and in writing. Experience, if it can be gained, is one of the top priorities for employers. Internships can be very helpful in gaining the necessary experience.

The most stark difference between the two fields is the type of work. Private sector examiners are typically engaged in examinations of evidence in support of civil litigation, private attorneys, private investigations, or corporate security incidents. Public sector examiners support criminal investigations, gather military intelligence, investigate regulatory violations, and analyze technical devices during military investigations.

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