To Catch a Thief: Exploring Computer Forensics Jobs

In early 2006, the FBI reported that 44 percent of all computer-related crimes are committed by people within the victimized organizations. In September 2006, CNET News projected "a dramatic increase in the number of information security breaches where insider collaboration or involvement" will be a major factor.

Companies rely more than ever on computers to keep valuable information secure, escalating the creation of computer forensics jobs to insure the safety of this information. Perhaps this is why the Army Times ranked computer forensics jobs among America's six hottest for 2007.

Following the Ones and Zeros with Computer Forensics

Much like on TV, sleuths in computer forensics jobs can hack into computers in seconds, and track financial records, check for stolen or copied files, and determine when networks have been used improperly by those without authorization.

Investigators with computer forensics training collect, analyze and present digital evidence of cyber crimes in court. They may also make recommendations to clients or employers for improving data security.

An Online Degree of Security

Earning an online bachelor's degree in computer & digital forensics provides training in law, investigative processes, and networking technology. You'll learn how to analyze digital information and use it to solve crimes of theft or fraud. Your online bachelor's degree in computer & digital forensics can provide you with the law enforcement and computer skills you'll need. An added benefit of obtaining your degree online is that you can demonstrate to potential employers that you're comfortable with technology and have acquired online navigation and research skills.

Your bachelor's in computer & digital forensics can qualify you for entry-level work as a forensic lab technician, earning about $30,000 per year, and you could work your way up to became a systems administrator, earning over $58,000 per year. Your bachelor's degree in computer & digital forensics could help you get into a graduate program, and after graduation you could earn a six-figure income. By starting your online degree program in computer forensics now you could soon find yourself sniffing out cyber criminals.

Sources

Army Times, "2007's six hottest jobs" by Tranette Ledford
Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Computer support specialists and systems administrators"
CNETNews.com, "Experts: Take computer forensics seriously" by Will Sturgeon