Computer Forensics
| From | To | UK Fee * | International Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 Sep 2012 | 31 Aug 2013 | £7,800 | £9,000 |
* Exceptions may apply. Please see Fees and Finance for further information.
Introduction
The BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics programme is designed to produce highly skilled and professional graduates with abilities in resolving computer forensic problems and cases, preserving the evidential integrity in computer forensic analysis, developing and managing computing solutions, being knowledgeable of current and emergent technologies with particular emphasis to computer and digital forensics.
In addition there is a strong focus on understanding legal, social, ethical and professional responsibilities of computer forensics practitioners as well as providing you with a broad awareness of the computing industry.
The programme provides students with the knowledge to professionally, systematically and impartially approach the preservation and extraction of all relevant digital evidence from computers, computer systems and computer networks (including the Internet) applying appropriate theory and underpinning principles (computing principles and computer forensics principles) using appropriate tools and techniques.
As well as teaching you about digital forensics, by the end of your course you will have been taught the a wide range of computer science skills and techniques which will give you the opportunity to work in a variety of computing jobs as well as specialist computer forensic jobs. Software development and computer science are present in each year of your study and these are needed for the most interesting aspect of this degree. Computer Forensics core modules are taught in a very pragmatic 'case study' manner - presenting typical crime scenarios and the kinds of data collected. We work very closely with Northumbria Police and the North East Fraud Forum to give the case studies an authentic realism.
Employer input is further enhanced through the department’s links with companies and organisations including Sapphire, 7Safe, FTS, GCHQ, Tait Walker and many more.
Course Content
Level 1
Core Modules:
Fundamentals of Computing
- Software Development and Theory: Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction, Formal Methods
- Programming: Microsoft C#. NET and Java programming for Robots
- Web Applications: Markup Languages (HTML, XHTML, CSS), Adobe Dreamweaver CS4, Adobe Flash CS4, and Actionscript, Adobe Photoshop, Javascript, Web APIs (e.g. Google Maps, Yahoo APIs)
- Database Systems: Database Design, Relational databases and SQL, Database integrity & security, PHP & MySQL
- Computer Systems: Operating Systems, Networks and Computer Architectures
- Mini Project: Pick a project in the area computing you know best and showcase your talents in the final term
Foundations of Computer Forensics and Ethical Hacking
Level 2
Core Modules:
- Computer Forensics and Ethical Hacking
- Real-World Group Project
and 1 option module, from a list including:
- Information Systems
- Software Development
- Networking and Routing Fundamentals
Level 3
Core Modules:
- Computing Project
- Advanced Computer Forensics
- Professional Issues in Computer Forensics
and 2 option modules, from a list including:
- Ethical Hacking
- Network Management
- Telecommunications
- Advanced Databases
- Concurrency and Distributed Systems
- Artificial Intelligence
- Project Management
- Software Enterprise
Entry Requirements
Our typical offer will be in the region of 260 points from a minimum of 2 A Levels/AVCEs or equivalent (e.g. 1 x AVCE double award).
Please note we do not accept AS/A Level General Studies.
We accept a maximum of 20 points from Level 3 Key Skills. We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above which must include Mathematics and English Language or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number (or equivalent).
Scottish Highers: Our typical offer will be in the region of 260 points.
Irish Leaving Certificate: Our typical offer will be in the region of 260 points.
Direct Entry to Level 2/3: Candidates wishing to be considered for direct entry to Level 2/3 of a programme should contact the Helpline, Tel: (0191) 515 3000.
International Applicants: Tel: +44 (0) 191 515 3000.
Fees and Finance
The fees for this course are as specified in the table at the top of the page.
Please note that different fees apply to students studying for "Equivalent or Lower Qualifications" (ELQs). For more information about ELQs, please see the page Information for applicants who already have an HE Qualification.
For information about University scholarships and bursaries please see the page Fees and Finance.
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching methods include tutorials, lectures, practical work and group work.
Assessment methods include assignments and time constrained tests, reports, computer based assessments, presentations, demonstrations and peer assessment.
You are assigned a personal tutor who you can turn to for personal and academic matters.
There is also a dedicated course team, which consist of four level leaders, a project leader and a programme coordinator, that will assist and guide you to successfully complete your studies.
You can also obtain excellent support and advice from the University's Student and Learning Support Office.
Work Experience
The placement year is a strongly recommended industrial attachment and is 48 weeks in length.
Specialist staff will assist you to obtain a placement, either with an organisation with which we have established links or with one of your choice.
Placement companies vary from small local firms to large national companies and consequently students' roles could range from junior programmers/analysts to more senior roles.
Salaries vary according to region and employer but many range from £9,000 to £14,000 p.a.
The programme team has established many links within the Computer Forensics industry and departmental staff publish regularly in this area in international research journals.
Career Opportunities
There are excellent career opportunities for good Computer Forensics graduates, who can prepare data for the appropriate analysis, who can write software, and who have a grounding in the advanced technologies that fall under the umbrella of 'artificial intelligence'.
Supplemental Information
Much of your work is individual, but some assignments will be team or group based, working with and alongside others this reflects what happens in industry, and will help you prepare for this. Industry works to tight deadlines, and work has to be submitted to a client on time.
That's why we set similar deadlines; good preparation and time management will allow you to meet these deadlines without problems. This is a challenging, enjoyable course that will bring many new skills and developments tools, and develop your creative and technical ability.
Accept the challenge and you will have taken the first step towards an exciting and stimulating career.
Facilities
World Class Web/Design Tools
The University of Sunderland has made a significant investment in providing students with access to the latest releases of Adobe products.
Selected PCs within the St Peter's and Murray Libraries have been pre-loaded with the Creative Suite 4 (CS4) Adobe Design Premium Suite for your exclusive use.
CS4 Creative includes key products such as Indesign, Illustrator, Dreamweaver as well as Photoshop and a range of many others.
Further information is available from:
http://www.adobe.com/uk/products/creativesuite/design/
For information regarding locations of PCs or Macs within your own faculty that have access to Adobe products please contact your Faculty IT Support.
If you are interested in purchasing Adobe products for your own PC/Mac Adobe offer significant savings for student purchases via any of its approved re-sellers.
Please visit:
http://www.student-software.co.uk/