MSc Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation

Course overview

With a clear focus on forensics and industry practices, this course equips you with the knowledge and skills to become a professional digital or cyber analyst, or investigator.

Digital forensics is a key part of your studies, alongside aspects of computer science. You apply core computer science principles within the context of a cyber investigation, considering how they can be used to collect, examine and interpret digital evidence. There is a strong emphasis on interpreting raw digital data and developing reverse engineering skills. In practical sessions, you use industry-standard software and practices, understanding the intelligence aspects of evidence and intelligence acquired from examining material.

Our dedicated digital forensics lab gives you access to forensic software used worldwide by industry practitioners to investigate digital devices, including forms of mobile device (mobile phones, tablets, drones). You also use the vehicle lab to examine Sat Nav and wifi-connected cars. And you use our crime scene house for digital investigations on devices such as smart speakers and smart video e regulatory landscape within digital forensics is changing. Working with current professionals within the digital and forensic industries, this course addresses the key competencies you need in the digital forensics industry and exposes you to the range of careers available. We embed knowledge of ISO 17025 within the curriculum, providing you with legal and courtroom training using our replica courtroom facilities. We work closely with local police forces - Durham Constabulary, Cleveland Police and North Yorkshire Police. Durham Constabulary is one of our strategic partners, which offers research project e course design also offers a flexible method of studying digital forensics and cyber investigation for existing practitioners to complete alongside their day jobs.

How you learn:

Through this course you gain detailed knowledge and understanding of digital forensics, and the skills needed to carry out complex cyber investigations. You study the latest literature and methods in the field. You learn in a variety of ways including lectures, e-learning, seminars, case-based learning and laboratory sessions – you are also expected to study in your own time outside of classes. Reflective practice throughout is a key element of the course and you are encouraged to examine your own work, identify your own learning needs and challenges, whilst providing evidence of what is required to operate confidently, efficiently and ethically in the workplace. In this way, you develop an understanding of good practice and the ability to solve foreseen and unforeseen problems.

How you are assessed:

Formative and summative assessments test your knowledge, independent thought and skills. You are assessed through coursework, including technical and laboratory reports, written and practical examinations, and your dissertation/thesis.

Career opportunities:

Successful graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to become a professional digital or cyber analyst or investigator. You are highly employable in the computer security and forensic intelligence fields.

You also have the appropriate knowledge in advanced technical skills to get a job within a number of other careers such as within a government organisation, security services and the financial sector, forensic science agencies, the police service, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, and trading standards.