Digital Forensics and Analytics

Mission Statement

Prepare students to meet emerging security and technology career challenges, to ensure they are technologically skilled, perform professionally, and provide excellent services.

Overview

The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Digital Forensics and Analytics (DFA) program is a cutting-edge degree designed for graduates of applied associate's programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, such as IT Services and Cybersecurity, who are looking to advance their practical skills and pursue leadership roles in the rapidly evolving world of digital security and data analysis.

This program uniquely blends the critical skills of digital forensics with interdisciplinary knowledge from business, AI, and data analytics. You will gain expertise in identifying, collecting, and evaluating digital evidence, responding to security incidents, planning for risk, and managing digital assets. Furthermore, you will develop the business acumen and analytical capabilities necessary for effective data collection, presentation to stakeholders (including legal and business teams), and strategic decision-making.

A key focus of the DFA program is practical application through valuable internships and a culminating capstone experience, ensuring you graduate with real-world skills and a competitive edge.

What Will You Learn?

• Ethical Practices: Implement and practice ethically responsible standards and procedures in all aspects of digital forensics and analytics.
• Forensic Evidence Handling: Gather and evaluate the quality of forensic evidence sufficient for criminal judicial processes.
• Business Impact Analysis: Analyze digital systems and data to determine their impact on business operations.
• Risk Assessment: Assess legal, business, and technological risks within digital environments.
• Data-Driven Risk Management: Manage risk through data-driven assessment, planning, and application of security measures.
• Digital Forensics Expertise: Apply digital forensics investigation principles, techniques, and tactics to various scenarios.
• Cybersecurity Leadership: Develop, lead, and communicate valid cybersecurity practices and solutions to diverse audiences.

Who Can Enroll?

This program is designed for individuals who have:

• Successfully completed a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) AAS degree with a minimum of 60 college-level credits. For example: 
  • Information Assurance and Cybersecurity AAS
  • Information Technology Services AAS
  • Energy Systems Technology AAS
  • Mechatronic Engineering Technology AAS
• The completed associate's degree must include a minimum of 15 credits of general education coursework.

Why Choose the DFA BAS Program?

• Build Upon Your Existing Skills: Seamlessly transition your applied associate's degree into a bachelor's degree focused on in-demand skills.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Gain a unique blend of technical forensics expertise with crucial business and data analytics knowledge.
• Hands-On Experience: Benefit from required internships and a culminating capstone project for practical, real-world learning.
• Career Advancement: Prepare for advanced roles in digital forensics, cybersecurity analysis, incident response, and data-driven security management.
• Industry Relevance: The curriculum is informed by industry best practices and aligns with potential professional certifications.

Career Opportunities for Graduates:

Graduates of the DFA BAS program will be well-prepared for a variety of roles, including:

• Digital Forensics Analyst/Investigator
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Incident Response Analyst
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
• Data Security Analyst
• E-discovery Analyst
• IT Auditor with a Forensics Focus
• Risk and Compliance Analyst