3 Opportunities In Digital Forensics
Digital forensics encompasses a wide variety of job functions that are essential to protecting the sensitive information of businesses and the public. Having a good grasp on where to find jobs in the field may influence your educational path, such as the courses you take or the highest education level you want to pursue.
Information Systems
With a degree or certification in digital forensics, you can usually find an entry-level position in information systems, with a focus on cybersecurity and related specializations. Since these may be entry-level positions, you may only need a two-year degree. People who have related backgrounds in computers, such as a degree in computer science, may only need to boost their education in digital forensics by completing a certificate program. Information systems professionals frequently work in businesses to help them secure their networks and may write programs to enhance security or protect the business if a problem occurs.
Computer Analyst
Computer analysts are more often seen in large businesses or as part of law enforcement. Since these positions require significant knowledge, skills, and security clearances, the educational background of employees will be higher. You may find some job opportunities with a four-year degree, but it is in your best interest to consider pursuing a graduate degree in digital forensics for maximum opportunities. As a computer analyst, you are generally helping local, state, and federal agencies solve crimes, but you may be employed by a business. Sometimes your job entails determining how someone hacked into a business' network or more severe issues, such as finding digital evidence associated with financial or violent crime.
Mobile Device Forensics
Mobile forensics is an entity unto itself because it differs from computers. Much like employees in digital forensics who work with computers, you will need advanced education to secure opportunities working with mobile devices and coursework related to mobile operating systems. A specialty in mobile devices tends to be more associated with law enforcement and finding evidence that can be used to solve cases. Sometimes mobile devices can be useful in finding the whereabouts of a victim or suspect because of the device's communication with cell phone towers, but it may be used to establish a timeline of events. People who work in digital forensics can attempt to recover lost photographs or voicemail from devices, although the owner of the phone may have tried to hide evidence by deleting or resetting the device.
There are different digital forensics job opportunities related to digital forensics if you know where to look. As with many computer-related professions, an advanced degree will give you the most opportunities for employment.