Digital Forensics Major
Release your digital investigation skills. Adopt the investigator's mindset, solve mysteries, and master artifact discovery with Digital Forensics at Champlain College.
Investigating digital mysteries
The digital world needs protecting, and this well-rounded and practical program prepares you for a growing job market. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for information security analysts is expected to surge 33% from 2020 to 2030. The Digital Forensics program at Champlain College dives deep into the digital realm to equip you with the skills needed to tackle future challenges in digital investigations, computer networks, law, and cybersecurity.
What Is Digital Forensics?
Digital Forensics is an exciting field that involves investigating and analyzing digital devices and data to uncover evidence for legal purposes. It’s like being a digital detective, using specialized tools and techniques to solve cybercrimes, protect sensitive information, and support legal investigations. You’ll learn how to collect and examine data from computers, smartphones, networks, and even the Internet to find clues, identify digital footprints, and reconstruct events. It’s a vital skill in today’s technology-driven world, with endless job opportunities in law enforcement, cybersecurity, private investigation, and more. If you’re curious, enjoy problem-solving, and have a passion for technology, this could be a fascinating and rewarding career path.
Why Study it at Champlain?
Studying Digital Forensics at Champlain College offers unique advantages. Champlain is recognized as a leading institution in the field, with a curriculum designed by industry experts and tailored to the sector’s needs. You’ll receive hands-on training using the latest tools and techniques, preparing you for real-world investigations. Champlain’s strong industry connections provide opportunities for internships with government agencies, technology companies, and security firms, giving you valuable real-world experience.
The College’s Senator Patrick Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and the opportunity to work on real-world cases. In addition, Champlain has been designated a National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence by the U.S. Department of Defense, ensuring that the program meets the highest standards. By choosing Champlain, you’ll receive a comprehensive education, industry recognition, and a strong foundation for success in this dynamic field.
Different by Design
Nationally Recognized
Our program is recognized by the Department of Homeland Security, the National Security Agency, and the National Institute of Justice, and has been designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.
Real-World Projects
Our state-of-the-art digital forensics lab offers real-world project opportunities with clients such as the Department of Justice, Department of Defense, and Secret Service. You’ll also participate in conferences, research presentations, and digital forensics competitions.
Focus on Investigative Skills and Tools
We focus on developing the investigative mindset and teaching artifact discovery, manual extraction, data interpretation, and learning to use various forensic toolkits. Our curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and prepares graduates for a variety of digital forensic investigations.
Facts & Stats
of Digital Forensics majors in the Class of 2023 were employed within six months after graduation. That’s success you can see.
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Information Security Analysts earn competitive salaries, reflecting the high demand for their specialized skills in investigating and preventing cybercrime.
Median starting salary for Digital Forensics graduates in the Class of 2023.
Sample Courses in the Digital Forensics Major
Check out some of the hands-on courses in the program. Our Different by Design curriculum means you’ll be in classes in your major right away.
First Year
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Majors
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Computer Networking & Cybersecurity Major
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Computer Science & Innovation Major
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Applied Mathematics Major
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Criminology & Criminal Justice Major
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Minors
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Computer Science Minor
Analyze problems, develop software systems, and use a variety of tools to evaluate computer programs and bring your innovations to realization in the Computer Science minor.
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Criminal Justice Minor
Justice at all levels is a keystone of a functional society. Learn the criminal justice process at multiple levels and how your knowledge of this system can benefit your career.
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Cybersecurity Minor
Learn to develop and understand the security components of technology environments. Find solutions for networking and security problems while balancing business concerns and technical issues.
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Law Minor
A strong base understanding of law and the legal system is a valuable asset to any résumé. Tailor your classes to focus on the specific kind of law that applies to your chosen career and get ahead.
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Areas of Study
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Cybersecurity, Computer Science & Digital Technology
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Law & Society
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Education, Humanities & the Sciences
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Business & Data Analytics
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National Recognition
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DC3 DesignationChamplain College has been recognized as a National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence (CDFAE) by the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Crime Center (DC3). As one of the first institutions to receive this distinction, Champlain meets or exceeds the standards set by the DC3 and produces highly sought-after graduates in digital forensics and cybersecurity.
The CDFAE program was created to address the growing need for skilled professionals to combat digital crime. It allows colleges and universities to partner with the government to ensure that graduates are well-prepared to meet the increasing demands of digital forensics in law enforcement, government, and corporate security.
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NSA DesignationChamplain College has been designated by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense Education. With the Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) designation, Champlain College’s cybersecurity courses, curriculum, and practices meet the criteria established by the NSA and federal partners such as the FBI and the Department of Defense.
As part of the NCAE program, Champlain actively contributes to strengthening the national information infrastructure through higher education and research in cyber defense. The designation ensures a high standard of cybersecurity education and the production of confident professionals with extensive expertise in cyber defense.
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Career Success
The Digital Forensics program teaches you career-ready skills. 100% of Computer and Digital Forensics majors in the Class of 2023 were employed within six months of graduation.
Your Career Outlook
By the time you graduate, you will…
- Possess in-depth knowledge of computer forensics, digital investigations, and the role of digital evidence in criminal and civil cases.
- Have developed strong skills in conducting comprehensive and professional digital investigations, following the established investigative process from identification to reporting.
- Adhere to the highest standards of professional ethics and conduct, ensuring impartiality and privacy.
- Be able to identify and document potential security breaches and violations of legal, ethical, and social standards related to computer information.
- Demonstrate expertise in computer networks, operating systems, file systems, hardware, and mobile devices to conduct effective digital investigations and protect computer network resources.
You’ll Find a Career In…
- Digital Forensics and Incident Response
- Cybersecurity and Threat Analysis
- Law Enforcement and Criminal Investigations
- Data and Information Security
- E-Discovery and Litigation Support
- Fraud Detection and Prevention
- Risk and Compliance Management
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Pre-College Summer Program: Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics AcademyThe Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics Academy offers students an in-depth learning experience in the field of cybersecurity and digital forensics. Students work together to solve real digital forensics problems faced by law enforcement agencies all over America and gain hands-on learning experience from veterans of the cybersecurity industry in this pre-college summer program.
This program is designed for students entering grades 10–12 and recent high school graduates.
Learn More on the Pre-College Summer Program Website
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More Inside Digital Forensics Major
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Overview
Release your digital investigation skills. Adopt the investigator's mindset, solve mysteries, and master artifact discovery with Digital Forensics at Champlain College.
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Curriculum
Get hands-on learning from the first semester, covering digital forensics, cybersecurity, and mobile device analysis. Study abroad options available.
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Faculty
Learn from expert digital forensics instructors who have real-world experience as authors of books, software, and national and international best practices.