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Cracking the Code: How to Become a Computer Forensics Expert

By Kate McIntyre
Learning & Life Columnist
May 21, 2007

The increasing importance of computers in our daily lives is generating a host of new careers that extend far beyond the typical ones. Security is the next computer career wave: many crimes are committed using computers or portable data devices, and specialists need to be able to find evidence from these systems. Subsequently, solving these crimes has created a new career called computer forensics.

Training for Computer forensics

Because computer forensics is so new, there are very few degree and training programs that specialize in the field. Therefore, employers are willing to train people with strong computer knowledge, and a bachelor's degree in computer science is accepted by nearly all employers as adequate preparation for a computer forensics job. In your undergraduate coursework, classes in criminal justice and law enforcement can also help you to understand proper handling of evidence.

Where Do Computer Forensics Technicians Work?

Computer forensics is no longer the sole domain of law enforcement agencies. Though many computer forensics technicians work for local police forces and the federal government, many others work for private companies. Those working for private companies usually are doing different sorts of investigations than those working in law enforcement. Many companies must protect their intellectual property and proprietary information, and information security specialists may check employees' computers to ensure that they are not sharing their company's secrets with competitors. Some technicians also work as consultants.

Computer forensics tends to be a lucrative field. According to the Wall Street Journal, computer forensics consultants usually charge $250 to $500 per hour for their work.

Computer forensics allows you to use your computer skills to crack white collar crimes. The career may be a good choice for you if you enjoy computers and want to help protect people and solve crimes too.

Source:

• CollegeJournal.com, "Computer Sleuths Track the Bad Guys"

About the Author
Kate McIntyre, a fiction writer in Portland, Oregon, holds an M.F.A. in fiction writing from Oregon State University.

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