MSc Engineering Management
The MSc Engineering Management program at the University of South Wales is a prestigiou...
BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics with Placement year
Treforest
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics with Placement year program at the University of South Wales (USW) offers students a comprehensive education in digital investigation and forensic analysis with the added benefit of a placement year. Based in Cardiff and Newport, UK, USW is known for its commitment to providing industry-relevant education. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to investigate cybercrimes, analyze digital evidence, and ensure the integrity of digital data. With a focus on practical skills and hands-on learning, students learn to use forensic tools and techniques to uncover digital evidence and support legal proceedings.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics with Placement year program covers a broad range of topics essential for understanding the principles and practices of computer forensics. Students study modules in digital forensics fundamentals, file systems analysis, network forensics, mobile device forensics, and forensic data recovery. Additionally, they learn about legal and ethical issues in computer forensics, chain of custody procedures, and expert witness testimony. The program emphasizes practical skills development through lab-based exercises, case studies, and simulated investigations. Students have the opportunity to work with industry-standard forensic tools and technologies used in digital investigations.
Research Focus: The BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics with Placement year program at USW integrates research into the curriculum, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge research projects and explore emerging trends in digital forensics. Research-focused modules provide opportunities for students to investigate topics such as memory forensics, cloud forensics, malware analysis, or forensic tool development. Students collaborate with faculty members on research initiatives and may contribute to industry partnerships or research centers focused on cybersecurity and digital forensics. Through research projects and dissertations, students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper understanding of forensic techniques and methodologies.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics with Placement year program at USW. The university has strong connections with law enforcement agencies, government organizations, corporate partners, and digital forensics firms involved in cybersecurity and digital investigation. The placement year allows students to gain practical experience and apply their skills in real-world settings. Students may undertake placements with law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, cybersecurity companies, or corporate security departments, gaining invaluable insights and building professional networks. Industry mentors provide guidance and support, helping students develop employability skills and prepare for careers in digital forensics.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics with Placement year program at USW incorporates a global perspective to prepare students for careers in the global cybersecurity landscape. Modules within the program may include discussions on international cybercrime trends, cross-border investigations, and global digital forensic standards. Students may have the opportunity to undertake placements or projects abroad, gaining exposure to different legal frameworks, cultural contexts, and cybersecurity challenges. This global perspective equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to work on multinational investigations, collaborate with international partners, and address global cybersecurity threats effectively.
Location
Treforest
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 14400
Undergraduate Entry Requirements:
Academic Requirements: International students applying for undergraduate programs at University of South Wales should have completed their secondary education with a minimum of 65% or above in their respective national qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 72, with a minimum of 17 in each component.
- PTE Academic: A minimum score of 64, with no component below 59.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of South Wales offers several scholarships and financial support opportunities to both domestic and international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support students from underrepresented backgrounds, and assist those who may face financial barriers in pursuing their education.
Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship: This scholarship is available for international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It offers a significant reduction in tuition fees.
International Merit Scholarship: This scholarship is open to international students and provides a reduction in tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs based on academic merit.
Academic Achievement Scholarship: This scholarship is available for full-time undergraduate students who have achieved excellent academic results. It offers a reduction in tuition fees.
South Wales Business School Scholarships: The Business School offers a range of scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships may provide financial assistance or work placements.
Sports Scholarships: The university offers sports scholarships to support talented athletes in their academic and sporting pursuits. These scholarships may include financial support, access to training facilities, and mentoring.
Alumni Discount: The University of South Wales provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible alumni who wish to pursue further studies at the university.
Country-Specific Scholarships: The university may offer scholarships specifically targeted at students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to promote diversity and internationalization.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics with Placement year program at the University of South Wales (USW) are equipped with specialized skills and practical experience to pursue rewarding careers in digital investigation and cybersecurity. With the combination of academic knowledge and industry exposure gained during the placement year, graduates have a competitive edge in the job market and are well-prepared to make significant contributions in various sectors.
Digital Forensics Analyst: One of the primary career paths for graduates is becoming a digital forensics analyst. Digital forensics analysts play a crucial role in investigating cybercrimes, analyzing digital evidence, and supporting legal proceedings. They use forensic tools and techniques to collect, preserve, and examine digital evidence from computers, mobile devices, and other digital media. Digital forensics analysts work for law enforcement agencies, government organizations, corporate security departments, or private investigation firms, assisting in criminal investigations, litigation, or incident response.
Incident Response Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers as incident response specialists, helping organizations respond to cybersecurity incidents and breaches effectively. Incident response specialists are responsible for analyzing security incidents, containing threats, and restoring affected systems and data. They work closely with cybersecurity teams, forensic analysts, and management to coordinate incident response efforts, mitigate risks, and implement remediation measures. Incident response specialists work for cybersecurity firms, managed security service providers (MSSPs), or within internal security teams, safeguarding organizations' digital assets and reputation.
Cybersecurity Consultant: Another career option is becoming a cybersecurity consultant, providing advisory services and technical expertise to organizations seeking to enhance their cybersecurity posture. Cybersecurity consultants assess clients' security needs, conduct risk assessments, and develop cybersecurity strategies and solutions tailored to their requirements. They may specialize in areas such as digital forensics, incident response, threat intelligence, or regulatory compliance. Cybersecurity consultants work for consulting firms, technology vendors, or as independent contractors, helping organizations navigate cybersecurity challenges and implement effective security measures.
Law Enforcement Officer (Cybercrime Investigator): Graduates may also pursue careers in law enforcement as cybercrime investigators, specializing in investigating cybercrimes such as hacking, fraud, or identity theft. Cybercrime investigators gather digital evidence, conduct forensic examinations, and build cases against cybercriminals. They work for law enforcement agencies at the local, national, or international level, collaborating with other agencies and organizations to combat cyber threats and prosecute offenders. Cybercrime investigators play a vital role in maintaining cyber law enforcement and upholding cybersecurity laws and regulations.
Forensic Consultant: Another career option is becoming a forensic consultant, providing expert testimony and forensic expertise in legal proceedings. Forensic consultants assist legal teams, prosecutors, or defense attorneys in understanding technical aspects of digital evidence and presenting findings in court. They may specialize in areas such as computer forensics, mobile device forensics, or network forensics. Forensic consultants may work independently or for forensic consulting firms, providing impartial and objective analysis to support judicial outcomes.
