Computer forensics is a lucrative field of computer science, and it is only growing larger. Like its predecessor, criminal forensics, this is a job where people investigate clues to form the bigger picture of a case. Only, this is done in a digital crime scene rather than in physical reality.

The reason why this skill set is so sought after is because as the world modernizes, so do the techniques and technology used by criminals. And of course as demand rises, so does the need for skilled, knowledgeable individuals. What’s better for anyone interested in this area is that the wages are generally on the lucrative side.

The Golden Triangle

There are three general absolutes that most employers look for when it comes to finding a job in any computer related industry. These three things are related work experience, college degrees, and industry certifications. In some cases, an employer may allow work experience or substitute for schooling and vice versa. In regards to certifications however, higher level positions will require a prospective employee to either have or be able to gain said certification within a limited time frame. A computer forensicist position will almost certainly require all three of the above.

Work Experience

Most entry-level positions will require a prospective employee to have anywhere from 1–3 years of work experience. Internships, of course, also count as such. Anything higher level than that will regularly require 5 years of work experience or more.

Schooling

It’s rare to find an entry-level position with anything less than a bachelor’s degree. It can’t just be a bog standard computer science degree either, it needs to be related to criminology. Fortunately, there are many schools offering majors in computer forensics, and this includes post graduate degrees as well. Many higher level positions will require a master’s in computer forensics to be eligible for employment.

Certifications

Anyone that’s been in the IT industry for any amount of time can point out the staggering number of certifications there are. If there’s a specialization, there is at least one certification for that field. Computer forensics isn’t any less competitive than other fields, so here’s a list of the most notable certifications as of the current year.

EC-Council

CEH: Certified Ethical Hacker

Guidance Software

EnCE: EnCase Certified Examiner

GIAC

GCFA: GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst

GCFE: GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner

GCIH: GIAC Certified Incident Handler

IA

CCFE: Certified Computer Forensics Examiner

CPT: Certified Penetration Tester

CREA: Certified Reverse Engineering Analyst

ISFCE

CCE: Certified Computer Examiner