MSc Digital Forensics And Cyber Investigation (With Advanced Practice)

Applicants are normally expected to have at least a 2.2 UK honours degree (or equivalent).

A broad range of first degree subjects are acceptable including sciences, IT, computing, forensics, crime scene science, criminology, law, psychology, policing and engineering.

Please contact our admissions team if you need to discuss your eligibility.

Non-UK students must also meet the University's minimum English language requirements.

For general information please see our overview of entry requirements

International applicants can find out what qualifications they need by visiting Your Country

For fees and funding options, please visit website to find out more

Successful graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to become a professional digital or cyber analyst or investigator. You are highly employable in the computer security and forensic intelligence fields.

You also have the appropriate knowledge in advanced technical skills to get a job within a number of other careers such as within a government organisation, security services and the financial sector, forensic science agencies, the police service, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, and trading standards.

Computer Forensic Investigations

Learn how to investigate computer-based evidence using common desktop operating systems. You explore how digital data is stored and how this can be examined in a forensic investigation. You are introduced to common operating and file-system artefacts that provide useful evidence or intelligence in a digital investigation. You are assessed by completing a 5000-word investigative report based on a practical scenario. Learning takes place in the digital forensic laboratory through a range of practical, embedded sessions.

Computing Masters Project

You undertake a major, in-depth, individual study in an aspect of your course. Normally computing master’s projects are drawn from commercial, industrial or research-based problem areas. The project involves you in researching and investigating aspects of your area of study and then producing a major deliverable, for example software package or tool, design, web-site and research findings. You also critically evaluate your major deliverable, including obtaining third party evaluation where appropriate.

The major deliverable(s) are presented via a poster display, and also via a product demonstration or a conference-type presentation of the research and findings. The research, project process and evaluation is reported via a paper in the style of a specified academic conference or journal paper. The written report, the major deliverable and your presentation of the product are assessed.

The project management process affords supported opportunities for goal setting, reflection and critical evaluation of achievement.

Digital Forensics and Incident Response

Explore the core concepts and theory of digital forensics and incident response, and develop an industry skillset on professional practice requirements. You also gain an understanding of the principles of forensic investigation and incident response, as well as a fundamental knowledge of how computers store data. You are assessed through five short essays on a number of topics.

Internet and Network Forensics