Forensic Investigation and Cyber Security BSc (Hons)

The University of Winchester

• Engage in and evaluate current critical debates surrounding the causes of cyber crime, forensic investigations and the methods and motivations of cyber criminals
• Gain a specialist degree in a rapidly growing field with a current skills shortage in the marketplace
• Benefit from a team of research-active academics and experts who work at the forefront of the field and who use interactive and practical teaching approaches to bring theory and practice to life
• Learn how to successfully present your evidence in written format and orally within a mock trial
• Develop an appreciation of the wider role information security plays in an organisational context
• Have the opportunity to complete a work placement year with a relevant organisation
• Access a wide range of specialist software and tools including a dedicated Cyber Security and Forensics laboratory in a cutting-edge new development which houses the Department of Digital Futures and Applied Social Sciences

The cyber threat to all countries, companies and organisations is significant and growing. Since the creation of the National Cyber Security Centre in February 2017, the UK has been hit by more than 200 high-level attacks. Cyber criminals seek to exploit organisations and infrastructure for profit. Their technical sophistication varies from small-scale cyber-enabled fraud to persistent, advanced and professional organisations.

Are you a computing enthusiast ready to lead the fight against cyber crime? Our dynamic Forensic Investigation and Cyber Security degree offers a multi-disciplinary perspective on the strategic deployment and implementation of cyber security within an organisational and forensic context. The programme prepares you to recognise the threats to an organisation and master key forensic investigation methodologies to aid the detection and evidence gathering of activities relating to cyber crimes. As a cyber security and forensic graduate you will be equipped with the latest industry recognised skills to stay one step ahead of the cyber criminals who are constantly creating new ways to bypass security measures and challenging us to find new techniques and tools for security and investigation. Led by a specialist team of research-active academics, this industry-informed three-year degree will enhance your knowledge of various computing disciplines, including software development, networking, database analysis and design and digital forensics. Employers in this sector are seeking graduates who can demonstrate an understanding of evidence documentation processes and principles. This programme allows you to develop these skills, from crime scene to courtroom, within forensic-based modules and in the review of real case examples. In Year 1, you are introduced to the domain of information security including, viruses, botnets, hacking and cracking, phishing and social engineering. You develop fundamental core knowledge in forensic investigation, criminal justice systems and contemporary issues as well as legal and regulatory frameworks. In Year 2, you explore topics in the latest developments in Forensic Investigation and Cyber Security. You are given the opportunity to apply your investigative knowledge to a range of forensic-based scenarios and to learn complementary forensic techniques. An optional placement year allows you to enhance your employability, business understanding and professional skills through 12 months of relevant employment experience. In Year 3, you develop an appreciation of the legal, ethical and regulatory frameworks together with the human aspects of information security assurance and forensic investigation. The Dissertation module helps you to develop specialist skills and expertise through the undertaking of a substantial body of work. You also learn how to successfully present your evidence in written format and orally within a mock trial.