Entry requirementsThe programme is designed for graduates wanting to follow a career in forensic computing or who wish to develop their understanding and application of security issues. The programme is also designed to appeal to professionals in related areas such as: -Law enforcement -System administrators -Corporate security personnel -Information security personnel -IS auditors
Academic titleMSc Forensic Information Technology
Course descriptionForensic IT is the scientific use or application of IT in the generation and presentation of digital evidence to be used in courts, legal or other formal proceedings. The term 'formal proceedings' also relates to the use of IT in internal corporate procedures that might later become the subject of formal legal proceedings; for example, downloading pornography onto a company computer or providing information that might lead to insider trading offences.
Will it suit me?
The MSc in Forensic IT is designed for those who hold a good honours degree in computing, IT, legal or social sciences or an equivalent discipline, as well as an awareness of the nature of digital information processing machinery, which is essential.
Have I got what it takes?
Other desirable attributes include:
-a 'hands on' experience of computer systems
-knowledge of IT systems, especially familiarity with PCs, networks, operating systems and systems security configuration
-awareness of security issues at various levels of system implementation
We welcome professionals with appropriate relevant experience who have worked, or are working, in related fields.
Why study at Portsmouth?
Computing and multimedia courses have a long and distinguished record of teaching and research. We have close contact with academic staff from a number of departments, including the Institute of Criminal Justice Studies, who run an online tutors' centre. This will allow you access to a wide range of computing facilities, the latest development software and a newly refurbished library.
In addition to our academic facilities, the University of Portsmouth has a newly constructed Students' Union building and a large number of clubs and societies.
The MSc in Forensic IT includes six compulsory taught units
-Strategic risk management
-Digital forensics
-Cyber crime and cyber governance
-Cryptography
-Network security
-Masters skills and practice
A choice of two from the following list of option units will also be undertaken
In addition you will undertake a substantial project, where you will apply the skills from the taught part of the course to a practical problem, usually supplied by external clients