Technical Working Group for Education and Training in Digital Forensics

• NCJ Number: 219380
• Date Published: January 2007
• Length: 67 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2001-RC-CX-K003
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Award: Forensic ID Training and Research Resources at WVU

Annotation

This report of the Technical Working Group on Education and Training in Digital Forensics (TWG), which is composed of educators and practitioners in digital forensics, outlines curricula for this discipline at various levels of the educational system.

Abstract

Digital forensics is the science of identifying, collecting, preserving, documenting, examining, analyzing, and presenting evidence from computers, computer networks, and other electronic devices. This report intends to improve and advance digital forensics through model curricula consistent with other forensic science programs. It provides guidance to individuals interested in pursuing academic programs and professional opportunities in digital forensics. This report also presents recommendations for academic institutions interested in developing digital forensics programs. In addition, it provides information to employers on the educational backgrounds of graduates of digital forensics programs as well as on the evaluation of continuing-education opportunities for current employees. Chapter 1 describes the alternative paths by which students may arrive at and proceed through their professional training. Chapters 2 through 4 address formal education programs in the order of increasing length: a 2-year associate's degree, a 4-year baccalaureate degree, and graduate degrees. Chapter 5 provides a framework for academic certificate programs offered by education institutions. Chapter 6 outlines model criteria and implementation procedures for training and continuing-education opportunities provided by professional organizations, vendors, and academic institutions. Appendixes provide information on digital forensics careers, professional organizations and associations, scientific and technical working groups, and scientific and technical working groups educational criteria.