Digital Forensics Certificate of Achievement

Program Description

This certificate consists of 18 units that will prepare students with the knowledge required for analyzing, investigating, and writing reports pertaining to basic digital forensics. This certificate will help to prepare students for entry-level work in the digital forensics field.

The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program.  Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway.  It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.

Division

Mathematics, Business & Computer Technology

Department

Computer Information Technology

Career and Academic Pathway (CAP)

Business, Information Technology, Hospitality

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Utilize proper investigative procedures relative to the individual, corporate, and criminal rights, responsibilities, and law.

  2. Utilize basic methods and techniques of forensic investigation.

  3. Use forensic software to secure and analyze various digital media at a basic level.

  4. Access, document and evaluate hidden data files.

  5. Use basic investigative techniques for various operating systems.

  6. Create and present legal reports and analysis of forensic investigation results.

  7. Recognize proper workflow and control.

Program Map

GE General Education
O Available Online
Program Requirement
P Program Prerequisites

1st Semester

9 units
CIT 128
Introduction to Linux OS
This is an introductory course to the LINUX Operating System and basic Linux Operating System environment and commands. These course will cover file system navigation, Graphic User Interfaces (GUI) such as GNOME and KDE, file permissions, the Linux text editors, command shells, and basic network commands. This course is mapped to LINUX LPI Level 1 guidelines.

Course Details:

CIT 101
Introduction to Computer Literacy
This course is an introduction to fundamental Information Technology / Information Systems concepts and Information Security. The course includes practical exercises with spreadsheet, database, and Internet applications.

Course Details:

  1. Departmental Advisory: CIT 010
    2. or
  2. Departmental Advisory: CIT 031
  • Transfers to CSU
    • CIT 091
    Introduction to Networks (CCNA - Cisco Networking Academy)

    This first course in a three-course CCNA series introduces architectures, models, protocols, and networking elements – functions needed to support the operations and priorities of Fortune 500 companies to small innovative retailers. Students will have the chance to build simple local area networks (LANs). Developing a working knowledge of IP addressing schemes, foundational network security, students will be able to perform basic configurations for routers and switches. After completing all three CCNA courses, students are ready to take the CCNA Certification. 

    Course Details:

    2nd Semester

    9 units
    CIT 155
    Systems and Network Administration
    This course will provide a student with the knowledge and skills required to build, maintain, troubleshoot and support server hardware and software technologies. The student will be able to identify environmental issues; understand and comply with disaster recovery and physical / software security procedures; become familiar with industry terminology and concepts; understand server roles / specializations and interaction within the overall computing environment.

    Course Details:

    1. Prerequisite: CIT 110
  • Transfers to CSU
    • CIT 127
    Introduction to Computer Forensics
    This course will introduce basic tools, techniques, and procedures for collecting, capturing, and preserving digital evidence that can be admitted and used in computer forensics processes. Topics include securing and analyzing a computer system and network system, evaluating suspect data and files, and composing reports based on investigative findings. 

    Course Details:

    1. Prerequisite: CIT 101
    CIT 160
    Introduction to Information Systems Security
    An introduction to the fundamental principles and topics of Information Technology Security and Risk Management at the organizational level. It addresses hardware, software, processes, communications, applications, and policies and procedures with respect to organizational Cybersecurity and Risk Management.

    Course Details:

    1. Prerequisite: CIT 232
  • Transfers to CSU