Digital Forensics

Catalog description

This course provides an in-depth introduction to the principles, tools, and practices of digital forensics as applied to criminal justice and legal investigations. Students examine how digital evidence is identified, preserved, collected, analyzed, and presented in accordance with legal and ethical standards. Emphasis is placed on maintaining chain of custody, adhering to constitutional protections, and understanding the role of digital forensics in criminal, civil, and administrative investigations. Topics include chain of custody, forensic imaging, analysis of digital devices, network and cloud-based evidence, documentation for court proceedings, and the role of digital forensics in criminal investigations across multiple operating systems. The course integrates theory, applied practice, and ethical decision-making to prepare students for careers and advanced study within the criminal justice system.