Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics

Digital evidence plays a critical role in investigations ranging from cybercrime and financial fraud to network intrusions and other technology-facilitated offenses. UAB’s Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics prepares students to investigate these incidents by combining technical skills with an understanding of the investigative and legal contexts in which digital evidence is used.

Students develop skills in the retrieval, preservation, analysis, and reporting of digital evidence from computers, mobile devices, networks, and online environments. Coursework also explores online investigations, online attacks, financial crimes, and the methods used to identify and respond to cyber incidents.

Program Requirements

The 15-credit-hour certificate is designed for both degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking students who want specialized training in digital forensics and cyber investigations. The program is beneficial for students and professionals interested in careers involving digital forensics, cybercrime investigation, cybersecurity, law enforcement, intelligence, fraud investigation, and related fields.

Students complete five graduate courses covering digital forensics, online scams and abuse, financial crimes, and related laws and ethics tensions. Class descriptions can be found in the Criminal Justice section of the UAB Graduate Catalog.

Together, these courses provide investigative preparation for identifying, collecting, analyzing, and communicating digital evidence in criminal, civil, organizational, and cybersecurity contexts.