Programme Introduction

Chair of Programme: Mr. Renaat Verbruggen
For all queries, please contact the Marketing Officer at marketing@computing.dcu.ie

In recent years, technologically competent criminals have been increasingly exploiting the use of new technologies in the commission of crime. The investigation of such crime has led to the emergence of a new field of specialisation termed forensic computing, which involves the detection, storage, analysis and exhibition of digital evidence in a legally admissible manner. DCU's MSc in Security and Forensic Computing equips graduates to carry out this sophisticated technical work, while also exploring effective methods which may be used to assist in the prevention of such crime. With excellent employment prospects, and major fee support for E.U. students, DCU is the only university in Ireland to offer a taught MSc programme in this expanding area.

Forensic Computing: A Truly Multidisciplinary Science

Forensic Computing is often regarded as a primarily computer-related problem with technical solutions. In reality, however, Forensic Computing actually draws on a number of disciplines: namely, computer science, information systems, law, and social science. Accordingly, DCU's MSc in Security and Forensic Computing adopts a holistic approach to the study of Forensic Computing, and provides students with an understanding of the legal, technical, information management and ethical issues impacting on the discipline. Hence, graduates are thoroughly prepared to undertake their work in a structured manner consistent with evidential requirements.

Broad Employment Prospects

DCU's MSc in Security and Forensic Computing offers strong employment prospects for graduates in the growing areas of security consultancy, secure software development, and forensic computing itself. The skills developed in graduates are particularly attractive to financial institutions, law enforcement agencies, and software security houses, to whom security is of paramount strategic importance.