If you enjoy using cutting-edge technology to solve mysteries, computer forensics may be the career for you.
In this profession, you gather evidence of crimes from computers, helping crack cases and provide testimony in courtrooms. Computer forensics associate programs can prepare you to launch into the field or to pursue higher education with a bachelor's degree.
Computer forensics is a fairly new field, having gained popularity when cybercrime events surged. Today, cybersecurity experts are in high demand at government agencies and private companies.
An investment of a few thousand dollars in a two-year computer forensics degree can equip you for a job earning $50,000 to $75,000 or even more.
Explore this guide to find out more about what this degree entails, how much it costs, and how to use your education to get started in an exciting and lucrative career.
Why Get a Computer Forensics Associate Degree?
A specialized field within cybersecurity and digital investigations, computer forensics focuses on identifying, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence to solve crimes, prevent cyberattacks, and support legal proceedings.
You can trace its history back more than three decades, to the rise of computer crimes that established the need for techniques to recover and analyze digital data.
A computer forensics associate program can be an attractive option for students interested in the intersection of technology and law enforcement. Various job opportunities are available, such as digital forensic technicians, computer forensics analysts, and cybersecurity technicians.
Both government agencies and private companies employ professionals in computer forensics. They may work in law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity firms, consulting companies, or corporate security departments.
People drawn to computer forensics often possess problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, a commitment to justice, and a strong interest in technology. They are often intrigued by the challenge of uncovering hidden digital evidence and contributing to the resolution of cyber-related crimes.
Compared to bootcamps that offer short-term, focused training, a degree in computer forensics provides a comprehensive and well-rounded education. Students receive a broader understanding of the field, including legal and ethical considerations, computer science principles, and hands-on training in forensic tools and techniques.
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Enhanced Career Opportunities: An associate degree can provide the formal qualifications for a career in digital forensics. Graduates can pursue entry-level positions as digital forensic technicians, computer forensics analysts, or cybersecurity technicians, and with experience, they can advance to higher-level roles.
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Specialized Knowledge and Skills: Computer forensics programs equip students with the specialized knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to conduct digital investigations. Students learn how to identify and recover digital evidence, use forensic tools and techniques, and analyze data.
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Contributions to Cybersecurity and Justice: Computer forensics professionals play a crucial role in combating cybercrimes and protecting digital information. With a degree in computer forensics, graduates can contribute to the resolution of criminal cases, support legal proceedings, and help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity defenses.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What To Expect From Two-Year Computer Forensics Programs
Computer forensics programs emphasize integrity, accuracy, and ethics in the investigation and analysis of digital evidence. These programs train people to be competent, responsible, and ethical practitioners in the field.
An associate degree comes in several types, notably the associate of arts (AA), the associate of science (AS), and the associate of applied science (AAS). Most computer forensics programs are AAS degrees, focused on preparing graduates for the workplace.
Courses consist of general education, computer science, and criminal justice topics; and the program may conclude with a capstone project.
Most associate degrees require 60-64 credits, which usually take 5-6 semesters, or two years, to complete. Applicants with CLEP, AP, or transfer credits may shorten their time to graduation.
Admissions Process
Many community colleges offer open enrollment, which means they often accept any applicant over age 18 who wants to learn. To be accepted into a computer forensics associate program, however, you need a high school diploma or its equivalent. You may also have to take the SAT, ACT, or other college placement exam.
Applicants typically need to fill out an application, submit their transcripts, and complete any other prerequisites before meeting with their academic advisor.
Associate Degree Options
Online programs are popular. Approximately 75% of students take at least one online course, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, but is internet-delivered learning right for you?
Self-disciplined learners with internet access can enjoy the flexible and focused experience of an online program, but learners who enjoy face-to-face interaction with professors and peers may prefer an in-person, hybrid, or live virtual degree.
You may also need to choose between an AA, AS, or AAS for your program. The AA and AS both focus on preparing transfer students while the AAS emphasizes career-ready skills for job seekers.
Popular Computer Forensics Associate Courses
Each school determines its own curriculum for an associate in computer forensics. Typically, this curriculum includes a mix of courses in criminal justice, computer science, and digital forensics. Enrollees may take classes such as the ones listed below.
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Computer Network Forensic Technology: Students learn models of forensics examination in a network environment. The course focuses on the roles of IP and OSI models, and students may experiment with port scans, log files, and packet sniffers.
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Computer Forensics: Covering basic and advanced concepts in computer forensics, this course exposes students to relevant criminal law alongside concepts of encryption, data hiding techniques, and password recovery. Topics include how to handle evidence, recover data, and think like an investigator.
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Firewalls and Network Security: In this course, students learn to install and configure firewalls. Topics may include proxy, filtering, stateful inspection, and the difference between normal and attacking traffic. Learners may have a chance to experiment with virtual private networks (VPN) in the lab component of the course.
How Much Do Associate Degrees in Computer Forensics Cost?
NCES data states that the average cost for one year of education at a public, two-year institution is $4,000. At private, nonprofit two-year schools, the average price jumps to $17,700. A national average offers a helpful snapshot of the data, but it may not reflect your school's price tag. In some states, community college is free; in others, financial aid can help cover many expenses. Scholarships, grants, jobs, and student loans can all go a long way toward meeting tuition and living costs.
Computer Forensics Careers
What jobs can you apply for with an associate degree in computer forensics? Criminal justice agencies, law enforcement offices, private investigators, and IT departments are all looking for cybersecurity specialists who understand digital forensics.
The jobs below are just a few of the careers you can compete for with a computer forensics degree.
Forensic Computer Analyst
Working with a team of forensic experts and other investigators, forensic computer analysts look for evidence in computer-based information. They may dive deep into hard drives, search for evidence on destroyed mobile devices, or analyze user patterns on storage devices. These professionals must execute their jobs in compliance with federal, state, and organizational regulations.
Average Annual Salary: $76,589 as of August 2023
Forensic Science Technician
Forensic science technicians help lead forensic scientists examine crime scene evidence. They might classify evidence, log information into a database, or analyze specific pieces of data. These professionals often work for law-enforcement agencies as part of a larger, crime-solving team.
Average Annual Salary: $50,565 as of July 2023
Security Consultant
Organizations hire security consultants to help strengthen their organizational protection tools and plans. Consultants may help create business continuity plans, hire a team, or build a strategy to prevent sabotage and cybercrime. Security consultants can work for large agencies or be self-employed.
Average Annual Salary: $93,348 as of August 2023
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best Computer Forensics Associate Degrees
Kick off your career in criminal justice technology with a two-year degree. You can start by exploring our list of 2023's top 10 computer forensics associate programs. For information on how we create our school rankings, click on the link below.
#1 Best Computer Forensics Associate Degrees
Century College
- White Bear Lake, MN
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
This two-year community college in White Lake, Minnesota, educates more than 16,500 learners across 155 subject areas. Each year, 1,600 students graduate and receive degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
Cybersecurity, Forensics and Information Assurance, AAS
Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense for Two-Year Schools by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, Century College offers this cybersecurity degree to prepare candidates for public or private work in the field.
This computer forensics associate program includes a 20-credit information technology core along with 24 credits in the major. Students can enroll in courses such as malicious documents and memory forensics, Python for cybersecurity professionals, and visualization and reporting for big data. Century College also maintains the Virtual Center for Cyber Education, which connects students with national networks and resources.
Applying to Century College
First-time students must submit online applications with their GED certificate scores or high school transcripts. Applicants may submit SAT or ACT scores or take a placement test.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $183/credit (on-campus); $190/credit (online)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: Hybrid (asynchronous)
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Computer Forensics Associate Degrees
College of Southern Nevada
- Las Vegas, NV
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Offering 150 degrees and certificates in 70 academic programs, the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) serves students with day, night, weekend, and online class options. The college maintains campuses in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Henderson.
Computing and Information Technology: Cybersecurity-Digital Forensics, AAS
CSN launched this two-year program to train students in network forensics, computer forensics, and digital crime investigation. Students complete 23 credits in general education courses, along with 37 credits of program requirements.
Courses include introduction to digital forensics, Network+, and IT essentials. The program concludes with a project-driven security capstone course. Students usually need four full-time semesters of coursework with a C or better in each course to complete their program.
Students can pursue this degree online or in person. The online program is not materially different from the campus-based degree.
Applying to CSN
CSN is an open-access institution for anyone 18+ who wants to learn. Each candidate needs to hold a high school diploma or its equivalent and complete a placement test.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Tuition: $3,440/term (in state); $11,340/term (out of state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous and synchronous) or on campus
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Best Computer Forensics Associate Degrees
Herkimer College
- Herkimer, NY
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Herkimer, New York, Herkimer College enrolls learners from 21 countries in 40-plus associate and certificate programs. More than half of Herkimer's graduates pursue education at four-year schools.
Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics (A.S.)
The Committee on National Security Systems, a U.S. intergovernmental organization, has certified the cybersecurity program at Herkimer. This degree blends criminal justice with computer technology to prepare future network defense specialists. Students can choose between an on-campus option and an online program.
This program includes courses such as understanding and managing cybercrime, fraud examination, and computer forensics and investigation. Students may complete a CompTIA certification as part of their curriculum.
Herkimer graduates can compete for entry-level cybersecurity or digital forensics jobs, or they can apply to bachelor's degree programs. The school maintains transfer agreements with six area colleges.
Applying to Herkimer
Prospective students should submit their high school transcripts or GED certificates, TASC, or Hi-SET reports. Herkimer takes about two weeks to process an application.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $2,558/term
- Required Credits: 64 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous) or on campus
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
63%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Computer Forensics Associate Degrees
Jefferson College
- Hillsboro, MO
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Hillsboro, Missouri, Jefferson College (Jeffco) has educated more than 27,000 students in its 60-plus-year history. The college offers flexible schedules, accelerated formats, and three physical campuses, along with an online program.
Computer Information Systems - Criminal Justice Cyber Forensics, AAS
Combining information technology with information systems security, the cybersecurity degree at Jeffco can prepare students to pursue criminal justice careers or bachelor's degrees in the field. Each enrollee takes 25 credits in computer information systems, 18 credits in criminal justice, and 22-24 credits in general education.
Course options include terrorism, ethics in criminal justice, networking, and Linux OS. Students also complete 1-3 credits in a technical internship. Learners can also complete an industry certification during their studies, strengthening their job search potential after graduation. Jeffco has a 94% job placement rate for all programs.
Applying to Jeffco
Each candidate submits a free online application, along with high school transcripts or GED/HiSET scores and evidence of any AP courses or CLEP results. Applicants may also need to take placement tests and meet with academic advisors.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $120/credit (in district); $180/credit (in state); $240/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 64-66 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: On campus or hybrid (synchronous and asynchronous)
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Computer Forensics Associate Degrees
Miami Dade College
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida's Miami Dade College (MDC) offers upwards of 300 degree pathways across its eight campuses and outreach centers. More than 167 nations and 63 languages are represented in MDC's diverse student body.
Computer Crime Investigation Associate in Science
Students looking to pursue entry-level public service law enforcement careers can find an on-ramp in MDC's computer forensics associate program. This program requires 15 credits in the humanities, 30 major course credits, and 15 credits in major-related electives. Courses include digital forensics, introduction to computer crimes, and fundamentals of networking security. Each student also must complete a two-credit work experience or directed study.
Online students can choose a 100% virtual learning environment where they participate with faculty in live lectures, a self-paced online program, or mix these delivery formats. Graduates can pursue careers as security analysts, cyberthreat investigators, digital forensic analysts, and computer forensic examiners.
Applying to MDC
Prospective students should submit their applications, including a $30 non-refundable fee. The school also requests official high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and proof of Florida residency.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $83/credit (in state); $332/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous or asynchronous), on campus, or hybrid
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Choosing the Right Computer Forensics Associate Degree
How do you select the right associate degree for you? As you make your decision, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: The school you choose should hold institutional or programmatic accreditation.
- Student/teacher Ratio: Generally, a lower ratio provides more personalized instruction.According to NCES, the full-time student-to-faculty ratio in public two-year institutions stood at 18:1 in 2019.
- Staff Credentials and Diversity: Do faculty members have both hands-on experience and academic credentials? Do they represent diverse experiences and identities?
- Cost and Financial Aid: Can you afford this school? How much financial aid will the institution help you access?
Should You Get Your Associate Degree in Computer Forensics Online?
Online education has become increasingly popular and offers several advantages, but it may not be the best fit for everyone.
For self-motivated learners with internet access, online programs can offer accessible and flexible programs that make it easier to earn a degree while juggling other responsibilities. In-person learning, though more structured, often provides direct interaction with professors and classmates, fostering collaboration and networking opportunities.
Computer forensics involves practical skills and hands-on training. Some online programs incorporate discussion forums, virtual labs, and simulations, but they may not fully replicate the face-to-face experience.
Should You Go to an Associate, Certificate, or Bootcamp Program?
An associate degree takes two years from start to finish. Could you receive the same benefits by spending a few weeks in a cybersecurity bootcamp or a single semester in college?
If you already hold a bachelor's degree or higher, then a bootcamp or certificate could make sense for you. These shorter, career-focused programs can get you in the workforce faster than a degree can.
On the other hand, if you are pondering what to do after high school, an associate program may be the best choice.
Associate vs. Certificate vs. Bootcamp Programs
| Comparison Point |
Computer Forensics Associate Degrees |
Computer Forensics Certificates |
Bootcamp Programs |
| Program Length |
2 years for full-time students |
1-2 semesters |
12-15 weeks |
| Course Load |
60-64 credits |
15-21 credits |
6-8 units |
| Admissions Requirements |
High school diploma or equivalent
Some schools may require the SAT, the ACT, or a placement test. |
High school diploma or equivalent |
You may need to demonstrate prior knowledge in math, programming languages, and/or operating systems. |
| Average Cost |
$4,000 for public institutions$17,700 for private, non-profit institutions |
Varies widely |
Average cost of $13,580 |
| Program Focus |
Preparing for an entry-level career or a bachelor's in computer forensics |
Introduction to computer forensics or add-on to a bachelor's degree in another field |
Acquire career-ready skills for cybersecurity |
Other Educational Paths
Instead of an introductory program, you may want to consider pursuing a bachelor's degree or master's degree in computer forensics.
A bachelor's degree can qualify you for a career as a computer forensic investigator, security analyst, or security architect. Adding a master's degree can help you compete for a job as a computer information scientist or a postsecondary teacher.
According to Payscale, a bachelor's in computer forensics averages $72,000 annually while a master's brings in $106,000.
Bachelor's Degrees in Computer Forensics
Bachelor's Degrees in Computer Science
Master's Degrees in Computer Forensics
Master's Degrees in Computer Science
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Computer Forensics Associate Degree Questions
What can you do with an associate degree in computer forensics?
You can pursue an entry-level role in cybersecurity or digital forensics. Although advanced positions may require a bachelor's degree or higher, you can become a penetration tester, cyber data analyst, or information security associate.
Is an AA or AS in computer forensics worth it?
An associate degree in computer forensics can open up entry-level job opportunities, get you started on a bachelor's degree, or prepare you to earn industry certifications in cybersecurity. Community colleges that offer AA, AS, or AAS programs often charge much less than four-year institutions.
Is getting a computer forensics degree hard?
Computer forensics is a complex technical field that requires students to acquire challenging math and data skills. With commitment and perseverance, however, learners can gain the knowledge and skills they need to complete this rewarding degree.
What degree should I get for computer forensics?
An associate degree can provide a low-cost introduction to the field. To pursue advanced professional roles, though, you need a bachelor's degree. Doing research in computer forensics or teaching at the college level typically requires a master's degree or Ph.D.
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