IT-Forensik/Cybercrime

Faculty Applied Computer Sciences and Biosciences
Course of studies IT-Forensic/Cybercrime
Degree Bachelor
Academic degree Bachelor of Science
Start Winter semester
Regular study period 8 Semesters
Further qualification Cybercrime/Cybersecurity (M.Sc.)
Category computer science
Type of study extra occupational studies
distance learning
Course language german
Admission restriction No
Tuition Yes
Credits 180
Accredited Yes  /  Information on accreditation
Application portal Online application

Cyber crimes are a growing challenge for law enforcement agencies in Germany._¬ The sheer number of such crimes is increasing every year while the technical effort involved in investigating them is expanding constantly. Cybercrime includes offenses directed against the Internet, data networks, information technology systems or their data, and criminal offenses using this information technology.

The field of computer forensics, which is always in need of new research, plays a key role in combatting such crimes. The widespread distribution of IT systems in private households, businesses, public authorities, and operators of critical infrastructures makes it clear how important qualified digital forensic investigations are. Digital evidence plays a role in almost all investigations today.

This development requires a newer and more in-depth system of understanding and classification for police officers who are deployed in investigative teams fighting against cybercrime. At the same time, a branch of industry has developed which deals with analogous concerns in the business environment.

The aim of the new part-time distance learning course IT-Forensics/Cybercrime is to train police investigators and employees from companies in the field of IT-Forensics/Cybercrime. The modules offered are all subordinate to this goal or form the basis for these skills. In the modules Cybercrime I and Cybercrime II, the crimes from this phenomenon area and the technical knowledge required for dealing with them are taught specifically. A whole series of other modules are special forensics modules from the field of IT forensics.

The program is completed with a Bachelor of Science Degree. In addition, it is possible to take only the first 3 semesters and complete the program with a certificate. This option is intended to enable civil servants to quickly obtain post-qualification.

After graduation, graduates should be able to work independently as investigators of cybercrime or as IT forensic specialists in an investigative agency or a company.

Objective

According to the Federal Criminal Police Office's annual cybercrime situation report, computer crime is the fastest-growing threat in crime worldwide.

Cybercrime includes offenses directed against the Internet, data networks, information technology systems or their data, and criminal offenses using this information technology.

The study program concept is based on these growing requirements. The goal is to train specialists in the field of cyber defense in order to minimize crimes in the digital world.

Based on methodological competence, the training links forensic casework and IT forensics. This provides students with the opportunity to discover and evaluate traces and data in the cybercrime phenomenon area.

The IT Forensics/Cybercrime degree program creates, expands and deepens knowledge and skills in the field of computer science as well as basic scientific knowledge in particular.

 

Structure

The course of study can be divided into the following sections of knowledge acquisition:

  • Pink subjects: introduction to computer science and programming.
  • Grey subjects: basic subjects of computer science
  • Red subjects: special subjects IT forensics / cybercrime
  • Green subjects: Cryptology
  • Purple subjects: Practical modules
  • Light gray: Bachelor project

In eight part-time semesters, you will be optimally prepared for the field of IT forensics and become familiar with the means of prevention as well as investigation. At the interface of law and computer technology, you will be trained as a digital forensic investigator. The contents of the distance learning program are primarily taught via textbooks and modern e-learning software. Each semester includes two one-week attendance phases at Mittweida University of Applied Sciences. At the beginning of the semester, you will gain initial insights into the individual modules. At the end of the semester you will take your exams.

The program is completed with a Bachelor of Science degree. Another option is, after the first three semesters or the completion of twelve modules, you can choose to complete your studies with a certificate. This latter option makes it possible for civil servants to quickly obtain further professional qualifications.

Education

In order to optimally prepare our future forensics/cybercrime experts for their profession, the knowledge imparted in the lectures is directly implemented by students in practical exercises. Practical work with physical evidence and digital traces, along with working on special projects, plays a central role throughout the course of studies. Through their own examination of evidence, as well as joint projects and lectures, students are encouraged to engage in independent scientific activity while also being enabled to work in teams.

Numerous internships and experiments in the various computer pools and laboratories of the department serve to provide the necessary practical skills and abilities. Materials such as lecture notes, seminar and practical course assignments, literature references, and links are made available to students via the intranet of Mittweida University.

Distance learning at Mittweida University of Applied Sciences - three good reasons:

  • Unique study program. Due to its concept and low fees, the IT Forensics/Cybercrime study program is unique.
  • Use of digital forensic tools. Even during the course of study, the focus is on practice-oriented work through the use of software for digital data investigation.
  • Individual support. Fast and efficient learning is ensured by us through individually adapted support in study matters.

Key data for the study

Attendance times

  • 1 block week at the beginning of the semester
  • 1 block week at the end of the semester

Tuition fees 1.174,- € per semester plus semester fee.

Semester fee

Requirements

This extra-occupational offer is aimed in particular at employees of the police and security authorities as well as IT employees from the private sector, but also at interested parties who have a basic knowledge of computer science and can demonstrate a connection to the professional field of cybercrime.

Application and admission

You are interested?

The Bachelor's programme starts in the winter semester (from October). To have a chance of getting a place, you must apply in good time. You can find all information about the application deadlines here. The programme is admission-restricted because we have more applicants than places. Therefore, a selection process takes place to find the most suitable applicants.

Register at hs-mittweida.de/bewerben. As soon as you have submitted all forms and supporting documents, you will take part in the selection process for the degree programme. If you get a place, you can enrol online.

You can begin your studies in Mittweida if you have

  • the general higher education entrance qualification or
  • a subject-related higher education entrance qualification (for the relevant subject area) or
  • the entrance qualification for a university of applied sciences.

All information about application deadlines and the required documents can be found here.

If you do not have any of the mentioned degrees, look here for more information.

There is a separate application deadline for international students. Please click here for more information.