Computer Forensics

Computer Forensics at the University of Sunderland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to investigate, analyze, and prevent cybercrime and digital security threats. The course covers a wide range of topics including digital evidence collection, data recovery, cyber law, ethical hacking, network security, and forensic investigation techniques. Students will learn how to secure and analyze digital devices, perform forensic examinations, and present findings in legal settings. The program combines theoretical learning with practical hands-on experience through labs, simulated investigations, and industry placements, preparing graduates for careers in law enforcement, cybersecurity firms, governmental agencies, and private sector organizations. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the rapidly evolving field of digital forensics and cybersecurity, ensuring that students are proficient with the latest tools and methodologies used in digital investigations. Graduates of this program will gain the ability to work effectively as digital forensic examiners, cybercrime investigators, or security consultants, contributing to the fight against cyber threats and ensuring data integrity. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical considerations vital to the responsible handling of digital evidence. With a focus on employability, students will have opportunities to develop industry connections through guest lectures, internships, and partnership projects. The University of Sunderland’s Computer Forensics program prepares students for a challenging and rewarding career in one of the most dynamic fields in technology today, combining technical expertise with analytical and legal skills essential for combatting cybercrime.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 7800 Year (EEA)
• GBP 9500 Year (International)

• English

Course Content

Fundamentals of Computing (100 Credits)

• Software Development and Theory – Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction, Formal Methods.
• Programming – Microsoft C# .NET and Java programming for Robots.
• Web & Multimedia Applications – Markup Languages (HTML 5, CSS 3), Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe Flash, and Actionscript, Adobe Photoshop, Javascript, Web APIs (such as Google Maps and Yahoo APIs).
• Database Systems – Database Design, Relational Databases and SQL, Database Integrity and Security, PHP and MySQL.
• Computer Systems and Networking – Operating Systems, Networks and Computer Architectures.
• Specialist Mini Project – you can showcase your talents through a project in your chosen area of computing. Past projects have included a Facebook app, a hack challenge and the creation of a retro arcade game.

Foundations of Computer Forensics and Ethical Hacking (20 Credits)
You will gain an overview of computer forensics and ethical hacking from both theoretical and practical perspectives, within the context of the fundamentals of computer systems, operating systems, computer hardware, programming and system design.

Principles of Computer Forensics and Ethical Hacking (40 Credits)

You will gain skills in penetration testing and other ethical hacking methods. As a result you will be able to evaluate a range of threats over a variety of operating systems and platforms.
Software Engineering Enterprise and Innovation Project (40 Credits)

Choose to develop a software project for a client or yourself. You will gain valuable experience of working within a team-based software development environment.
Optional modules (choose one):

Software Development (40 Credits)

This module provides additional skills in Microsoft C# .NET programming and software design through further .NET technologies, UML modelling, unit testing, multi-threading and web-based solutions.

Information Systems (40 Credits)

You will develop different types of database-driven information system applications using, for example, SQL Server and Oracle’s application development approaches (such as Forms and APEX). Plus you will build more complex PHP and MySQL systems.

Network and Routing Fundamentals (40 Credits)

This module introduces theories behind networking and basic router configuration. You will work in our networking laboratories to develop practical skills in designing and building routed networks of the kind typically found in industry. This module also offers the opportunity to undertake exams for CISCO accreditation for CCNA, which is a well-recognised and valued industry accreditation.

Computing Major Project (40 Credits)

You will research a topic and develop software that’s connected to that topic. Past examples include an Android audio application, a Trojan detector and a network monitoring tool.

Advanced Computer Forensics (20 Credits)

You will gain in-depth knowledge about specialist and sensitive areas in computer forensics. You will also learn how to maintain the integrity of digital evidence and how to analyse it thoroughly.
Professional Issues in Computer Forensics (20 Credits)

There is great emphasis on legal, social, ethical and professional aspects of ethical hacking and computer forensics.

Optional modules (choose 40 Credits):

Ethical Hacking (20 Credits)You will develop knowledge and understanding of ethical hacking, which is about locating and strengthening security weaknesses in computer systems. The module will also cover a range of legal and social aspects in the ethical hacking domain.

Network Management (20 Credits)

This module introduces the five key activities associated with network management: Fault, Configuration, Accounting, Performance and Security. For each of these activities you will learn about standards / models / protocols and how to analyse their effectiveness.

Telecommunications (20 Credits)

This module moves from analogue principles to digital telephony, VOIP, packetized voice, GSM and converged networks. You will have an opportunity to build a fully converged modern telecommunications system.

Advanced Databases (20 Credits)

This module explores solutions related to complex database systems such as: enhanced data models, query optimisation, clustering, scalability, security, forensic investigation, data warehousing, data analysis tools and more.

Concurrent and Distributed Systems (20 Credits)

This module covers modern multi-processor and distributed system software development using appropriate programming languages, frameworks and APIs.

Artificial Intelligence (20 Credits)

This module develops your knowledge of current AI principles and your skills in this fast-moving area, which is a particular focus of Sunderland’s research.

Project Management (20 Credits)

You will learn modern approaches to the development and management of IT-related projects, making use of the latest principles and research.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Our typical offer will be in the region of 260 points from a minimum of two A Levels or equivalent (for example 1 x AVCE double award).

We accept a maximum of 20 points from Level 3 Key Skills qualifications.

Please note we do not accept AS/A Level General Studies.

We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above, which must include Mathematics and English Language, or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.

If you have already covered one or more of the topics covered by the course, and would like to apply for accreditation of prior learning (APL), please contact the course leader.

Other acceptable qualifications

BTEC National: 260 points from a BTEC Certificate or Diploma.

Access Courses: We would require successful completion of an Access to Higher Education course that is accredited by the Quality Assurance Agency. We would also require a minimum of grade C in GCSE in Mathematics and English Language or the equivalent as part of your course.

Scottish Highers: Our typical offer is for 260 points.

Irish Leaving Certificate: Our typical offer is for 260 points.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Sunderland.

Funding

Scholarships on offer include cash bursaries, reduced tuition fees, free accommodation and free public transport.

Accreditation

Recognition by the British Computer Society, the UK's Chartered Institute for IT.