Digital, Cyber and IT - Forensic Computer Analyst
Digital, Cyber and IT - Forensic Computer Analyst
Red
Forensic computer analysts investigate computer-based crime, often called cyber crime.
- Investigate hacking, fraud and theft
- Research political, industrial and commercial espionage
- Track terrorist communications and other illegal activities
- Secure IT systems and hardware to protect them from security threats
- Recover and secure data
- Analyse mobile phone records to track location
- Follow electronic data trails
- Document each stage of the investigation
- Present technical findings and evidence
As a Forensic Computer Analyst, you could work in a court, in an office or at a client's business.
Forensic Computer Analysts tend to work between 37 to 39 hours a week. You could work evenings occasionally.
Starting: £25,000
Experienced: £60,000
You can get into this job through a university course, an apprenticeship or by working towards this role.
You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:
- forensic computing and security
- computer science
- cybersecurity
- digital forensics
- financial technology
Courses with industry placements will help you develop your skills. You'll usually need 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree.
You could do:
- a Cybersecurity Technologist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- a Digital Forensic Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- a Cybersecurity Technical Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
You could start work as an IT support technician, network engineer or developer after doing A-levels. You would then work your way up by taking further training on the job.