Sophisticated computer crimes put a globally networked society at risk. The increasing impact of technological crime highlights the need for highly competent computer forensic analysts. The Master of Science (MSc) in Computer Forensics & E-Discovery confronts this problem through a blend of computer and legal expertise.

• You will develop the technical skills to investigate a variety of computer forensic problems and issues. You will also gain the experience to conduct forensic investigations as part of an investigatory team and to present the results of your analyses in corporate cyber investigation reports and in legal settings.
• In order to support your individual needs, flexible delivery modes are offered for full-time, two-year part-time and Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
• Seminars from practitioners and experts in the field of computer forensics and e-discovery will introduce you to the practical aspects of the profession and the philosophical considerations of research in this field.
• You will acquire hands on experience working with industry standard forensic applications and hardware in a lab environment via four lab-based courses.

Programme structure

• MSc:  12 months full-time, 24 months part-time
• PgDip: 9 months full-time

You will take a mix of taught courses, hands-on laboratory work and group projects.

You won’t just cover the current practices and processes, we also encourage you to investigate new approaches and processes while questioning the validity and the dependability of the solutions you find.

Semester 1 courses

• Introduction to computer forensics and e-discovery
• Legal and regulatory frameworks 
• Introduction to security 
• Systems and networks
• Research methods and techniques 
• Research methods and professional studies seminars in computer forensics.

Semester 2 courses

• Computer forensics processes and investigative techniques
• Managing and presenting digital evidence 
• Security and cryptography 
• Advanced research readings in computing science 
• Research methods and professional studies seminars in computer forensics.

Following the successful completion of examinations, you will spend the summer months working on a research project or dissertation that will enable you to engage with a complex computer forensics problem.

Career prospects

Organisations and governments will continue to allocate more funds to countering and deterring cyber crime. As a graduate, you will have the skills and attributes to meet their needs. This is an excellent opportunity to advance or establish your career in governmental agencies, corporations, law enforcement agencies, the legal profession, computer forensics professions and information security professions.

Entry requirements for postgraduate taught programmes are a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification (for example, GPA 3.0 or above) in a relevant subject unless otherwise specified.

English language

If your first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level. See English Language Requirements.

The online application is the quickest and easiest way of applying to the University of Glasgow. The system allows you to fill out the standard application form online and submit this to the University immediately. You can also attach supporting documents including references, certificates and a transcript of previous studies. You will find instructions throughout the online form to help you complete your application. You may save and return to your application as many times as you wish before submitting it.

See: How to apply for a taught degree