Computer Forensics and Security | BSc (Hons) at Leeds Beckett University

Course Details

Computer forensics involves the analysis of digital devices such as hard drives to identify and investigate their contents. Computer security involves using knowledge of computer systems and networks to protect businesses and users from malicious attacks.

This course combines these two fields of national importance and will teach you practical investigative and 'hacking' techniques. You will develop the skills to undertake rigorous forensic analysis and implement robust security mechanisms.

This is a hands-on course where you will learn through doing, gaining an in-depth knowledge of how to hack a computer to be able to protect it. You will learn where a computer hides data and how to recover information from a device.

This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘sandwich’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree, typically making your course four years in total. Students who choose the sandwich route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.

Course Benefits

We have designed this course in line with leading industry standards and we are committed to offering you hands-on experience in order to gain the practical skills that will prepare you for working in the profession. You will be taught by an academic team who are still active in industry, giving you the chance to benefit from the latest changes in the profession. We will also give you the opportunity to interact with external forensic and security experts and gain an insight into what the industry is really like.

You will have the opportunity to join the Ethical Hacking Society. The society explores the very latest developments in digital security and hosts regular talks from industry experts to further inform your learning and sharpen your expertise. You will also have the opportunity to attend conferences where you will be able to network with professionals and enhance your career prospects. As part of our new Cybercrime and Security Innovation Centre teaching staff from your course are working in partnership with West Yorkshire Police to develop new ways of fighting the growing problem of cybercrime. This partnership will give you unparalleled access to cutting-edge research and industry contacts, in turn giving you an invaluable insight into the real-world applications of computer security. 

We have active links with the security industry and work closely with organisations to try and find work placement opportunities for you. We have great relationships with police forces, local and national security companies and major law firms. We also work closely with the British Computer Society to provide you with opportunities to build contacts and we will support you with finding a work placement after your second year. You may also work with local employers as clients for your final year projects.

The University encourages entrepreneurship and will review any proposals to assist you in creating your own security-based company.