Forensic computer analyst

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• training with a professional body

University

You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:

• forensic computing and security
• computer science
• cyber security
• digital forensics
• financial technology

Courses with industry placements will help you develop your skills.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could do:

• a Cyber Security Technologist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• a Digital Forensic Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• a Cyber Security Technical Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Work

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.

OtherRoutes

You could do certified industry training with a professional body like the Chartered Institute of Information Security or The Chartered Institute for IT .

You'll need to be working in IT security or have a lot of experience to do this.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:

• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• persistence and determination
• complex problem-solving skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• excellent written communication skills
• business management skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• active listening skills
• concentration skills
• maths skills
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Forensic computer analysts investigate computer-based crime, often called cyber crime.

Your tasks will depend on where you work. You could:

• 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

Location : You could work in a court, in an office or at a client's business.

Salary:

Starter : £25,000
Experienced : £60,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 39 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings occasionally

Career Path:

With experience, you could progress to senior analyst, head of security or security consultant.