BSc Computing with Computer Security and Digital Forensics

Bachelor of Science in Computing with Computer Security and Digital Forensics

CAO Code: LY737

LYIT internal code: LY_KCSDF_D

Standard Code Places: 36

National Framework Level: 7

Award Type: Major

Awarding Body: LYIT, under Delegated Authority from HETAC

Is this Programme for Me?

Did you know that if your PC has a broadband connection it is being probed by unauthorized users many times a day? Did you that your computer is quite possibly a "zombie" machine awaiting activation for some nefarious purpose? Or that deleting files and history logs on your machine is a very poor way to hide your tracks, and that a trained forensics professional can easily recover this data? Or that identity theft is no longer just in the realms of science fiction?

Computer Security is about securing computer systems against all types of unauthorized access. However, no matter how secure a computer system is it will still have vulnerabilities. Digital Forensics is about detecting intruders, analyzing what they have done to your computer system, tracking and identifying the intruder and creating a portfolio of evidence about the intruder's activities to assist with a successful prosecution. This course teaches the student the skills, methods, and techniques used in Computer Security and Digital Forensics. Our purpose is to provide the Irish computer industry with high-quality experts in this rapidly growing field of computing. Our aim is to provide the Irish computer industry with high-quality experts in this rapidly growing field of computing.

For a description of a degree in computer security and digital forensics see the following YouTube video: BSc Computer Forensics & Security - University of Derby This video describes a BSc course at the University of Derby, but (except for the reference to the placement year) it gives a pretty good overview of our computer security and digital forensics BSc. Also see Scams, spam, spies and me for an insight into the job of a person working in the computer security industry.

Are there follow-up Programmes Available?

Progression to a one-year programme leading to a Level 8 Honours BSc in Computer Security and Digital Forensics is available internally at LYIT.

On completion of this programme graduates may go on to study for their MSc/ Ph.D. at other ITs and Universities in Ireland and abroad. Progression internationally to the second cycle (i.e. 'Bologna Masters') degree programmes.

LYIT is located in County Donegal, a region in the North West of Ireland that is one of the most beautiful in the country and well serviced with transport links. LYIT is a lively and inspirational place that attracts a creative mix of 3,000 students both from the local area and from 31 different countries. This gives us a vibrant array of cultures and activities on campus and a friendly, supportive and relaxed atmosphere where students and staff work closely together. The Institute has partnership agreements with over 60 universities all over the world and offers programs of study in various areas and levels, ranging from undergraduate to masters and doctoral degrees.

The college’s two campuses are based in Letterkenny, the commercial hub of the county, and in Killybegs, a picturesque fishing town and Ireland’s premier seaport. These modern, integrated campuses encourage strong academic learning and career-focused practical experience. We have excellent facilities in all departments, such as a suite of graphic design studios, state-of-the-art nursing resources, special purpose laboratories, training kitchens and restaurants, and an on-campus business development centre, CoLab, to support spin-off enterprises. Our multi-purpose centre, An Dánlann, houses are an excellent sport and recreational facilities in addition to our medical centre, counselling service, careers office and chaplaincies.

We are deeply committed to the people in our region. Part of our mission is to help raise the economic prospects of the young people who study with us and by doing so, the prosperity of the wider communities into which they will graduate. That’s why every course we offer teaches the latest knowledge and skills that employers demand. As part of this, we are involved in many cross-border programmes and are currently fostering a strategic alliance with the University of Ulster.