Increased focus on forensics to boost course applications

POPULAR television programmes such as Crime Scene Investigation and an increased focus in criminal trials on forensic evidence are expected to boost demand for places on a degree in computer forensics at Waterford Institute of Technology.

The computer forensics stream is being introduced in September. The institute is offering a four-year BSc (Hons) in Applied Computing to meet the demand for expertise across the public and private sectors in Ireland and overseas.

As well as helping to combat corporate crime, graduates from the degree will be equipped with skills in the recovery and analysis of deleted, cached and hidden data from desktop and laptop computers and other equipment including mobile phones and personal digital assistants.

With computers and other technology used in planning, commissioning and covering up financial frauds, there is a recognised need to improve defences and boost investigative tools.

As well as contributing to major international corporate wrongdoing investigations, computer forensics has helped solve numerous murders, while the evidence-gathering techniques involved are used in tracking online child pornography, people trafficking rings and credit card scams.

Head of the Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics at Waterford Institute of Technology Dr Mícheál Ó hÉigeartaigh said the new degree programme is being introduced in response to the growing application of forensic techniques to protect companies and combat those using technology unlawfully.

“As is the norm with new technologies and scientific breakthroughs, there are mixed applications of information and communications technology and — on the negative side — we have seen plenty of instances in recent years where computers have been centrally involved in crimes against companies and individuals.

“Strong use of computer forensics can improve the defence systems against such wrongdoing.”

For more information on the course, contact Mairead Meagher at 051-302627, [e-mail].