Digital Forensics ,BS
Applied Math, Applied Mathematics, Computation, Crime Lab, Crime Scene Investigator, Forensic Science, Mathematics, Quantitative Science, Science, approved for STEM-OPT extension, computing, crime analysis, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), statistics
This program's name has changed effective Fall 2025. The previous name was Computational Forensics.
Step into the frontier of digital investigations, where science and law unite. You¿ll harness state-of-the-art tools to analyze cybercrime evidence, building practical skills that transform challenges into opportunities. Ignite your potential and shape a future in cybersecurity where your expertise makes a genuine difference.
Digital forensics is the discipline that employs data generated and stored on computers, mobile devices, networks and cloud environments to systematically collect, analyze and preserve evidence related to crimes or incidents. Through this process, it helps determine the causes of crimes and provides reliable evidence for court proceedings.
The Bachelor of Science program in digital forensics offers a comprehensive curriculum where students learn the specialized skills and legal knowledge necessary for digital evidence collection and analysis. By integrating diverse fields such as digital forensics and cybersecurity, students are prepared to effectively tackle the complex challenges of cybercrime and digital misconduct.
Students engage in hands-on learning activities --- including laboratory exercises, internships and field experiences based on authentic cases --- to systematically master state-of-the-art software and analytical techniques, thereby strengthening both their theoretical understanding and practical expertise. Furthermore, active faculty research and strategic industry partnerships expose students to innovative technological trends and security issues, equipping them to thrive as professionals in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- Location:
West Valley
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
- First required math course: MAT 270 - Calc w/Analytic Geometry I
- Math
intensity: Substantial
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
First-year
| Transfer
| International
| Readmission
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.
With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, students in the digital forensics program are able to tailor their experience to their unique interests and skill sets. Students in these programs build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network. Participation in a study abroad program provides students with the heightened cultural competency, and leadership and critical thinking skills that enhance their resumes and help them stand out in a competitive career field. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students in the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences can explore how their varied fields and interests interact in different settings around the world.
With the multidisciplinary skill set they have acquired --- spanning technical, legal and investigative domains --- graduates are prepared for fast-growing, emerging roles in digital investigations and cybercrime. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that between 2023 and 2033, employment of one such role, information security analysts, will increase 33% --- a rate much greater than that for most occupations. Graduates of this program are prepared to work in government agencies, law enforcement, consulting firms and on cybersecurity teams.
Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
| Career | *Growth | *Median salary |
|---|---|---|
|
2.5%
|
$90,520
|
|
|
7.0%
|
$68,050
|
|
|
5.3%
|
$84,760
|
|
|
9.6%
|
$102,240
|
|
|
12.6%
|
$63,740
|
|
|
9.7%
|
$98,740
|
|
|
31.5%
|
$112,000
|
|
|
9.7%
|
$98,740
|
|
|
1.5%
|
$86,280
|
|
|
9.7%
|
$98,740
|
School of Interdisciplinary Forensics
|
FAB N101
sifadvising@asu.edu
602-543-3000
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
