Cumberlands offers new specializations in digital forensics programs

Two master’s programs at University of the Cumberlands have teamed up to create two new, symbiotic graduate degrees. The University’s Master of Science in Digital Forensics degree now offers an optional criminal justice specialization, and the Master of Science in Justice Administration now offers a similar option in digital forensics.

“This synthesis is for industry and public service graduate students who recognize that, in their respective primary fields, there are more and more opportunities for the shared disciplines,” said Dr. Ed Zuger, Director of Digital Forensics at Cumberlands. “Now, students who have built their academics on technologies and want to apply their skills in government, military, or law enforcement have coursework in criminal justice which rounds out their digital forensics degree. Likewise, graduate students with law enforcement or military backgrounds can craft their MJA to include a digital forensics specialization.”

As the world has immersed itself deeper and deeper into all forms of electronic technology, the field of digital forensics has grown significantly; after all, with more digital opportunity comes more digital crime. Many law firms hire their own digital forensics analysts to assist in their investigations. 

The average salary for a forensics analyst in the U.S. is $99,000 a year, according to ZipRecruiter. Some forensics experts working for organizations such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Central Intelligence Agency, or other influential institutions earn up to $130,000 or $160,000 a year.

Both the digital forensics and the criminal justice degree programs at Cumberlands may be completed entirely online. Applications are now open. Visit ucumberlands.edu/academics for more details.