The Certificate in Digital Forensics will educate students in the foundations of digital forensics and its application in the criminal justice system and in corporate investigations. According to the National Institute of Science and Technology, digital forensics is the application of science to the process of identification, collection, examination, and analysis of data stored in computers, while preserving the integrity of the information and maintaining a strict chain of custody. Students will learn how to handle and manage digital evidence (e.g., data stored on a person's hard drive or cell phone) from discovery to preservation using technologies such as forensic software or a hex editor. Graduates will thus receive a foundation that will enable them to identify, collect, examine, and analyze digital evidence and present their findings as effective witnesses in civil and criminal court cases.

About
- Full-time, part-time, and non-degree students may enroll in the certificate program and may complete requirements in as little as one year.
- Law enforcement professionals, cybersecurity professionals, and students in bachelor's degree programs in cybersecurity, cyber operations, criminal justice, and interdisciplinary studies (cybercrime major) may find this certification highly desirable in pursuing their career options.
Disciplines
Requirements
Entry Requirements
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Application and $50 fee
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All prior Secondary/High School or College/University transcripts along with Diploma or Leaving Certificate.
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Demonstrated English Language Proficiency
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Financial Documentation (seeking F/J visas only)
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Passport identification page
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SAT/ACT standardized exams are optional, though highly recommended
Send all materials & correspondence to
International Admissions
Old Dominion University
2101 Dragas Hall
Norfolk, VA 23529 USA
Required Credentials
As a service to applicants, the Office of International Admissions evaluates all foreign academic credentials. All documents submitted during the application process become the property of Old Dominion University and cannot be returned.
- Transcripts, translations and standardized tests must be official, sealed, stamped by the institution or testing agency and sent directly to the Office of International Admissions at Old Dominion University.
- Testing authorities may include the Registrar or the Principal/Controller of Examinations.
- When English is not the language of instruction, academic transcripts and course descriptions are required in both English and one's native language. Certified official translations by a licensed or professional translator must accompany academic documents not written in English. Translations of official documents completed by the student will not be accepted.
- A complete application and supporting credentials must be received by the stated term deadline, or admission consideration will be applied to the next available semester.
- Once submitted, no additional documents can be uploaded through the online application. If you wish to include additional credentials, attach and send them directly to [email protected]. Please be sure your name and date of birth are clearly indicated in the email subject line.
English Requirements
- PTEMin 53
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
Career
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn–half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Forensic Science Technicians
Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.
Digital Forensics Analysts
Conduct investigations on computer-based crimes establishing documentary or physical evidence, such as digital media and logs associated with cyber intrusion incidents. Analyze digital evidence and investigate computer security incidents to derive information in support of system and network vulnerability mitigation. Preserve and present computer-related evidence in support of criminal, fraud, counterintelligence, or law enforcement investigations.
Intelligence Analysts
Gather, analyze, or evaluate information from a variety of sources, such as law enforcement databases, surveillance, intelligence networks or geographic information systems. Use intelligence data to anticipate and prevent organized crime activities, such as terrorism.
Fee Information
How to Apply
Your Choice
The Common Application, which allows you to complete one application and designate it to be used for multiple institutions, OR the new Old Dominion University Application. The choice is yours.
Our Commitment
Whichever method you choose, the admissions staff at Old Dominion University is committed to processing your application in a timely manner. Questions concerning the admissions process may be directed to [email protected], 757-683-3685. Questions relative to The Common Application need to be directed to the Help Center found at commonapp.org
Old Dominion University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. Visit https://www.odu.edu/equity for more information.

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