Cybercrime

Programs and Certificates

The Department of Criminology offers the following degrees, certificates, concentrations, and trainings to support students and professionals interested in furthering their knowledge in the area of cybercrime.

Master of Science in Cybercrime

The Master of Science in Cybercrime is a fully online program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of major issues in criminology as it relates to cybercrime. Students will master current criminology theory as it relates to the social and behavioral aspects of cybercrime, learn investigative methodologies and tools, and develop skills in the application of digital forensic science to cybercrime investigations. The Master of Science in Cybercrime at USF is unique in the following ways:

  • 100% online
  • 30 credit hours
  • No computer science prerequisites
  • No GRE required
  • Can be completed in one year with full-time enrollment

The master’s degree in cybercrime offers two program concentration options: Cyber Criminology and Digital Forensic Investigations. Students may pick one or both concentrations.

  • Cyber Criminology: Explore the current criminology theory and research as it relates to the social and behavioral aspects of cybercrime. Develop an understanding of the types and extent of crimes involving digital technologies.
  • Digital Forensic Investigations: Learn investigative methodologies, tools of inquiry, and evidence collection and analysis. Students will also qualify to receive the Digital Forensics Graduate Certificate.

A team of distinguished professionals from industry, academia, and government offer their expertise and guidance as part of the Advisory Board for the Master of Science in Cybercrime program.

Digital Forensics Graduate Certificate

The Digital Forensics Graduate Certificate helps students gain the skills needed to investigate computer, cyber, and electronic crimes; analyze networks that have been attacked or used for illicit purposes; and properly identify, collect, secure, and present digital evidence. Topics include:

  • Digital forensics tradecraft
  • Techniques and procedure
  • Standards of practice
  • Legal and ethical principles
  • Assuring that digital evidence is accurate, complete, and reliable

Cybercrime Concentration (Undergraduate)

New in Fall 2022! The undergraduate cybercrime concentration supports a growing interest among students, particularly criminology majors, who want to explore the arena of cybercrime and augment their degree. The concentration encompasses courses related to the etiology of crime and deviance in cyberspace, correlates of cybercrime victimization, legal and social issues, and challenges in combating and preventing cybercrime. The concentration in cybercrime will prepare criminology graduates for careers related to cybercrime and across different agencies in the public and private sectors.

Students are required to take four elective courses or 12 credits out of their required six elective courses or 18 credits for the major. Courses include:

  • Introduction to Cybercrime
  • Digital Forensics
  • Combating Cybercrime
  • Cybercrime Investigations
  • Cyber Violence