The Open University has launched a new post graduate computing programme, with a strong focus on digital forensics.
Developed with industry organisations including the BCS and CGI, the University said that this offers IT professionals the opportunity to learn to gain digital forensics qualifications. The masters course also includes new modules on software development courses to help organisations adopt the latest agile methodologies without scaring their customers and board members.
According to the Open University, the Digital Forensics module will be accompanied by new modules in Software Development and Project Management, with further modules in Software Engineering and Data Management that will be officially announced in November 2014.
Blaine Price, a senior lecturer in Computing who helped develop the forensics modules, said: “HR and IT teams are increasingly called upon to investigate the source of internal Intellectual Property leaks or the theft of information such as sales books by ex-employees who take them to rival companies. The problem is most companies lack the technical skills to do this and are often oblivious to the legal requirements to pursue these cases.
“Digital forensics qualifications over the past decade have focused on preparing students for a career in niche areas such as law enforcement where open vacancies are limited. Unfortunately many of these courses are unsuited to a growing demand for these skills in business.”
David Mulvey, a principal consultant at CGI who was the external industrial adviser to the programme, said: “The OU have taken considerable care to ensure that this qualification is well targeted to the needs of industry. There is a strong emphasis on encouraging the student to apply what they learn to their current role wherever possible, leading to effective transfer of knowledge and skills into the workplace situation.
“By taking this qualification students can expect to be able to contribute to their work group at a higher level and significantly increase their value as a member of an IT organisation.”
The deadline for enrolment on the May modules in Digital forensics, Software development and Project management is 17th April 2014. The Final enrolment date for November’s modules in Software engineering, Data management + Information security is the 30th September 2014. Further information is available here.
