*Based on 2026–2027 Boston University tuition and fees.
Build Expertise in Evidence Recovery, Investigation, and Digital Security
The online Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics at Boston University’s Metropolitan College (MET) is designed to develop proficiency in digital crime scene investigation.
The fundamental role of digital systems in business—from computers and networks to all manner of smart devices—brings serious security challenges. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), more than $37 billion in losses have been reported since 2019, with $12.5 billion reported in 2023 alone. Much of that is a result of hackers, criminals, and other “bad actors” attacking organizations through schemes such as business email compromise (BEC), ransomware, phishing, extortion, personal data breaches, phishing, and tech support schemes (to name just a few).
To mitigate such risks to valuable information, it is important for IT specialists to obtain a comprehensive overview of digital forensics. The specialized BU MET online certificate program in Digital Forensics provides you with a comprehensive knowledge of digital crime scene investigation and introduces topics such as forensic analysis policy and procedures, forensic analysis tools, data recovery, and investigation, among others.
The Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics is also available on campus in Boston. Learn more.
Curriculum
The online Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics consists of four required courses (16 units).
Academic units earned toward the online Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics may be transferred to the Master of Science degree in Computer Information Systems.
Certificate Courses
(Four courses/16 units)
Plus one of the following:
A maximum of two graduate-level courses (8 units) taken at Metropolitan College before acceptance into the program may be applied towards the certificate.
Learn about application requirements for BU MET graduate degree and certificate programs.
How You Benefit from a Boston University Education
A BU credential can help lay the foundation for career advancement and personal success.
Benefit from a 24:1 average student-to-instructor ratio.
Work closely with highly qualified faculty and seasoned industry leaders in a wide range of technology fields who are committed to teaching the latest technologies within the framework of ideas, concepts, and methods that drive innovation.
BU MET’s computer science courses ensure you get the attention you need, while introducing case studies and real-world projects that emphasize technical and theoretical knowledge—combining in-depth, practical experience with the critical skills needed to remain on the forefront of the information technology field. In addition, BU’s Center for Reliable Information Systems and Cyber Security (RISCS) offers opportunities to collaborate and participate in research on system reliability and information security.
BU MET’s Department of Computer Science was established in 1979 and is the longest-running computer science department at BU. Over its four decades, the department has played an important role in the emergence of IT at the University and throughout the region.
Rankings & Accreditations
#12, Best Online Master’s in Computer Information Technology Programs
MET’s computer science & IT graduate certificates share curriculum with MET’s online master’s degrees in computer information technology, which are ranked #12 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate with Forensics Expertise
Students who complete the Online Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics will be able to demonstrate:
Advanced knowledge of the computer and mobile forensics tools necessary to launch a complete and successful digital forensics investigation in civil, criminal, or administrative cases.
Proficiency in conducting network forensics analysis, including determining how a perpetrator or an attacker gained access to a network and transmitted felonious digital data.
Competence sufficient to conduct a comprehensive “digital crime scene investigation” and mastery of skills pertaining to acquisition of digital evidence, conducting analysis, presenting a report, and being an expert witness in a court.
Advance Your Career
BU MET’s Digital Forensics graduate certificate prepares you for a wealth of different roles, such as, digital forensics investigator, computer forensics analyst, digital forensics examiner, cybersecurity investigator, cybercrime analyst, information security analyst, security consultant, IT auditor, and many others.
Lou Chitkushev Professor, Computer Science Senior Associate Dean, Academic Affairs Director, Health Informatics & Health Sciences Head, Digital Forensics Research Laboratory
Maryan Rizinski
Associate Professor of the Practice, Computer Science
Robert Schudy
Associate Professor Emeritus, Computer Science
Victor Shtern
Associate Professor Emeritus, Computer Science
Anatoly Temkin Assistant Professor Emeritus, Computer Science
Tanya Zlateva Dean, Metropolitan College & Extended Education Professor of the Practice, Computer Science and Education Education Director, Information Security, Center for Reliable Information Systems & Cyber Security
For a student logging into a live session in one of Boston University’s online graduate programs, the experience can look deceptively simple: a faculty member appears on screen, classmates join from around the world, and the class begins. What students don’t see is everything happening around that moment. Behind each live online class is a […]
From finance and technology to healthcare and retail, organizations are navigating a new era shaped by artificial intelligence. As AI continues to influence how businesses operate and make decisions, professionals across industries are seeking the knowledge and tools to help their organizations adapt. This fall, more than 200 professionals will begin Boston University’s new online […]
If you are asking, “Should I get an MPH after college or work first?” focus on what each path will help you accomplish. An MPH after college can provide early professional direction and core public health skills. Working first can give you practical context and a clearer understanding of where you want to contribute. The […]
