Do you have a passion for computers, mobile devices and digital storage media? Are you interested in using tech to protect others? Through Troy University’s Digital Forensics Certificate program, you can prepare for a career safeguarding your community, workplace and the world around you. 

That’s the work Keval Patel does. Patel, who earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Certificate in Digital Forensics at TROY in 2022, works as an information technology compliance analyst for Motion Industries, a subsidiary of Genuine Parts Company — a Fortune 200, publicly traded company — that is a leading industrial distributor based in Birmingham, Alabama. His undergraduate degree from TROY, combined with IT certifications, opened doors for him in the tech world, he says.

Because of continued technological advances and growing use of digital devices, there is a dire need for professionals who can investigate, respond to, manage and resolve cyberattacks, data breaches, financial crimes and other types of malicious activity.

TROY Professors Play Key Role in Career Success for Alumnus

In Patel’s current position, he works across many areas of the business. His primary responsibilities include ensuring adherence to critical compliance standards, such as SOX and PCI. Patel oversees audit processes, analyzes data and ensures compliance with key principles like least privilege access. 

On a daily basis, he reviews audit requests and collaborates with other departments to ensure the accuracy of compliance documentation. It’s a role that keeps him engaged with both the technical side of IT and the business aspects of the company.

TROY, he says, played a key role in preparing him for his career. 

“The professors were always dedicated to my success, offering not just knowledge but also practical resources and connections,” Patel says. “One standout experience was taking an advanced course early in my academic journey, even though I was surrounded by seniors with more experience. My professor went the extra mile by providing additional learning materials to make sure I could keep up. That level of commitment really set me up for success.” 

In this blog, you’ll learn more about other digital forensics jobs, salary expectations in the field and how a digital forensics certificate can equip you for success in these in-demand careers.

What Is Digital Forensics in Cyber Security and Why Is Digital Forensics Important?

Digital forensics involves collecting, analyzing, storing and preserving information from digital devices, networks and other systems. These efforts are integral to solving criminal investigations, resolving cybersecurity breaches and other corporate security issues.

In recent years, the need for individuals to fill digital forensics jobs has skyrocketed. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of forensic science technicians and related roles will grow 14% over the next decade. That’s well above the national average for most jobs.

Why is there a greater demand for these astute professionals? There are a few reasons:

• More corporations, businesses and individuals having an online presence has led to an increase in cybercrime. Cybersecurity Ventures reports that $6 trillion was lost due to global cybercrimes in 2021 alone, with an expected 15% increase expected over the next several years.
• More organizations are required to follow strict data protection laws and regulations, so they need professionals who can ensure compliance and mitigate cybercrime breaches.
• Technological advancements are constantly happening, which means cybercrime investigators and other professionals are needed for digital forensic jobs.

We’ve answered, “What is digital forensics in cybersecurity?” Now let’s explore the most in-demand careers in digital forensics as well as cybersecurity and computer forensics salary outlooks. 

Top 10 Digital Forensics Jobs

TROY graduates are finding opportunities in cybersecurity and digital forensics, including areas such as criminal justice, corrections, homeland security, law enforcement agencies and private security. 

“TROY made sure I had everything I needed to thrive in my career,” Patel says. “The university offers top-notch educational tools, an encouraging environment and professors who truly care about their students’ growth. Whether through challenging coursework or hands-on opportunities, TROY fostered the skills and confidence I needed to succeed in IT.”

Here are 10 career options — along with cybersecurity and computer forensics salary expectations — in this rewarding field. 

1. Digital Forensics Analyst

What does a digital forensics analyst do? Digital forensics analysts combine investigative work with technical inquiry. Whether you want to work with corporations, law enforcement or governments, you’ll thoroughly examine computers, mobile devices and networks to solve cybersecurity incidents and data breaches.

IT Digital Forensics Analyst Salary: According to ZipRecruiter, the average IT digital forensics analyst salary is $74,125 per year.

2. Incident Response Analyst

Take on a vital role in your organization’s security as an incident response analyst. You’ll tackle security breaches, find system vulnerabilities and implement strategic responses related to cybersecurity threats.

Incident Response Analyst Salary: Glassdoor reports that the average salary is $95,627 per year.

3. Cybercrime Investigator

Solve some of the most challenging cybercrimes as you work directly with law enforcement. As a cybercrime investigator, you’ll investigate fraud, identify theft and more as you help gather evidence and build cases against perpetrators.

Cybercrime Investigator Salary: According to ZipRecruiter, the national average for a cybercrime investigator salary is $90,725 per year.

4. Forensic Data Recovery Specialist

Do you enjoy solving technical challenges and problems? As a forensic data recovery specialist, you will use your expertise in technology, cybersecurity and digital forensics to regain lost and corrupted data from damaged or stolen digital devices.

Data Recovery Specialist Salary: On average, a forensic data recovery specialist makes $66,976 a year — according to ZipRecruiter.

5. Cyber Security Consultant

Unlike some digital and cyber forensics jobs, working as a cybersecurity consultant will allow you to apply your knowledge in a broader way. You’ll evaluate existing protocols, conduct analyses and provide guidance on next steps and risk management.

Cyber Security Consultant Salary: According to Glassdoor, the average cybersecurity consultant earns $197,583. To obtain this salary, you may need additional training, including advanced degrees, digital forensics certifications or computer forensics certifications.

6. Compliance Analyst

Help minimize risks regarding cybercrime and data breaches. As a compliance analyst, you’ll use regulations and policies to help your organization maintain strict legal standards regarding data safeguards.

Compliance Analyst Salary: Per Glassdoor, the average annual compliance analyst salary is $88,000.

7. Mobile Device Forensics Specialist

Similar to some other cyber forensics jobs, becoming a mobile device forensics specialist allows you to blend your work in leading-edge technology with assisting in investigations involving mobile devices, apps and geolocation information.

Mobile Device Forensics Specialist Salary: According to ZipRecruiter, a mobile device forensics specialist earns an average of $78,520 each year.

8. IT Security Specialist

Advance and enhance cybersecurity measures within your organization as an IT security specialist. You’ll be tasked with protecting digital assets from unknown threats as well as developing and executing security policies and procedures.

IT Security Specialist Salary: According to Glassdoor, an IT security specialist earns an average annual salary of $117,160.

9. Law Enforcement Officer

Wondering how to become a cybercrime investigator? You can achieve this goal and be equipped to achieve your goals by combining law enforcement training with a digital forensics certificate. By serving as a law enforcement officer who focuses on cybercrime, you’ll be able to serve your community by using your cybersecurity and digital forensics skills to combat digital threats.

Digital Forensics Examiner Salary: According to Payscale, the median annual salary for this job is $69,600.

10. Cyber Security Analyst

If you’re looking for digital forensics jobs that are fast-paced and exciting, a cybersecurity analyst role might be the perfect fit. You’ll focus on monitoring and responding to security incidents, whether it’s alerts or potential risks. Every day presents new challenges, from investigating breaches and uncovering hidden threats to tracing the origins of cyberattacks. 

Cyber Security Analyst Salary: ZipRecruiter reports that the average annual cybersecurity analyst salary is $99,400.

How Do I Pursue Digital Forensics Jobs?

If you’re wondering how to get into digital forensics, start with researching programs such as TROY’s digital forensics certification. Our 18-credit-hour certificate requires you to complete just six courses. You’ll learn about cybersecurity and forensics, social media and more through these online and on-campus classes:

• Cybercrime
• Digital Evidence Practicum
• Digital Forensics
• Operating and File Systems Forensics
• Seminar in Cyber Security
• Social Media Investigation

While you might also see computer forensics certifications at other institutions, TROY’s digital forensics certificate stands out. Through it, you’ll gain industry-level experience in forensic tools and software and prepare for digital forensics jobs in Alabama and across the nation and the world. 

“There are so many reasons to choose TROY,” Patel says. “The professors genuinely care about your success, the courses are designed to prepare you for the real world and the community feels personal — you’re not just another student to them. TROY sets you up with the tools and experiences needed to build a strong foundation for an amazing career in IT or any other field.”

Take the Next Step: Learn How to Get Into Digital Forensics

Prepare to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s cyber threats with TROY’s digital forensic certificate. You can complete your certification online or on campus through coursework in crime scenes, digital evidence, legal issues and more so you’re prepared to succeed in various digital forensic jobs and related careers.

Whether you want to learn how to become a cybercrime investigator, forensic analyst, IT specialist or law enforcement officer, a digital forensics certificate will prepare you to make a difference in the field. 

TROY alumnus Patel was so pleased with the education he received at TROY that he went on to earn his Master of Computer Science with a cybersecurity concentration at the University.

“I’m glad I chose TROY because they didn’t just educate me — they invested in my future,” Patel says. “The skills, resources and support I received set me up for success, both academically and professionally. I couldn’t have asked for a better foundation for my career.