Computer Forensics - Demand Equals Big Money

Though there are not currently a lot of stringent or even specific education or experience requirements in place, only due to the novelty of this up and coming field, you can expect that training and experience will elevate you to "highly sought after" status very quickly.

Salaries tend to vary widely at this point. For example, those who are working in the public or government sector, such as civilians working for law enforcement, computer knowledgeable police officers, military personnel with specialized training and civilian contractors working for government or state agencies will be on the lower end of the pay scale. They are normally paid a pre-determined salary and in today's economy it has become clear that many states and localities are operating in the red. That said, this is a field that cannot be cut. The risks are too great to ignore the need for this specialized form of crime fighting and regardless of budget constraints, you can expect to have a salary in the starting range of $50,000 to $75,000. Of course, your earning potential can fluctuate based on your experience, college degrees you may have, secret clearances and upon your more recent training.

In the private sector your options are much broader, especially when it comes to geographic location. You can expect to make top dollar in areas like London, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Chicago and other highly concentrated metropolitan areas around the world. Even with limited experience and no formal training, you can land a job for somewhere around $50,000 annually. Smaller consulting firms sometimes pay a bit more than their larger counterparts, though the market is extremely competitive right now and promises to stay that way. Computer forensic team supervisors or managers can expect their salaries to fall within the $150,000 and higher range.

So, picture this scenario. You are out of work. You have at least a few years of management under your belt and you are smarter than average when it comes to computer knowledge. Or, maybe you even worked in programming or as an analyst, but now find yourself looking for another job due to RIF or other economic factors. Courses are now being offered at almost every major and minor university and college, for both online and in class instruction. As this field is still somewhat undefined and floundering when it comes to the requirements needed, wouldn't you find yourself in a fantastic position if you were to take the necessary courses and become certified in computer forensics? In fact, even those who are midway through their courses are being recruited for positions and are often being reimbursed for their educational expenses as a bonus. And the cost of these courses are minimal compared to a college degree. These are certification courses, not degree courses.

In the field of computer forensics, the potential for promotion and growth is truly amazing. The starting salaries are evidence of the widespread need for new expertise in this field. You can be assured that your days will not be dull and that job security will probably not be an issue. And, you will be way ahead of the game when educational requirements are finally put into place if you have been proactive and shown the initiative to further your forensic education. What are you waiting for?

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