Pathway Guide: Forensic Computer Analyst
By Cherish Amankwah
A Forensic Computer Analyst is someone who investigates computer-based crime, often called cyber crime, as well as gathering evidence in other types of crime. This can include data breaches, security incidents, and other online criminal activity. As a FCA, you will use a range of specialised software to collect and analyse data linked to a range of illegal activities such as hacking, fraud, political espionage, and terrorist communications. You will investigate a range of crimes where the computer can be the object of the crime, for example hacking, or where it is used to commit a crime, such as online hate crimes. You could be working for the police, other law enforcement agencies, or in court, for a specialist computer forensic company or investigative team, or large companies such as banks.
Grades
Many higher or degree apprenticeships require *4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A to C)**. Some companies do not look at A-level grades. However, those who do accept A-levels expect 104 - 120 UCAS points which is BCC - BBB. Many FCAs have backgrounds in law enforcement, computer science, and information technology.
The best subjects to help you get into university or a degree apprenticeship are:
Computer Science
IT
Mathematics
Engineering
I personally believe that BTEC is the best because there is a unit you complete on cyber security and incident management which helps you build technical knowledge.
Work Experience and Programmes
One of the best work experiences is Cisco. They have two programmes whose applications are unfortunately closed for the year. However, there is one for year 11 and year 12 which is perfect because it allows you to explore Cisco’s cyber security department with practical workshops and tours. If you are in year 11, I would definitely recommend applying for the Year 11 & 12 scheme when you are in year 12.
The other programme is for year 12 and 13, specifically for young women and those who identify as women or non-binary. This programme allows you to immerse yourself in real work scenarios and develop your soft skills such as presenting and communication.
Another work experience is Deloitte Career Shapers, specifically for year 12s. There is one virtual programme for anyone who wants to learn more about Deloitte, take part in immersive case studies, and develop life skills. Applications open in January 2025. The second programme is specifically for women. Similarly to the virtual one, you will learn more about Deloitte, take part in immersive case studies, and develop life skills. Applications open in November 2024 for the February and April programmes and January 2025 for the August programme.
Skills
One skill employers are looking for more than anything is written and verbal communication skills for writing reports on findings and conveying technical information to technical and non-technical people.
It is great to be able to analyse data and create reports. However, as an FCA, you will not always be working with only FCAs. So, it is extremely important that you are able to convey your findings to people who do not understand all the technical information you have discovered. To be able to communicate with both technical and non-technical people is essential.
Next Steps
The next step is either university or an apprenticeship. For this career path, an apprenticeship is the best option. There are different options, for example:
Cyber Security Technologist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
Digital Forensic Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
Cyber Security Technical Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
These allow you to develop technical knowledge whilst gaining practical experience, which is essentially the whole point of an apprenticeship. With a role as technical as this, it is crucial to have practical experience where you can apply the technical knowledge you are learning.
There are always pros and cons when deciding to go to university or to pick an apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship:
Pro: It allows you to immerse yourself in a hands-on learning environment. You’ll not only be able to learn from studying but also from your senior colleagues and peers.
Con: It could limit your options. A cyber security-specific apprenticeship may not allow you to explore different areas of the technology industry.
University:
Pro: It gives you the opportunity to learn technical knowledge before entering your role, allowing you to build a foundation of skills.
Con: You are not guaranteed a job after graduation. It can be hard to find work without much practical experience.
Salary
Typical starting salaries for an FCA range from £25,000 to £30,000 a year, depending on the company. With 5-10+ years of experience, you can earn £30,000 to £50,000 a year. In more senior roles, it’s possible to earn up to £80,000. Salaries vary depending on your skill set, location, and company size. Gaining professional qualifications and certifications can help you to move up the salary scale, and many companies offer these courses and certifications.
Progression Opportunities and Work/Life Balance
Entry without a degree is possible by starting in an entry-level position and working your way up by undertaking further training and industry-specific qualifications. You could start as an IT support technician, network engineer, or developer after A levels. You would then work your way up through further training.
With experience, you could progress to senior analyst, head of security, or security consultant. Working hours for an FCA generally range from 35 to 40 hours per week, but your hours will depend on the type of assignment or investigation you are working on. Some organisations require 24/7 cover, so there may be possible on-call duties for fast responses to incidents.
Universities and Courses
You could apply to do a bachelor’s degree in the following:
Computer/Digital Forensics
Cyber Security
Computer Science
Out of the three courses, Computer Science is the hardest to get into, depending on the university. Cyber Security and Digital Forensics provide technical knowledge that is directly related to the role, while Computer Science is more generalised. Entry requirements range from 96 - 120 UCAS points depending on the university.
Responsibilities
Your tasks will vary depending on where you work. You could:
Investigate hacking, theft, and fraud
Use forensic tools and software to extract and analyse data
Deal with highly sensitive or confidential data or images
Recover damaged or deleted data, or access hidden, protected, or encrypted files
Write technical reports and give evidence in court as an expert witness
Present findings to investigation teams, law enforcement agencies, and clients
Keep up to date with evolving cybercrime methods and developments in digital forensics
Collaborate with law enforcement officers to extract digital evidence both in a lab environment and on-site
Notable Employers
Private Firms:
Sytech UK: The UK’s longest established digital forensics provider, helping businesses with cyber and IT security since 1976.
CYFOR Forensics: UK-based digital forensic specialists, providing expertise in computer forensics, mobile phone forensics, and cell site analysis.
ADF Solutions: A company specialising in digital forensics, intelligent triage, and media exploitation solutions.
Government Organisations:
MI5: Protects the UK from threats to national security, primarily terrorism and threats posed by states.
National Crime Agency: Leads the UK’s fight against serious and organised crime, protecting the public by targeting and pursuing criminals posing the greatest risk.
GCHQ: The UK’s intelligence, security, and cyber agency, protecting the country from cyber attacks and terrorism.
