Forensic Investigation (Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Option) - Advanced Certificate at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The Forensic Investigation: Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Advanced Certificate program at BCIT is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to extract digital evidence and investigate cyber-related crimes. As technology evolves, the demand for trained specialists in digital forensics and cybersecurity continues to grow. This program focuses on honing investigative and problem-solving skills, expanding legal knowledge, and preparing students to present evidence in court as expert witnesses. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, graduates will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges posed by cybercriminals who increasingly target our digital infrastructure.

Program Structure

The Forensic Investigation: Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Advanced Certificate program is structured to provide a comprehensive education in digital forensics and cybersecurity. Key details include:

Program Length: Up to 7 years to complete, allowing for part-time study.
Credits: A total of 26.0 credits are required for completion.
Intakes: Offered three times a year in January, April, and September.
Delivery: Blended delivery format, combining on-campus and online learning.
Schedule: Classes are held in the evenings and on weekends.
Completion Pace: Students can progress through the curriculum at their own pace, typically completing the program in five terms at six credits per term.

Additional options include the opportunity for Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR), allowing students to gain exemptions for particular courses based on prior knowledge and skills.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on experience with digital forensics tools and techniques.
Opportunities for expert testimony training, preparing students for court appearances.
Access to a strong network of industry professionals and potential employers.
Excellent job placement rate upon graduation, reflecting the program's reputation in the field.
Collaboration with law enforcement and corporate security teams during practical training.

Career Options

Graduates of the Forensic Investigation: Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Police Detective: Investigates crimes, gathers evidence, and works closely with law enforcement agencies.
Provincial Investigator: Conducts investigations for provincial government agencies, focusing on compliance and regulatory issues.
Manager, Corporate Security: Oversees security measures within organizations to protect against cyber threats and data breaches.
Network Security Manager: Responsible for maintaining the security of an organization's network infrastructure and preventing unauthorized access.
Information Systems Auditor: Evaluates and assesses the effectiveness of an organization's information systems and controls.

With the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, graduates can expect a robust job market and opportunities for career advancement in both public and private sectors.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Forensic Investigation: Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Advanced Certificate program, the following Academic Requirements must be met:

Step 1: Pre-entry assessment

Contact the Program Head for a pre-entry assessment.
You must upload an approved pre-entry assessment from the program area to your online application.
The following documents will be required for your pre-assessment:
- Resume
- Completed and signed applicant waiver form from the program area

Step 2: Meet the following entrance requirements

Completion of one of the following options prior to admission:
- Option 1: A two-year diploma (minimum 60.0 credits), an associate's degree, or a bachelor's degree from a recognized post-secondary institution in a computing or IT field.
- Option 2: A minimum of 60.0 credits of courses fulfilling the requirements of the first two years of study towards the completion of a defined undergraduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution in a computing or IT field.
- Option 3: A minimum of 60.0 credits of courses from one or more recognized post-secondary institutions in a computing or IT field, including:
  - 18.0 second year or higher level credits
  - 30.0 credits of computing including courses in networking, programming, and operating systems
Criminal Record Check (CRC)
- Contact your local police department to obtain the appropriate forms.
- Must be issued within one year of your application date.
- The outcome of the CRC may influence your acceptability for this program.

International applicants must have their credentials evaluated by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) if they have completed post-secondary studies outside of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, or New Zealand. Credential evaluation reports from other Canadian services may be considered, provided they include course-by-course evaluations and GPA calculations.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Forensic Investigation (Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Option) - Advanced Certificate program, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. The following English Language Proficiency assessments are accepted:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Overall score 6.5, no band less than 5.5
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - Overall score 60, no skill score less than 60
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) - Overall score 86, no section score less than 20
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test - 70 overall band score with no component below 60
Duolingo English Test - 120 overall, no integrated subscore less than 95
Cambridge Assessment English - BCIT ISEP Online test (Cambridge Linguaskill) - B2 First or C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with minimum overall score of 176

Test results must be dated no more than two years before the start date of the program you’re applying to.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!