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B-SC in Digital Cyber Forensic Science at Galgotias University
Gautam Buddh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Digital & Cyber Forensic Science at Galgotias University Gautam Buddh Nagar?
This Digital & Cyber Forensic Science program at Galgotias University focuses on equipping students with advanced skills to combat cybercrime, recover digital evidence, and secure information systems. It integrates core computing principles with specialized forensic techniques, addressing the critical demand for cyber security and digital investigation professionals in the rapidly expanding Indian digital landscape. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, crucial for tackling complex cyber threats prevalent in India today.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 graduates passionate about cybersecurity, ethical hacking, and investigating digital crimes. It suits individuals aiming for entry-level roles as forensic analysts, security consultants, or incident responders in Indian IT companies and government agencies. Working professionals from IT or law enforcement seeking to specialize in digital forensics can also benefit, leveraging the program to transition into advanced cyber roles. A foundational interest in technology and problem-solving is a prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in India, including roles such as Cyber Forensic Analyst, Information Security Auditor, Penetration Tester, Security Consultant, and Cybercrime Investigator. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares students for industry-recognized certifications like CEH, CompTIA Security+, and CHFI, accelerating their growth trajectories in Indian MNCs, startups, and public sector organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Robust Programming Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate extra hours to mastering Python and C++ programming, focusing on data structures and algorithms. Participate in coding challenges regularly on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode to enhance problem-solving skills crucial for digital forensic scripting and tool development.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, LeetCode, GeeksforGeeks, Jupyter Notebook
Career Connection
Strong programming skills are foundational for developing custom forensic tools, automating analysis, and understanding malware code, directly impacting roles in security analysis and tool development during placements.
Cultivate a Strong Understanding of OS & Networks- (Semester 1-2)
Go beyond classroom concepts for Operating Systems and Computer Networks. Experiment with Linux distributions, set up virtual networks using tools like Packet Tracer, and explore network protocols in depth. This hands-on experience is critical for forensic investigations.
Tools & Resources
VirtualBox/VMware, Wireshark, Cisco Packet Tracer, Linux (Ubuntu/Kali)
Career Connection
A deep understanding of how operating systems and networks function is indispensable for network forensics, incident response, and recovering evidence, making candidates highly desirable for security roles.
Engage in Cyber Ethics and Basic Security Practices- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in discussions on cyber ethics and develop habits of secure computing. Read blogs and news from cybersecurity thought leaders. This early exposure helps internalize the ethical considerations vital for any forensic professional and builds a security-first mindset.
Tools & Resources
NIST Cybersecurity Framework, CERT-In advisories, The Hacker News
Career Connection
Understanding ethical boundaries and fundamental security practices from the outset is crucial for maintaining integrity and effectiveness in any digital forensics or cybersecurity role.
Intermediate Stage
Master Digital Forensic Tools and Techniques- (Semester 3-5)
Gain hands-on proficiency with industry-standard digital forensic tools and techniques taught in labs. Practice data acquisition, analysis, and reporting on simulated crime scenes. Explore open-source alternatives like Autopsy and FTK Imager for practical experience.
Tools & Resources
Autopsy, FTK Imager (Trial), SANS Forensics Blog, TryHackMe (Forensics paths)
Career Connection
Direct experience with forensic tools is a primary requirement for digital forensic analyst roles, enabling immediate contribution to investigation teams.
Pursue Relevant Certifications and Online Courses- (Semester 3-5)
While studying, prepare for entry-level cybersecurity certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. Explore specialized courses on platforms like Coursera/edX related to malware analysis, cloud security, or ethical hacking for deeper insights.
Tools & Resources
CompTIA Security+, Coursera/edX (specific cyber courses), eJPT (Junior Penetration Tester)
Career Connection
Certifications validate skills beyond academics, making resumes stand out and demonstrating a proactive approach to continuous learning, directly influencing employability.
Network with Industry Professionals and Join Clubs- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in the university''''s cybersecurity club, attend webinars, and network with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentorship opportunities and participate in local cybersecurity meetups or conferences (e.g., NullCon, DefCamp local chapters in India).
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University Cyber Security Club, Null Community Chapters
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, mentorship, and job opportunities, providing insights into industry trends and helping secure early career breaks.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Industry Internships and Live Projects- (Semester 6)
Secure a substantive internship in a cybersecurity firm, IT department, or a law enforcement cyber cell. Actively seek out live projects focusing on digital forensics, incident response, or penetration testing to apply academic knowledge to real-world scenarios. Document all learning rigorously.
Tools & Resources
Naukri.com (for internships), LinkedIn Jobs, Company career pages
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable practical experience, build professional references, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly enhancing career launch opportunities.
Specialize and Contribute to Open Source- (Semester 6)
Identify a specific niche within digital forensics (e.g., mobile forensics, cloud forensics, malware analysis) and delve deeper. Contribute to open-source forensic tools or develop personal projects. This demonstrates expertise and passion to potential employers.
Tools & Resources
GitHub, GitLab, Open-source forensic projects
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a valuable asset in niche roles. Open-source contributions showcase your practical skills and commitment, highly valued in tech and security sectors.
Prepare a Professional Portfolio and Practice Interviews- (Semester 6)
Develop a strong professional portfolio including project reports, GitHub repositories of personal tools/scripts, and any CTF (Capture The Flag) achievements. Practice technical and behavioral interview questions specific to cybersecurity and digital forensics roles, including mock interviews.
Tools & Resources
GitHub, Personal website/blog, Interview prep platforms (e.g., Pramp)
Career Connection
A well-curated portfolio and strong interview skills are crucial for converting job applications into successful placements and securing desired roles in top Indian companies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Min. 50% marks in 10+2 with PCB/PCM/Computer Science /IT and English from any recognized Board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 116 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (Theory), 50% (Practical), External: 70% (Theory), 50% (Practical)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BDSF1001 | Introduction to Digital and Cyber Forensic Science | Core | 3 | Introduction to Digital Forensics, Types of Digital Forensics, Computer Hacking & Cybercrime, Digital Evidence Concepts, Forensic Readiness & Incident Response |
| BDSF1002 | Computer Fundamentals and IT Basics | Core | 3 | Generations of Computers, Hardware & Software Components, Operating System Concepts, Networking Basics, Internet & Web Technologies |
| BDSF1003 | Basic Electronics and Digital Logic | Core | 3 | Basic Electronic Components, Number Systems, Boolean Algebra & Logic Gates, Combinational Logic Circuits, Sequential Logic Circuits |
| BDSF1004 | Communicative English | Core | 2 | Communication Process, Grammar & Vocabulary, Speaking & Presentation Skills, Listening & Comprehension, Report Writing & Email Etiquette |
| BDSF1005 | Fundamentals of Chemistry | Core | 3 | Atomic Structure & Chemical Bonding, Organic Chemistry Basics, Electrochemistry, Analytical Techniques, Environmental Chemistry |
| BDSF1006 | Cyber Ethics & Information Security | Core | 3 | Cyber Ethics & Professional Responsibility, Information Security Principles, Threats, Vulnerabilities & Attacks, Security Policies & Procedures, Legal & Ethical Aspects of Cyber Security |
| BDSF1051 | Computer Fundamentals and IT Basics Lab | Lab | 1 | MS Office Applications, Operating System Navigation, Internet Usage & Email, File Management, Basic Troubleshooting |
| BDSF1052 | Basic Electronics and Digital Logic Lab | Lab | 1 | Logic Gates Implementation, Boolean Algebra Experiments, Combinational Circuits Design, Flip-Flops & Counters, Digital ICs Characteristics |
| BDSF1053 | Communicative English Lab | Lab | 1 | Oral Presentations, Group Discussions, Interview Practice, Role-Playing Scenarios, Public Speaking |
| BDSF1054 | Fundamentals of Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1 | Volumetric Analysis, Qualitative Analysis, pH Measurement, Instrumental Techniques, Chemical Synthesis |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BDSF1007 | Programming in Python | Core | 3 | Python Language Fundamentals, Data Types & Control Flow, Functions & Modules, Object-Oriented Programming in Python, File I/O & Exception Handling |
| BDSF1008 | Operating Systems | Core | 3 | Operating System Structure, Process Management, Memory Management, File Systems & I/O, System Calls & Security |
| BDSF1009 | Discrete Mathematics | Core | 3 | Set Theory & Logic, Relations & Functions, Graph Theory, Combinatorics & Probability, Algebraic Structures |
| BDSF1010 | Forensic Science Fundamentals | Core | 3 | Introduction to Forensic Science, Crime Scene Investigation, Physical Evidence Collection, Trace Evidence Analysis, Forensic Biology & Serology |
| BDSF1011 | Object Oriented Programming using C++ | Core | 3 | C++ Language Basics, Classes, Objects & Encapsulation, Inheritance & Polymorphism, Templates & Exception Handling, File I/O & STL |
| BDSF1012 | Environmental Studies | Core | 2 | Ecosystems & Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources & Conservation, Climate Change & Global Issues, Environmental Management |
| BDSF1055 | Programming in Python Lab | Lab | 1 | Python Program Development, Data Structure Implementation, GUI Programming Basics, Web Scraping Fundamentals, Debugging Python Applications |
| BDSF1056 | Operating Systems Lab | Lab | 1 | Linux/Unix Commands, Shell Scripting, Process Management Commands, Memory Management Utilities, File System Operations |
| BDSF1057 | Object Oriented Programming using C++ Lab | Lab | 1 | C++ Program Development, Class & Object Implementation, Inheritance & Polymorphism Exercises, Operator Overloading, Exception Handling Practices |
| BDSF1058 | Forensic Science Fundamentals Lab | Lab | 1 | Crime Scene Processing Simulation, Fingerprint Collection & Analysis, Questioned Document Examination, Hair & Fiber Analysis, Tool Mark & Firearm Identification |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BDSF2001 | Data Structures | Core | 3 | Arrays & Linked Lists, Stacks & Queues, Trees & Binary Search Trees, Graphs & Traversal Algorithms, Sorting & Searching Algorithms |
| BDSF2002 | Database Management Systems | Core | 3 | DBMS Concepts & Architecture, ER Model & Relational Model, SQL Query Language, Normalization & Relational Algebra, Transaction Management & Concurrency Control |
| BDSF2003 | Computer Networks | Core | 3 | Network Topologies & Devices, OSI & TCP/IP Models, Data Link Layer Protocols, Network Layer & IP Addressing, Transport Layer & Application Layer Protocols |
| BDSF2004 | Legal Aspects of Cyber Security | Core | 3 | Cyber Law in India (IT Act 2000), Cybercrime & Punishments, Intellectual Property Rights in Cyberspace, Data Protection & Privacy Laws, Digital Evidence & Legal Procedures |
| BDSF2005 | Digital Forensic Analysis Techniques | Core | 3 | Digital Evidence Acquisition & Preservation, Disk Forensics & File Systems, Memory Forensics, Network Forensics Principles, Forensic Toolkits & Analysis Methods |
| BDSF2051 | Data Structures Lab | Lab | 1 | Implementation of Linked Lists, Stack & Queue Operations, Tree Traversal Algorithms, Graph Algorithms, Sorting & Searching Performance |
| BDSF2052 | Database Management Systems Lab | Lab | 1 | SQL DDL & DML Commands, Advanced SQL Queries, PL/SQL Programming, Database Schema Design, JDBC/ODBC Connectivity |
| BDSF2053 | Computer Networks Lab | Lab | 1 | Network Configuration Exercises, Packet Analysis with Wireshark, Socket Programming, Subnetting & Routing, Network Security Tool Usage |
| BDSF2054 | Digital Forensic Analysis Techniques Lab | Lab | 1 | Forensic Imaging & Hashing, File System Carving, Registry Analysis, Memory Dump Analysis, Open Source Forensic Tools |
| BDSF2055 | Social Innovation | Mandatory Non-Credit | 0 | Understanding Social Problems, Design Thinking for Social Solutions, Community Engagement, Developing Innovative Projects, Impact Assessment |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BDSF2006 | Cryptography and Network Security | Core | 3 | Classical Cryptography, Symmetric & Asymmetric Encryption, Hashing & Digital Signatures, Firewalls & Intrusion Detection Systems, Web & Email Security |
| BDSF2007 | Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering | Core | 3 | Malware Types & Characteristics, Static Malware Analysis, Dynamic Malware Analysis, Debugging & Disassembly, Anti-Reverse Engineering Techniques |
| BDSF2008 | Incident Response and Handling | Core | 3 | Incident Response Process, Preparation & Identification, Containment, Eradication & Recovery, Post-Incident Analysis, Incident Response Teams |
| BDSF2009 | Cloud and Mobile Forensics | Core | 3 | Cloud Computing Models, Cloud Forensics Challenges, Mobile Device Architecture, Mobile Data Acquisition Techniques, Analysis of Mobile & Cloud Data |
| BDSF2010 | Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | Core | 3 | Introduction to AI & ML, Supervised Learning, Unsupervised Learning, Neural Networks & Deep Learning, Applications in Cybersecurity |
| BDSF2056 | Cryptography and Network Security Lab | Lab | 1 | Implementing Cryptographic Algorithms, Using Network Security Tools, Firewall Configuration, Vulnerability Scanning, VPN Implementation |
| BDSF2057 | Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering Lab | Lab | 1 | Malware Sample Dissection, IDA Pro & Ghidra Usage, Sandbox Analysis, Process Monitoring, Memory Forensics for Malware |
| BDSF2058 | Cloud and Mobile Forensics Lab | Lab | 1 | Cloud Data Acquisition Tools, Mobile Device Data Extraction, Smartphone Forensic Software, SIM Card Analysis, Cloud Storage Analysis |
| BDSF2059 | Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Lab | Lab | 1 | Implementing ML Algorithms in Python, Data Preprocessing & Feature Engineering, Model Training & Evaluation, Neural Network Construction, Building Predictive Models |
| BDSF2060 | Entrepreneurship | Mandatory Non-Credit | 0 | Entrepreneurial Mindset, Business Idea Generation, Startup Ecosystem, Business Plan Development, Funding & Marketing Strategies |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BDSF3001 | Web Application Security | Core | 3 | Web Application Architecture, OWASP Top 10 Vulnerabilities, SQL Injection & XSS Attacks, Authentication & Session Management, Web Security Testing & Tools |
| BDSF3002 | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing | Core | 3 | Ethical Hacking Methodologies, Reconnaissance & Scanning, System Hacking & Malware, Web Server & Application Hacking, Wireless & Mobile Hacking |
| BDSF3003 | Cyber Threat Intelligence | Core | 3 | Threat Intelligence Cycle, Indicators of Compromise (IOCs), Threat Actor Profiling, Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), Threat Feeds & Platforms |
| BDSF3004 | Open Elective 1 (e.g., Introduction to Cyber Security) | Elective | 3 | Information Security Fundamentals, Cyber Threats & Attacks, Security Controls & Mechanisms, Risk Management Principles, Basic Cryptography & Network Security |
| BDSF3051 | Web Application Security Lab | Lab | 1 | Web Vulnerability Scanners, SQL Injection Exploitation, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Attacks, Burp Suite Usage, Web Application Firewall Concepts |
| BDSF3052 | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing Lab | Lab | 1 | Kali Linux Tool Usage, Nmap & Metasploit Framework, Vulnerability Exploitation, Post-Exploitation Techniques, Reporting Penetration Test Findings |
| BDSF3053 | Cyber Threat Intelligence Lab | Lab | 1 | OSINT Tools & Techniques, Threat Data Analysis, Malware Information Sharing Platforms, Indicator of Compromise (IOC) Extraction, Threat Report Generation |
| BDSF3054 | Project I | Project | 3 | Problem Definition & Scope, Literature Review, System Design & Architecture, Partial Implementation, Project Documentation & Presentation |
| BDSF3055 | Industrial Training / Internship | Mandatory Non-Credit | 0 | Industry Exposure, Practical Skill Application, Professional Networking, Project Work in Industry, Internship Report Submission |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BDSF3005 | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Research Design & Types, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis for Research, Report Writing & Presentation, Ethics in Research |
| BDSF3006 | Major Project | Project | 8 | Advanced Project Planning & Execution, System Development & Integration, Testing & Quality Assurance, Comprehensive Documentation, Final Project Defense & Presentation |
| BDSF3007 | Department Elective 1 (e.g., IoT Security) | Elective | 3 | IoT Architecture & Components, IoT Attack Surfaces & Threats, IoT Device Security, IoT Network Security, Data Privacy & Compliance in IoT |
| BDSF3008 | Department Elective 2 (e.g., Network Forensics) | Elective | 3 | Network Traffic Analysis, Packet Capture & Analysis Tools, Intrusion Detection Systems, Log Analysis & Correlation, Wireless Network Forensics |
