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B-SC-CYBER-FORENSICS in Cyber Forensics at St. Aloysius College, Edathua
Alappuzha, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Cyber Forensics at St. Aloysius College, Edathua Alappuzha?
This B.Sc. Cyber Forensics program at St. Aloysius College focuses on equipping students with expertise in digital investigation, cybercrime analysis, and data recovery, critical for the growing digital economy in India. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in identifying, collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence. It''''s designed to meet the rising demand for skilled cyber forensic professionals in various sectors across the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in science or computer applications seeking entry into the cybersecurity and digital forensics field. It also suits individuals passionate about solving cybercrimes, protecting digital assets, and understanding intricate legal aspects of the digital world. Aspiring cyber investigators, security analysts, and ethical hackers will find this specialization particularly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including Digital Forensic Investigator, Cyber Security Analyst, Incident Response Specialist, Malware Analyst, and eDiscovery Analyst. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aligns with industry needs, fostering skills for professional certifications like CEH, CHFI, and CompTIA Security+, enhancing growth trajectories in Indian companies and government agencies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Programming and OS Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate consistent time to understanding core programming concepts, especially Python, and operating system internals like file systems and processes. This foundation is crucial for advanced forensic analysis and scripting automation. Practice coding daily and experiment with Linux commands.
Tools & Resources
GeeksforGeeks, HackerRank, TryHackMe (basic OS rooms), Python.org documentation
Career Connection
Strong programming and OS knowledge are fundamental for developing custom forensic tools, understanding malware behavior, and performing in-depth system analysis, directly impacting roles like Cyber Security Analyst and Forensic Investigator.
Build a Digital Forensics Lab Environment- (Semester 1-2)
Set up a virtual lab with Kali Linux, Windows VMs, and forensic tools like Autopsy or FTK Imager. Practice acquiring images, hashing files, and basic data recovery. This hands-on experience is invaluable for understanding the practical aspects of digital evidence handling.
Tools & Resources
VirtualBox/VMware Workstation Player, Kali Linux, Autopsy, FTK Imager Lite
Career Connection
Early practical exposure to forensic tools prepares students for real-world lab environments, making them job-ready for roles requiring hands-on evidence examination and analysis.
Participate in Cybersecurity Clubs and Competitions- (Semester 1-2)
Join college cybersecurity clubs or online communities. Participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions to apply theoretical knowledge in a competitive, problem-solving environment. This fosters teamwork and introduces new attack/defense vectors.
Tools & Resources
CTFTime.org, Discord communities for cybersecurity, College tech clubs
Career Connection
Active participation enhances problem-solving skills, exposes students to real-world security challenges, and builds a professional network, vital for internships and future job opportunities.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Network and Web Security- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond theoretical understanding, implement and experiment with network security concepts like firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems. Explore web application vulnerabilities using tools like Burp Suite. Focus on how these relate to forensic investigations.
Tools & Resources
Wireshark, Nmap, Burp Suite Community Edition, VulnHub VMs
Career Connection
Proficiency in network and web security is crucial for roles involving incident response, network forensics, and penetration testing, where understanding attack vectors is key to investigation.
Seek Internships and Mentorships- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for internships at local cybersecurity firms, police cyber cells, or IT departments. A mentor from the industry can provide guidance, insights into career paths, and networking opportunities. Even short-term projects offer valuable experience.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Internshala, College placement cell, Industry networking events
Career Connection
Internships offer practical work experience, build a professional network, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting employability in the Indian job market.
Specialize and Certify in a Niche Area- (Semester 3-5)
Identify a specific area of interest within cyber forensics (e.g., mobile forensics, malware analysis, cloud security) and pursue online courses or certifications. This specialization makes you stand out to employers and deepens your expertise.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, Udemy (for foundational courses), Exam prep for CompTIA Security+/CySA+
Career Connection
Specialized skills and certifications are highly valued in the Indian cybersecurity market, opening doors to advanced roles and demonstrating commitment to continuous learning and expertise.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Project/Research- (Semester 6)
Choose a final year project that involves real-world problem-solving in cyber forensics, such as developing a new forensic tool, analyzing a novel attack technique, or conducting a detailed case study. This showcases your applied skills and research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
GitHub (for project sharing), Academic journals, Industry whitepapers
Career Connection
A strong project demonstrates initiative, problem-solving abilities, and practical application of knowledge, which are highly regarded by recruiters for entry-level and specialized roles.
Prepare for Placements and Interviews Strategically- (Semester 6)
Refine your resume and cover letter, focusing on projects, skills, and certifications. Practice technical interviews, aptitude tests, and soft skills required by top Indian companies. Attend career fairs and networking events organized by the college.
Tools & Resources
Mock interviews, Aptitude test prep platforms, Career guidance workshops
Career Connection
Effective placement preparation significantly increases the chances of securing desirable job offers from leading cybersecurity firms and IT companies in India.
Engage in Advanced Certifications and Professional Development- (Semester 6 onwards)
Consider pursuing advanced, industry-recognized certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI), or GIAC certifications immediately after graduation to bolster your profile for specialized roles.
Tools & Resources
EC-Council Official Courses, SANS GIAC training, Professional forums
Career Connection
These high-level certifications validate expert-level skills, leading to premium job opportunities and accelerated career growth in specialized cybersecurity and digital forensics domains.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed the Plus Two / equivalent examination with Computer Science / Computer Application / Mathematics / Statistics / Physics / Chemistry / Electronics / Biotechnology / Engineering Graphics / Informatics Practices / Multimedia / Web Technology / Biology as one of the subjects.
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG1CST01 | Academic Writing and Presentation Skills | Common Course (English) | 4 | Academic Vocabulary, Sentence Structure, Paragraph Development, Essay Writing, Presentation Techniques, Referencing Styles |
| ENG1CST02 | Literature in a Globalised World | Common Course (English) | 3 | Reading Comprehension, Literary Appreciation, Critical Analysis, Cultural Contexts, Global Perspectives |
| MAL1CRT01 | Malayala Gadhyarachanakal (or other chosen language) | Common Course (Additional Language) | 4 | Malayalam Prose Forms, Literary Movements, Grammar and Usage, Creative Writing, Analytical Skills |
| CF1CRT01 | Fundamentals of Cyber Forensics | Core | 4 | Introduction to Cyber Forensics, Digital Evidence Concepts, Forensic Investigation Process, Types of Cybercrime, Forensic Science Principles |
| CST1CMT01 | Introduction to IT & C | Complementary | 3 | Computer Fundamentals, Hardware Components, Operating Systems Basics, Networking Concepts, Internet Technologies, Data Storage |
| CF1CRP01 | Cyber Forensics Lab 1 | Core Practical | 2 | Forensic Tool Basics, Data Acquisition Techniques, Hashing and Verification, File System Analysis, Evidence Handling |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG2CST03 | Readings on Indian Constitution, Secularism and Sustainable Environment | Common Course (English) | 4 | Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Secularism in India, Environmental Ethics, Sustainable Development |
| ENG2CST04 | Translation and Communication | Common Course (English) | 3 | Principles of Translation, Types of Communication, Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Public Speaking, Intercultural Communication |
| MAL2CRT02 | Malayala Kavithayum Cherukathayum (or other chosen language) | Common Course (Additional Language) | 4 | Malayalam Poetry Forms, Short Stories, Literary Criticism, Cultural Narratives, Language Proficiency |
| CF2CRT02 | Cyber Laws & Ethics | Core | 4 | Information Technology Act 2000, Cybercrime Definitions, Digital Evidence Laws, Intellectual Property Rights, Professional Ethics in Forensics |
| CST2CMT02 | Data Communication and Networking | Complementary | 3 | Network Topologies, OSI and TCP/IP Models, Network Devices, Transmission Media, Protocols and Standards |
| CF2CRP02 | Cyber Forensics Lab 2 | Core Practical | 2 | Network Forensics Tools, Email Forensics, Log File Analysis, Operating System Artifacts, Timeline Analysis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CF3CRT03 | Operating System Concepts | Core | 4 | OS Structure and Functions, Process Management, Memory Management, File Systems, Linux and Windows OS |
| CF3CRT04 | Computer Programming with Python | Core | 4 | Python Language Fundamentals, Data Structures in Python, Control Flow and Functions, Object-Oriented Programming, File Handling, Modules and Packages |
| CST3CMT03 | Database Management Systems | Complementary | 3 | DBMS Architecture, Relational Model, SQL Queries, Database Design, Normalization, Transaction Management |
| CF3CRP03 | Cyber Forensics Lab 3 | Core Practical | 2 | Windows Registry Analysis, User Account Analysis, System Artifacts Examination, Linux Command Line Forensics, Memory Forensics Basics |
| CF3CRP04 | Programming Lab (Python) | Core Practical | 2 | Python Scripting for Forensics, Data Parsing, Automation Tasks, Problem Solving with Python, Developing Forensic Utilities |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CF4CRT05 | Data Structures and Algorithms | Core | 4 | Arrays and Linked Lists, Stacks and Queues, Trees and Graphs, Sorting Algorithms, Searching Algorithms, Hashing Techniques |
| CF4CRT06 | Network Security | Core | 4 | Network Attacks and Vulnerabilities, Cryptography Principles, Firewalls and IDS/IPS, VPN Technologies, Wireless Network Security, Web Security Basics |
| CST4CMT04 | Software Engineering | Complementary | 3 | Software Development Life Cycle, Requirements Engineering, Software Design Principles, Software Testing, Project Management, Maintenance |
| CF4CRP05 | Cyber Forensics Lab 4 | Core Practical | 2 | Network Traffic Capture, Wireshark Analysis, Packet Sniffing Tools, Intrusion Detection Systems, Incident Response Drills |
| CF4CRP06 | Data Structures Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Implementation of Linked Lists, Stack and Queue Operations, Binary Tree Traversal, Graph Algorithms, Sorting and Searching Programs |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CF5CRT07 | Ethical Hacking | Core | 4 | Information Gathering, Scanning Networks, Vulnerability Assessment, System Hacking, Web Application Hacking, Wireless Hacking |
| CF5CRT08 | Mobile Forensics | Core | 4 | Mobile Device Fundamentals, Data Acquisition from Mobiles, Android Forensics, iOS Forensics, Mobile Malware Analysis, Cloud-based Mobile Forensics |
| CF5CRT09 | Cloud Security | Core | 4 | Cloud Computing Concepts, Cloud Security Architecture, Data Privacy in Cloud, Identity and Access Management, Cloud Incident Response, Legal Aspects of Cloud Security |
| CF5OCT01 | Basics of Cyber Security | Open Course | 3 | Introduction to Cybersecurity, Common Cyber Threats, Data Protection Strategies, Safe Online Practices, Digital Hygiene, Cybercrime Awareness |
| CF5CRP07 | Cyber Forensics Lab 5 | Core Practical | 2 | Vulnerability Scanning Tools, Penetration Testing Frameworks, Exploitation Techniques, Web Application Security Testing, Post-Exploitation Tactics |
| CF5CRP08 | Mobile Forensics Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Mobile Data Extraction Tools, Physical and Logical Acquisition, App Data Analysis, SIM Card Forensics, Mobile Device Triage |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CF6CRT10 | Malware Analysis | Core | 4 | Malware Types and Characteristics, Static Analysis, Dynamic Analysis, Reverse Engineering Basics, Anti-Malware Techniques, Malware Obfuscation |
| CF6CRT11 | Digital Image Forensics | Core | 4 | Image Acquisition and Authentication, Steganography and Steganalysis, Image Tampering Detection, Metadata Analysis, Camera Ballistics, Deepfake Detection |
| CF6CRT12 | IoT Security & Forensics | Core | 4 | IoT Architecture and Protocols, IoT Security Challenges, Forensic Investigation of IoT Devices, Edge Computing Security, Privacy Concerns in IoT, Firmware Analysis |
| CF6EST01 | Data Recovery Techniques (Elective Option 1) | Elective | 3 | Data Loss Scenarios, File Carving, Disk Imaging and Cloning, Damaged Media Recovery, Deleted File Recovery, RAID Data Recovery |
| CF6EST02 | Web Application Security (Elective Option 2) | Elective | 3 | OWASP Top 10, Injection Attacks, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), Authentication and Session Management, Security Misconfiguration, API Security |
| CF6EST03 | Cryptography & Steganography (Elective Option 3) | Elective | 3 | Symmetric Key Cryptography, Asymmetric Key Cryptography, Hash Functions, Digital Signatures, Steganography Methods, Watermarking |
| CF6CRP09 | Cyber Forensics Lab 6 | Core Practical | 2 | Malware Sandbox Environments, Disassemblers and Debuggers, Signature Analysis, Behavioral Analysis of Malware, Forensic Reporting for Malware |
| CF6CRP10 | Digital Image Forensics Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Image Manipulation Detection, Steganalysis Tools, EXIF Metadata Analysis, Image Source Verification, Deepfake Detection Techniques |
| CF6PRP01 | Project Work | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Methodology Design, Implementation and Testing, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Project Presentation |
