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National Centers of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence Program

What is Digital Forensics?

In its strictest connotation, the application of computer science and investigative procedures involving the examination of digital evidence - following proper search authority, chain of custody, validation with mathematics, use of validated tools, repeatability, reporting, and possibly expert testimony. Beyond traditional legal purposes, the same techniques, scientific rigor, and procedural precision now support the range of military operations and courses of action (e.g. computer network operations as well as Counterintelligence objectives).

CDFAE Mission:

Develop a partnership between academia and the government to establish standards and best practices for digital forensics practitioners, educators, and researchers to advance the discipline of Digital Forensics and increase the number of qualified professionals to meet the needs of law enforcement, counterintelligence, national defense and legal communities.

Value Added

• Establish a common core curriculum and development of standards for education and training in Digital Forensics studies.
• CDFAE designation requires in-course peer reviews of curriculum and practicum within a three year period.
• Education model based upon core learning objectives progressing to topic driven research.
• Provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in Digital Forensics.
• Provides employers capacity to confirm a candidate's capability to apply their knowledge.
• Develops a certifiable path to meet National Cyber needs.
• Strengthens bonds between Government, Academia, Professional Organizations, and Industry.

Why CDFAE?

Students

• Accredited skill set and awareness of current issues facing Digital Forensics investigators and examiners.
• Opportunity to be recognized where their skills can be of the greatest value.
• Valued for their highly desirable and unique skill sets.
• Capability to use the current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for digital forensic examination of digital media, files, operating systems, decives, networks, and applications for discovery and recovery of evidence.
• Aptitude to design, implement, and evaluate a system, process, component, or program to meet digital forensic needs.
• Appreciation of professional, ethical, legal, security, social, and continuing education and development responsibilities.

Education Providers

• Access to advanced digital forensic resources.
• Educators are recognized as being capable of effectively delivering theory and practicum.
• Provide students greater access to unique internship or employment opportunities.

Employers

• Hire employees with validated skill sets capable of being on task day 1.
• Understand exactly what skills the employee brings to bear.
• Be able to diversify geographical hires without compromising quality.

The CDFAE Program maps Digital Forensic Knowledge Domains to specific learning objectives including practical exercises.