Digital forensic analyst
Investigate cyber crime to protect people from hackers, thieves and terrorists.
Also known as: forensic computer analyst
About the job
What it's like
In 2024/25, over 14,000 cyber crimes were recorded by police in Scotland. Almost double the figure from five years before. That's a lot of investigation and evidence to analyse – and that's where you could help.
You'll use specialist computer software and cutting-edge techniques to investigate crimes like:
hacking, online scams and fraud
political, industrial and commercial spying
terrorist communications
possession of illegal content or images
theft of confidential information
You could work for the police or security services, a bank or an IT firm. If you're a problem solver and love working with technology, this could be an exciting career for you.
Your tasks might include:
securing digital systems and devices to protect them from threats
recovering stolen data
tracking communications from terrorists or other criminals
carrying out investigations, for example following electronic data trails
presenting your findings, for example to managers or in court as an expert witness
stay updated with the latest cyber security trends, threats and technologies
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Tech Skills – find education and training opportunities in tech
Cyber Games – sharpen your skills and knowledge through fun games
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Digital technologies
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- researching
- ethical
- analysing
- attention to detail
- evaluating
- problem solving
- observation
- verbal communication
- filtering
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Computing Science
Foundation Apprenticeship: Hardware and Systems Support
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
For most roles, you'll need a degree in digital forensics or a related field. However, you may be able to apply for some roles if you have experience in cyber security roles along with other qualifications.
Check our handy guide on cyber security qualifications in Scotland.
Here are some of the routes to consider for this career.
University
A degree or postgraduate qualification could be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects, such as:
Computer Science
Cyber Security
Cyber Security and Forensics
Digital Security and Forensics
Financial Technology
Information Technology
Explore what's available using our course search.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Computer Science
Cyber Security
Cyber Security and Forensics
Explore what's available using our course search.
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
These MAs on Apprenticeships.scot may be useful:
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
Check out the GA in Cyber Security on Apprenticeships.scot.
Work
You could get experience in an entry level IT role and progress to more senior roles with cyber security responsibilities. This will help you develop the experience, skills and knowledge you'll need for the career.
To become a digital forensic analyst, you may need to combine your on the job training with some formal qualifications.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Digital forensic analyst'
