Digital forensics is one of the fastest growing sectors in the world today, and a young graduate from the North East has cracked the case with one of the country’s cutting edge companies.
Jonathan Smith, from Bedlington, graduated with a First Class degree in BSc Computer Forensics from the University of Sunderland. Two years after graduating Jonathan, 23, is working for SYTECH, the UK’s largest private digital forensics company.
Places are still available at the University of Sunderland. To find out more about Computer Forensics and some of the other courses on offer contact the University’s Clearing Hotline on 0191 5153000. You can find out more online at: www.sunderland.ac.uk/clearing, or come along to the Clearing pop-in event on Friday 18 August, from 10am-2pm, at the Gateway, City Campus, Chester Road. No appointment needed. Academics, financial experts and advisors will be on hand to let you know your best option for higher study.
“I work closely with police forces and private clients on the huge amount of digital evidence seized every day,” says Jonathan, who works in SYTECH’s Stoke on Trent base as a Digital Forensic Analyst.
“I analyse all kinds of digital evidence – basically anything that has the capability to store digital data. This includes phones, laptops, computers, tablets and other devices such as sat navs.
“As storage capabilities in digital devices increases, the need for forensic analysts will continue to rise too. There are job opportunities in digital forensics all over the world.”
Jonathan believes that the real-world, hands-on experience he gained while studying for his Computer Forensics degree at the University of Sunderland had a massive impact on both his choice of career, and his desirability to potential employers.
“Studying at Sunderland was a really enriching experience that enabled me to start my career,” he says. “Throughout my degree, we had guest lectures by police and former police staff.
“That was really inspiration. I saw how relevant and useful the content I was studying at University was. It gave me a real insight into what career options could be available to me after graduation.”
- In the 2017 Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education results (DLHE) 94.2% of University of Sunderland graduates were in work or further study six months after graduation.
- The University’s Open Day takes place on Tuesday 22 August is your chance to talk to academic staff about your interests, have a tour of the campus, and find out more about what financial help is available to you.
- All new students are guaranteed accommodation at the University of Sunderland.
- The University offer a Free Travel Pass – as well as many other Scholarship and Bursaries – to all new students.