Digital forensic analyst
Investigate cyber crime to protect people from hackers, thieves and terrorists.
Also known as: forensic computer analyst, cyber security professional
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
giving general advice on cyber security
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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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.
- understanding
- ethical
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- social conscience
- problem solving
- innovative
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- resilience
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:
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Computing Science
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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.
To work as a digital forensic analyst you will usually need a background or qualification in IT or a related field.
There are no formal qualifications required to enter this role but qualifications and experience that demonstrate expertise in ICT/Microsoft Windows operating systems, understanding and experience of the information security profession and the capacity to learn will be important.
Relevant qualifications such as a Computer Security & Forensics degree (SCQF Level 9/10) may be helpful especially if they involve a related work placement.
To enter a forensic computing degree (SCQF level 9/10) will require National 5 qualifications and at least four Highers at BBBC or above.
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