Jessica Jones

Choosing to study Digital Forensics at USW 

I chose to study Digital Forensics because I always had an interest in crime-related fields but wasn’t drawn to traditional paths like chemistry or biology in standard forensics. During my A-level criminology course, I came across Digital Forensics while researching career options. It piqued my curiosity, and after digging deeper into what the field involved, I knew it was the right path for me. 

Most universities only offer Digital Forensics as a module within broader cybersecurity courses, but USW stood out by offering it as a dedicated program. Attending an Open Day at Newport campus confirmed my decision—the facilities, the engaging activities in the cyber labs, and the personable lecturers left a lasting impression. 

One of the best aspects of the course is the cyber labs. They’re exclusive to our course, giving us private access to state-of-the-art tools and resources whenever we need them. The library has also been invaluable, especially the ‘find it’ system, which made researching assignments so much easier. 

I’ve also benefited from industry exposure. We’ve had guest speakers from leading organisations like Tarian, who shared valuable insights and advice. These interactions have inspired me to explore placements and prepare for future roles. 

Looking ahead to the future and advice for future students  

My favourite part of the course has been the assignments, which constantly build on foundational knowledge and challenge me to grow. In the future, I hope to become a Digital Forensics Analyst, starting as an investigator and working my way up. 

For anyone considering this course, I’d say go for it. Digital Forensics is broader than you might think, and USW’s facilities, teaching, and support make it the perfect place to start your journey.