Can You Join The FBI With A Computer Science Degree

Do you have a degree in computer science and wondering if computer science is a good degree for the FBI? Well, many other paths can give you the satisfaction of pursuing a career as a computer scientist but if you are planning on serving in the FBI as a COMPUTER SCIENTIST it will give you that pleasure along with the benefit of serving your nation. Hollywood movies have created a perception that competitive FBI agents are always the ones who are in the field and the most wanted criminals are caught using the traditional method of tracking and spying. That’s certainly one component of this important federal agency, it’s only one area that today’s FBI agents focus on.

The reality is that modern intelligence is mainly working through the screen of a computer. The tech industry is growing at a fast pace and so are the issues regarding data security. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is an intelligence-based agency that has the responsibility of protecting confidential data. Digital crimes and hacking have become the biggest targets for new, highly trained FBI agents. The agents are required to have substantial experience in computer science, computer programs, and numerous other IT-related fields to support the FBI’s national security, intelligence, and law enforcement missions.

What are the Duties of Computer Scientists in FBI Field Offices?

The duties of the FBI agent are not limited, they change based on the individual assignment, but mainly it revolves around supporting special agents and intelligence analysts in their investigations by designing, developing, and testing tools and systems, the most common duties of the FBI scientists are listed below:

•                   Computer system and network procurement, installation, administration, and security
•                   Research, develop, test, and evaluate new software systems; to ensure overall integration and synthesis of applications, systems, and databases.
•                   Development and implementation of existing and custom Cyber tools and methods for use in the identification, preservation, and analysis of digital evidence
•                   Provide technical assistance in conducting interviews, searches, and other investigative activity
•                   Provide courtroom testimony
•                   Conduct liaison and outreach
•                   Make documents related to technical and other professional matters
•                   Remain current with new advances in cyber and technology
•                   Obtain and provide technical and other professional training

How to get a Computer Science Job in the FBI

 

The eligibility criteria for getting a job in the FBI as a computer scientist are:

•                   The applicant must be a citizen of the U.S
•                   The applicant must be able to obtain a Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
•                   The applicant must have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a bachelor’s degree with 30 semester hours in a combination of mathematics, statistics, and computer science
•                   The applicant must have a valid driver’s license

 

It is important to know the things which can disqualify you from attaining a job at the FBI. The Automatic Disqualifiers are:

•                   Non-U.S. citizenship
•                   Sentence of a felony
•                   Violation of Drug Policy by the FBI
•                   Use of drugs while holding a clearance certificate
•                   Default on a student loan issued by the U.S. government
•                   Failed FBI- administered drug test
•                   Failure to register with the Selective Service System (males only)
•                   Knowingly or willfully involved in acts against the U.S government
•                   Involvement in prostitution or bestiality
•                   Failure to pay court-ordered child support
•                   Failure to file income tax returns

 When filling out the application form the candidate must mention their experience in the resume if they have in a related field such as:

•                   Computer forensics/Investigations
•                   Computer Security
•                   Internetworking (firewalls, gateways, routers, hubs, WANS, etc.)
•                   Computer networking administration
•                   Computer Programming
•                   Computer network architecture/design
•                   Computer technical support
•                   Operating system administration
•                   Other high-tech computer experience

Application Process of Computer Science Job in the FBI

Inform & Apply

Visit the official website of the FBI and check the careers and open positions which are readily available. The Bureau is always looking for a dedicated workforce of people to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution. Click on the link below to check if the FBI is looking for computer science people.

You can look up our blog post on,

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Interview & Selection

The application process can take up to a year or maybe more. So be prepared for the delays. It’s essential to do your research beforehand to avoid incontinence. 

Background Investigation

Once you are accepted you have to undergo a whole process of background investigation and fitness tests. It is important to keep in mind that the FBI does not select candidates who have disobeyed the rules and regulations of U.S law.

Final Job Offer

Once you are hired, the agency requires you to attend the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA, for a short new employee introduction course.