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Degree Overview: Online Master of Science (M.S.) Degree in Economic Crime Management

Majors Overview October 1, 2015

This article talks about online Master of Science (M.S.) degree programs in Economic Crime Management and their coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.

Master of Science (M.S.) Degree Programs in Economic Crime Management

The increasing trend among businesses to transmit and store data via the Internet presents an opportunity for criminals to gain economically through misuse of confidential information. Individuals seeking education on the prevention and management of economic crime would benefit from enrolling in a master’s degree program online. As few schools offer specific Master of Science (M.S.) in Economic Crime Management programs, interested individuals must resort to enrolling in online graduate programs in cyber security, digital forensics, or fraud. Students typically need to earn 30-42 credits and may complete the program within two years.

The focus of these programs is on the legal aspects of fraud detection, fraud prevention, and criminal fraud. Students gain advanced skills in management, technology, and analytics. Program graduates can expect to be trained to take the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) certification exam.

Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree in any major. They may also have to meet a specific grade point average (GPA) standard. Access to a computer with an Internet connection is also a requirement.

Coursework

The focus of coursework is on detection and management of crime both globally and on the Internet. Participation in a capstone experience and development of a thesis are other requirements. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:

•Fraud examiners tools
•Forensic research
•Internet and network security
•Criminal fraud’s legal aspects
•Fraud analysis
•Communication and information security
•Fraud prevention in organization
•White collar crime
•Financial investigations
•Financial statement examination

Career Choices

Program graduates may seek leadership roles in industry and business, in both the public and private sectors working in corporate, retail, telecommunications, business, and government. They may choose from possible job titles such as:

•Internal auditor
•Investigator
•Government accountant
•Law enforcement agent
•Forensic accountant

Job and Wage Outlook

Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, a job growth rate of 13% was expected for auditors and accountants, including internal auditors and forensic accountants (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, these professionals brought in an average annual wage of $63,550 (BLS). During that same period, criminal investigators and detectives, expected to see a job growth of 5%, banked a median annual wage of $74,300 (BLS).

Continuing Education Choices

Program graduates who seek continuing education should look into a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program that could lead to a career in academia or research. Coursework provides specialized training in areas such as assurance and information security. Graduate certificates are another preferred option for those seeking training in specialized areas, such as cyber security, forensics, cyber security policy and cyber security strategy.

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