- International Fees
International fees are typically 3.25 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Course Overview
This course will provide you with the latest techniques used to effectively gather online information for investigative purposes relating to persons, companies, and other assets. You will be introduced to the methods of gathering online intelligence through social media platforms, search engines, and dark web searches. In addition, you will learn how to assess potential counter-intelligence concerns. Particular emphasis will be placed on heightened awareness and the “paper trail” investigators may leave behind when using internet investigation tools. Approaches to maintain privacy and security when carrying out online investigations will also be explored and a variety of online search methodologies introduced.
Prerequisite(s)
- Admission to a Forensic credential program or permission of the Program Coordinator.
Credits
3.0
Domestic fees
$955.30
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Outline the basis of Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Social Media Intelligence (SMINT).
- Apply advanced internet searching tools and techniques to conduct online investigations.
- Apply advanced web browser usage, and apply techniques for searching the surface, deep, and dark web surfaces.
- Develop an internet search plan for operational use.
- Assess operational challenges that face the user when using online information.
- Propose and implement the covert usage of social media.
- Propose and implement the covert usage of social media.
Effective as of Winter 2018
Related Programs
Social Media and Open-Source Investigative Techniques (FSCT 8520) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Computing and Academic Studies
- Forensic Investigation (Crime and Intelligence Analysis Option)
Advanced Certificate Part-time
- Forensic Investigation (Crime and Intelligence Analysis Option)
Bachelor of Technology Part-time
- Forensic Investigation (Forensic Science Option)
Bachelor of Technology Part-time
Course Offerings
Winter 2026
Below is one offering of FSCT 8520 for the Winter 2026 term.
CRN 74380
Dates
Jan 10 - Feb 07 Loading
- CRN 74380
- $955.30 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 10 - Feb 07 | Sat | 09:00 - 18:00 | Online |
Duration
6 weeks
Instructor
Marty Hurst
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- Internet delivery format.
- Departmental approval needed
- Important course information will be sent to you prior to your course start date. Check your myBCIT email account to access this information.
- International fees are typically 3.25 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
- This class is 6 weeks of synchronous (LIVE) online learning every Saturday from Jan 10th - Feb 7, 2026. Attendance is highly recommended for success in this synchronous course. Students who have been accepted into a Forensics program where this course is a part of the matrix may register without any further approvals. There is no required textbook. Students who are not currently accepted in a Forensics program or, if this course is NOT part of your program matrix, please contact the Program Assistants for departmental approval at BCIT_Forensics@bcit.ca. For information on Forensic programs and courses, please visit: www.bcit.ca/computing-academic-studies/forensics/.
Status
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice.