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
Registration requirements
Departmental approval is required to register for this course. Departmental approval is required for this course. You will not be able to register without it.
Domestic fees
$955.30
International fees are typically 3.25 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
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
Spring/Summer 2026
Below is one offering of FSCT 8520 for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.
CRN 63404
Dates
Apr 18 - May 16 Loading
- CRN 63404
- $955.30 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 18 - May 16 | Sat | 09:00 - 18:00 | Online |
Duration
5 weeks
Instructor
Marty Hurst
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- Important course information will be sent to you prior to your course start date. Check your myBCIT email account to access this information.
- This course is online and will be taught LIVE. There are no required textbooks. Please note, in order to successfully participate in this course you will require either a laptop or desktop computer with internet access so that you can access remotely the software required for this course. Please advise us if this will be a problem for you. Students who have been accepted into a Forensics program where this course is a part of the matrix may register without any further approvals. 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. Please note, in order to successfully participate in this course you will require either a laptop or desktop computer with internet access so that you can access remotely the software required for this course.
Confirmation
Required
To proceed with registration and add this course to the cart, please confirm:
No approval yet? Request approval Departmental approval is required for this course. You will not be able to register without it.
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.