Post Graduate Diploma/ Executive Diploma in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Investigation (PGFAFI/EDFAFI)

The PG Diploma / Executive Diploma in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Investigation is a specialized multidisciplinary programme that bridges the gap between traditional accounting, criminal investigation, and the legal system. It focuses on the systematic detection, investigation, and prevention of financial misconduct by combining rigorous audit methodologies with advanced forensic science principles.

Programme Overview

The programme is designed to equip students with a robust understanding of the "Anatomy of Fraud," focusing on the essential ingredients of intent, concealment, and conversion that define modern corporate crimes. It integrates core auditing concepts—such as internal controls, vouching, and verification—with specialized investigative frameworks like the Fraud Triangle and contemporary "Failure to Prevent" legal doctrines. A key feature of the programme is its focus on Investigative Data Analytics and AI, preparing learners to navigate a digital-first environment. Students gain expertise in leveraging Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Explainable AI (XAI) to identify anomalous patterns and trace illicit funds across complex financial networks, including Blockchain and Decentralized Finance (DeFi) ecosystems.

The curriculum addresses the most pressing challenges of the 2026 financial landscape, including the investigation of AI-powered cyberattacks, ESG-related "greenwashing" fraud, and synthetic identity theft. It emphasizes the procedural rigor required for forensic audit phases—from initial recognition and risk assessment to the meticulous management of the chain of custody for digital evidence. Beyond technical detection, the programme emphasizes Litigation Support and Expert Testimony. It prepares professionals to quantify economic damages, structure comprehensive forensic reports, and provide defensible expert opinions that meet the legal requirements of modern judicial systems.

This programme prepares learners for high-impact roles in forensic accounting firms, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and corporate investigative units, providing a cutting-edge foundation for protecting organizational integrity in an increasingly complex global economy.

Programme Structure

Module 1: Introduction to Forensic Science

• Definition & Scope of Forensic Science
• History and Evolution of Forensic Science
• Branches & Divisions of Forensic Science
• Role of Forensic Science in Criminal Justice System
• Relationship between Forensic science, Investigation & Law
• Ethical issues in Forensic Science Practice 

Module 1: Foundations of Forensic Accounting and Fraud Auditing

• Meaning, Nature, and Scope
• The Fraud Triangle and Beyond (2026)
• Forensic Audit Phases
• Auditor’s Liability
• Professional Ethics and Standards

Module 2: Corporate Fraud Taxonomy and Ingredients

• Ingredients of Fraud
• Frauds For vs. Against the Company
• The Concept of Fraud under Global Regulations
• Victimology and Impact
• Corporate Governance and Fraud Prevention

Module 3: Forensic Audit Phases and Procedures

• Recognition and Planning
• Evidence Collection
• Evaluation of Evidence
• Auditor’s Liability
• The Communication of Results

Module 4: Investigative Data Analytics and AI

• Machine Learning for Patterns
• Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• Explainable AI (XAI)
• Predictive Risk Assessment
• Real-Time Monitoring

Module 5: Financial Statement Manipulation and Earnings Management

• Revenue Recognition Schemes
• Statistical Models
• Off-Balance Sheet Frauds
• Creative Accounting vs. Fraud
• Global Scandal Case Studies

Module 6: Advanced Asset Misappropriation and Corruption

• Inventory and Cash Schemes
• Procurement and Payroll Fraud
• Bribery and Corruption
• "Failure to Prevent" Doctrine
• Conflicts of Interest

Module 7: Digital Forensics and Cyber-Financial Crime

• AI-Powered Attacks
• Ransomware Forensics
• Business Email Compromise (BEC)
• Digital Evidence Management
• Identity-Centric Forensics

Module 8: Blockchain, Crypto-Assets, and DeFi

• Blockchain Traceability
• Cryptocurrency Money Laundering
• DeFi Forensics
• Regulatory Frameworks
• Stablecoin Auditing

Module 9: ESG Fraud and "Greenwashing" Forensics

• ESG Reporting Misconduct
• The Battle Against Greenwashing
• Financial-ESG Correlation
• Forensic-Level Audits
• AI Consistency Models

Module 10: Litigation Support and Future Trends

• Quantifying Economic Damages
• The Forensic Report
• Expert Testimony Skills
• Post-Quantum Preparedness
• Global Regulatory Unification

Module 12: Case Studies

Module 13: Capstone Project

Eligibility

Graduates in any discipline are eligible for our Post Graduate Diploma, Executive Diploma and Professional Certification Programmes.

Programme Duration

The minimum duration to complete the PG diploma programme is 12 months and maximum is 24 months. The minimum duration to complete the executive diploma programme is 6 months and maximum is 12 months.

Programme Mode

Registrations are currently open for regular and Part-time (Online Live Classes) both modes.

Programme Deliverables

A comprehensive study material for all the Modules in hard copies ensuring the needs of the audience. The accompanying training material is appropriately aligned with the current Industry’s expectations.

• Assignments for all the programme modules for continuous evaluation and guidance.
• Interactive or online live sessions on all key areas of the programme giving all flexibility to the participants.
• Online classes for all the modules will be conducted on the weekends. Moreover, a doubt clearing session will also be scheduled before the examination
• All the efforts are made by IGMPI faculty members to make the entire programme modules easily understandable.
• Assessment and evaluation for all the programme modules in order to enhance the levels of competencies and skills of the participants leading towards the objective of application in the job.
• At the end of each programme modules, the trainers shall obtain feedback from the participants using specially designed questionnaires.
• All learning and training delivery initiatives shall be conducted in English. 

Examination and Certification

All the participants are expected to appear for an online exam and are also obliged to submit assignments after each module. After successful completion, the participants will be awarded the PG Diploma/Executive Diploma in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Investigation from Centre for Cyber Forensic and Cyber Security, IGMPI. For all the above-mentioned modules, Online Classes (Online mode) or face-to-face classes (Regular mode), elaborate programme material, self-assessment assignments would be provided by the Institute. Details get updated on the webpage as well.

Discipline in Classes and Examination

Every student is required to observe a disciplined behaviour during her/his classes, assessments & examinations and to follow instructions from the Professors. Any act of indiscipline may result into discredit & it will be mentioned in her/his academic report.

Placement Assistance & Corporate Relations

The Institute has partnered with many organizations for providing with placement assistance to its participants. Besides, it has a robust placement cell comprised of senior level Human Resources professionals and Talent Acquisition experts which maintains close links with business and industry. This cell is continuously engaged in promoting the employability of our participants and encouraging the concerned Human Resources department and Hiring Managers to recruit/hire our participants for their vacant positions. The efforts of our placement cell also include helping with professional resume writing & interview skills.

The Forensic Accounting and Fraud Investigation programme produces high-caliber graduates who are uniquely positioned for critical roles within both public and private sectors. In the government and regulatory domain, agencies such as the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recruit forensic experts to lead high-stakes investigations into complex economic offenses, white-collar crimes, and large-scale corporate scandals. Similarly, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) utilizes these professionals to safeguard market integrity by monitoring insider trading, investigating securities fraud, and conducting deep-dive forensic audits of listed entities under suspicion. In these roles, graduates serve as "financial detectives," applying advanced investigative techniques to trace illicit money trails and provide evidence suitable for criminal prosecution.

In the corporate and advisory sector, demand is driven primarily by the "Big Four"—Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC—all of which maintain specialized Forensic and Financial Crime divisions. These firms hire graduates to manage multi-jurisdictional client engagements involving anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, fraud risk assessment, and crisis response. Beyond the Big Four, global consultancy leaders such as Grant Thornton, BDO, and FTI Consulting offer expansive opportunities in litigation support, where forensic accountants quantify economic damages and act as expert witnesses in court. Furthermore, emerging niches in forensic technology firms like Chainalysis or TRM Labs offer roles focused on blockchain traceability and cryptocurrency investigations, ensuring that graduates are equipped to tackle the financial crimes of the digital-first economy in 2026.

Future career prospects

The future prospects for forensic accounting and fraud investigation are exceptionally strong, driven by a global surge in financial crime, tightening regulations, and the rapid evolution of digital finance. As organizations move from reactive investigations to proactive fraud prevention, the field is expected to grow significantly through 2030. Rapid Expansion: The global forensic accounting market is projected to reach approximately $10.56 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual rate of nearly 9%. High Job Growth: Demand for specialized financial examiners and investigative accountants is expected to rise by 20% to 21% through 2031, a rate much faster than the average for the broader accounting profession. Asia-Pacific Outlook: This region is anticipated to be the fastest-growing market due to increased regulatory scrutiny and rising corporate governance standards. New job roles are emerging as forensic accounting integrates with advanced technologies: AI and Data Analytics Interpreters: Experts who use machine learning and pattern recognition to sift through massive datasets for real-time fraud detection. Blockchain and Crypto Forensics: Specialists trained to trace illicit funds through decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms and immutable blockchain ledgers. ESG and "Greenwashing" Auditors: Professionals who verify sustainability claims and carbon emissions data to prevent reporting misconduct. Cyber-Financial Crime Investigators: Experts focused on investigating ransomware attacks, deepfake-based financial authorizations, and data breaches. Proactive Prevention: Firms are shifting toward using predictive AI to identify risks and implement safeguards before fraud occurs. Global Compliance: Stricter international anti-money laundering (AML) mandates and transparency laws are forcing organizations to programmatically embed forensic controls into their operations. Post-Quantum Security: As quantum computing advances, forensic accountants will play a vital role in securing financial records against future decryption threats.

View Prospectus

Apply Online

Last date for submitting completed Application Form: 6^th Feb 2026.

For further enquiries, call or write to us on:
18001031071 (Toll Free -9:00 am to 5:30 pm IST-except on Central Government holidays)/ info@igmpi.ac.in