Forensic Science Degree

The forensic science degree program at Harper College includes instruction for students that focuses on the application of biomedical, physical, and social sciences for the analysis and evaluation of physical evidence, human testimony, and criminal suspects. Students who graduate the forensic science degree program will have knowledge in courses such as forensic medicine, forensic dentistry, anthropology, psychology, pathology, forensic laboratory technology, crime scene analysis, fingerprint technology, document analysis, pattern analysis, examination procedures, and applicable law and regulations. Get more details below including other Illinois colleges that offer forensic science degrees.

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Harper College

501 College Ave, Wheaton, IL

Harper College, a two-year community college located in Palatine, Illinois, offers associate degrees of two types. One track leads directly to the workplace, particularly to in-demand legal, business and medical positions. The other track leads to baccalaureate institutions and higher degrees. Harper is named for its first president, William Rainey Harper, a pioneer in the junior college movement. The school offers programs that fit the schedules of busy learners. Adults often choose Harper because the weekend college and accelerated/fast track options allow them to fit school into their busy personal and professional lives.

Extracurricular activities at Harper allow students to explore their interests and develop new skills. Opportunities include working out on the latest in fitness equipment at the college’s recreational facility or gaining valuable experience working at the student-run newspaper or radio station.

In a world where the thought of paying for higher education conjures images of financial enslavement, Harper’s tuition rates are liberating. Students seeking admission to Harper College should contact the admissions office as requirements vary from program to program. Students who desire value and quality for their education dollar should check with Harper first.

Students Enrolled in the Forensic Science Program

Get more details below regarding enrollment, academics, and school demographics. Harper College has offered the following degree levels for students:

• Less Than One Year Certificate
• Associate's Degree

Students by Academic Level (2019)

Students by Gender (2019)

Students by Race (2019)

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

Career Options for Graduates

Forensic Science Technicians

Description

Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, forensic science technicians employment is expected to grow at a rate of 26.6% from 2014 to 2024

Salary & Wages

• Chicago-Naperville-Arlington Heights, IL Metropolitan Division
  • Total Employment: 330
  • Average Hourly Rate: $33.15
  • Average Annual Salary: $68940
• Lake County-Kenosha County, IL-WI Metropolitan Division
  • Total Employment: 30
  • Average Hourly Rate: $34.66
  • Average Annual Salary: $72080

Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary

Description

Teach courses in criminal justice, corrections, and law enforcement administration. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Source: Job descriptions, estimated salary and wages, and projected job growth are taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).