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What is Forensic Science?

Forensic science is the method used to apply various sciences and techniques to evaluate and investigate a crime scene. Individuals pursuing a career in forensic science will be responsible for:

  • Maintaining a crime scene to collect samples
  • Proper care of material
  • Reviewing and testing of samples in a laboratory setting
  • Evaluating results to solidify evidence and knowledge
  • Documentation of findings

Forensic scientists must be strong will due to the exposure to disturbing material, particularly those who specialize in crime scene investigation. Individuals wanting to work in CSI should be prepared to witness disturbing sights.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$60,690

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

38.93%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

14,800

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Forensic Science Degree

MS in Biomedical Forensic Science at Boston University gives emphasis on Scientific Rigor. Professionals who take this graduate study are trained in the fundamental principles of science with a strong biomedical background. They will be provided the expertise to forensic investigations. Upon completion of this program, they will be prepared to pursue a variety of career choices.

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Forensic Science Certificate at the University of Texas at Austin offers an interdisciplinary perspective to students who want to pursue a career in forensic science. This program can be taken by all undergraduate students at UT Austin. 18 hours of approved coursework is one of the requirements of this certificate. This field offers a broad range of specializations. 

Acceptance Rate

31.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The University of California-Davis is fueling innovative research to advance the field in forensic science. They have offered a master’s degree in Forensic Science since 2002. Since then, they have been providing an exceptional academic program to people who aspire to be a forensic psychologist. They give hands-on training to each student they admit to the Forensic Science department to help meld the academic learning with pragmatic learning.  

Acceptance Rate

38.87

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Master of Forensic Sciences at George Washington University is a STEM-designated degree program that is offered online. This will provide an understanding of the relation of forensic disciplines to the investigation of a criminal activity. This shall give an overview of the analytical methods, data and equipment used by forensic specialists. The coursework here is designed to give emphasis to the identification and analysis of evidence. 

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

SUNY at Binghamton is a public institution that has a fair number of majors and degree programs available for students to choose from. The school is located in Vestal, New York, in a predominantly suburban area. SUNY at Binghamton has a yearly student enrollment of around fifteen thousand. A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Psychology
  • English Language And Literature
  • Social Sciences
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions office. Most students admitted to this school achieve an SAT score between 1770 - 2030, or an ACT composite score between 26 - 30. Approximately 40% of all students that applied were admitted at this school, with 21% of those admitted choosing to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found here. The cost of undergraduate tuition varies for in-state and nonresidents. In-state residents pay nearly $7,900, while nonresidents pay $17,000 for the year. Housing may be available for students that would like to live on-campus for a cost of $8,300 each year. Students at this school may qualify for aid which is usually grants and loans. Athletic programs are available at Binghamton University through the NCAA, allowing students to compete in intercollegiate sports. Available sports offered may include but not limited to:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division I-AAA)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division I-AAA)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AAA)
Students should visit the SUNY at Binghamton website to obtain a complete list of academic programs offered, admissions information, and more.

Acceptance Rate

40.53

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Syracuse University’s degree in Forensic Science will help you prepare for a career that solves crimes through science. They provide an extensive biological field that will let you gain hands-on experiences in the industry. Extracurricular activities and undergraduate conferences are being conducted here. Students will work in the labs of biology faculty as another way of learning. 

Acceptance Rate

44.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

At the College of Sciences at the University of Central Florida, BS in Forensic Science is offered. This is designed for undergraduate majors in forensic chemistry or in forensic biochemistry. This program provides general education and forensic discipline subjects. This program was established in 1974 and until now, it still plays an important role in serving the needs of supervisory personnel in DNA sections of crime laboratories in the nation. 

Acceptance Rate

44.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

30:1

Forensic and Investigative Sciences degree at Texas A&M University College Stations is designed for people who desire to apply science in crime scene investigation. This degree will impart knowledge about collecting, preserving and using evidentiary information that will help solve a problem. Students here will have the chance to study evidence and examine it from a molecular, organismal and ecological perspectives. Students will apply everything they learned in solving real-world issues.

Acceptance Rate

57.79

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

BS in Forensic Science at Saint Louis University provides an interdisciplinary field which employs the methods and tools of biology, anthropology, physics and medicine. They are committed in passing the knowledge to their students so they will be able to have a better understanding on how science has an intersection with law. This field is indeed broad, but the important applications in natural and man-made disasters will be taught to students. Students will be expected to gain skills in evaluating causes of death.

Acceptance Rate

58.28

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The Forensic Science degree at the University of North Carolina Wilmington applied methods and techniques that are derived from myriad scientific disciplines for concerns in cases of legal and medico-legal. They teach the proper way of collecting, preserving and evaluating physical evidence that are found at the crime scene. This minor subject may accompany one of a variety of majors, it can be in biology, criminology or psychology. 

Acceptance Rate

65.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

BS in Forensic Science at Loyola University Chicago provides strong writing and speaking skills. Students will gain a broad range of knowledge and skills in biology and chemistry. As they pursue to complete this degree program, they will develop a deeper understanding about the criminal justice system and rules of evidence. Graduates of this program were able to obtain both technical and analytical abilities.

Acceptance Rate

67.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The faculty working at Lewis University under the program for BA in Forensic Criminal Investigation are experienced in their field and possess real-world understanding and connections. They implement small class sizes to ensure that each student will interact and work closely with their professors. They will be provided with a dynamic learning environment. The interdisciplinary approach blends Criminal Justice with natural sciences.

Acceptance Rate

63.9

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Biology and Forensic Psychology are offered at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Prescott. The degree program in Forensic Science provides a foundation in chemistry, biology and law. They make sure to offer the required coursework to become a certified molecular biologist or chemist by the American Board of Criminalistics through an examination. Forensic Psychology program is designed to bring together many current ERAU strengths in applied psychology, forensics and security, and social/ behavioral research just to name a few. 

Acceptance Rate

65.7

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Christian Brothers University does not offer a program for Forensic Science what they offer is a program in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics. This program is designed to help students learn skills that are necessary in protecting data and catching cyber criminals. It is an interdisciplinary program that integrates courses in computer science, management information systems, business and electrical engineering. The highlights of this program are its digital forensics lab and the chance to have an internship with one of CBU’s corporate partners. 

Acceptance Rate

50.15

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

MS in Forensic Science at Florida International University is an interdisciplinary program structured to prepare students for entering careers in local, state or national forensic science laboratories. This may also lead a way for doctoral instruction in several disciplines. The objective of this program is to produce graduate scientists that can work as a forensic science practitioner. They aim to provide advanced science education to prepare their students who wish to continue towards a PhD degree.

Acceptance Rate

57.51

Student to Faculty Ratio

26:1

The Master of Science degree program is offered at Michigan State University. To be admitted in this program, the applicant must have completed a BS or BA degree in a discipline that is appropriate to the desired concentration. He/she must present a satisfactory score in the Graduate Record examination General Test. The information about this program for professional study can be viewed via the school’s website. 

Acceptance Rate

71.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Arcadia University’s Master of Science in Forensic Science has over 240 students that graduated from 2006 through 2019. They are one of the few institutions in the country that have been accredited by FEPAC of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. Crime scene house in Arcadia allows their students to earn hands-on training. They will collect evidence, cast tracks and secure the crime scene. 

Acceptance Rate

65.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

The degree in Forensic Science is what Ohio Northern University offers. This prepares the students for a career in forensic labs. They will learn how to perform DNA investigations and skillfully test physical evidence both from arrests and crime scenes. They will also be trained in performing drug and toxicology analysis.

Acceptance Rate

70.15

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Students at San Jose State University who took the BS in Forensic Science learned how to apply scientific methods in drawing logical conclusions about crime scenes. They can intelligently identify sources and causes of error in forensic science. Through science, they are able to interpret evidence and communicate findings in written reports as well as in oral testimony. They developed skills in contextualizing forensic science within the areas of criminal justice, and in physical and mental health.

Acceptance Rate

63.57

Student to Faculty Ratio

26:1

The Department of Forensic Science and Criminal Justice at Hamline University offers a major and minor in criminology and criminal justice (CCJ). A certificate and minor program in Forensic Science is also available. CCJ major uses a social science approach to students in studying crime while CCJ minor is designed for students pursuing other academic majors, it gives an overview of the study of crime and criminal justice. Forensic Science Certificate is paired with a natural science major, while the forensic science minor complements majors in criminology and criminal justice.

Acceptance Rate

67.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science at The University of Tampa develops the student’s ability to communicate effectively through oral and written methods. They train them to do that not only in scientific environments but in courtroom environments as well. Students will learn how to make reasoned decisions to obtain, report and communicate results with integrity. They will have a keen eye in performing rigorous evidence analysis. 

Acceptance Rate

44.75

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Forensic Science at Alvernia University teaches how science is used in the law system. They train students so they can utilize practical techniques that are applicable in forensic science. Students will also develop the ability to write effective and concise scientific reports. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of how chemical, biological, and physical methods are used in forensic science.

Acceptance Rate

64.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Southern Wesleyan University offers a BS degree in Forensic Science. In this major, students learn about inorganic and organic chemistry as well as the analytical techniques for forensic analysis. Students will develop knowledge base and laboratory skills in cellular and molecular biology, human anatomy, zoology and many more. Students will use various microscopic techniques in analyzing fibers, fluid, paint, hair, soil, and others.

Acceptance Rate

35.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Master of Science in Forensic Science at Duquesne University is the only entry-level program in the nation that combined science and law. This answered the critical need for a skilled professional in the challenging field of forensics. This degree program’s quality had been verified when it got an accreditation from FEPAC. Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission reviews programs to make sure that it meets the standards for quality forensic science education.

Acceptance Rate

74.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The Forensic Science major program at the University of Scranton is designed for law-enforcement majors and science majors. Rules of evidence will be discussed in the program’s coursework. Students will also gain knowledge about the standing of expert scientific witnesses in law. The catalog for this program can be seen via the school’s website or by requesting information from the admissions team at the University of Scranton. 

Acceptance Rate

76.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Best Forensic Science Degrees

A large variety of degree programs and certificate programs exist in the forensic science space.  From an undergraduate certificate to a graduate degree in the field, students can learn and grow within the rapidly-evolving area of study from top professors around the country.  A summary of each program is listed below along with an associated means to quickly connect to accredited colleges and universities.

Forensic Science Certificate Programs

Classroom based or online certificate programs will come two different versions when searching for programs: undergraduate and graduate.  The undergraduate certificate programs are designed to be a short, intensive collection of classes to introduce the fundamentals of forensic science to a student.

These fundamental elements will help prepare students for entry-level jobs in the field or to be used as a stepping stone into a degree program.  The graduate certificates are educational tools used by working professionals and qualifying students to upskill, learn new techniques, advance a career, or prepare a working professional for an upcoming career transition.

Examples of graduate certificates offered by colleges around the country include forensic psychology, forensic computer investigations, arson investigation, computer security, fire science, and national security.

Forensic Science Associate’s Degrees

An online associate’s degree in forensic science is a 2-year program and is most commonly conferred as an Associate of Science or AS degree.  The associate’s degree track combines general education classes such as creative writing, philosophy, and sociology with core forensic courses to provide students with a well-rounded educational footing.

Core classes will typically include subjects of study such as: identity theft investigations, criminal justice, computer-based crimes, web-based investigations, profiling hackers, forensic crime investigations, software piracy, copyright infringement, operating systems, network security, and ethical hacking.

Forensic Science Bachelor’s Degrees

The online bachelor’s degree in forensic science is conferred as a Bachelor’s of Science (BS) and is a 4-year program based on full-time matriculation.  The bachelor’s degree program provides students with more core classes and additional general education classes to help build a robust set of integrative thinking skills.

The core curriculum will vary from school to school but will generally include classes, labs, and seminars such as: criminal justice, forensic biology, crime scene investigation, criminalistics, advanced forensic science, ethics, chemistry, calculus, genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology.  Students can elect to major in forensic science as a stand-alone degree or add a second major or minor in an associated field of study to add heft to a resume.

Adjacent degree options in the field of forensic science include criminal justice, forensic psychology, crime analysis, investigative services, paramedicine, computer science, forensic technology, cyber-systems, fire science, public affairs, national security, and forensic computer investigation.

Forensic Science Master’s Degrees

On-site or online master’s degrees in forensic science is a 2-3 year graduate degree often conferred as a Master of Science or MS degree.  The length of time it takes to complete the program is dependent upon student course load, curricular design, and time invested in a thesis project.

Upper-level courses may include programs such as forensic anthropology, forensic DNA analysis, forensic microscopy, toxicology, law, firearms examination, and bloodstain pattern analysis.  Upon completion of the program, students will be equipped to with a variety of institutions that can include police departments, FBI, fire departments, colleges, forensic science labs, DOJ, local government agencies, crime labs, state government, and private industry.

Forensic Science Requirements

A degree in forensic science prepares individuals to apply scientific methods to the investigation of crime. A forensic science program will provide an education in various sciences along with courses in law, investigation and methodology. Such programs will educate individuals in the gathering and analyses of evidence.

An education in forensic science requires an individual to be attentive and meticulous, and able to examine seemingly insignificant material for clues. Degrees in forensic science can range from diplomas to master's degrees, with a bachelor's degree most often pursued for entry level positions. Courses offered in a forensic science program include:

  • Statistics
  • Criminology
  • Crime Scene Investigation
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Court Procedure
  • Criminal Psychology

Employment in Forensic Science

A career as a forensic science technician can lead to varying specialties. Forensic science is used in all manner of test procedures that run the gamut from DNA testing to firearms scarring to soil sample examination. A forensic science technician must be careful in how he or she gathers and stores evidence, and may often be called on to offer testimony on procedure or evidence.

Forensic science technicians are typically employed by local or state governments, but can be found at the federal level as well. Technicians working in evidence gathering will have a abnormal schedule, and will typically be on call day evening, night and weekends. A lab technician will generally work normal hours, but may be on call to review gathered samples if the need arises. Some specialties available to forensic science graduates include:

  • Lab Forensics
  • Computer Forensics
  • Forensic Pathologist
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Crime Scene Investigator

Forensic Science Job Growth & Salary

Job growth in forensic science is expected to increase steadily over the next decade adding some 4,000 new jobs to this area of specialty. This job demand is due to the increased use of forensics in the prevention and solving crimes as well the matching rate of crime to population growth, resulting in an overall increase in criminal activity with little change in percentage. The average salary for a forensic science technician is approximately $56,750 per year.

Top 5 Best Paying Careers in Forensic Science

When thinking about a career in forensic science, it is important to understand your vocational options after graduation. Given the list of three dozen job paths above, it is easy to see the number of specialties that exist in forensic science. From a forensic lab tech working in a laboratory to a fire investigator working on-site, the work is varied from job to job. Below you will find a list of the top five paying careers in forensic science based on data gathered from Payscale, U.S. Department of Labor, and BLS.

  1. Forensic Engineer: Annual mean income for a forensic engineer is $82,868 with the top 25% making an average of $99,000 a year and the bottom ten percent take home sixty-seven thousand dollars annually. The job growth is forecast to vault 23% in the coming decade which is greater than three times the national average during this time. This increase in jobs will translate to as estimated 10,900 job openings during this reporting period.
  2. Forensic Medical Examiner: The median annual income for a forensic medical examiner is $80,000 with the top 10% averaging $193,990 and the bottom ten percent averaging just under thirty-thousand dollars a year. The large variation in pay is rooted in education, experience, and geographic location. Top paying professionals in the field hold a graduate degree, have over eleven years of experience, and live in California.
  3. Forensic Psychologist: Forensic psychologists make an average of $73,270 annually with an expected job growth of 14% in the coming ten-year reporting period. This job growth will translate to some 63,800 job openings in the field of psychology which can provide ample opportunity for graduates to enter the field and grow in this career over time.
  4. Forensic Computer Analyst: The mean annual income for a forensic computer analyst is $68,573 a year with the top ten percent making $114,594 a year and the bottom 10% taking home just over forty-two thousand dollars annually. On average, pay increases occur quite rapidly after investing five years in the field with an average of a 30% increase from entry-level positions.
  5. Forensic Accountant: The national median income for a forensic accountant is $63,027 a year with the top 10% making over $91,000 a year and the bottom ten percent averaging around forty-three thousand dollars a year in annual pay. Top paying jobs for a forensic accountant exist in California and New York for experienced professionals.

Top Forensic Science Careers

The variety of careers in the field of forensic science is vast.  In fact, there are new specializations and sub-disciplines being created with regularity as technology and market demand dictate solutions for forensic-based enigmas.

With the right training, a knowledgeable and eager graduate can find themselves working for a number of organizations from government agencies to private consulting firms around the country.  As you consider a career in forensic science, think about a few of the specialties below that peak your interest.  The top careers in forensic science include the following vocational paths:

Forensic Medical Examiner Forensic Biologist
Forensic Ballistic Expert Forensic Pathologist
Bloodstain Pattern Analyst Forensic Nurse
Forensics Documents Examiner Forensic Odontologist
Forensic Psychologist Forensic Examiner
Forensic Investigator Forensic Artist
Crime Scene Photographer Coroner
Crime Lab Technician Computer Investigations
Forensic Toxicologist Cybercrime Analyst
Polygraph Examiner Latent Print Examiner
Forensics Accountant Forensic Technician
Criminal Investigations Forensic Serologist
Forensic DNA Analyst Forensic Hypnotist
Crime Scene Technician Fingerprint Analyst
Forensic Computer Analyst Criminology
Forensic Anthropologist Arson & Fire Investigator
Digital Forensics

 

Largest Employers of Forensic Scientists

  1. Local Government
  2. State Government
  3. Medical & Diagnostic Laboratories
  4. Engineering and Architectural Firms
  5. Research and Development Organizations

States with the Highest Employment of Forensic Scientists

  • California    2,040
  • Florida         1,480
  • Texas            1,030
  • Arizona          760
  • New York      720

Top Paying States of Forensic Scientists

  1. California                $80,150
  2. Nevada                    $74,480
  3. Connecticut            $74,470
  4. New Hampshire    $71,690
  5. Virginia                   $69,310
Forensic Science Resources

Individuals interested in forensic science may also be interested in criminologycriminal justice, forensic psychology or pathology.  For additional information, read our Complete Guide to a Career in Forensic Science on our blog here.   The AAFS and the NAFS provide specialists in the field member benefits and career opportunities not found elsewhere.

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