2025 Best Forensic Science Master's Programs Online
Forensic science master's programs online provide flexible, advanced training in forensic analysis, crime scene investigation, and related fields. These programs allow students to study at their own pace while working in entry-level roles, with coursework covering forensic DNA analysis, toxicology, and criminalistics. Graduates often pursue careers as forensic scientists, crime lab directors, or legal consultants.
Key Takeaways:
- Forensic science master's programs with the best Salary Scores all have median earnings above $69,000, making them top contenders for return on investment.
- All of our most affordable master's in forensic science programs have tuition costs below $13,000 per year.
- All of our student-rated schools boast recommendation rates above 90%.
Our unique methodology focuses on providing you with essential information about your degree options, such as affordability, earnings potential, and student satisfaction. By using four distinct categories without assigning specific ranks, we offer a comprehensive view of the best accredited institutions hosting forensic science master's degrees.
At a Glance:
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Southern New Hampshire University Online
- Online Enrollment: 23,595
Offered online by Southern New Hampshire University, the MS in Psychology with a focus on Forensic Psychology prepares you to enter various sectors within the criminal justice system. The program costs $637 per credit, totaling 12 courses, each spanning 10 weeks. Core coursework includes topics like forensic assessment, cognitive processes, and legal psychology, equipping you with skills to apply psychological principles within legal settings. Students benefit from a comprehensive online experience, with 93.2% of participants recommending SNHU. This program, while non-licensing, paves the way for further doctoral studies or specialized careers in forensics.
Purdue Global
- Online Enrollment: 12,630
Purdue Global's online Master of Science in Psychology with a specialization in Forensic Psychology prepares you to apply psychological theories within legal settings. The program requires 60-75 quarter credits, offering flexibility with thesis or capstone tracks. With a curriculum focusing on practical application, you engage with experienced faculty and gain hands-on experience. The tuition is $420 per credit, with various ways to save on costs. Graduates can expect diverse career opportunities, as 94% of them are employed or continue education within 18 months. Purdue Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring quality education standards.
Liberty University
- Online Enrollment: 48,101
Liberty University's MS in Criminal Justice: Forensic Psychology is a 36-credit hour program offered online, with 8-week courses that are designed to enhance your understanding of the human psyche within the criminal justice context. The program allows you to transfer up to 50% of the degree total. Tuition is $565 per credit for full-time students and $615 for part-time, with a reduced rate of $275 for military personnel. It prepares you for various roles, including intelligence analyst, forensic science technician, and victim advocate, without requiring standardized testing for admission.
Best by Salary Score
We evaluate three online master鈥檚 in forensic science programs based on alumni salaries to determine the best long-term financial investment. Each school is assigned a Salary Score, represented as a letter grade, with an A+ indicating higher early-career earnings four years post-graduation. Schools with the best Salary Scores all report median earnings above $69,815. While this score focuses on early salaries, it provides a solid benchmark for potential financial outcomes.
University of Maryland Global Campus
Why We Like Them:
What distinguishes UMGC is its high median earnings for graduates of its online , reporting $99,498. This A+ Salary Score is among the top 3% of institutions nationally. Not only does this highlight the program's return on investment, but when corroborated with the school's significant online enrollment of 50,144 students, it underscores a thriving digital learning environment. The master's program, structured into 30 credits, uses the Multi-Dimensional Applied Relevant System (MARS), an AI-driven virtual platform, making sure you gain hands-on, practical skills essential for digital forensics.
What Students Say:
"If it weren't for UMGC and the amazing staff and teachers, I would have never finished college. I love this school so much that I plan to go back for my masters. It was a great experience with professors who are more than willing to help and respond quickly."
Whitney Wilson, Graduated 2022
Utica University
Why We Like Them:
Utica graduates of the online enjoy a notable median earning of $97,629. This places it in the top 3% nationally for earning potential among peer institutions with similar programs. The curriculum is designed to make an immediate impact in your career with hands-on experience and in-demand certifications such as the GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner. Spanning 30 credits over two years, the program provides in-depth courses like Computer Forensics and Investigation Methods, and Intrusion Forensics and Network Analysis, equipping you with the latest tools in cyber forensics.
What Students Say:
"I enjoyed attending Utica College. The hands-on labs are excellent! Capstone project was challenging. If you are looking for a challenge, Utica College will bring out the best in you. Instructors are super helpful as well..."
Anonymous, Graduated 2016
National University
Why We Like Them:
NU's online is distinguished by its strong earning potential for graduates. With a median salary of $69,815, the school places you in the top 55% of forensic science professionals in the market, making it a wise investment for your career. We also appreciate that the program offers unique specializations in Criminalistics and Investigation, allowing you to tailor your education to your career goals. Each track provides extensive coursework, from forensic anthropology and advanced forensic DNA analysis to digital evidence investigation and forensic psychology.
What Students Say:
"My experience at National University (formerly Northcentral) has been very positive... I鈥檝e never had any difficulty with the financial aid or student advisors; everyone replies within a few days via email. The coursework is rigorous (multiple chapter readings and an assignment each week), but if you are self-motivated and decent at time management, it's manageable."
Anonymous, Graduated 2024
Best by Affordability
Our list of six online master鈥檚 in forensic science programs features schools with affordable tuition rates. OnlineU staff manually verifies tuition from official school websites, with out-of-state tuition used unless in-state rates apply to all online students. Each school on this list has an annual tuition below $23,400, excluding additional fees. Be sure to check each college鈥檚 website for complete cost details, as mandatory fees may apply.
University of the Southwest
Why We Like Them:
Southwest hosts an online with a tuition cost of $9,735, placing it in the top 8% for cost-effectiveness among its peers. Plus, 100% of students receive financial aid. Courses include Technical Communications in Forensic Science, Ethics and Professional Issues in Forensic Science, and Advanced Criminal Investigations. Moreover, you have the opportunity to earn a graduate certificate while pursuing your degree, preparing you for roles such as forensic analyst, scientist, or lab technician. Additionally, this program meets the educational requirements required by the FBI and the State of New Mexico.
What Students Say:
"Excellent school the professor and staff is very helpful. The classes are very challenging but well worth it. I graduated with two graduates degrees one in law enforcement and corrections and the other one in finance... I highly recommend usw. I am a mustang for life."
Adam Smith, Graduated 2017
University of the Cumberlands
Why We Like Them:
Cumberlands' online has a tuition of $11,346, which is complemented by 99% of students receiving aid. This graduate program requires 31 credits and integrates both IT and criminal justice expertise to address cybercrimes. Notably, this curriculum is delivered in a hybrid format and includes intensive weekend residencies, ensuring that students gain practical, real-world experience. Specializations in Cybersecurity and Criminal Justice offer focused paths, and the program emphasizes hands-on skills in investigating data loss and cyber forensics.
What Students Say:
"The University of the Cumberlands is an amazing small school where you can really get connected with your professors. While the actual city of Williamsburg is small and in the middle of nowhere, it forces you to focus mainly on your education. I recommend Cumberlands 10/10."
Anonymous, Graduated 2017
Champlain College
Why We Like Them:
Champlain features an online with a tuition of $11,900. Coupled with this competitive tuition, the college stands out for its average financial aid package of $26,498. We also like that the program can be completed in as little as six terms, requiring between 30 to 36 credits. Importantly, it is designed by industry experts and the school itself is nationally recognized as a leader in digital forensics, designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the U.S. National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
What Students Say:
"Champlain College is an amazing environment for learning. The professors are challenging and make you think outside the box. While I attended multiple colleges, Champlain was by far the hardest and best college experience I had."
Anonymous, Graduated 2013
Stevenson University
Why We Like Them:
Stevenson stands out with a tuition of $12,690, making it a highly affordable choice for pursuing an online . Plus, with an average package of $28,258, Stevenson is in the top 9% of institutions with the highest financial aid offerings. The forensic science master's program requires 36 credits, which you can achieve entirely online, and includes two specialized tracks 鈥� Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry. Each track is taught by experienced faculty and emphasizes practical skills such as quality control, evidence analysis, and courtroom reporting.
What Students Say:
"Stevenson University is family oriented. The faculty/staff are very helpful and give personal attention to each student. Classes are small and everyone knows each other. Fun activities and amazing environment."
Anonymous, Graduated 2015
DeSales University
Why We Like Them:
DeSales's has a tuition of only $12,750. The average financial aid package is notably generous at $27,824, situating DeSales University in the top 9% among its peers for financial support. The program requires 10 courses comprising 30 credit hours, focusing on subjects like digital investigation, network forensics, and the latest encryption techniques. This curriculum is designed to ensure you gain hands-on experience and practical skills directly applicable to real-world criminal cases. Additionally, the faculty includes nationally-recognized professionals, providing industry-relevant education.
What Students Say:
"...professors are great and really care about the students. I enjoyed my classes and interacting with other students very much. It was a pleasant environment."
Rebecca, Graduated 2022
Salem University
Why We Like Them:
Salem鈥檚 online costs an annual tuition of $23,400 places it among the most cost-effective options in its field, making it a prudent choice if you are cost-conscious. Adding to its appeal, Salem ensures financial accessibility, with 100% of students receiving financial aid and an average financial aid package of $7,955. The curriculum is designed for working professionals, offering a one-course-a-month schedule. You will delve into advanced forensic sciences such as biology, toxicology, and criminal profiling, gaining skills for careers like senior forensic analyst and crime scene consultant.
Highest Rated by Students
For our top two highest rated online master鈥檚 in forensic science programs, we鈥檝e selected schools with strong alumni satisfaction based on reviews. Each school has at least 20 student reviews on OnlineU or GradReports with a minimum rating of 3.5 out of 5. All programs boast a recommendation rate of 90% or higher, reflecting high levels of student approval.
University of Central Florida
Why We Like Them:
With its student review rating of 3.98 out of 5, UCF demonstrates a high level of student satisfaction. It also stands out for its retention rate of 93%, placing UCF among the top 5% nationwide. UCF's has the National Center for Forensic Science's stamp of approval, integrating inputs from the Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Forensic Science of Chemistry, Criminal Justice and Legal Studies departments. Addressing essential areas like wireless security, operating system forensics, and forensic tools development, it prepares you for roles, such as digital forensics examiner or information security analyst.
What Students Say:
"The amount of diversity this school has is amazing. Every day I met someone new. Even just watching others from afar gave me a truly different insight on life... The professors at UCF are who I have to thank."
Julie Miller, Graduated 2017
Arizona State University, Online
Key Metrics:
- Overall Rating: 4.07/5
- Number of Reviews: 1524
- Recommend Rate: 93%
Why We Like Them:
ASU's students give it a review rating of 3.89 out of 5 and a recommendation rate of 90%, showing endorsement from current students and alumni. ASU's online requires 30 credit hours and consists of nine classes, each lasting 7.5 weeks. It explores forensic science, ethics, forensic DNA, biostatistics, and criminal procedure, ensuring you are well-prepared to advance in forensic science, law enforcement, or medical and legal fields. We like that an applied project at the program鈥檚 culmination allows you to integrate your skills in a practical setting.
What Students Say:
"The Dean is very driven towards improvement and academic integrity and the professors are very personal, very available, and very interested in individualized student success. The classes sizes are relatively small, especially in the upper levels, and the curricula has been challenging, interesting, and relevant."
Rebecca Townsley, Graduated 2019
Honorable Mention
Our Honorable Mention section highlights three standout online master鈥檚 in forensic science programs that deserve your attention. These programs offer unique features, including strong military student enrollments ranging from 932 to over 24,000. We鈥檝e carefully selected them for their distinct offerings to provide a well-rounded view during your college search.
Capella University
Why We Like Them:
Capella has outstanding online enrollment, with 26,447 students studying remotely at the graduate level. This ranks Capella in the top 1% of online schools for its popularity. Capella's online is designed to provide a thorough grounding in both theory and practice. The program includes five core courses and six specialized courses, covering areas like forensic assessment, legal institutions, and the application of psychological research to forensic settings.
What Students Say:
"I chose Capella after a friend's referral, and I couldn't be happier. The FlexPath program was perfect for my job, allowing me to learn at my own pace. The curriculum was relevant and immediately applicable to my work. The support system, including the financial aid office, was friendly and efficient. This experience far exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend Capella to any working professional."
Debby, Graduated 2023
Saint Leo University Online
Why We Like Them:
Saint Leo has remarkable online enrollment, with 4,500 graduate students choosing to study remotely. If you were to compare Saint Leo University's online enrollment with other universities, it stands firmly in the top 4% nationwide, demonstrating a robust virtual campus experience. Saint Leo's online requires 36 credit hours and typically takes two years to complete. This program emphasizes hands-on instruction and modern forensic techniques, preparing you to effectively assist in forensic operations during critical incidents.
What Students Say:
"Saint Leo is a great school if you are wanting to do your degree program online. My registration was fast and easy and I was able to get started very quickly. Online isn鈥檛 for everyone, but if you work full-time or maybe you are a stay-at-home parent, this would work for you. I was attending part-time due to having a full-time job, but I was able to leave my job to attend full time. I prefer the online way so I can work at my own pace. So far I have had a great experience!"
Christina Rochd, Graduated 2017
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Southern New Hampshire University Online
- Online Enrollment: 23,595
Offered online by Southern New Hampshire University, the MS in Psychology with a focus on Forensic Psychology prepares you to enter various sectors within the criminal justice system. The program costs $637 per credit, totaling 12 courses, each spanning 10 weeks. Core coursework includes topics like forensic assessment, cognitive processes, and legal psychology, equipping you with skills to apply psychological principles within legal settings. Students benefit from a comprehensive online experience, with 93.2% of participants recommending SNHU. This program, while non-licensing, paves the way for further doctoral studies or specialized careers in forensics.
Purdue Global
- Online Enrollment: 12,630
Purdue Global's online Master of Science in Psychology with a specialization in Forensic Psychology prepares you to apply psychological theories within legal settings. The program requires 60-75 quarter credits, offering flexibility with thesis or capstone tracks. With a curriculum focusing on practical application, you engage with experienced faculty and gain hands-on experience. The tuition is $420 per credit, with various ways to save on costs. Graduates can expect diverse career opportunities, as 94% of them are employed or continue education within 18 months. Purdue Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring quality education standards.
Liberty University
- Online Enrollment: 48,101
Liberty University's MS in Criminal Justice: Forensic Psychology is a 36-credit hour program offered online, with 8-week courses that are designed to enhance your understanding of the human psyche within the criminal justice context. The program allows you to transfer up to 50% of the degree total. Tuition is $565 per credit for full-time students and $615 for part-time, with a reduced rate of $275 for military personnel. It prepares you for various roles, including intelligence analyst, forensic science technician, and victim advocate, without requiring standardized testing for admission.
Student Reviews of Online Forensic Science Programs
My vision is to graduate the University of Central Florida as an exceptional student, exemplary of its dignified name while within my first term in the army. Obtaining my Masters in Digital Forensics from the University of Central Florida is a crucial aspect to helping me reach all of my long-term career goals. The Digital Forensics Program offered at UCF will allow me to become a greater asset to the US Army and ultimately allow me to better defend our Nations cyber space infrastructure. The importance... Read More
Review Date: 3/14/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is a great program for working people. I completed it online but had access to the school library and other resources. The classes are short (most 4 weeks, the last few were 8 weeks), which I liked but could be hard to get everything done. I really like that hey have live lectures so you can talk to your instructor and ask questions in real time.
Review Date: 6/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I was pleased with the content of my forensic psychology program, and with the professors. However, do not attend Walden University. I agree with with other reviews, they are out for just money, nothing else. The programs do not prepare you for license exams for psychology and counseling; the professors take weeks to grade assignments, provide feedback, and the professors are not friendly when it comes to family deaths, emergencies, being in the hospital, etc. The university itself is not accepting... Read More
Review Date: 8/8/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The online forensic science masters program is awesome, although pricey (almost $600 per credit hour). Great for working adults such as myself. The professors are great and very approachable and the classes are so fun.
Review Date: 7/12/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I love my Forensic Toxicology M.A. program because I can do the program online. I work two jobs and have two children still at home. I can be with my family and still have time for me. Time for myself includes my education. I love to go to school and learn more in my field to make me a well rounded career candidate for future dreams. The program is affordable and will not eat up all your loan monies. There is supportive staff both on campus and off campus (in the internet world). You even have the... Read More
Review Date: 4/23/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Stevenson University is a small institution that allows you to interact with your professors on a one-on-one basis. My professors were all knowledgeable in their field. Each one was either a retired police officer, federal agent, and/or lawyer. The classes were rigorous and required a lot of my time. But, I enjoyed my classes and learned so much in very little time.
Review Date: 8/15/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The pros would be that it is a useful and informative program. It prepares us for the real world. However, it is not very organized. Some of the courses on the website that are "required" for the course no longer exist, which caused a bit of stress when registration time came around.
Review Date: 3/9/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am pursuing an M.S. Biomedical Forensics at Syracuse University, and needless to say this is one of the top programs for this field in the nation. SU is a private university and the tuition is on the higher end by many standards. The forensics graduate department itself (the Forensic National Security and Science Institute, or FNSSI at Syracuse University) has an extremely high rate of employment upon graduation, very valuable internship experience, and a multitude of connections in the professional... Read More
Review Date: 9/5/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Eastern Kentucky University is a great school and the science program is highly ranked in the nation. The campus of EKU is very diverse and it's a beautiful campus that is growing to accommodate all students. I highly recommend EKU, not ony for science, but the other great educational programs, such as Social Work; Criminal Justice, Nursing, etc.
Review Date: 7/10/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I feel my program is wonderful, but striving to become even better
Review Date: 12/17/2014
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This program has been generally convenient for me as a working adult. The instructors are very excited about their work and that makes the learning all the more interesting. The only con is that I haven't gotten a lot of career advisement but the program does send out emails with opportunities for internships and jobs and that is helpful.
Review Date: 7/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Joining the Boston University Forensic graduate program has been a rewarding experience, and I believe that I absolutely made the right choice. While the program is challenging, I have learned so much in my first year. The professors are very knowledgeable and push all of their students to learn, be creative, and to network. I think the main drawback to the program, like with many masters programs, is the cost. The tuition for the program is over $40,000 a year and because it is a graduate masters... Read More
Review Date: 2/11/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This program is renown and held in high esteem by many law enforcement agencies. The work is familiar but far too similar to the undergraduate curriculum. However, there are plenty of research opportunities for students to take advantage of, which allow for valuable laboratory experience. Unfortunately, graduate students do not get enough grants and have to rely on loans to pay academic expenses. Other than that, the program is fine.
Review Date: 7/11/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The forensic linguistics master's degree at Hofstra University is the only one of it's kind in the United States which makes it extraordinarily unique and highly specialized. The professors who run the program and teach many courses are some of the most highly trained and most educated instructors I have ever had. Because of their outside work, they have access to real data that creates a more hands on and interactive classroom for the students. Even the students in the program are all extremely... Read More
Review Date: 10/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The pros of Arcadia's graduate program are too overwhelming to list, so I will just articulate a couple. My favorite aspect of Arcadia's graduate program is the availability of hands on experience in the forensic science field. Another pro is the friendliness of my fellow students and professors. The con of Arcadia's graduate program is that it is expensive.
Review Date: 9/13/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I dislike how many of the required classes are open for anyone to take (as an elective). This makes it hard for me as a Forensic Science major to really pull as much knowledge as I can from my teachers. The people who take the classes as an elective almost never have any background in the topic, so they are always asking "common sense" questions. Thos of us who are majoring in Forensic Science have a well rounded background in the various topics and are trying to learn the more detailed and technical... Read More
Review Date: 1/15/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: My professors are reasonable, practical people. Of course, some professors are more stellar than others, but they ALL know what they are lecturing on, and hold highly respectable positions in their other professions. They don't give busy work,because they realize that would hurt them just as much as the students. A few of the students in the program are humble people, if you need help and they know how to help, they will. They know that no man is an island unto himself, and that we are in this... Read More
Review Date: 9/5/2013
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I think that my graduate program is among one of the best programs in the country. Since I started classes in Fall 2012 I have been on a never ending educational journey. I have learnt techniques on how to process crime scenes. In addition to learning techniques and instruments how to process biological evidence, chemical evidence and other types of evidence. I have been on tours of forensic laboratories, attended forensic conferences, met well respected individuals in the science and given a chance... Read More
Review Date: 12/19/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pace overall is an okay school and it is evident that many of the undergraduate students do not feel the need to really strive for high grades. However, the graduate program I am a part of is incredible. I enjoy the classes and the professors. I also find the students just the right amount of competitive. They are all striving for high marks, but are willing to help each other out. I would recommend the forensic science program to anyone interested.
Review Date: 1/16/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The school is located in Manhattan, meaning that there are tons of opportunities at arm's reach. The professors all work in the field, some at the NYPD, so they have real life experience. The downside is that the school is expensive. Also, housing is very expensive as it is New York.
Review Date: 1/29/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Online Master's Degrees in Forensic Science
According to the , forensic science is "the application of sciences such as physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and engineering to matters of law." Collecting and analyzing evidence through these methods may help prove a person's guilt or innocence when it comes to a specific crime, which is why it is a critical element of the criminal justice system.
Forensic science may be the right career path for you if you're interested in law enforcement but prefer to work behind the scenes. If you've already earned a bachelor's in forensic science, a master's degree in forensic science may lead to more advanced, higher-paying positions. If your bachelor's degree is in some other subject, earning a forensic science master's degree may expand your knowledge and skill set while preparing you for science-based careers in criminal justice.
For more information on the best online master's programs in a similar field, view our lists of graduate programs in criminal justice and legal studies.
Forensic Science Program Requirements
Students interested in enrolling in a master鈥檚 in forensic science program must first complete a bachelor鈥檚 degree at an accredited college or university. The bachelor's degree does not necessarily have to be in forensic science or a related field, such as criminal justice. However, newly accepted master's students who have not studied forensic science may need to complete several prerequisite courses in natural sciences and criminology before starting on their graduate courses.
As for other admissions requirements, you may need to have maintained a minimum 2.5 to 3.0 grade point average (GPA) in your bachelor's program to be accepted. You may also need passing test scores from graduate admissions tests, such as the Graduate Records Examinations (GRE) or Praxis test. You will probably also be required to submit several letters of recommendation and a personal statement explaining why you want to pursue this degree.
Most forensic science master's programs require 30-36 credit hours. Full-time students may be able to complete their degree in two years, but part-time students may need three or more years. Graduation requirements may include a written thesis or final capstone project. Some forensic science online programs require students to gain hands-on experience by fulfilling a certain number of practicum hours.
Common Forensic Science Courses
Students who pursue graduate-level forensic science education will study more advanced subjects within this field. If you're considering this degree, you can expect to take some of the following forensic science courses:
Advanced Crime Scene Investigation
This course builds on the crime scene investigation techniques students learned during their bachelor's degree program. Topics include recording of physical evidence at the crime scene, fingerprints and DNA evidence, and specialized scene examinations, to name a few. Coursework also teaches students about the importance of using professional practices at the crime scene and how documentation of data is crucial for the purpose of criminal justice.
Blood Distribution and Spatter
This course helps students learn how blood distribution and spatter are used as evidence at a crime scene. The direction and makeup of blood evidence can tell the story of how a crime was committed and possibly who perpetrated the crime and when. Students will learn blood distribution and spatter theory, as well as how to document and collect this important evidence at the scene.
Ethics in Forensic Science
This course introduces students to the codes of ethics practiced within the field of forensic science and, more importantly, why they matter. Students will learn about various ethical dilemmas they may face in their careers, as well as how to handle them.
Forensic Genetics
Experts in forensic science must also understand basic genetic principles and how they apply to the field of forensic science. Students will learn about DNA profiling, as well as interpretations and applications of forensic DNA analysis. The basic principles of inheritance are also outlined in this course, along with genome mapping and the role of genetics in disease.
Forensic DNA Analysis
This course introduces students to advanced techniques in DNA analysis. Topics covered can include DNA isolation, amplification, separation, and more. Students will also learn to read the data they receive from various DNA analyzation tools and how to accurately interpret and report their findings.
Forensic Science Specializations
While you're earning your forensic science online master's, you may want to specialize in a particular aspect of forensic science. Some programs are dedicated to certain specializations while others give you the option of pursuing a concentration through your choice of electives.
The following are some of the forensic science specializations available to you:
Digital Forensics and Cybercrime
Some forensic scientists specialize in using computer technology to solve crimes. Students in this concentration learn to examine, analyze, and document digital evidence, such as mobile phone data and records, computer files, and video surveillance footage.
Forensic Legal Studies
In the process of performing their work, forensic scientists must take care to follow the laws regarding the collection and preservation of evidence as well as the legal limits of what can be investigated. A legal studies concentration gives students a thorough understanding of constitutional law and legal proceedings.
Physical Sciences
Biology and chemistry are two of the most important sciences in forensic science. Graduate students specializing in either one will learn to use industry standard lab equipment to analyze evidence taken from a crime scene 鈥� which may include blood, hair, soil, insects, paint, and drugs 鈥� and determine what these materials may reveal about the crime.
What Can You Do With a Forensic Science Master's Degree?
While you typically only need a bachelor's degree and on-the-job training to work as a forensic science technician, you can also choose to pursue a forensic science master's program online or in-person. Doing so can open the door to a broader range of career options within the field of criminal justice, some of which come with higher pay and more job opportunities.
Most individuals who enter this field pursue a career as a forensic scientist or forensic science technician. Experts in this field are masters when it comes to the careful collection of evidence, and they typically spend part of their working hours at crime scenes and the rest in laboratories, offices, or both.
While you typically do not need an online master's in forensic science to become a forensic science technician, earning a graduate degree in this field can help you develop a specialization, stay competitive in the workforce, and climb the career ladder to a management position.
As of May 2021, earned a median annual wage of $61,930 nationally, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, government figures show that the top 10% of earners in this career brought in a median annual wage of $103,430. Meanwhile, jobs in this field are expected to increase by 11% through 2031, which is much higher than the 5% in expected job growth for all occupations combined.
Other careers for those who pursue a master's degree in forensic science are outlined below:
Forensic Chemist
While many only need a bachelor's degree to get started in their chosen profession, research jobs often require a master's degree. With that in mind, a traditional or online master's in forensic science can help you get started as a forensic chemist. These professionals use their knowledge of chemistry in order to solve crimes. For example, they use chemistry techniques to test evidence, including DNA, so they can report their findings. Forensic chemists spend most of their work time in a laboratory environment, but they are also frequently called upon to testify in court.
Forensic Computer Systems Analyst
While typically only need a bachelor's degree, a master's degree in forensic science can help these professionals learn new skills that translate to the field of criminal justice. For example, forensic computer systems analysts use technology and their vast knowledge to track the digital footprints of criminals in order to solve crimes. In addition to earning a master's in forensic science and taking computer science courses, earning a through the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) can help you get started in this career.
Material Scientist
Chemists and use their knowledge and expertise in order to plan and carry out various research projects in a number of fields. They often prepare solutions and compounds for use in laboratory settings, and they may conduct tests on materials and other substances. Like other scientists, material scientists learn how to write technical reports that accurately document their findings. Material scientists who specialize in forensics also learn how to testify in court.
Detective or Criminal Investigator
Educational requirements for vary, although these roles often require a four-year degree in criminal justice or a related field. Detectives must also complete the training academy requirements for their state or municipality, and they must undergo on-the-job training as well. That said, earning a master's in forensic science online can help criminal investigators and detectives enhance their skills for the purpose of data analysis and evidence collection.
How To Choose an Online Master's Program in Forensic Science
Deciding if you should go back to school to earn a forensic science master's degree and which program to enroll in are vitally important decisions. You'll want to gather as much information as you can before making a decision about online programs.
One thing to research is the accreditation status of each school you're considering attending. All of the schools on our list of the best online master's degrees in forensic science are institutionally accredited. This means that each school has been assessed by an authorized agency, which has determined that it meets national standards for educational excellence. Not only is institutional accreditation an assurance of a quality education, enrollment in an accredited school can also allow you to qualify for financial aid or transfer credits to another school.
In addition to institutional-level accreditation, a school's forensic science program can earn programmatic accreditation. The (FEPAC) is the accrediting agency for forensic science master's degree programs. For a program to be accredited by FEPAC, it must be designed to train future forensic scientists to practice industry standards.
If you're thinking about earning your master鈥檚 in forensic science online, you may want to explore several aspects of each program's format before enrolling:
- Can you devote yourself to your studies full time, or do you need to maintain a full-time or part-time job? If needed, make sure the program can be completed on a part-time basis so that you can balance work and school.
- Are courses offered synchronously or asynchronously? Synchronous classes usually require you to log in at specific times to view lectures and participate in live class discussions. Asynchronous classes may give you greater flexibility in your schedule.
- Are you self-motivated and good at time management? Do you connect well with others through the written word? Some students prefer the structure of on-campus programs as well as the in-person networking opportunities.
What Else Should You Consider?
Aside from your program's accreditation status and distance education format, there are several other considerations to explore before choosing a master's in forensic science program. For example, you may want to establish a cost estimate for earning the graduate degree and your budget in advance.
Your financial situation may influence your decision to earn a forensic science degree online. Some schools charge lower tuition fees for distance education students, which may reduce your overall costs. Also keep in mind that as an online student, you won't need to pay for college room and board or transportation. If you want to save money on your master's degree, be sure to fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form. Financial aid is available to both on-campus and online graduate students.
The application deadline of the schools you'd like to apply to may influence your decision as well. Graduate programs generally start accepting applications about seven to nine months prior to the fall semester when classes begin. Some forensic science online programs, however, review applications year-round and allow students to begin as soon as they're ready.
If you're looking for ways to save money on your online graduate degree, be sure to check out our lists of the most affordable online criminal justice master's degrees and most affordable forensic psychology master's degrees.
FAQs About Forensic Science Degrees
Is Forensic Science a Good Career?
Only you can decide if forensic science is a good career choice. However, there are plenty of reasons to believe this career path is rewarding. For example, shows that forensic science technicians experience a high level of job satisfaction.
Is a Forensic Science Master's Degree Worth It?
The long-term value of a forensic science master's degree is an important consideration when you're deciding whether to enroll. Earning this degree is a significant investment of money and time, especially since the curriculum includes several challenging courses like advanced biology, calculus, and toxicology. However, a master's degree may qualify you for rewarding, higher paying roles in the criminal justice field.
Can You Get a Forensic Science Master's Degree Online?
Yes, you can get a forensic science master's degree online at several different respected colleges. You will complete the same curriculum and graduation requirements as those students who attend courses in-person. Students who opt to pursue a master's of forensic science online will use message boards, online webinars and lectures, virtual testing, and other digital tools and resources to successfully complete their online degree.
What Degree Do You Need for Forensic Science?
According to the BLS, you need at least a bachelor's degree to become a forensic scientist. There are many variations of a bachelor's degree that will work, including a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biochemistry with a concentration in Forensic Science, a BS in Genetic Engineering with a concentration in Forensic Science, a BS in Forensic Chemistry, or a BS in Forensic Biology. To advance your career, you may want to earn one of the many graduate-level degree options within this field, such as a Master of Science in Forensic Science or a Master of Science in Forensic Biology.