Our list of popular forensic science master鈥檚 programs online features only accredited schools, ranked by the number of students graduating with this degree.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, the University of Maryland Global Campus offers the MS in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation with 101 graduates. It also has the best median earnings for this program on our list at $111,361.
- Capella University enrolls 27,738 online students at the undergraduate level, making it the most popular online school on our list.
Read our methodology for details on rankings, data sources, and inclusion criteria.
Most Popular Forensic Science Master's Programs Online
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 101 | $13,880 | $111,361 | 71% | |
| National University | 77 | $15,912 | $79,500 | N/A | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 68 | $9,075 | N/A | 93% | |
| Champlain College | 54 | $21,420 | N/A | 73% | |
| Florida International University | 23 | $18,566 | N/A | 93% | |
| University of New Haven | 13 | $34,080 | $65,802 | 93% | |
| Capella University | 11 | $13,117 | N/A | 76% | |
| Stevenson University | 8 | $12,690 | $75,432 | 90% | |
| Salem University | 3 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $9,750 | N/A | 100% | |
| University of Central Florida | 2 | $18,427 | N/A | 94% |
A Closer Look at The Most Popular Online Master鈥檚 in Forensic Science Programs
If you鈥檙e a forensic science major exploring graduate options, it鈥檚 worth looking closely at the data available before you apply. Popularity isn鈥檛 just about headcount. Forensic science programs that graduate more students often have stronger online infrastructure, broader course rotations, and larger alumni networks that can open doors in a competitive field.
Below, we share salary insights from these graduates as well as other popularity metrics, like online enrollment. We provide all of this data so that you can make an informed choice about whether you鈥檒l have access to active peer networks, employer-recognized credentials, and the kind of student experience that supports your ultimate success.
High Earners and Career ROI Among Forensic Science Graduates
Forensic science is already a strong-paying field, but the data shows how the right graduate program can push you further ahead.
According to the (BLS), the median salary for forensic science technicians was $67,440 in 2024, with the top 10% earning more than $110,710. That puts the profession above roles:
- Clinical lab technologists ($61,890)
- Environmental science technicians ($49,490)
- Private investigators ($52,370)
Only select specialties 鈥� like chemists ($86,620) or police detectives ($77,270) 鈥� regularly exceed it.
Against this national backdrop that provides some context, program-specific outcomes in our ranking stand out. Graduates of UMGC report a median salary of $111,361 for graduates of its online MS in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation. That's in the 98th percentile nationally for this field.
Digital forensics sits at the intersection of law enforcement and cybersecurity, two industries where demand and pay are higher than traditional lab-based forensic science roles. Employers in cyber investigation and incident response are competing with private-sector cybersecurity firms, which drives salaries up. For students, this means that while many forensic science master鈥檚 degrees prepare you for public-sector lab work, programs like UMGC鈥檚 that integrate digital forensics and cybercrime investigation align with a segment of the field where the return on investment is particularly strong.
Meanwhile, National University graduates of the online MS in Forensic Studies earn $79,500 and Stevenson University graduates of the online Master of Forensic Science average $75,432. Those salaries are still significantly above the national median salary for forensic science roles.
If salary is one of your highest priorities when choosing the best forensic science degree online, you should strategically position yourself for the kinds of high-level, well-compensated positions that shape the future of criminal justice and scientific investigation.
Why Popularity Should Influence Your Choice
At the top of our list, UMGC, NU, and ASU Online each graduate more than 60 forensic science master's students per year, placing them in the highest tier of popularity in this field at the graduate level. That鈥檚 how we order our list, but popularity also shows up in overall online enrollment.
UU直播 enrollment is a key signal of a school鈥檚 maturity and infrastructure in distance education, and for forensic science majors, it鈥檚 worth paying close attention because programs with thousands of online learners tend to offer strong learning management platforms that can enrich your graduate experience.
What Are Students Saying?
Our recommendation rates come directly from over 90,000 student surveys. They reflect lived experience, asking the question, "Would graduates suggest their program to others?"
At the high end, UCF (94%), FIU (93%), ASU Online (93%), and New Haven (93%) indicate strong satisfaction with faculty, coursework, and support. Even smaller programs like Salem University stand out because 100% of surveyed graduates said they would recommend the school to their peers.
On the other hand, lower rec rates at larger schools (for example, NU鈥檚 49%) show that scale can sometimes come with trade-offs in satisfaction. That鈥檚 why looking at both popularity and recommendation side by side gives prospective students a fuller picture of what to expect.
FAQs About Forensic Science Master's Programs Online
What Is an Online Master鈥檚 in Forensic Science?
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.
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 list of graduate programs in criminal justice.
What Are the Admission and Graduation Requirements for a Forensic Science Master鈥檚 Degree?
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.
What Courses Will You Take in a Forensic Science Master鈥檚 Program?
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.
What Specializations Are Available in a Forensic Science Master鈥檚 Program?
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 Do You Choose the Right Forensic Science Master鈥檚 Program?
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 Other Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Forensic Science Master鈥檚 Program?
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.
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, including those from the list above (all institutionally accredited schools). 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.
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