Online Forensic Science Degree Guide

Forensic science is vital in investigating crimes across the U.S., particularly violent crimes.

According to the Pew Research Center, FBI data shows that the violent crime rate fell by 49% between 1993 and 2022. However, while violent crime may be substantially lower now than in the 1990s, there were still about 381 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2022.

Forensic scientists can help solve cases by collecting and analyzing DNA, fingerprints, ballistics, and other crime scene evidence, aiding investigators in finding suspects.

If you’re interested in joining this career field, read on for information on how to get a forensic science degree, how much this degree costs, what jobs you can pursue after graduation, and more.

A forensic science degree program can equip you with the skills necessary to gather and analyze crime scene data to aid investigations. Courses for this degree are typically science-focused and centered on understanding the tools and technologies forensic scientists use to draw accurate conclusions.

While completing this degree, students gain a solid grasp of key disciplines, such as biology, chemistry, physics, DNA analysis, crime scene reconstruction, and more.

Forensic science graduates tend to work for government and law enforcement agencies. They may specialize in areas such as crime scene analysis, laboratory testing, or digital forensics.

Forensic science courses tend to focus on disciplines like biology and chemistry. These degree programs also typically include classes centered on criminology. Some of the core courses you’ll likely take include:

You’ll also likely have the chance to explore specializations within forensic science through degree concentrations, allowing you to dial in on niche parts of the field.

Popular concentrations within forensic science include forensic biology, forensic chemistry, and criminal justice.

Bachelor’s programs in forensic science generally differ in their coursework and focus areas. However, most programs at different colleges are often similar in terms of length and admission requirements.

Like most bachelor’s programs, earning a bachelor’s degree in forensic science takes approximately four years — if you’re a full-time student. If you’re a part-time student, your program could take longer to complete depending on how many credits you take each semester.

Unfortunately, no accelerated degree options exist for those interested in a bachelor’s in forensic science. However, if you are interested in earning a master’s degree eventually, there are accelerated forensic science degree programs that let you earn a BS and MS in forensic science at the same time.

Common application requirements for a bachelor’s in forensic science include:

Some institutions may also require letters of recommendation or a cover letter. However, those are typically only requirements if you’re applying to highly selective schools, such as Ivy League universities.

According to the National Center of Education Statistics (NCES), students pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in law and legal studies (including forensic studies) paid around $10,000 annually. However, financial aid can lower the cost to just under $5,000 per year.

Tuition may vary depending on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student, but some online programs charge the same price no matter where you live.

Once you enroll in a forensic science degree program, file for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, more commonly known as the FAFSA.

Just under 29% of undergraduate students received federal student loans in 2022-2023, per NCES. With this in mind, don’t forget to explore scholarship opportunities, grants, or Work-Study programs to help offset the cost of tuition.

Earning a bachelor’s in forensic science can lead to many career opportunities—several of which are expected to be in high demand over the next decade.

According to the BLS, forensic science technicians typically earn the highest salaries when they work for local and state governments.

On the other hand, salaries are substantially lower for those working in medical and diagnostic laboratories.

Many forensic scientists don’t stop at a bachelor’s degree, as a master’s in forensic science could lead to additional career opportunities and a higher salary.

Some specializations, such as forensic psychology, require applicants to have a master’s degree and can pay over $90,000 per year.

Additionally, there are professions that require a doctoral degree to practice, such as medical examiner.

Obtaining professional certifications is another way to continue bolstering your education and advancing your career. Organizations including the American Board of Criminalistics, the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators, and the International Association for Identification offer certification programs for forensic scientists.