Best Forensic Science Schools

Does a career in forensics fascinate you? If you want to enter the field of forensics, you’ll need an education. For the most part, the high school graduate knows little about studying crime details, and you may not realize how many fields are contained within forensic sciences. Each field demands a slightly different degree and education level, so some research about your education now can save headaches later.

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics information on forensics [PDF], the word “forensic” means “pertaining to the law.” Forensic science resolves legal issues by applying scientific principles to that law through comprehensive chemical and physical analyses on evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies. While some forensic scientists focus on criminal cases (criminologists), others work in the civil justice system, in the field, or in the lab in various positions.

In all cases, the forensic scientist should enjoy science and mathematics, be able to work independently and have good oral and written communication skills. Lab experience is helpful, no matter whether you achieve that goal in an academic lab or through an internship or co-op program. But, most students do not need to specialize during an undergraduate program, and this flexibility can help you achieve a job more readily upon graduation.

Most forensic science positions demand at least a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, physics or physical anthropology. Approximately thirty-one colleges and universities offer a bachelor’s degree in forensic science and most also offer advanced degrees in an area of specialization. If you now attend a college that does not offer forensic sciences, you can plan a forensic science career through careful selection of college courses.

Required college courses usually include sciences such as biology, physics, chemistry, and pharmacology; also frequently required is a course in quantitative analysis and statistics. Laboratory experience involving analytical instruments or blood sample analysis is helpful. Computer courses are also recommended, as employers prefer job applicants with computer skills for modeling and simulation tasks and to operate computerized laboratory equipment.

Additionally, many employers provide additional training for new employees with bachelor’s degrees. Postgraduate studies might include biochemistry, population genetics, and molecular biology. In addition, you may attend conferences or workshops on topics such as specific analytical techniques, exhibit handling, and court testimony. Forensic scientists often receive training prior to a required appearance as an expert witness.

Certification in various specializations after you achieve your bachelor’s degree also may help your career. Certifying organizations include the American Board of Criminalists, the American College of Forensic Examiners, and the International Association for Identification. Also, the The American Academy of Forensic Sciences, which is a multi-disciplinary professional organization that provides leadership to advance science and its application to the legal system, provides information on job qualifications, training, and career opportunities for crime lab professionals.

Careers for those who wish to enter the field of forensics is thriving. The best college for forensic sciences would be the one that contains all the classes you need to enter the career, with options to specialize as you advance in your education. A lifelong commitment to this career carries opportunities to learn constantly, a choice that can help you become the best in your chosen occupation.

Top Online Forensic Tech Degree Programs

Forensic science, or forensics, is a rapidly growing field of criminal investigation whereby forensic technicians employ their technical skills in the field. To become a forensic scientist, students must obtain at least an associate's degree in fields such as criminal investigation, forensic psychology, criminal justice, and more.

BS in Forensic Psychology BS in Crime Scene Investigation Crime Scene Tech Certificate	Kaplan University — At Kaplan University, students can get a forensic science degree in three different concentrations: forensic psychology, crime scene investigation, and crime scene tech. No matter which program you choose, Kaplan will quickly prepare you for a career in forensic science.
BS in Justice & Forensic Science	American InterContinental University — AICU's justice and forensic science program is designed to be a fast-track course that will help anyone segue into a job as a crime scene forensic science analyst after only one year of schooling.
BS in Crime Scene Investigation	South University — South University offers a bachelor's degree in crime scene investigation that allows students to study at their own pace as they work their way toward becoming a criminologist or forensic scientist.
AS in Crime Scene Evidence	Rasmussen College — Rasmussen offers an associate's degree in crime scene evidence that will teach its students investigative skills such as fingerprint analysis, technology used at crime scenes to solve crimes, and more.
MS in Forensic Psychology	Walden University — Walden University offers their master's in forensic psychology degree program fully online. Students of this program will gain insights into how forensic psychologists work with the legal system on reducing criminal behavior within a community. A graduate of this program is well-equipped to become a psychologist in a correctional institution, mental health center, psychiatric facility, child welfare agency, and more.
MA in Forensic Psychology	Argosy University — For those looking for a quick and affordable way to further a career in forensics, the master's degree in forensic psychology offered by Argosy University is worth looking into. With flexible class hours over an online platform, Argosy is suited for ambitious professionals.
AS in Criminal Investigations	Everest University Online — The criminal investigations degree from Everest University is offered online for busy adults who may already have other commitments that keep them out of class during normal hours. The flexible program will give students the skills they need to begin a criminal investigative career after graduation.
AA in Criminal Justice	University of Phoenix — The nation's top online university now offers an associate's degree in criminal justice, providing an affordable option to students seeking quality education in the field of forensic science.
BS in Forensic Investigation	Ellis University Online — The bachelor's degree in forensic investigation from Ellis University will empower students with the skills they need to be able to reconstruct crime scenes using special investigating technology and techniques.
BA in Social Science/Criminal Justice	Ashford University — The social and criminal justice bachelor's degree program at Ashford University is designed to enhance a student's understanding of the criminal justice system and is worth looking into for anyone interested in advancing a career in law enforcement, criminal justice, or forensics.
BSPS in Forensic Science	Duquesne University — Duquesne's forensic science degree program is entirely online, allowing flexibility for students who may not be available for class during normal hours. Despite being wholly online, graduates of this program will still be just as prepared for a career in criminology or forensic science.
See more forensic science degrees...