Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. William Clark
Advance your career with a Master’s in Forensic Science Online. Gain expertise in crime scene investigation, evidence analysis, and forensic technology. Flexible, comprehensive, and designed for professional growth.
The master’s in forensic science online is designed for professionals seeking to enter or advance their careers in the field. It provides essential skills in forensic science and related disciplines such as botany, entomology, toxicology, forensic DNA analysis, and more. This program emphasizes the development of ethical standards in forensic science and enhances leadership capabilities. Graduates of this online master’s program can pursue careers in law enforcement, medicine, legal professions, forensic science, and other related fields, thereby advancing their careers in research and management. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals in this field earn an average annual salary of $64,940 [1].
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Masters in Forensics Science Programs
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
National University
PROGRAM: Online Masters in Forensic Sciences (MS)
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Master’s in Forensic Science Online Programs
When searching for online master’s in forensic psychology programs, it’s crucial to consider accreditation, program quality, and specific offerings. Factors like tuition, graduation rates, and online flexibility also play key roles. We’ve researched extensively to compile a list of the top programs, evaluating criteria such as faculty-student ratio and industry reputation. This ensures students find the best fit for their career aspirations in forensic science. The teams at FBD have evaluated several associate programs using a proprietary methodology and prepared a list of schools offering the best online master’s in forensic science:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Florida | 341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St, Gainesville, Florida 32611 | NA | 78% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Master’s in Forensic Science Online Degree Program
An online forensic science master’s helps students build a robust foundation of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the field. The program typically requires 30 credit hours and can be completed in two years. Institutions offer online, offline, and hybrid learning formats and thesis and non-thesis options tailored to career goals. The curriculum includes practical experience with in-home equipment and laboratory activities, preparing graduates to analyze various forensic and biological evidence forms. This graduate program facilitates career advancement in forensic science sectors such as law enforcement, crime scene investigation, and criminal and medicolegal professions.
Curriculum and Coursework
A master’s program in forensic science offers a dynamic research and learning environment tailored to students’ study of forensic science. The curriculum varies by specialization track, such as arson investigation, firearm analysis, explosives examination, tool mark analysis, and more. While specific courses vary, common subjects in an online master’s degree in forensic science include advanced research methods, psychology, and statistics. Prospective students are typically required to meet basic English, mathematics, and sciences prerequisites before advancing to higher-level coursework.
The curriculum also emphasizes theoretical research and practical experience, catering to those aspiring to pursue doctoral studies. Several core courses found in forensic science graduate programs include:
Bodily Fluid and DNA Analysis
This course covers serological testing of serum, saliva, and blood. Students delve into both confirmatory and presumptive chemical tests. They learn to perform DNA profiling across various sample types, emphasizing processes such as quantification, amplification, electrophoresis, extraction, etc.
Ethical Principles in Forensic Science
This course explores the code of ethics outlined by major forensic science organizations. Students gain an understanding of quality assurance and control principles crucial for upholding ethical standards in the field. It emphasizes the significance of maintaining high-quality standards in laboratory settings, which is integral to an effective forensic science practice.
General Principles of Forensic Toxicology and Drug Chemistry
This course delves into various laboratory procedures and methods for detecting controlled or drug substances from bodily fluids and physical specimens. Participants gain insight into chemical and instrumental techniques for detecting, quantifying, and analyzing substances. The course also covers the detection and synthesis of designer drugs.
Medicolegal Death Investigation and Crime Scene Processing
This course guides students through various methods to collect, package, preserve, and document evidence discovered at crime scenes. It emphasizes maintaining the chain of custody, report writing skills and ethical considerations. Students also learn about medicolegal death investigations, including guidelines for examining death scenes and conducting thorough investigations.
Applied Statistics for Forensic Science
The course introduces the application of statistics across various forensic domains. It covers basic statistical analyses, uncertainty measurement, and analytical sampling techniques. Students gain an understanding of DNA evidence analysis, including concepts like likelihood ratio, probability of inclusion, and random match probability. The course also explores how statistics influence the assessment and interpretation of forensic evidence.
Some other common standard courses across forensic science programs include:
- Microscopy and Instrumental Analysis Methods in Forensic Science
- Forensic Science and Governance
- Laboratory Leadership, Policy, and Practice
- Comparative Methods in Forensic Science
- Advanced Topics in Human Forensic DNA
- Applied Biostatistics in Medicine and Informatics
- Biostatistics and Data Management
- Courtroom Presentation of Scientific Evidence
- Crime Procedure Investigations for Social and Forensic Scientists
- Forensic Toxicology
- Forensic Botany
- Principles of Pharmacology
- Quantitative Methods in Forensic Science Research
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The online master’s degree in forensic science provides a comprehensive foundation in forensic science and specialized areas such as criminalistics, forensic leadership, ethics, expert witness testimony, organizational psychology, and forensic analysis methods. Graduates gain proficiency in analytical protocols and forensic techniques. Apart from mastering forensic science concepts, students with a master’s degree in forensic science online will also develop and enhance the following skills:
- Demonstrate ethical awareness in forensic science, uphold ethics, and resolve ethical dilemmas;
- Apply methods such as serological testing of serum, saliva, and blood;
- Understand and apply chemical tests for DNA profiling, including quantification, amplification, electrophoresis, and extraction;
- Understand and implement quality assurance and control principles in maintaining ethical standards;
- Use laboratory procedures to detect controlled substances in bodily fluids and physical specimens;
- Utilize techniques for medicolegal death investigations, including evidence collection, preservation, packaging, and documentation;
- Analyze DNA evidence, including random match probability, likelihood ratio, and probability of inclusion;
- Implement quality assurance practices for forensic scientists;
- Serve as technically proficient and scientifically trained expert witnesses in criminal trials.
Types of Master’s Degrees Forensic Science Students Can Obtain
The master’s forensic science online program caters to professionals seeking career advancement in various forensic science fields, such as crime scene processing, law enforcement, and medicolegal investigations. Participants acquire both practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for these roles. In the United States, the Master of Science (MS) in Forensic Science is the predominant degree sought after for this specialization.
Master of Science or MS in Forensic Science
The Master of Science (MS) in Forensic Science program covers coursework such as microscopic analysis of hairs, cells, and fibers, effective courtroom testimony, forensic toxicology chain of custody, and impression evidence comparison. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers as forensic science technicians and related fields.
Areas of Specialization for Forensic Science Students
Specializations in a Master’s in Forensic Science program enable students to concentrate on specific interests within the field, enhancing expertise in areas like forensic psychology, DNA analysis, and crime scene investigation. These focused studies prepare graduates for specialized roles, offering tailored skills and knowledge essential for advancing careers in forensic science. Some specializations that master’s degree in forensic science online students can pursue are:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Criminalistics | This specialization focuses on advanced techniques in crime scene investigation, evidence analysis, and forensic chemistry. Students gain practical skills in DNA profiling, ballistics, and trace evidence examination, preparing them for careers in forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies. | Blood-Spatter Analyst Ballistics Expert Fingerprint Technician Crime Scene Technician |
| Criminal Investigation | This specialization explores advanced methodologies for solving crimes. Students learn profiling, interrogation strategies, and crime scene reconstruction techniques. This specialization equips graduates with essential skills for law enforcement, detective work, and forensic analysis careers. | Intelligence Analyst Investigative Reporter Law Enforcement Officer Private Investigator |
| Medicolegal Death Investigation | This specialization focuses on the forensic examination of deaths. Students learn autopsy procedures, forensic pathology, and the legal aspects of death investigation. This specialization prepares graduates for roles in medical examiner offices, forensic pathology departments, and investigative agencies dealing with medicolegal cases. | Medicolegal Death Investigator Coroner’s Investigator Forensic Investigator Death Scene Investigator |
| Forensic Biology | This specialization emphasizes the study of biological evidence in criminal investigations. Students learn DNA analysis techniques, forensic genetics, and biological sample processing. This specialization equips graduates with expertise in identifying and analyzing biological evidence crucial for solving crimes and supporting legal proceedings. | Forensic Scientist Research Analyst Actuarial Science Consultant DNA Analyst |
| Toxicology | This specialization focuses on studying poisons and their effects on biological systems. Students learn analytical methods for detecting toxins, pharmacology, and the interpretation of toxicological findings in forensic investigations. This specialization prepares graduates for roles in forensic laboratories, medical examiner offices, and regulatory agencies that assess chemical exposures and their implications in legal contexts. | Toxicologist in Eco-toxicology Clinical Toxicologist Forensic Toxicologist Environmental Toxicologist |
Full-Time and Part-Time Forensic Science Master’s Programs
In a master’s in forensic science, full-time programs typically span two years, offering in-depth coursework and research. Part-time options extend beyond two years, ideal for students balancing work or other obligations. Accelerated programs condense the curriculum to less than two years, appealing to those seeking a faster degree completion while maintaining academic rigor in forensic science studies. Here is a quick summary of the timeline to complete the online master’s forensic science:
- Full-time program: two years to complete the program
- Part-time program: more than two years to complete the program
- Accelerated program: less than two years to complete the program
Accelerated Forensic Science Master’s Programs
An accelerated master’s degree in forensic science allows students to complete their studies in less time than a regular program. The application process for accelerated graduate programs follows the same procedures as traditional master’s degrees. Students often choose accelerated programs due to work commitments and cost efficiency. They can expedite their studies by fast-tracking their coursework and transferring credits. Here are some colleges that offer accelerated master’s in forensic science online:
Requirements for Getting into a Master’s in Forensic Science Online Program
The requirements for a master’s in forensic science program are similar to those of other master’s programs. Prospective students must familiarize themselves with all prerequisites to determine their eligibility for application. Some of the common online master’s in forensic science admission requirements are:
- Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science or related fields is typically expected
- Pre-requisite coursework like English, Math, or other courses
- Minimum Grade Point Average or GPA of 2.5 or more is generally required (some programs have a lesser GPA requirement)
- Scores of standardized tests like Graduate Record Examinations or GRE scores are typically required
- 2 or 3 letters of recommendation, preferably from professors and supervisors familiar with academic work ethics and skills
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- Essay for entrance to the program (may not be required by some programs)
- English Language Proficiency for admission
No GRE Master’s in Forensic Science Online Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test used by many graduate schools in the United States, Canada, and other countries as an admission requirement [4]. Most colleges mandate GRE scores for master’s program enrollment. However, some U.S. institutions have made GRE scores optional or removed the requirement, broadening access to forensic science programs for a larger pool of applicants. Here are a few colleges that offer a master’s in forensic science online no GRE :
How to Ensure a Master’s in Forensic Science Online Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures program quality and credibility, which is crucial for students seeking educational excellence. Non-accredited programs may lack standards and recognition. Checking a university’s accreditation is vital for those pursuing an online master’s in forensic science to ensure they receive a reputable and valuable education. The American Academy of Forensic Sciences[6] oversees the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC)[7], accrediting various forensic science degrees. This accreditation enhances the quality of online forensic science master’s degrees across the United States.
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Forensic Science Master’s Students
Free online forensic science courses provide valuable learning opportunities for students interested in the field. While accredited free master’s programs in forensic science are rare, reputable institutions offer these courses derived from previous years’ programs. They enable students to gain foundational knowledge and skills, enhancing their understanding without financial burden.
Here are a few free forensic science courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Forensic Science[8] | This free course helps students learn about the origins of forensics and its role in criminal and non-criminal contexts. They explore DNA chemistry and the use of blood traces as evidence. Participants acquire specific scientific techniques and principles in the field of forensics. | Coursera |
| Forensic Facial Reconstruction: Finding Mr. X[9] | This free course explores facial reconstruction, forensic anatomy, and their roles in assisting police investigations. It requires no prerequisites and offers valuable insights into applying anatomical expertise in forensic contexts. | Class Central |
| Digital Forensics Examiner [10] | The free course helps students grasp various protocols for conducting digital forensic examinations and the steps in incident handling. Participants also gain knowledge of digital acquisition procedures and explore a range of analysis tools used in the field. | Alison |
Ways to Pay for a Master’s in Forensic Science Online Degree
Students find it difficult to enroll as the tuition fares increase yearly. To manage costs, some work part-time while studying, while others take out personal loans or utilize employer reimbursement programs. Seeking lower-cost institutions or opting for accelerated programs can also alleviate financial strain. Budgeting wisely is crucial for financial stability during studies. Here are a few ways students can fund their program:
Scholarships provide crucial financial support for students, easing the burden of tuition fees and living expenses. They reward academic excellence, leadership, and diverse talents, fostering educational opportunities and career success. They catalyze personal growth and societal advancement, making education accessible and inclusive.
Grants offer financial assistance without the need for repayment. They support various needs like tuition, books, and living expenses. Available from governments, institutions, and private organizations, grants promote access to education and alleviate financial barriers, ensuring equitable opportunities for all students.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships provide valuable opportunities for graduate students to gain hands-on experience in teaching, research, or administrative roles within their academic department. These positions often include tuition waivers and stipends, helping to offset educational costs while enhancing professional development and academic achievement.
FAFSA
FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a crucial form for students seeking financial assistance for higher education. It determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs based on financial need, ensuring affordable education opportunities for millions of students each year.
Scholarships for Master’s in Forensic Science Online Degree Students
The online master’s in forensic science scholarships support academic excellence and professional development. These scholarships may cover tuition costs, provide financial assistance, and recognize outstanding achievements in forensic science studies. They encourage students to pursue advanced education and contribute to forensic science practice and research advancements. Here is an example of a scholarship available to students pursuing an online master’s in forensic science:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| The American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors Scholarship Program [11] | The American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors offers an annual scholarship to graduate and undergraduate students in forensic science. Applicants are selected based on personal statements, recommendations, academic records, and other criteria. | $1,000 | February annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With a Master’s in Forensic Science Online Degree
Graduating with a master’s in forensic science opens up diverse career opportunities in various sectors, including law enforcement, government agencies, and private firms. Salaries vary widely based on experience, location, and specialization, often offering competitive compensation. Advanced education enhances earning potential and positions graduates for leadership roles in forensic science. Here are some career titles that students pursuing an online master’s degree in forensic science can expect to pursue after graduation:
- Legal Nurse Consultant
- Forensic Toxicologist
- Forensic Technician
- Forensic Sketch Artist
- Forensic Scientist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Forensic Pathologist
- Forensic Nurse Examiner
- Forensic Nurse
- Forensic Medical Examiner
- Forensic Investigator
Here are a few more occupations explored further below:
| Occupation | Job Description | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Skills Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forensic Science Technicians[1] | Forensic science technicians work at crime scenes to determine which evidence to collect, and take photographs of the crime scene and evidence. They sketch the crime scene, catalog and preserve evidence for transfer to the crime lab, and assist in reconstructing the crime scene. | $64,940 | 13% (much faster than average) | Communication, critical thinking, detail-oriented, math and science, and problem-solving skills. |
| Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians[12] | Clinical laboratory technicians and technologists use automated equipment to analyze multiple samples simultaneously. They record data from medical tests and enter the results into patients’ medical records. These professionals also perform complex tests and laboratory procedures, ensuring accurate diagnostic information for medical treatment and research. | $60,780 | 5% (faster than average) | Analytical, detail-oriented, mastery, interpersonal, and physical stamina skills. |
| Biological Technicians[13] | Biological technicians document their work, including observations, results, and procedures. They analyze experimental data, interpret results, and write reports summarizing their findings. They conduct biological experiments and tests, contributing to scientific research and advancements in various fields of biology. | $48,140 | 5% (faster than average) | Analytical, critical thinking, observation, technical, and communication skills. |
| Criminologists or Sociologists[14] | Criminologists gather data through observations, interviews, surveys, and other sources. They analyze data to conclude, prepare articles and reports detailing their findings, and collaborate with social scientists, policymakers, and other groups on sociological research and crime prevention issues. | $101,770 | 5% (faster than average) | Analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills. |
| Private Detectives and Investigators[15] | Private detectives and investigators offer various services, such as verifying people’s statements and backgrounds, finding missing persons, and investigating computer-related crimes. They also interview individuals to gather information and search online, court, and public records to uncover clues. | $49,540 | 6% (faster than average) | Communication, decision-making, curiosity, patience, and resourcefulness skills. |
Certifications and Licensing for Master’s in Forensic Science Online Graduates
Certifications in forensic science validate students’ expertise and proficiency, enhancing credibility and career prospects. They demonstrate mastery of specialized skills and knowledge, ensuring competence in DNA analysis or crime scene investigation. Certifications also signal a commitment to professional development, offering recognition and opportunities for advancement in competitive job markets. Here are a few professional certifications that master’s in forensic science online students can explore:
American Board of Criminalistics Certification [16]
The American Board of Criminalistics offers many certifications, including Fire Debris Analysis, General Knowledge Examination, Hair and Fiber, Paint and Polymer, Molecular Biology, Technical Specialist, etc. Individuals can obtain certification in these various areas and retain their certification by following the guidelines stipulated by the institute.
International Association for Identification Certification[17]
The International Association for Identification offers certifications in Forensic Photography, Latent Print, Forensic Video, Tenprint Fingerprint, Crime Scene, and Forensic Art. These certifications qualify individuals for roles such as Senior Crime Scene Analyst and Crime Scene Investigator, enhancing career opportunities and professional credibility in forensic science.
American Board of Forensic Toxicology Certification [18]
The American Board of Forensic Toxicology offers a certification valid for up to five years. Candidates must submit a properly completed application form, amongst other documents, and pass a proctored examination, which an examination committee rigorously evaluates. This certification ensures high standards and enhances professional credibility in forensic toxicology.
The regulating bodies of the state specify various licensure requirements. For many roles, forensic science licensing is not required. However, individuals practicing in high-level or managerial roles may need a valid license.
Additional Resources for Master’s in Forensic Science Online Graduates
Earning a master’s in forensic science supports career aspirations. Students must also engage with associations, agencies, and professional bodies to stay connected with the forensic science community. These groups facilitate networking, career advancement, updates on licensing requirements, and access to valuable knowledge and resources, enhancing professional growth. Here are a few organizations that students of a master’s degree in forensic science online should associate with:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Board of Criminalistics | The American Board of Criminalistics administers certification programs for forensic science professionals, ensuring competency in various disciplines such as DNA analysis and drug analysis. It establishes rigorous standards through certification examinations and supports ongoing professional development, maintaining high ethical and scientific standards in forensic science. |
| International Association for Identification | The International Association for Identification is the world’s largest organization dedicated to forensic identification. It brings together professionals from diverse forensic disciplines to share knowledge, enhance skills, and promote ethical practices. The association offers training, certification, and networking opportunities, advancing forensic science and its applications in law enforcement and justice systems globally. |
| American Board of Forensic Toxicology | The American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT) is a leading body certifying forensic toxicology professionals. It establishes rigorous standards for competency through certification examinations. ABFT promotes excellence in toxicological analysis, ensuring accuracy and reliability in forensic investigations. Certification from ABFT enhances professional credibility and supports forensic science and medicine careers. |
| Board of Forensic Document Examiners | The Board of Forensic Document Examiners (BFDE) certifies professionals in the field of forensic document examination. It sets standards for competency through rigorous certification processes, including written and practical examinations. BFDE ensures accuracy and reliability in verifying document authenticity and handwriting analysis, which is crucial in legal and investigative contexts. Certification from BFDE enhances credibility and supports careers in forensic document examination. |
| The American Board of Forensic Odontology | The American Board of Forensic Odontology (ABFO) is the governing body that establishes standards and certifies professionals in forensic odontology. It ensures competency through rigorous examination processes and promotes the application of dental expertise in legal investigations, disaster victim identification, and human identification cases. ABFO certification enhances credibility and supports careers in forensic dentistry. |
FAQs About Master’s in Forensic Science Online Degree Programs
Why should you do a master’s in forensic science degree online?
An online master’s in forensic science degree allows students to select from a wide range of schools and programs that may not be accessible locally. This format provides flexibility in scheduling and accommodating personal and professional commitments. Additionally, students can network with peers and educators globally, enriching their learning experience.
What can you do with a master’s in forensic science?
What education does one need to be a forensic scientist?
What roles can one get after a forensic science master?
Is forensic science a lucrative field?
Is an online master’s in forensic science worth it?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Forensic Science Technicians
Virginia Commonwealth University
Illinois Institute of Technology
American Academy of Forensic Sciences
Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission
Introduction to Forensic Science-Coursera
Forensic Facial Reconstruction: Finding Mr. X-Classcentral
Alison- Digital Forensics Examiner
The American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors Scholarship Program
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Biological Technicians
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Criminologists or Sociologists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Private Detectives and Investigators
American Board of Criminalistics Certification