While TV shows have heightened the popularity of forensic science in recent years, a bachelor’s degree in forensic science and crime scene investigation involves more than matching fingerprints, examining bullet casings, or performing autopsies. This degree helps prepare students to work as forensic analysts or crime scene technicians. It’s also the foundation for working as a forensic pathologist.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a faster-than-average job growth rate of 13% for forensic science technicians from 2022 to 2032, with a median annual salary of about $65,000. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or crime scene investigation takes about four to five years. While costs vary depending on the school and program, the average annual tuition for an undergraduate degree is about $15,000.
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation Degree Program
Choose your area of study
This degree is typically offered as a Bachelor of Science. Many online forensic science and crime scene investigation programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as ballistics or blood splatter. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these career goals.
Research schools and programs
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Ideally, your online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission. This programmatic accrediting organization has particularly high standards for forensic science education.
As you look at the coursework, pay attention to whether a school requires a capstone experience or in-person lab work. This might be challenging if you’re employed or have other responsibilities. Some schools offer virtual crime scenes and virtual labs, which might be helpful if you’re balancing school with other commitments.
In addition, see what support services the school offers for online students, such as career counseling, library services, and mentorship programs. Are there any networking opportunities available, such as through an alumni association? To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Each program varies in its application requirements and process. However, most bachelor’s degree programs in forensic science and crime scene investigation require:
- High school transcripts
- Scores from a standardized test such as the ACT or SAT
- A personal statement or letter of intent outlining your goals
- Letter(s) of recommendation from former teachers or employers
Depending on the focus of the program you’re applying to, there might be other prerequisites, such as a minimum GPA or certain math or science classes. Always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding program requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Some students target a single program that suits their needs and goals, while others apply to multiple schools to increase their chances of acceptance. Whatever strategy you choose, there are often application fees, which can add up if you are submitting multiple applications. If you need financial assistance, contact the school to ask about a fee waiver.
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Every school with an online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation program specifies the financial support students can receive, including work-study, fellowships, scholarships, grants, and assistantships. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal student loans and need-based institutional aid.
If you’re already working, your employer may cover some costs through employer tuition assistance benefits, especially if your degree relates to your current job. Talk with your school’s financial aid office for more detailed information about how to pay for your degree.
The Top 10 Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Arizona State University
Intelligent Score: 99.87In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $28,800
In-state: $11,720
Out-of-state: $11,720
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 21-28
$574
Online
Higher Learning Commission
120
Columbia College
Intelligent Score: 98.44In-state: $17,791
Out-of-state: $17,791
In-state: $10,671
Out-of-state: $10,671
SAT: 820-1050
ACT: 17-20
$407
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
Florida International University
Intelligent Score: 97.41In-state: $4,721
Out-of-state: $16,529
In-state: $8,912
Out-of-state: $8,912
SAT: 1110-1260
ACT: 23-29
In-State: $235
Out-of-State: $649
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
Florida State University
Intelligent Score: 96.40In-state: $4,640
Out-of-state: $19,084
In-state: $9,684
Out-of-state: $9,684
SAT: 1220-1350
ACT: 27-31
Resident: $180
Non-Resident: $686
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 95.76In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$390
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Intelligent Score: 94.86In-state: $29,670
Out-of-state: $40,090
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: NA
ACT: NA
Resident: $295
Non-Resident: $353
Online, On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
123
West Virginia State University
Intelligent Score: 94.43In-state: $7,912
Out-of-state: $13,600
In-state: $8,224
Out-of-state: $8,224
SAT: 870-1090
ACT: 17-22
$344
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
120-121
Columbia College
Intelligent Score: 93.99In-state: $17,791
Out-of-state: $17,791
In-state: $10,671
Out-of-state: $10,671
SAT: 820-1050
ACT: 17-20
$375
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
120
Maryville University
Intelligent Score: 93.62In-state: $24,766
Out-of-state: $24,766
In-state: $14,346
Out-of-state: $14,346
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$540
Online
Higher Learning Commission
128
Keiser University
Intelligent Score: 91.00In-state: $19,808
Out-of-state: $19,808
In-state: $27,162
Out-of-state: $27,162
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$980 - $1,469
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
126
How We Rank Schools
This list features the best online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education. The programs on our list are accredited by reputable organizations, such as the Higher Learning Commission and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, that assess the objectives, quality, and overall effectiveness of colleges and universities.
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect from an Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation Degree Program?
Online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation programs vary based on the school, but you can expect a core curriculum focusing on how to examine and interpret evidence and solve crimes. A degree like this prepares students to work at crime scenes and at crime labs using science and technology at the local, state, and federal levels.
You’ll likely start with various science courses, including biochemistry and organic chemistry, as well as building a strong foundation in math and communication. A forensic science program also covers the evidence that civil and criminal cases can use. The more advanced courses students take later in this type of program include toxicology, molecular genetics, forensic botany, and forensic anthropology. In addition, some schools require in-person lab work.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation degree program
- Principles of Forensic Science: Here, students learn about the ways to apply science within the legal system, discussing disciplines and techniques that the American Academy of Forensic Sciences recognizes. These include anthropology, digital and multimedia sciences, jurisprudence, psychiatry, criminalistics, engineering and applied sciences, toxicology, behavioral science, biology and pathology, and odontology.
- Criminal Investigation: This course familiarizes students with the constitutional requirements for investigations and crime scene analysis techniques. These include interviews, subpoenas, and the proper steps to document and preserve evidence.
- Fingerprint Analysis: Here, students learn about latent fingerprints, how to lift them effectively, and how to prepare them for forensic analysis. A course like this also covers the factors that can affect fingerprint analysis.
- Forensic Biology: This course instructs students on the proper procedures for analyzing biological evidence in a lab or at a crime scene. The material might cover DNA and bone analysis, toxicology, working with blood splatters, ethics, and how to testify as an expert witness.
- Crime Scene Photography: A course like this explores how to apply the principles of photography to forensic science. Students learn the use and function of digital cameras and macro, aerial, and underwater photography.
What Can I Do With an Online Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation Degree?
Career outlook
The skills and knowledge gained from a forensic science and crime scene investigation degree opens the door for various career paths. Graduates are often hired in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, medical examiner offices, and private firms.
With a thorough understanding of specialized sciences, evidence analysis, and crime scene investigation, graduates are qualified for a diverse range of positions, including forensic science technician, law enforcement officer, forensic analyst, and more.
A bachelor’s degree in forensic science and crime scene investigation prepares graduates for entry- and mid-level positions. Advanced roles often require additional education, certification, or experience in the field.
Some of the most common occupations for workers with this degree include:
- Forensic science technician — Collect and analyze evidence from a crime scene, perform chemical, biological, and microscopic analyses, and prepare reports to assist in criminal investigations.
- Median annual salary: $64,940
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 13%
- New jobs projected: 2,600 per year
- Biological technician — Assist biologists in performing scientific tests, experiments, and analyses. Gather and prepare samples, document work, analyze data, and write reports.
- Median annual salary: $51,430
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 10,600 per year
- Chemists and materials scientists — Perform research projects on the chemical properties of substances, analyze findings, write reports, and share findings with the appropriate parties.
- Median annual salary: $87,180
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6%
- New jobs projected: 7,200 per year
Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation degree program?
This depends on the school, so it’s best to check the school’s application webpage. Some schools still use traditional mail, while others streamline the process through an online portal that accepts applications through their website. There’s also the Common Application, or Common App, that enables students to apply to multiple schools at the same time. If you’re using this app or an online portal, you’ll need electronic versions (including PDFs or images) of all the required information, such as test scores, college transcripts, work experience, and letters of recommendation. Before starting your application, talk with a school admissions counselor to verify you have everything the school needs and check that you have the correct submission deadlines.
How much does an online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation degree cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition for an undergraduate degree program is $14,688. All school costs vary depending on the charge per credit, the number of credits required, fees, and other expenses such as books or course-related software. In addition, some forensic science and crime scene investigation degree programs require in-person lab work, which could take time away from a regular work schedule.
How long does it take to earn an online bachelor’s in forensic science and crime scene investigation degree?
While this depends on the school and the curriculum, most schools say their online bachelor’s degree programs in forensic science and crime scene investigation take about four to five years to complete. The total number of credits required impacts the program’s length, as does attending part-time instead of full-time. However, online programs can offer more flexibility for students than in-person programs. If you want to complete your degree sooner, look for a school with accelerated learning options.
Is an online forensic science and crime scene investigation degree worth it?
Students with bachelor’s degrees are more likely to obtain higher-earning positions than those without. Workers with a bachelor’s degree earn a median weekly salary of $1,493, while those with only a high school diploma have a median weekly wage of $899.
Most forensic science and crime scene investigation jobs require a bachelor’s degree. However, you may be eligible for some entry-level positions after completing an associate degree, which requires two years of full-time study and can be more cost-effective than a bachelor’s degree.
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