Arizona State University’s forensic science degree online teaches you how to interpret evidence and solve crimes using the latest science and technology. You’ll learn professional forensic science techniques and gain hands-on experience investigating crimes. The degree prepares you to work in crime labs at the local, state and federal levels.
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Quick facts
Next start date: 03/13/2023
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Forensic Science (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
What is a forensic science degree?
Forensic science degrees focus on applying scientific methods to matters of law. In a forensic science degree, you’ll explore the investigative and scientific principles behind interpreting crime scenes and examining different types of evidence. The degree will equip you with the intricate analytical skills required to pursue jobs related to forensic investigations.
What will I learn in an online forensic science degree?
In a forensic science degree, you’ll learn how to uncover and analyze evidence that can be used in court during criminal and civil cases. The beginning of the program focuses on building a strong foundation in biology, chemistry and math. You’ll take various lab science courses including two organic chemistry labs which must be completed in person. These labs are offered in an accelerated one-week format over the summer at ASU’s Tempe campus. You can also take these lab courses in person at a local college and transfer the credits.
Later in the program, you’ll take advanced forensic science courses covering the common techniques used in crime labs. You’ll have the opportunity to take courses focused on forensic botany, toxicology, forensic anthropology, molecular genetics and more. These courses will teach you how to conduct analysis of crime scenes, fingerprints, DNA, blood patterns and other types of evidence.
The online forensic science bachelor’s degree ends with an in-person culminating experience on ASU’s West campus. The two-week campus experience gives you the opportunity to learn lab skills from experts in the field and participate in simulated crime scenes to lab scenarios. During the experience, you’ll analyze DNA evidence and investigate mock crime scenes.
Online forensic science degree courses
This online forensic science degree takes a transdisciplinary approach to the field. You’ll study natural science, math and communication in addition to forensic science. This approach prepares you to not only uncover essential evidence, but also give expert testimony and clearly explain your findings. You’ll also have the opportunity later in the program to customize the degree to match your career goals with a wide range of forensic science electives.
HST 454: History of Genocide (G & H)
FOR 413: Sacred Crimes: Religion and Violence (G & H)
LSC 348: Fundamentals of Genetics Laboratory
LSC 347: Fundamentals of Genetics
BCH 371: Modern Concepts in Biochemistry
CHM 233: General Organic Chemistry I
CHM 234: General Organic Chemistry II
FOR 286: Principles of Forensic Science
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What can I do with a forensic science degree?
An online forensic science bachelor’s degree prepares you for a variety of jobs working in crime labs as a crime scene investigator, evidence technician and other similar roles. You can also consider pursuing a graduate degree in forensics, which can help you advance your career and move into a leadership position in the field. Graduates of the program are also qualified for other jobs and graduate programs related to biology, chemistry and criminal justice.
Biological Scientist (General)
Growth: 2.2 %
Salary: $85,290
Biological Technician
Growth: 4.9 %
Salary: $46,340
Chemical Technician
Growth: 2.8 %
Salary: $49,820
Chemist
Growth: 4.7 %
Salary: $79,300
Clinical Trial Manager
Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $137,940
Crime Scene Investigator
Growth: 14.1 %
Salary: $60,590
Health Sciences Manager
Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $137,940
Life Scientist
Growth: 4.6 %
Salary: $82,000
Medical Scientist
Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $91,510
Study with award winning faculty members
As an ASU Online student, you’ll get the New College experience from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus from anywhere in the world. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.
Study with award winning faculty members
As an ASU Online student, you’ll get the New College experience from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus from anywhere in the world. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.
Online forensic science degree admission requirements
I am a future
first-year student
You are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).
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Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Study at a top school for innovation
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
#1
in innovation for 8 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.
Top 10
best online bachelor’s programs.
Top 10%
best global universities.
80%
of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.
Tuition calculator
Our tuition calculator can help you estimate full-time tuition fees for this program without financial aid. Keep in mind: More than 80% of our students receive financial aid.
Financial aid can reduce out-of-pocket costs, resulting in less financial stress and increased academic confidence. Learn more.
Estimated tuition and fees
Tuition calculator
Our tuition calculator can help you estimate full-time tuition fees for this program without financial aid. Keep in mind: More than 80% of our students receive financial aid.
Financial aid can reduce out-of-pocket costs, resulting in less financial stress and increased academic confidence. Learn more.
Estimated tuition and fees
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FAQs
What degree is best for forensic science? ›
Students interested in forensic science careers can pursue degrees in forensic science, criminal justice, and legal studies. To find success, they must supplement their legal knowledge with an understanding of biology, chemistry, and computer programming.
Is forensic science a hard major? ›Students earning a degree in forensic science must be willing to devote time to studying subjects such as biology, chemistry, human anatomy, pathophysiology and toxicology. These subjects are often accompanied with detailed class lectures, labs and comprehensive exams. This field of study leaves no room for laziness.
Does Arizona State have a forensic science program? ›Arizona State University's forensic science degree online teaches you how to interpret evidence and solve crimes using the latest science and technology. You'll learn professional forensic science techniques and gain hands-on experience investigating crimes.
Is a forensic science degree worth it? ›Forensic science is a good career for individuals who would like to collect and analyze evidence using scientific methods in order to solve crimes. Forensic scientists earn 26% more per year than most other professionals. Within the next 10 years, job growth for forensic scientists is projected at 16%.
What branch of forensics makes the most money? ›- Forensic Medical Examiner. Perhaps the highest paying position in the field of forensic science is forensic medical examiner. ...
- Forensic Engineer. ...
- Forensic Accountant. ...
- Crime Scene Investigator. ...
- Crime Laboratory Analyst.
By illustration, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2022) shows that between 2021 and 2031, careers in forensic science tech are projected to grow 11 percent; private investigation and detective work, 6 percent; and information security, an astonishing 35 percent nationally.
Does forensics require a lot of math? ›Like many scientific tests and experiments, forensic investigation often requires mathematic calculations. Take a wide range of college-level math courses, including calculus, statistics, and laboratory measurements and techniques.
How many years does it take to become a forensic science? ›BSc Forensic Science is a 3-year graduate course that involves the application of scientific knowledge for crime investigation. BSc Forensic Science mainly focuses on crime-laboratory based professions.
How do I get into forensics without a degree? ›You can earn a certificate in Crime Scene Investigation by completing courses in the Crime Scene Investigation Certificate program through the University of California, Riverside. This certificate program can be taken by students with or without a college degree.
Is forensic science FBI? ›The FBI Laboratory offers assistance with forensics to law enforcement partners. The resources on this page are for law enforcement. For general information about the FBI Laboratory, visit the FBI's Science and Technology page.
How do I become a forensic scientist in Arizona? ›
...
Technical and forensic jobs both require:
- Valid Arizona driver's license.
- Background investigation.
- Polygraph and substance abuse tests.
While crime scene investigators work at crime scenes and collect evidence, forensic science technicians work in laboratories and examine the evidence that has been collected for possible clues about what happened and who might be responsible for the crime.
What are the cons of forensic science? ›Cons of being a forensic scientist
In the laboratory, scientists may spend long hours over microscopes or sorting samples, working to catalog evidence. The nature of the job can also be stressful, with pressure to produce results, connect clues or find every available piece of evidence.
The best Forensic Investigator jobs can pay up to $120,500 per year. A forensic investigator is a crime scene investigator (CSI) who collects and analyzes forensic evidence related to a criminal investigation.
Is criminal justice or forensic science better? ›It is readily apparent that a degree in criminal justice is more focused on the theory of crime, prevention, and its repercussions on society, while forensic science maintains an emphasis on the physical remnants of crime and their importance as evidence.
How do I start a career in forensics? ›Forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a field such as physical science, biology, or forensic science. Forensic science programs may specialize in a specific area of study, such as toxicology, pathology, or DNA.
What does a criminologist do? ›What Do Criminologists Do? Criminologists working with law enforcement take a hard look at offenders, identifying their situations and motives along with societal impacts, generational changes and other trends. They also tap into ethics, investigating why people commit crimes.
What does a forensic criminologist do? ›A forensic criminologist is a professional who combines forensic science and the social science of criminology to investigate and analyze crimes, crime scenes and motives for crimes. Forensic criminologists often have degrees in criminology, which is the study of criminal behavior.
Is it hard to find a job in forensics? ›The competition for forensic science jobs is predicted to be very high, so it is currently recommended that future applicants pursue a master's degree. Having a master's degree may not be technically necessary, but having one will knock out a lot of that competition.
Is forensic job stressful? ›Working as a forensic scientist can often be stressful. Often, the first 48 hours after a crime are critical, making for working conditions under tight deadlines. Additionally, you may be exposed to violent crime scenes or images.
What state has the most forensic scientists? ›
| Total Forensic Scientist Jobs: | 61 |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Salary: | $107,427 |
| Lowest 10 Percent Earn: | $75,000 |
| Highest 10 Percent Earn: | $153,000 |
| Location Quotient: | 1.42 You can read more about how BLS calculates location quotients here |
The Master of Professional Studies degree in Forensic Science is appropriate for students with a baccalaureate degree in the biological sciences, chemistry, or a related field of study. Applicants are required to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) in their undergraduate degree.
Can average student do forensic science? ›Yes, you can go ahead with the course. Forensic Science is upcoming these days as crime rate is increasing so more of forensic experts are required.
What course to take to become a forensic scientist? ›- Philippine Criminal Justice System.
- Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation.
- Criminal Law.
- Introduction to Forensic Science.
- Forensic Photography.
- Forensic Chemistry.
- Criminal Procedure.
- Dactyloscopy.
Yes career in forensic science is one of the best choice one can make. You can get jobs in various governments & private sectors . The study will improve your skills and knowledge. After completing your degree, you can open your own forensic practice & forensic service offices.
What jobs can you get at the FBI without a degree? ›FBI Education Requirements
One exception to this requirement is positions with the Criminal Justice Information Division. FBI entry-level jobs, such as Fingerprints and Identification Records Examiners, only require a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training.
To become a Criminologist requires a degree in any of the following: sociology, psychology, criminal justice or criminology. It's also highly beneficial to gain some work experience in the field. This can be volunteering with the Police, perhaps as a community support officer.
Do forensic scientists carry guns? ›You will rarely, if ever, see a forensic scientist drive up in a Hummer or carry a gun, much less do so wearing tight leather pants and high heels. Scientists do not interrogate suspects or “pound the pavement” investigating crimes.
What is an FBI detective called? ›A special agent or federal agent is an investigator or detective for a governmental or independent agency, who primarily serves in criminal investigatory positions.
What degree is the FBI looking for? ›All FBI agents must hold a bachelor's degree at minimum, and many possess a master's degree or higher. FBI agents often earn degrees in fields such as criminal justice or political science, though the Bureau does not maintain any specific academic major requirements for applicants.
How much does a crime scene investigator make in Arizona? ›
While ZipRecruiter is seeing salaries as high as $69,903 and as low as $21,845, the majority of Crime Scene Investigator salaries currently range between $39,806 (25th percentile) to $60,679 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $66,019 annually in Arizona.
Is it hard to become a crime scene investigator? ›The International Crime Scene Investigators Association (ICSIA) provides a CSI certification to professionals with at least two years of experience and 50 hours of crime scene processing coursework. Candidates must pass a 100-question exam and submit examples of crime scene photography as proof of experience.
Do all forensic scientists go to crime scenes? ›Unlike crime scene investigators, forensic scientists do not visit the crime scene. Instead, they work in a lab environment, examining and analyzing evidence provided by investigators to help law enforcement agencies pursue justice.
Do forensic scientists do autopsies? ›In jurisdictions where there are medical examiner systems, forensic pathologists are usually employed to perform autopsies to determine cause and manner of death.
Do forensic scientists go to court? ›Forensic scientists play an important role in criminal trials by serving as expert witnesses. Expert witnesses not only testify on the findings but also give opinions based upon the results derived from the analysis of evidence that was collected from the crime scene.
What is the job outlook for forensic? ›Career Outlook for Forensic Technicians
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2021), there were 17,020 forensic technicians employed in the United States. However, openings in this profession are expected to grow 11 percent between 2021 and 2031, adding 2,000 new jobs around the country (BLS 2022).
- Logical and independent mind.
- Meticulous attention to detail.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Objectivity and sensitivity when dealing with confidential information.
- Ability to work under pressure and to a deadline.
- Concentration and patience.
The base salary for Forensic Scientist ranges from $64,428 to $78,791 with the average base salary of $70,576. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $67,210 to $82,220 with the average total cash compensation of $73,732.
Do criminologists go to crime scene? ›The job of a criminologist is chiefly research-driven. While they may work primarily in a sterile office environment, they may also work from crime scenes and labs.
Is police science the same as forensic science? ›Police science is the study and research which deals with police work. Studies and research in criminology, forensic science, psychiatry, psychology, jurisprudence, community policing, criminal justice, correctional administration and penology all come under this umbrella term 'police science'.
Is forensic science a good major for FBI? ›
Forensic science is a useful degree for an FBI agent because it allows you to work as a field agent and gather evidence when a crime occurs. It also allows you to work in a lab to analyze data or to work directly with a prosecutor to present data in a court.
Is chemistry or biology better for forensics? ›Chemistry, hands down. Biology is only useful in DNA Analysis in forensics, where chemistry is used in drugs, trace, fingerprints (making reagents), questioned documents (identifying ink, making reagents), etc. Even Firearms uses chemistry to make acid reagents to bring up obliterated serial numbers.
What degree does the FBI prefer? ›All FBI agents must hold a bachelor's degree at minimum, and many possess a master's degree or higher. FBI agents often earn degrees in fields such as criminal justice or political science, though the Bureau does not maintain any specific academic major requirements for applicants.
What college degree do most FBI agents have? ›1. Criminal Justice. When it comes to those working at the FBI, the most common degree is a bachelor's in criminal justice. This degree gives you an overview of the tasks you will complete and how to do them.
How to become a forensic scientist? ›Forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a field such as physical science, biology, or forensic science. Forensic science programs may specialize in a specific area of study, such as toxicology, pathology, or DNA.
Can I be a CSI with a biology degree? ›CSIs typically need a bachelor's degree in either a natural or forensic science, such as chemistry or biology, or in a field such as criminal justice, crime scene technology, or criminology. Some CSI positions do not require a baccalaureate degree, instead requiring specific college courses.
Is forensics a competitive career? ›The competition for forensic science jobs is predicted to be very high, so it is currently recommended that future applicants pursue a master's degree. Having a master's degree may not be technically necessary, but having one will knock out a lot of that competition.