Online Forensic Science Bachelor’s Degree Program
Enroll in American InterContinental University’s forensic science online courses to work to develop knowledge of the operations of the criminal justice system, constitutional principles, and crime theory with a special focus on forensic science and crime scene investigation concepts.
Our forensics online courses offer flexibility to earn your degree on your own timeline. Mobile-friendly coursework helps you study toward your online forensic science degree at your convenience, so you can maintain a school-life balance.
What can you do with an online forensic science degree?
Online criminal justice programs can help you prepare to apply the theories of crime causation and criminal investigation techniques. Enroll in our criminal justice courses online to study general criminal justice fundamentals and practical forensic science applications.
Studying toward your bachelor of forensic science online can help you prepare to conduct a death-scene investigation and interpret forensic analysis, process and preserve evidence, and leverage technology, methodology, and data.
Prerequisite for AIU’s bachelor’s of forensic science online degree program?
There are no prerequisites to pursue a forensic science program online with AIU. Your dedicated Graduation Team can help answer all your questions and guide you through the admissions and financial aid processes. The Graduation Team is available to provide support along your academic journey, from start to graduation.
Ask an Admissions Advisor how you may graduate sooner and save money on AIU tuition by receiving degree credit for eligible work and military experience. You can transfer in up to 75% of qualifying degree credits to AIU from other accredited institutions1.
Bachelor’s degree in forensic science curriculum
This bachelor of forensic science degree program offers a well-rounded curriculum that builds on general education for this industry, including English composition, academic and professional success, technology and information literacy, interpersonal communication, and more.
The curriculum has a strong criminal justice foundation that thoroughly explores crime theory, the U.S. legal system, crime victim studies, and constitutional procedure. The other major component of the curriculum features specialized forensic science online courses and a senior capstone project in criminal justice.
AIU’s online forensic science degree program combines real-world experience and is taught by industry professionals who stay up-to-date on current policies and national events.
(Video) 5 Best Online Colleges for Busy AdultsDownload program detail PDF
Catalog for transfer credit policies.
Not all programs are available to residents of all states.
American InterContinental University cannot guarantee employment or salary.1. Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.
Estimate Tuition and Grad Date
Total tuition for this degree program may vary depending on your educational needs, existing experience, and other factors.
Estimate your costs, potential savings and graduation date.
Forensic Science Courses
Degree Requirements
Courses
General Education
Credits
ENGL106 English Composition I 4.5 ENGL107 English Composition II 4.5 MATH125 General College Mathematics 4.5 UNIV103 Academic and Professional Success 4.5 UNIV106 Technology and Information Literacy 4.5 UNIV109 Interpersonal Communication 4.5 General Education Elective (1 Course) 4.5 Humanities (2 Courses) 9 Natural Sciences (2 Courses) 9 Social and Behavioral Sciences (2 courses) 9 Total Credit Hours: 58.5 Core
Credits
(Video) Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs (5 Factors To Consider Before Enrolling)CRJS102 Criminal Justice Today 4.5 CRJS203 Introduction to Criminology 4.5 CRJS205 Introduction to Criminal Law 4.5 CRJS210 Introduction to Law Enforcement 4.5 CRJS215 Introduction to American Court System 4.5 CRJS220 Foundations of Corrections 4.5 CRJS310 Crime Victim Studies 4.5 CRJS315 Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Theory 4.5 CRJS330 Constitutional Issues in Criminal Procedures 4.5 CRJS355 Evidence 4.5 CRJS405 Research Methods & Statistics for Criminal Justice 4.5 CRJS499 Senior Capstone in Criminal Justice 4.5 Total Credit Hours: 54 General Electives
Credits
Select 10 undergraduate Elective courses
Total Credit Hours: 45 General Criminal Justice Track
Credits
In lieu of a Specialization, select 5 Criminal Justice Electives from any of the Specializations below
Total Credit Hours: 22.5 Forensic Science
Credits
CRJS365 Criminalistics 4.5 CRJS406 Criminalistics II 4.5 CRJS455 Criminal Investigation 4.5 CRJS466 Psychopathology and Criminality 4.5 CRJS471 Medicolegal Death Investigation 4.5 Total Credit Hours: 22.5 Total Credit Hours : 180
Forensic Science Classes Overview
AIU’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program combines the required general-education courses that can provide liberal-arts foundation with specialized courses designed so students can pursue an education in the criminal-justice field, with particular emphases in the study of policing, courts, criminology, corrections, juvenile justice, homeland security and the field of forensic science.
(Video) 45 FORENSICS ONLINE COURSEFor an Online Forensic Science Degree, your classes may include:
Criminalistics
Criminalistics is part I of a two part series. This course is a survey course of forensic science. The course content will focus on defining "forensic science"; recognizing practices of legitimate, junk, and fraudulent science; examining the properties of physical evidence; discussing the scope, potential, and limitations of a variety of forensic sciences; examining analytical techniques applied by forensic scientists; evaluating the criteria for admissibility of scientific evidence; and discussing the ethical responsibilities of forensic scientists.
Aspects of Forensic Psychology
This course examines the aspects of human behavior directly related to the legal process and the professional practice of psychology in the context of forensic science. The course explores many aspects of the practice of forensic psychology including assessment, treatment, and consultation within the legal system that encompasses both criminal and civil law. The student will study the many ways psychology can assist and influence the legal system. Finally, students will be introduced to various career opportunities in forensic psychology and will be exposed to a variety of professionals who work in the area of forensic science.
Criminalistics II
Criminalistics II is part II of a two part series. This course is designed to introduce the non-scientific student to the field of forensic science through an exploration of its applications to criminal investigations, and clear explanations of the techniques, abilities, and limitations of the modern crime laboratory. The course combines classroom lecture/discussion with practical laboratory exercises related to the field of forensics. Topics include the recognition, identification, collection/preservation, individualization, and evaluation of physical evidence such as hairs, fibers, chemicals, blood, semen, glass, soil, fingerprints, documents, firearms, impression evidence, and serial number restoration. Students will document a crime scene by means of photography, notes, and scene sketching.
Psychopathology and Criminality
This course is designed to provide students with a firm understanding of abnormal human behavior. Students will work to develop knowledge and insight into disorders relating to eating, sleeping, attention deficit, mood, learning, impulse control, sexuality, criminality, and interpersonal conflict. The nature of various disorders will be discussed as well as their impact on criminal behavior. The diagnosis and treatment of these disorders will be covered in this class.
Medicolegal Death Investigation
This course designed to introduce the student to the field of medicolegal death investigation in the context of forensic science. In this course, students will have the opportunity to study jurisdiction established by the law to define the cause and manner of death, conduct a death scene investigation and techniques in establishing identity and post mortem interval. Students will work to develop skills in notification of next of kin, interviewing witnesses, and interpreting crime scene photography.
Cybercrimes
This hands-on introductory course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to begin a computer-based investigation. The course begins with an overview of computer forensics and then proceeds to introduce forensics tools, concepts, and documentation of evidence/procedures. The course uses common and accepted incident Response Policies and Procedures for previewing and securing digital evidence. Topics include: the basics of computer evidence and basic forensic methodology.
Forensic Biology
This introductory course is designed to expose students to the areas of cellular biology, forensic serology, genetics, and human physiology as well as their applications within forensic science. Through lectures, readings, discussions and general exercises emphasizing the fundamentals of basic science within Forensic Biology, students will study the principles of biological and biochemical processing in relationship to forensics. The course will afford students the opportunity to enhance their critical thinking and problem solving skills within the field of forensic science. This course includes a discussion of the various areas of forensic science where a biologist can specialize.
Criminal Investigation
This course explores the elements of investigation including crime scenes, witnesses and evidence, and includes such topics as investigative techniques, evidence documentation, interrogation and arrest. The course addresses the particulars of investigating major crimes.
Course content subject to change.
Ways to Save on Your Online Forensic Science Degree
FAQ
What is a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJ) with a Specialization in Forensic Science degree?
AIU’s BSCJ forensic science specialization is designed to provide knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant for pursuing potential opportunities among the forensic science workforce. Through on-campus labs utilized by several of the forensic science courses you may take, this unique degree program is designed to provide an elevated, hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of how investigators solve crimes, how investigations are conducted, the accepted theories of crime and justice, and common criminal justice procedures.
How long does it take to earn a BSCJ with a specialization in forensic science?
Our bachelor’s degree programs are designed as 48-month programs. However, many factors can impact your time to completion. The time it may take you to earn your BSCJ degree can be influenced by course loads, proficiency and/or transfer credits, and breaks.
What kind of courses will I take to earn a BSCJ in forensic science degree?
As you work to complete your BSCJ degree with a specialization in forensic science, you will be immersed in courses such as: Criminalistics; Criminal Investigation; Psychopathology and Criminality; and Medicolegal Death Investigation.
When can I begin my forensic science classes?
Courses for the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Degree with a Specialization in Forensic Science start approximately every five weeks. Your actual start date is based on several factors, including receiving academic and financial documentation.
How many credits will I need to graduate with a forensic science degree?
The BSCJ degree program consists of 180 credits. You may be eligible for transfer credit, which is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. Please see the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.
Why should I pursue a BSCJ with a specialization in forensic science degree?
Upon earning your BSCJ in forensic science degree, you should have an in-depth understanding of policing, courts, criminology, corrections, juvenile justice, homeland security, and the field of forensic science. By studying key topics in forensic science, you can: be able to process a crime scene, including the collection, preservation and analysis of evidence, development and lifting of fingerprints, blood spatter interpretation, and the writing of narrative and scene descriptions; be able to use the techniques of criminal investigation involving criminal profiling, psychological autopsies, hypnosis, and lie detection; and be able to apply forensic computer knowledge pertaining to data modeling, data definition language, data manipulation language, operating systems, and networking knowledge to solve crimes.
(Video) HOW TO GET A DEGREE IN 6 MONTHS | (WGU Bachelor's or Master's)Compare Related Areas of Study
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Degree General Track Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Degree with a Specialization in Homeland Security and Crisis Management Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Degree with a Specialization in Corrections and Case Management
Compare up to three additional degrees
Next Steps
(Video) Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs Accredited
FAQs
Is a Bachelor's in forensic science 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%.
Do you need to pass an exam to be a forensic scientist? ›Forensic science technicians learn laboratory specialties on the job. The length of this training varies by specialty, but is usually less than a year. Technicians may need to pass a proficiency exam or otherwise be approved by a laboratory or accrediting body before they are allowed to perform independent casework.
Is forensic science degree hard? ›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.
How can 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 there a lot of math in forensic science? ›Mathematics and the Crime Lab
Take a wide range of college-level math courses, including calculus, statistics, and laboratory measurements and techniques. Everything from probability to basic arithmetic plays a crucial role in key forensic techniques, such as DNA analysis and fingerprint comparison.
- 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.
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.
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.
What exams are required for forensics? ›The All India Forensic Science Entrance Test (AIFSET-2023) is a national level entrance test to enrol into the forensic science courses of it's various participating universities.
How long is BS forensic science? ›The Bachelor of Forensic Science is a four-year degree program in the Philippines that will train you in using scientific principles and techniques to solve different crimes.
How stressful is forensic science? ›
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.
Is there a high demand for forensic scientists? ›Job Outlook
Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 11 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 2,500 openings for forensic science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
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.
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 it hard to find a job as a crime scene investigator? ›But just getting an entry level CSI job can be difficult. One of the greatest challenges is the competition for the 14,000+ jobs that are in the United States. It is not unusual to have over 100 applicants for an entry level CSI job opening.
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 kind of math is used in forensic? ›Students use calipers to measure the length and width of a blood drop. They determine the angle of impact of the blood drop using the law of sine and later calculate the height of the source of blood using the law of tangents.
What is the lowest salary of a forensic scientist? ›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.
What are the best states to work as a forensic scientist? ›Best-Paying States for Forensic Science Technicians
The states and districts that pay Forensic Science Technicians the highest mean salary are Illinois ($90,330), California ($90,300), Massachusetts ($84,740), New York ($81,370), and Oregon ($81,340). How Much Do Forensic Science Technicians Make in Your City?
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.
What are the three types of forensic science? ›
- Forensic anthropology. Forensic anthropology is a branch of physical anthropology that applies the science of anatomy to law. ...
- Forensic engineering. ...
- Digital forensics. ...
- Forensic entomology. ...
- Forensic geology.
A bachelor's degree or higher from a U.S. accredited college or university in a biological science, chemistry, engineering, forensic science, physical science, life science, mathematics, or a related field. A combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major mentioned above.
Do forensic scientists get paid well? ›Forensic scientists make $71,351 per year on average, or $34.3 per hour, in the United States. Forensic scientists on the lower end of that spectrum, the bottom 10% to be exact, make roughly $45,000 a year, while the top 10% makes $112,000. Location impacts how much a forensic scientist can expect to make.
What percentage is required for forensic science? ›For Forensic Science PG Courses
The student should have a science degree from a recognised institute. A minimum of 55% at the undergraduate level is expected.
Students must have Science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, or Biology in class 12 in order to study BSc Forensic Science.
How do I prepare for forensic science? ›Forensic scientists need to have a strong fundamental background in the natural sciences. For example, new hires who analyze drugs, DNA, trace, and toxicological evidence in forensic science laboratories typically have a degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or forensic science from an accredited institution.
Is criminology and forensic science the same? ›Forensic criminology encompasses two disciplines, criminology and forensic science. Criminology is defined as the study of crime and criminals. Forensic science is the study of evidence discovered at crime scenes and the application of science to crime and law.
What is BA in forensic science? ›The main purpose of the qualification is to enhance the investigation knowledge and skills of investigators This qualification is aimed at students who work within the field of Forensic Investigation and who seek recognition for essential knowledge, skills and values needed up to the level of middle management.
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 most common mental disorders developed by those who experience trauma are anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. There is a gap in the literature on the mental health of forensic scientists, who also experience a higher amount of trauma than the average person.
What are the dangers of being a forensic scientist? ›
- Bodily Fluids. Forensic technicians must frequently handle and test bodily fluids such as blood and urine, which can harbor dangerous bacteria or diseases like HIV/AIDS. ...
- Chemicals. ...
- Weapons. ...
- Environmental Conditions.
Forensic science is a very competitive field, so finding a job can be difficult. Arming yourself with higher education and certifications can help tremendously.
What are the pros and cons of being a forensic scientist? ›While one of the pros of forensic science is that the career often brings significant professional satisfaction, a con lies in how it can also take a personal and emotional toll, sometimes requiring working under less than ideal circumstances.
Can I join the FBI without a bachelor's degree? ›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.
Can I be a CIA agent without a degree? ›CIA officers must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree, and some roles require graduate degrees. Many different degrees can prepare you for a career at the CIA. Criminal justice and political science are the most common, but people with a wide variety of educational backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Can I join FBI without a degree? ›Yes, there are education requirements to join the FBI. You must have a bachelor's degree to join the FBI as an agent, though there's no specification on what your major must be. That said, a major in a field like criminal justice or computer technology can be extremely useful in your role at the FBI.
Is forensic science a good career for introverts? ›Plus the open work environments can offer some priceless peace and quiet. Introverts' open mindedness and eye for detail make them perfect for forensic science.
Can I be a crime scene investigator without being a cop? ›In order to become a detective, you must first become a police officer. However, crime scene investigators do not have to be police officers prior to becoming crime scene investigators. Detectives gather evidence from the scene of the crime.
How many hours a week do crime scene investigators work? ›Crime Scene Investigators are basically highly trained forensic scientists on call. That being said, most CSI's work a standard forty-hour work week with standard hours, with only some variation due to specific cases.
What are the cons of being a crime scene investigator? ›Physically Demanding
Crime scene investigators may be required to lift, bend, stretch, crawl, and climb to gather evidence. Slogging through mud and almost impassable conditions are often part of the job. When collecting evidence, you may spend hours on your knees in uncomfortable positions.
Is forensics a useful degree? ›
You will also gain useful transferable skills in numeracy, communication, report writing and data interpretation. Forensic sciences graduates are in demand from industries including law enforcement, the pharmaceutical industry, scientific testing and analysis, hospitals, computing and the finance industry.
Is forensic science a good career option? ›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 degree is best for forensics? ›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.
What undergraduate degree is best for forensic science? ›For prospective forensic scientists, however, it may be advisable to complete a bachelor's degree program in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, forensics, or a related field.
Can you become a forensic scientist with a bachelor of science? ›The first step to becoming a forensic scientist is to get the right education. Forensic scientists typically have a minimum of a four-year bachelor's degree in science or forensic science. There are many post-secondary schools that offer forensic science degrees, like: Trent University.
Which is better criminology or forensic? ›Although criminology and forensic psychology are both used to prevent crime, the nature of the concentrations determines the area of focus for the career. Criminology focuses on studying crime while forensic psychology helps stymie repeat offenses through psychological evaluation and counseling.
Are forensics in high demand? ›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.
Are forensics jobs in demand? ›Job Outlook
Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 11 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 2,500 openings for forensic science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
Forensic Science is a multidisciplinary subject, it encompasses various fields of Science such as chemistry, biology, physics, geology, psychology, social Science, engineering, etc. Nothing is easy or difficult, what matters is hard work. If you work hard, a difficult task becomes easy.