8 Best Schools with Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Science

A fascinating field, Forensic Science combines the practices and principles of science, technology, and criminal investigation in collecting, assessing, analyzing, and interpreting scientific evidence of crimes committed even years ago!

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Forensic scientists or foreign science technicians assist law enforcement agencies in recreating crime scenes, identifying suspects, and presenting objective evidence through different scientific methodologies and techniques in courtrooms. In this regard, the work of forensics experts helps ensure that justice is served and innocent lives are protected.

Advancements in the rational and evidence-based approach to resolving crimes highlight the need for highly skilled forensic investigators. A Bachelor’s in Forensic Science online paves the way for such opportunities in the private and public sectors.

Quick Summarization

Bachelor’s in Forensic Science students are taught the basics of crime scene investigations, forensic chemistry, DNA analysis, forensic anthropology, digital forensics, criminalistics, and forensic psychology. They become equipped for rewarding Forensic Science careers in government agencies, law enforcement agencies, crime laboratories, academia and research, and private consulting firms.

Methodology

Choosing the right Forensic Science undergraduate program and school matters! To help prospective students, we put together 15 excellent online colleges offering Forensic Science degrees online.

Each online undergraduate program made it to our list based on these factors:

• Delivered online or as a hybrid Forensic Science program, underscoring flexible and convenient learning,
• Features a curriculum of to-date course offerings including forensic chemistry, forensic biology, crime scene investigation techniques, forensic anthropology, digital forensics, and the legal aspects of forensic science, readying students for a master’s program or an entry-level occupation,
• Offers students access to a robust technological infrastructure and user-friendly online learning platform that offers interactive multimedia content, intuitive user interface, forums or discussion boards, online libraries, databases, and other resources,
• Taught by a faculty of committed, experienced instructors who hold terminal degrees in Forensic Science or related disciplines with substantial involvement in research,
• Provides a variety of student support services, such as academic advising, tutoring services, career counseling, online student communities, and networking opportunities, to help them overcome challenges they may encounter during the program,
• Offers financial aid options, including scholarships, loans, and grants from both private and public sources,
• Accredited by academic agencies to demonstrate that the online Bachelor’s in Forensic Science degree program being offered meets higher education standards.

Learn about our online undergraduate Forensic Science program selection process! Visit our Methodology page.

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8 Best Online BS in Forensic Science Degree Programs

Columbia College

Columbia College’s Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree combines legal and science topics. It prepares students to contribute to the criminal justice system in the lab or the field. This program is a combination of various disciplines, including chemistry, criminal justice, law, and biology.

Students will be taught specialty areas, such as:

• Drugs and toxicology
• Evidence analysis
• Fingerprint identification
• Advanced instrumentation
• Explosives chemistry
• Expert testimony
• DNA analysis

Throughout the program, online Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science majors will develop the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively and efficiently collect and analyze evidence and forensic samples to uncover the details of a crime.

Students are also taught to collect physical evidence at a crime scene, assess every piece of evidence collected inside a laboratory, and report the facts of the case. Furthermore, they will learn how to be thorough and systematic throughout the investigation.

Columbia College has a team of experts and academic advisors who can help students build their skills and gain real-world experience working in a crime laboratory or field. Advisors can also guide students toward their coursework to ensure they’ll be able to achieve their personal and professional goals.

BS in Forensic Science Courses:

• Statistics for the Behavioral and Natural Science
• Introduction to Forensic Science
• Professional Issues in Forensic Science
• Expert and Scientific Evidence
• Laws of Criminal Evidence
• Physical and Chemical Methods in Forensic Science
• Forensic Chemistry
• Forensic Microscopy
• Forensic Anthropology
• Forensic Chemistry

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Maryville University

With Maryville University’s Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology, students will be equipped to put their love of psychology to good use and make a difference in their communities. With this online degree program, students will have many opportunities to apply the science of the mind in social services, private sectors, correction systems, and the court to help protect innocent lives from being wrongly accused of a crime.

This BS in Forensic Psychology requires students to complete 128 credit hours of experiential learning opportunities and coursework in three areas: Social Science, Criminal Justice, and Psychology. Its comprehensive coursework should help students develop a deeper understanding of the modern forensic psychology field.

The forensic psychology degree program teaches students about Human Psychology and its relevance to the law. They will learn about criminology and human behavior, positioning them for successful careers in the fields of social services and law enforcement. They will also be equipped in pursuing a master’s or doctorate to advance in their careers.

Maryville University’s BS in Forensic Psychology combines foundational social sciences, including sociology, human development, and other disciplines of psychology with psychological testing, investigation, and professional skills, including research methodology and critical thinking.

A 135-hour internship in various settings and a capstone project experience in their senior year. are required.

This institution knows that forensic psychology can be applied in so many areas of the criminal justice and legal system and that it is important to instill in students a solid foundation of forensic and psychological knowledge.

Because of this, Maryville University’s online degree in forensic science includes courses and electives in psychology, criminal justice, and general education.

Core courses:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Multicultural Policing
• Introduction to Criminal Investigations
• Corrections in Society
• Criminal Law and Procedure
• Human Development through the Lifespan
• Social Psychology
• Psychological Tests and Measurements
• Critical Thinking in Social Science

This university is approved by the Higher Learning Commission and widely recognized as one of the top colleges in the country.

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Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s Online BS in Psychology with a Forensic Psychology concentration navigates mental health and the laws concerning it. Students are expected to gain a solid foundation in psychological concepts, research, and statistical reasoning from this undergraduate program.

ASU’s Forensic Psychology concentration is a combination of general psychology training with specialized coursework in criminal behavior, criminal law, legal decision-making, and the treatment and diagnosis of mental disorders. Because of this, this program will be an excellent first step for students to pursue a master’s and doctorate to advance in their careers in the field of forensic science.

This BS in Psychology degree provides a solid foundation in science and math and emphasizes neuroscientific and biological understanding. This program is designed to support advanced study through concepts and topics in clinical applications, public policy, and psychology.

The Forensic Psychology concentration will teach students topics about criminology, psychological perspectives, and abnormal behavior in court. Additionally, it will delve into statistics and research, neuroscience, and lab work. Students will have the option to choose electives that emphasize specialized topics on forensic psychology.

Core courses:

• Psychological Disorders
• Forensic Psychology
• Psychology and Law
• Correctional Psychology
• Statistical Methods
• Criminal Law: Introduction to Substantive Criminal Law
• Psychology of Criminal Investigation

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Liberty University

Liberty University is a great place to start for those who want to become crime scene professionals who can solve crimes and mysteries and bring justice to everyone. Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Crime Scene Investigation degree will be equipped to investigate crimes and protect physical evidence.

Liberty’s online degree in Crime Scene Investigation equips students with an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system. It develops in them the necessary skills to effectively develop and analyze forensic laws. It also teaches students how to conduct criminal investigations and collect vital evidence to ensure that they can be used in court.

Liberty University is committed to providing excellent quality education. As a pioneer in online learning since 1985, this institution has a history of innovation. Additionally, it has put its long experience to good use by ensuring quality and affordable forensics education for all.

And because it is a nonprofit Christian school, Liberty University is dedicated to providing students with the required knowledge and skills with integrity and strength.

Core course requirements:

• Constitutional Government & Free Enterprise
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Juvenile Justice
• Corrections
• Judicial Process
• Criminology
• Criminal Justice Ethics
• Criminal Law
• Constitutional Criminal Procedure
• Criminal Investigations
• Terrorism
• Introduction to Forensics
• Crime Scene Photography
• Crime Scene Management
• Court & Expert Witness Testimony

Liberty University is Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges-approved, ensuring that this institution meets strict standards with regard to the degree programs it offers, student support, administration, and faculty.

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Colorado Technical University

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Forensic Investigation concentration offered by Colorado Technical University is designed for those who have an interest in solving crimes, catching criminals, and building strong cases against suspects.

This Forensic Investigation concentration program will help students develop a robust foundation in law enforcement, corrections, and the courts, as well as a deep understanding of foundational forensic investigation.

Degree Requirements:

• Ethics in Criminal Justice
• American Government and Public Affairs
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Law Enforcement Operations and Report Writing
• Introduction to Homeland Security
• American Corrections
• Victimology
• Juvenile Delinquency
• Criminal Law
• Criminology
• Criminal Procedure
• Abnormal Psychology in the Workplace

CTU offers Fast Track to offer students the opportunity to earn college credits for what they already know. Aside from that, it offers flexible online class schedules to help students balance their time between earning a degree and attending to other commitments.

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Excelsior University

Excelsior University offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice to prepare students for successful careers in law enforcement, federal investigation, victim advocacy, probation and parole, crime scene investigation, and security analysis. Moreover, students will learn about the administration, processes, and laws of the criminal justice system in the United States.

BS in Criminal Justice majors will study police accountability, crime-fighting procedures, legal processes of court trials, management of criminal justice agencies, and prevention of police corruption. Coursework for this online degree in criminal justice will teach students about how sociological, criminological, and psychological theories shape criminal justice procedures and policies. Plus, it provides students with job-related knowledge of what causes criminal behavior, including white-collar crime, property crime, and violent crime.

Students of this online degree program can choose to take a concentration in Homeland Security.

Core Criminal Justice courses:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Introduction to Law Enforcement
• Introduction to Corrections
• Multicultural Issues in Criminal Justice
• Criminal Procedure and Evidence
• Criminology
• Criminal Justice Administration
• Research Methods
• Ethics in Criminal Justice
• Judicial Process
• Criminal Justice Capstone

Excelsior University is among the top 1% of schools that offer the best non-traditional students in criminal justice and corrections. This institution meets the standards set by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and Council for Higher Education.

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Florida Institute of Technology

The Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology offered by the Florida Institute of Technology is a program designed for those who want to learn how research and psychological theory are monumental in today’s criminal justice system and other fields. What’s more, students develop a deeper understanding of human behavior, such as criminality, as well as crucial skills, like writing, research, and data analysis.

This Forensic Psychology degree program offered by the Florida Institute of Technology will guide students on how to develop a strong background in psychology with hands-on experience in statistics and criminology. Furthermore, students will develop the right skills in understanding crime prevention and analysis, as well as become community liaisons for law enforcement, social services, and legal agencies.  

Forensic and Psychology Core Course Requirements:

• Introduction to American Criminal Justice
• Survey of Forensic Psychology
• Integrated Theories of Crime
• Legal Psychology
• Forensic Behavior Investigation and Identification or Victim Studies and Advocacy
• Introduction to Crime Analysis
• Forensic Behavior Investigation and Identification
• Victim Studies and Advocacy
• Forensic Clinical Psychology
• Critical Issues in Child Advocacy
• Critical Issues in Forensic Psychology
• Juvenile Delinquency

This institution is the only school to offer a child advocacy specialization. This emphasizes realistic, cultural, and ethical content. This program is also ideal for applied behavior analysis, clinical psychology, and forensic students who are interested in working with children in the future. On top of that, they will learn all about various disciplinary responses to child abuse and have multidisciplinary know-how of the most efficient responses.

BA in Forensic Psychology students are offered various internship opportunities, applied-research projects, and faculty-led research programs through FIT’s partnerships with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and similar agencies, coding and reviewing case files.

In addition, FIT’s classes have low student-faculty ratios to ensure students and professors will have plenty of opportunities for close collaboration and mentorship. Professors of this program have years of experience in various legal systems and psychology disciplines, ensuring that students will have exposure to the field.

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American Intercontinental University

Through American Intercontinental University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Forensic Science, students will learn about common criminal procedures, accepted theories of crime and justice, conduct investigations, and solving crimes. AIU offers a balanced education in law enforcement practices, investigation methodologies, and science.

This program will develop students’ knowledge of the criminal justice system, as well as crime theory and constitutional principles, focusing on crime scene investigation and science concepts. This Forensic Science specialization highlights the application of criminal investigation techniques and crime causation theories.

The Forensic Science specialization has a well-rounded curriculum built on general education, including interpersonal communication, technology and information literacy, academic and professional success, and English composition. Plus, it has a strong criminal justice foundation that thoroughly tackles the U.S. legal system, constitutional procedure, crime theory, crime victim studies, and crime theory.

Core courses:

• Criminal Justice Today
• Introduction to Criminology
• Introduction to Criminal Law
• Introduction to Law Enforcement
• Introduction to American Court System
• Foundations of Corrections
• Crime Victim Studies
• Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Theory
• Constitutional Issues in Criminal Procedures
• Evidence
• Research Methods & Statistics for Criminal Justice
• Criminalistics
• Criminal Investigation
• Medicolegal Death Investigation

This program is Higher Learning Commission-accredited.

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How to Become a Forensic Scientist

Those who have a keen interest in unraveling mysteries and helping in the pursuit of justice should become licensed forensic scientists.

Here are the steps to becoming a forensic scientist:

Earn an online Bachelor’s in Forensic Science.

Students must first acquire a robust educational foundation in forensic science or any related field. Throughout the degree program, students will gain a deeper understanding of various scientific disciplines, including physics, biology, chemistry, and forensic techniques.

Choose a concentration.

The bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science offers a wide range of concentration tracks, including toxicology, firearms examination, DNA analysis, and firearms examination. Choosing a specialization means identifying the areas of interest and aptitude students want to master. This will also allow them to develop proficiency and expertise in a specific area, increasing their value as forensic scientists.

Gain practical experience.

Students must gain practical experience in the field to have valuable insights into the real world of forensic investigation, as well as to be able to work alongside experts in the field. Students must have hands-on experience through internships or work in law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, and research institutions.

Pursue advanced education.

Forensic Science graduates can earn master’s and doctorate degrees to have more advantages. Holding a master’s or doctoral degree in forensic science opens doors to higher-paying positions, teaching roles in academia, and research opportunities.

Apply for licensing and certification.

Each state has different licensing requirements for forensic scientists or forensic analysts. These can include minimum education requirements, proficiency testing, and specific work requirements.

The American Board of Criminalistics states that forensic scientists must apply for certification and complete an appropriate examination. Aside from that, they must also demonstrate competency by submitting their recertification paperwork to attain the required points, pay annual maintenance fees, and comply with the Rules of Professional Conduct.

The American Board of Criminalistics offers the following certification examinations:

• Biological Evidence Screening
• Comprehensive Criminalistics
• Drug Analysis
• Forensic DNA
• Molecular Biology

Online Forensic Science program graduates may pursue these other certifications:

• Board of Forensic Document Examiners
• International Association for Identification
• Law Enforcement & Emergency Services Video Association)
• International Association for Property and Evidence (IAPE)
• The Association of Firearms & Tool Mark Examiners
• Digital Forensics Certification Board
• International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners
• International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists
• Global Information Assurance Certification
• National Academy of Forensic Engineers (NAFE)
• American Board of Forensic Toxicology
• American Board of Forensic Anthropology
• American Board of Forensic Psychology
• American Board of Forensic Psychiatry & Neurology
• International Association of Forensic Nurses
• American Board of Forensic Odontology

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points to Ponder

• An online Bachelor’s in Forensic Science is a fascinating degree program that combines scientific analysis with criminal investigations.
• Forensic Science applies the relevant theories and principles of related disciplines, including Forensic Toxicology, Criminal Scene Investigation, Criminal Justice, and Law Enforcement.
• Graduates of an online Forensic Science degree or any related field can embark on rewarding careers, including forensic science technicians, crime scene investigators, forensic ballistics experts, and forensic DNA analysts.

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