Finding the Right Fit: A Guide to Good Colleges for Forensics Programs

Forensic science plays a critical role in the criminal justice system. It’s also an exciting and rewarding discipline. If you’re drawn to the intersection of science and law, exploring undergraduate programs in forensic science is a great place to start. This article will explore some of the best colleges and universities offering forensic science programs, encompassing various specializations and learning environments.

What is Forensic Science?

Forensic Science encompasses many fields and disciplines related to the application of science to the law. The forensic psychology field has captivated people around the world, partly due to the popularity of police procedural dramas on television. However, beyond entertainment, this interdisciplinary field can provide prospective students with a fulfilling and practical career path. By combining principles of psychology and law, forensic psychology students learn how to navigate the complex intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system.

Top Colleges and Universities for Forensic Science

Several institutions across the United States offer comprehensive forensic science programs. Here's a look at some of the best, categorized by their unique strengths:

Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in forensic science teaches you how to interpret evidence and solve crimes using the latest science and technology. In this program, you’ll learn practical forensic science techniques and gain hands-on experience investigating crimes. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to work in crime labs at the local, state and federal levels.

During this transdisciplinary program, you’ll gain valuable knowledge in the fields of natural science, math and communication, alongside forensic science. This approach prepares you to uncover essential evidence, provide expert testimony and explain your findings in detail. You’ll also have the opportunity to customize your learning experience with a wide range of electives to match your career goals.

As an online student at ASU, you’ll get the New College experience from world-renowned faculty. 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.

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs.

Penn State University

Penn State’s forensic science program is an inter-college collaboration among different academic units, providing a foundation in areas such as the biological, physical, and mathematical sciences, along with topics in criminalistics, forensic chemistry, forensic biology, crime scene investigation, and social sciences. Students can choose between two degree emphases: Biology and Chemistry.

Saint Louis University (SLU)

SLU’s forensic science major employs the methods, tools, and perspectives of biology, chemistry, anthropology, sociology, physics, mathematics, and medicine to provide students a solid background in this intersection of law and science. The department has connections with forensic science laboratories in the St. Louis metropolitan area, and students have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork internships and/or independent research at multiple facilities.

University of Central Florida (UCF)

The forensic science program at UCF offers two tracks-biochemistry and chemistry-providing students with two lenses through which they can study the discipline. Students learn about the instruments used, scientific writing, how to conduct and evaluate scientific investigations, and the role they’ll play in the judiciary system.

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Hofstra University

An interdisciplinary program, Hofstra’s Forensic Science program provides foundational knowledge in chemistry, biology, physics, math, law, psychology, and even photography. The university’s laboratories feature state-of-the-art equipment, exposing students to tools found in modern forensic laboratories.

Loyola University

Through Loyola’s Forensic Science program, students will gain broad knowledge related to chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics, along with an understanding of the criminal justice system, technical expertise, and a host of skills. In state-of-the-art laboratories, students study pattern, biology-DNA, and chemistry.

Syracuse University

At Syracuse, Forensic Science is an Integrated Learning Major (ILM), meant to complement a range of additional majors, exposing students to the field through multiple lenses and asking them to apply their skills to different disciplines. Students will participate in diverse coursework and real-world field experiences while taking advantage of extensive lab resources. The College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) is Syracuse University’s first and largest college. A second major is required for all students majoring in forensic science and determines whether a student will graduate with a B.A. or B.S. degree. For example, a student who pursues a B.A. in anthropology alongside their forensic science coursework will graduate with a B.A., whereas a student who pursues a B.S. in biology alongside their forensic science coursework will graduate with a B.S.

University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)

A Forensic Science Certificate from UT Austin provides an interdisciplinary perspective for students interested in careers in forensic science. All undergraduate students are eligible to participate.

Texas A&M University (TAMU)

One of two bachelor’s programs in Texas that are nationally accredited by FEPAC, TAMU’s Forensic and Investigative Sciences program offers a life sciences-based education, helping students develop concrete skills and use cutting-edge technology to learn the ins and outs of the field.

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University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL)

UNL’s forensic science program equips students with technical knowledge and hands-on experience, allowing them to apply their skills to a range of relevant scenarios and draw meaningful conclusions. Students benefit from small class sizes, encouraging them to develop relationships with professionals in the field who serve as mentors and leaders.

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science program at VCU equips students with the skills and experiential learning necessary to succeed in a career in the field. The program offers concentrations in Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, and Physical Evidence.

Towson University

Towson’s Forensic Chemistry Major prepares students for positions as working scientists in business, industry, and government careers or advanced graduate work. The program is application-focused, helping majors hone their laboratory skills as they relate to forensic analysis.

Radford University

The Department of Justice Studies’ Forensic Science program offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Biology, Digital Evidence, and Crime Scene Investigation (CSI). Each curriculum meets the standards of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences Forensic Education Program Accreditation.

West Virginia University (WVU)

At WVU, students may choose from three Forensic Science programs-Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, and Forensic Examiner. Each path equips students with a strong background in the fundamental science and applied practice associated with forensic science. All programs are accredited by the Forensic Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).

Rutgers University-Newark

Through the Rutgers-Newark program in Criminal Justice, a comprehensive, interdisciplinary program, students can explore topics in forensic science. Relevant courses expose students to theory and practice in scientific methods and techniques applied to criminal investigation. Students will participate in lab work and field trips.

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)

Indiana offers two concentrations in its Forensic and Investigative Science program: Biology and Chemistry. Students in both concentrations will build a strong foundation in math, science, and writing. The program places a focus on experiential learning, and students have the opportunity to complete an internship at a crime lab, coroner’s office, law enforcement agency, or private lab.

George Washington University (GW)

Although GW doesn’t offer a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, it does have a combined BS/MFS in Forensic Chemistry. Participants in the accelerated program complete the program having earned a BS in Chemistry and a Master’s of Forensic Sciences with a concentration in Forensic Chemistry.

University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)

Ole Miss offers a B.S. in Forensic Chemistry. Students in the program engage in courses focused on analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology.

University of New Haven

Students in the University of New Haven’s Forensic Science program learn to identify and interpret evidence, with a focus on the natural sciences. The Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences enjoys a national reputation as a leader of education in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, National Security, Fire Science, and Homeland Security. The unique and comprehensive programs in the Lee College have earned the University of New Haven an international reputation for excellence by preparing students to serve our nation through government and private sectors.

George Mason University

Mason provides strong theoretical and operational foundations and outstanding scholarship to undergraduate and graduate students seeking forensic science careers. These programs address the growing national and regional demand for trained forensic scientists and technicians. The Forensic Science Program has fostered relationships with numerous local, state, federal and private forensic science agencies and labs, including FBI, NCIS, VADFS, VAME and OCME.

Online Forensic Psychology Programs

Online Bachelor of Science in Forensic ScienceArizona State University

University of Massachusetts--Lowell

University of Massachusetts--Lowell is a public institution where all of the online graduate-level criminal justice classes are recorded and archived so that students can access lecture material at their convenience.

Boston University

Boston University is a private institution where all of the online graduate-level criminal justice classes are recorded and archived so that students can access lecture material at their convenience.

Saint Elizabeth University

Saint Elizabeth University is a private institution where all of the online graduate-level criminal justice classes are recorded and archived so that students can access lecture material at their convenience.

Pace University

Pace University is a private institution where all of the online graduate-level criminal justice classes are recorded and archived so that students can access lecture material at their convenience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Program

When comparing forensic psychology programs, it’s important to consider several factors, including its accreditation, how well it can prepare you for potential careers, and the total cost after financial aid. Other important considerations include the program’s admission requirements and format. Use the following five factors to help you analyze potential schools and create a shortlist of options:

Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized body.
Admission Requirements: Ensure your academic and personal backgrounds match the admission requirements published by the school.
Career Relevance: Look carefully at program objectives and available courses to ensure they align with your interests and goals.
Flexibility: If you need scheduling flexibility, look at each program’s offerings.
Cost and Financial Aid: Look beyond tuition fees to consider what each school offers in terms of scholarships and financial aid awards.

How to Apply to a Forensic Psychology Program

While each school has its own application process, many forensic psychology colleges share common requirements. The steps outlined below describe the typical college application process:

Step 1: Meet Admission Requirements: Associate and bachelor’s forensic psychology programs typically require a high school diploma or its equivalent and a minimum grade point average. Some may also require SAT or ACT scores. As a graduate applicant, you’ll likely need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related area like criminal justice, psychology, or a related social science field. You may also need high grades in your undergraduate major coursework.
Step 2: Research Testing Requirements: While many schools have moved away from mandatory testing requirements, they may still apply. As an undergraduate, you might need ACT or SAT scores. As a graduate, you may need to submit GRE or MAT scores.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documentation: Schools commonly require these additional documents and materials: Academic transcripts from all schools you’ve previously attended, a personal essay or statement of purpose describing your career plans and reasons for applying, letters of recommendation from people who know you well academically or professionally.
Step 4: Submit Your Application: Pay any application fees, and check to see if the school requires additional proof of payment. Double-check all your application materials for accuracy and completeness, and submit your documents as instructed by the school or its psychology department.

Preparing for a Career in Forensics

While in high school, focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Forensics or Criminology. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, statistics and calculus will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.

Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Forensics or Criminology. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.

You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. You can send the professional a message and let him or her know that you are interested in learning more about his or her professional background, work experience, education, etc. Also, your local police department can be another resource.

Career Paths in Forensic Science

The jobs you could get with a forensic science degree: This program prepares you for a variety of jobs working in crime labs as a crime scene investigator, evidence technician and other similar roles. You’ll also be equipped to pursue a graduate degree in forensics, which can help you advance your career and move into a leadership position.

Forensic psychology focuses on understanding the intersection of psychology and the legal system, including the causes and prevention of crime and offender profiling. To become a licensed psychologist, you must earn a doctorate, which can take 4-7 years, in addition to an undergraduate and master’s degree. However, some forensic psychology roles, such as police or parole officers or counselors specializing in criminal rehabilitation, require a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Biological Scientist (General)
Biological Technician
Chemical Technician
Chemist
Clinical Trial Manager
Crime Scene Investigator
Health Sciences Manager
Life Scientist
Medical Scientist

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