Forensic science degree how long

BS in Crime Scene Investigation. Purdue University — At Purdue University, students can get a forensic science bachelor's degree in two different concentrations: forensic psychology and crime scene investigation. No matter which program you choose, Purdue will quickly prepare you for a career in forensic science.

MS in Forensic Psychology. Liberty University — Liberty University offers two accredited degrees in the field of Forensic Science online in addition to their campus counterparts. Both the Associates and Bachelors programs in Criminal Justice offer an in-depth guide through the investigative process of the justice system. Students will come away with skills, knowledge, and resources they can apply to real-world problems and situations upon graduation. MS in Intelligence and Crime Analysis.

The flexible program will give students the skills they need to begin a criminal investigative career after graduation. Master of Science in Investigations. University of New Haven — University of New Haven's investigator masters program is designed to be a fast-track masters program that will help anyone segue into a job as a crime scene investigator after only one year of schooling.

PhD in Forensic Psychology. Walden University — Walden University offers their master's in forensic psychology degree program fully online. Students of this program will gain insights into how forensic psychologists work with the legal system on reducing criminal behavior within a community.

A graduate of this program is well-equipped to become a psychologist in a correctional institution, mental health center, psychiatric facility, child welfare agency, and more. Associates in Crime Scene Technology. MS in Forensic Science. Saint Leo University — Saint Leo University offers a master's degree in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Forensic Science that allows students to study at their own pace as they work their way toward becoming a criminologist or forensic scientist.

Some certifications, graduates programs, and employers may only consider candidates that graduated from a regionally accredited school. Next, applicants should look for programmatic accreditation. Like regional accreditation, programmatic accreditation verifies academic quality, only for specific degrees and programs. Some students also take time off between the two degrees to gain work experience.

Salaries for forensic science careers depend on multiple factors, though level of education plays a critical role. Most forensic science jobs are in the criminal justice field, though some private and nonprofit organizations also need forensic scientists.

Potential roles include forensic nurse, forensic accountant, and blood spatter analyst. Certification is not required in this field, but it may help you demonstrate your level of education and commitment to the profession. While the cost of college can seem daunting, various forms of financial aid exist to help learners fund their education. Scholarships provide students with money that learners apply to tuition, fees, books, and other costs.

Below are a few examples of scholarships available to forensic science students. Apply for Scholarship. Who Can Apply: Available only to graduate students enrolled in forensic or biological anthropology, this scholarship is awarded based on character, academic merit, and commitment. Who Can Apply: This annual scholarship is awarded to a student enrolled in a forensic science or criminal justice program.

Winners receive a one-time scholarship grant and a certificate of recognition. Our ranking explores the top U. Interested in pursuing a juris doctor?

Explore our list of JD degrees to find excellent ABA-approved and accredited programs at top law schools. Are you ready to find a school that's aligned with your interests? Search schools to find the program that's right for you. What Is a Forensic Science Degree? Featured Online Programs Explore program formats, transfer requirements, financial aid packages, and more by contacting the schools below.

Collapse All Expand All. Crime Scene Investigator. Crime Lab Analyst. Forensic Accountant. Forensic Anthropologist. Forensic Nursing. Location Where a learner attends school influences commute times, tuition rates, and program outcomes. Cost Aside from obvious factors like tuition and fees, students must also cover commuting costs, room and board, and support themselves while earning their degree.

Program Outcomes Some programs lead to specific careers, so future forensic scientists with a clear outcome in mind should find an appropriate school.

Online vs. In-Person While in-person programs allow learners to learn in a face-to-face manner, online programs let busy students attend courses from a distance and sometimes at their own leisure. Accreditation Schools and programs use accreditation to verify academic quality. How long will it take to complete a forensic science degree?

How much will I make with a degree in forensic science? What kind of jobs can you get with a forensic science degree? Do I need to be licensed in forensic science in order to work as a forensic technician? AFTE Scholarship. ACS Scholars Program. Each of these steps would take up a certain amount of your time. Aspiring forensic scientists are required to complete a comprehensive education plan, due to the highly technical nature of the field.

This internship would give you an insight into the workings of a forensic scientist and will enable you to understand the job better. The internship can last two to three months in general. As a fresh graduate in the forensic science field, you may pursue a training program or apprenticeship as well.

Technician or trainee positions are available in various organizations to help develop your skills under the supervision of a senior forensic science professional. Your future employer might also have a training program in place. Employment prospects for you would be the greatest with your city, state or county crime labs.

Federal law enforcement agencies are also potential employers and you may even opt to become an independent consultant. In addition to education, some aspiring forensic scientists also seek various kinds of certifications via a forensic specialty board.