Do you want to know the best forensic science colleges in the world in 2023–2024? You are in the right place. We have prepared the world’s top 15 best universities for forensic science. Also, we covered the following in this article: forensic science degree requirements, subjects required for forensic science, and what it takes to become a successful forensic scientist.
Also, don’t forget to type “do my project for me on forensic science” to be more successful and free while studying, as you will have more time to think about the career way.
15 Best Forensic Science Colleges 2023-2024
Do you imagine yourself in the middle of a crime scene, sorting out the unpredictable bits of a dark puzzle? Or, on the other hand, do you imagine yourself in the lab, running samples and analyzing outcomes? However you envision your future, a B.S.C. in Forensic Science degree will assist you in getting there.
There are numerous ways to acquire a B.S.C. in forensic science. You can specialize in chemistry or sociology. Or you can become a specialist in cybercrime and digital analytics.
Anyway, you mean to specialize; each program will give you a sturdy foundation in forensic science. Some of these programs can even be finished online. We’ve been sure to feature those.
For a complete listing of online forensic science and criminal justice degrees, check out College Choice’s Best Online Degrees in criminal justice.
A degree in forensic science will permit you to work in various industries and roles. Due to the variety, there will also be a variation in the average salary for someone holding a B.S.C. in Forensic Science degree.
For instance, if you choose to become a laboratory technician, you can expect to make about $56,000 yearly in your first few years. However, that number leaps to $75,000 a year if you want to become a forensic psychologist.
Whatever the case, if you apply for your forensic science degree, be aware that the demand is increasing. Indeed, the need for those with a B.S.C. in Forensic Science degree is projected to increase by a least another 17 percent in the next few years.
Forensic Science Degree Requirements
Here are the requirements for a forensic science degree.
Undergraduate Forensic Science Degree Requirements
Individuals seeking a forensic science degree at the associate’s and bachelor’s level will typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, SAT or ACT scores, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Graduate Forensic Science Degree Requirements
Those seeking a forensic science degree at the master’s level will need a bachelor’s degree. Some schools will accept individuals without a forensic science degree as long as they have completed accredited chemistry, biology, physics, and math courses, among others.
Other schools might require a bachelor’s degree in computer programming, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Master’s applicants might also need official transcripts, GRE test scores (depending on the school), letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a minimum GPA of 3.0.
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What University has the Best Forensic Science Program?
The best forensic science colleges in the World include:
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- Pennsylvania State University
- Texas A & M University
- George Mason University
- George Washington University
- Marshall University
- St Mary’s University
- American Intercontinental University
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Fairmont State University
- University Of Nebraska – Lincoln
- Hofstra University
- West Virginia University
- Loyola University Chicago
# 1. Virginia Commonwealth University
College Choice Score: 100
Average Net Price: $20,544
Situated in Richmond, Virginia, Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public, research-driven educational institution and one of the best forensic science colleges. It was established as a medical college, yet today it offers more than 200 scholastic degree programs to its 31,000 students.
When you obtain a B.S.C. in Forensic Science at Virginia Commonwealth University, you will investigate everything from microscopy to criminal procedure. This comprehensive program is housed in VCU’s well-known Department of Forensic Science and is fully accredited by FEPAC (the Forensic Science Educational Programs Accreditation Commission). You’ll even be given a chance to specialize in one of the three offered focus tracks such as:
- Forensic Biology
- Forensic Chemistry
- Physical Evidence
Carnegie classifies Virginia Commonwealth University as an educational institution with the “most noteworthy research activity.” Notwithstanding having about 30 well-ranked departments and colleges, VCU is nationally ranked by Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, etc.
#2. Pennsylvania State University
College Choice Score: 97.73
Average Net Price: $25,055
Pennsylvania State University is an immense research university with numerous campuses situated throughout the state. About 100,000 students study at Pennsylvania State, either on one of its multiple campuses or online. It is one of the country’s largest colleges.
Also Read: University of Pennsylvania Free Online Courses 2023
You will gain hands-on experience at Penn State when acquiring a B.S.B.S. in Forensic Science degree. This program places you in the laboratory and crime scene training facilities. You can get to the point of joining the Forensic Science Club. Some of the classes you’ll take at Penn State include:
- Essential Practices of Forensic Science
- Criminalistics
- A Scientific Approach to Crime Scene Investigation
- Laboratory in Crime Scene Investigation
Penn State is notable for its research activities in engineering, sociology, computer science, psychology, etc. Ranked 50th among all national universities, Penn State is additionally globally ranked, frequently landing among the top 100 best schools in the world. They are also ranked among the top 15 best forensic science colleges in the World.
#3. Texas A & M University
College Choice Score: 97.56
Average Net Price: $27,272
Texas A&M University (TAMU) is situated in College Station, Texas. It is a large public university notable for its research across the STEM fields. TAMU is a land, sea, and space-grant school with about 70,000 enrolled students.
At TAMU, you will investigate forensic science’s theoretical and practical applications. Furthermore, you will gain a sturdy foundation in the principles of investigation. You can even specialize in pre-law forensic science. Some of the classes you’ll participate in while at TAMU include:
- Forensic Implications of Inheritance
- Forensic Soil Science
- Biotechnology and Forensics
- Latent Print Processing
As a result of TAMU’s research initiatives and ambitions, the institution sustains close associations with and is financed by NASA, the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, etc. U.S. News & World Report ranks TAMU 68th among all universities nationwide. Nevertheless, they are equally ranked among the best universities for forensic science in the World.
#4. Michigan State University
College Choice Score: 97.42
Average Net Price: $14,970
Michigan State University (MSU) is situated in the state’s capital, East Lansing. It is a public research university that was established as an agricultural school. However, MSU offers more than 200 academic programs to its 50,000 students today.
Even though it is not technically a forensic science degree, MSU’s Bachelors in Criminal Justice program permits you to specialize in forensics. You will gain proficiency in the patterns and causes of crime through a wide-based educational plan. Classes cover the following:
- Introduction to Forensic Science
- Criminology
- Criminal Procedure
- Methods of Research
The MSU campus is home to many eminent research facilities, labs, and centers. Considered a Public Ivy and a member of the Association of American Universities, MSU is a highly-ranked educational institution U.S. News & World Report consistently includes it among the top 100 best universities in the country. However, they are equally ranked among the best universities for forensic science in the World.
#5. George Mason University
College Choice Score: 97.41
Average Net Price: $18,032
George Mason University (Mason) has a few campuses all through Virginia. It is an extensive research college, the largest in the state, known for its programs in economics, law, business, computer science, etc. More than 34,000 students attend Mason.
George Mason’s College of Science offers a full B.S.C in Forensic Science degree that prepares students for various career options. Students participate in an educational plan that offers training demonstrations, CSI techniques, and laboratory methods. Graduates from Mason have proceeded on to become:
- Forensic Anthropologists
- Investigation Specialists
- Private Lab Examiners
- Forensic Photographers
This University is among the best forensic science colleges and is nationally ranked by Forbes and U.S. News & World Report. The campus is made up of renowned research centers. And the University keeps up close affiliations with NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Smithsonian Institute, etc.
#6. George Washington University
College Choice Score: 97.07
Average Net Price: $39,562
George Washington University (GWU) is situated in the country’s capital. It is organized into about a dozen colleges and schools. With almost 30,000 students, GWU is the largest and the second oldest University in Washington D.CD.C.
While George Washington University may not offer a full forensic science program, they permit students majoring in chemistry to specialize in forensics. This program is ideal for students who want to be hired for work positions in federal and state forensic labs. You can also complete an M.S.C in forensic science degree simultaneously. Classes cover:
- General Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Forensic Science
GWU has numerous solid scholastic programs, but it is mainly known for training leaders in government, journalism, forensic science, and global affairs. The Princeton Review ranks GWU as a top ten campus for political involvement. However, they are equally ranked among the best universities for forensic science in the World.
#7. Marshall University
College Choice Score: 95.76
Average Net Price: $9,037
Marshall University is situated in Huntington, West Virginia. It comprises nine undergrad schools and a prestigious digital forensics program. About 13,000 individuals are students of Marshall.
You can earn a B.S.C at Marshall in Digital Forensics and Information Assurance. This is an ideal program for individuals who need to combat cyber threats through I.TI.T. You’ll obtain hands-on experience conducting tests and analyses while also taking classes like:
- Digital Evidence
- Computer Crime
- Network Penetration and Attack
- Network Defense
Marshall is home to two renowned honors programs: the John Marshall Scholars and the Society of Yeager Scholars. And according to the Forensic Science Assessment Test, the University’s forensic science programs were recently ranked first in the country. However, they are equally ranked among the best universities for forensic science in the World.
#8. St Mary’s University
College Choice Score: 94.32
Average Net Price: $16,857
St. Mary’s University is a Catholic school outside downtown San Antonio, Texas. The Society of Mary established it and maintained its Catholic distinctions and affiliations. Around 3,000 students attend this private college.
Notwithstanding fundamental coursework in forensic science, you will likewise gain crucial real-world experience through the internship program of this University. Concentration options include:
- B.S.C. in Forensic Science with Biology
- BS in Forensic Science with Chemistry
- BS in Forensic Science with Criminology
St. Mary’s University is regionally well-ranked by U.S. News & World Report. Notwithstanding its scholastic reputation, St. Mary’s is notable for its affordability and commitment to community service. Washington Monthly has, as of late, named it one of the best in the nation for its social mobility.
#9. American Intercontinental University
Choice Score: 94.18
Average Net Price: $19,962
More than 15,000 students attend American InterContinental University (AIU). This University is owned and operated by the Career Education Corporation and is a for-profit educational institution. AIU has three physical campuses, Atlanta, Houston, Weston, Florida, and an online campus.
AIU offers a B.S. in Criminal Justice degree that can be combined with a specialization in Forensic Science. This program is offered online, just as it is on the Atlanta and Houston campuses. Through AIU, you will be taught how to explore and solve crimes and comprehend the theories and causes behind the crime.
- Crime Victim Studies
- Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Theory
- Constitutional Issues in Criminal Procedure
- Evidence
AIU’s online programs have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report. Also, AIU is known for being a well-disposed military university. According to the Military Advanced Education Guide to Colleges and Universities, it was named a “top school.” However, they are equally ranked among the best schools for forensic science in the World.
#10. Eastern New Mexico University
College Choice Score: 93.95
Average Net Price: $10,481
Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) is situated in Portales, New Mexico. However, there are additional branches in Ruidoso and Roswell. About 6,000 students attend ENMU and enroll in one of the university’s four colleges.
At ENMU when you are awarded a B.S.C in Forensic Science degree, you will experience an eminently interdisciplinary education. This program shows you everything from human anatomy to how to deal with proof. In addition, at ENMU, you have the option of having some expertise in one of three areas:
- Anthropology
- Biology
- Chemistry
U.S. News & World Reportregionally ranks ENMU among the schools in the west. More, because of its locations, ENMU boasts one of the top science fiction library collections all over the World. There are about 30,000 volumes of books, photos, archives, and others! However, they are equally ranked among the best schools for forensic science in the World.
#11. Fairmont State University
College Choice Score: 93.86
Average Net Price: $8,738
Fairmont State University (FSU) is a public school in Fairmont, West Virginia. It was first established as a community college and then expanded into a technical educational institution. `In the now, it offers dozens of degrees in any variety of subjects to its 4,000 students.
Through Fairmont State University, you can be awarded a B.S.C. in Forensic Science degree saturated with legal analysis, quantitative reasoning, investigation, and laboratory methods. Graduates from this program have found work in everything from medical examination to forensic pathology. The courses covered by this institution include:
- Introduction to Forensic Science
- Forensic Biology
- Forensic Microscopy and Spectroscopy
- Capstone Seminar in Forensic Science
U.S. News & World Report incorporates Fairmont State University in its regional rankings of the South. In like manner, the online undergrad and graduate programs are profoundly regarded and well-ranked. Particularly the criminal justice and forensic science programs. However, they are equally ranked among the best schools for forensic science in the World.
#12. University Of Nebraska – Lincoln
College Choice Score: 93.77
Average Net Price: $16,462
The Lincoln branch within the greater University of Nebraska (UNL) system is a research university and is among the best forensic science colleges. It is sorted into eight colleges and has more than 100 research centers and facilities. It has a student population of more than 25,000 students.
At UNL, there are numerous ways to study forensic science. You can combine the B.S.B.S. degree with a pre-law track. Or you can focus on crime scene investigation or biochemistry. Anyway, you plan your degree; at the University of Nebraska London, you will gain a foundation in forensic science via its core educational plan:
- Introduction to Forensic Science
- Overview of Forensic Comparative Analysis Lab
- Current Issues in Forensic Science
- Survey of Criminal Justice
Nebraska’s oldest university, UNL, is a flagship educational institution. Notwithstanding its scholarly reputation, UNL is notable for its commitment to sustainability. Many of its buildings are LEED certified, and the campus has organized successful green campaigns and programs.
#13. Hofstra University
College Choice Score: 93.65
Average Net Price: $32,169
Hofstra University is a private, non-profit university situated on Long Island, New York. Its 10,000 students are enrolled in one of its ten colleges, including their exceptionally strong schools of medicine and law. There are likewise dozens of research centers and museums spread across campus.
Hofstra’s B.S.C. in Forensic Science program prepares students to work in the legal system. Expect to take classes in various subjects while additionally finishing an internship. Hofstra’s exceptionally regarded internship program positions students in the following ways:
- Government crime labs
- Medical examiner’s offices
- Police departments
- And more
Hofstra’s online programs are frequently included among the U.S. News & World Report rankings. And the campus is marked by its commitment to research and community. Hofstra University’s numerous research institutes are the well-known Institute for Health Law and Policy and the Institute for the Study of Conflict Transformation. However, they are equally ranked among the best schools for forensic science in the World.
#14. West Virginia University
College Choice Score: 92.97
Average Net Price: $10,814
West Virginia University (WVU) is a leading university and a public land-grant, space-grant, and research educational institution. It is situated in Morgantown and has about 30,000 students. WVU is organized into 15 colleges and schools.
WVU offers a B.S.C. in Forensic and Investigative Science degree. Through this program, you can become an exceptionally trained expert in three areas: forensic examination, forensic biology, or forensic chemistry. You will likewise take classes, for example,
- Professional Forensic Communications
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Law and Evidence
- Court Testimony
WVU is well-ranked by Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and Washington Monthly. Significantly more, WVU has graduated dozens of Rhodes, Goldwater, and Truman Scholars. It is given recognition for its research initiatives and, along these lines, designated an “R1” Research University.
#15. Loyola University Chicago
College Choice Score: 92.59
Average Net Price: $34,934
Loyola University in Chicago is a private Catholic school among the best forensic science colleges. It is one of the largest Catholic colleges in the country, with more than 16,000 combined undergraduate and graduate students. And Loyola offers more than 200 academic degree programs.
When you earn a B.S.C in Forensic Science degree from Loyola, you will have to be opportune to concentrate on forensic biology and DNA or forensic chemistry. Both give you a wide comprehension of the criminal justice system. And both expect you to complete the following courses:
- The Criminal Justice System
- Forensic Science Ethics and Professional Practice
- Expert Witness Testimony and Courtroom Demeanor
- Introduction to Biostatistics
U.S. News & World Report ranks Loyola University among the top 100 best universities in the country. On top of these scholastic awards, Loyola has gained considerable notoriety for promoting community service among its campus students.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Forensic Science?
Forensic science is the application of scientific principles and techniques to matters of criminal justice which often deals with the collection, examination, and analysis of physical evidence at crime scenes. In other words, it is the process of applying the methods of the natural and physical sciences to matters of criminal and civil law.
What are the Types of Forensic Science?
The various types of forensic sciences you may consider include:
Document examination
DNA analysis
Digital/ Cyber Forensics
Crime Scene Forensics
Engineering
Psychology
Archaeology
Fingerprinting
Autopsy techniques
Linguistics
Pathology
Economics
Accounting
Entomology
Anthropology
Toxicology
Why study Forensic Science?
The reasons for studying forensic science include the following:
Forensic experts assist police, detectives, criminologists, and other law enforcement agencies in identifying the perpetrators of crimes.
Forensic science programs will teach you how to “listen to the dead.” Both crime scenes and crime victims can make available clues as to what, how, when, and of most importance, who about an incident.
You will be taught how to examine trace details, for instance, skin, hair, clothing fibers, DNA, blood, and fingerprints, and, in the case of a murder investigation, wounds, patterns of blood loss, and the amount of decay.
What are the subjects required for forensic science?
To work in forensic investigation, you will need a strong foundation in science. This typically requires a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field.
However, once on the job, you will do more than work with test tubes or microscopes. Prepare for the wide range of demands by refining your interpersonal and communication skills, strengthening your math and computer knowledge, and understanding how to apply these facets in law enforcement.
How Long Does it Take to Earn a Forensic science Degree?
It takes a minimum of four years to earn a forensic science degree successfully. However, those who have a transferable associate degree can earn a bachelor’s degree in forensic science in just two years.
Is Forensic Science In High Demand?
According to the American Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for forensic science technicians are expected to increase by 14% between 2019 and 2029, but forensic science is a small occupation; this 14% increase can only result in 2400 more jobs.
So, although forensic science will be in demand, getting jobs will be very competitive.
Conclusion:
So many people believe that being a forensic scientist can be scary due to the nature of the job. No doubt, forensic scientists encounter a lot of disturbing events, but it is an adventurous and interesting career path. As long as you don’t take the things you see personally.
Building a promising career in forensic science starts with going to the right school. If you can afford to, you should attend any of the best Forensic science colleges that suit your preference.
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