Forensic Science Degree Online

What is Forensic Science?

Forensic Science as a major is a combination of a science major and a criminal justice major. Forensic scientists collect and evaluate evidence from crime scenes and accidents, and often end up testifying in legal proceedings.

Is Forensic Science a Good Major / Degree for Me?

Are you passionate about science? Do you look forward to chemistry class? Do you plan and perform scientific experiments and investigations for fun? Are you good at math? Do you like working with computers and other cutting edge technology? Do you love to learn new things? Do you like watching television shows that feature forensic scientists? Do you enjoy working as part of a team? Does criminal justice interest you? If you’ve answered yes to some of these questions, then a degree in forensic science might be for you.

High School Classes Needed for a Forensic Science Degree in College:

• 4 English Credits
• At least 4 Credits of Math (including precalculus if possible)
• Biology with a Lab
• Chemistry with a Lab
• Physics with a Lab
• Other Science Electives, if Available
• At least 3 Social Studies Credits
• At least 2 Foreign Language Credits
• If your high school offers AP courses, opt for these opportunities!

Common Forensic Science Courses in College:

• Anatomy
• Anthropology
• Biology
• Calculus
• Chemistry
• Crime Scene Investigation
• Criminal Evidence and Procedure
• Criminology
• Entomology
• Psychology
• Statistics

Similar Degree Programs You Might Want to Explore:

• Anthropology: the study of human beings
• Biology: the study of living organisms
• Chemical Engineering: the study of math and science as it applies to production
• Chemistry: the study of matter
• Computer Forensics (sometimes called Cyber Forensics): the study of computer evidence in relation to crime
• Criminal Justice: the study of society and criminal behavior
• Criminology: the study of crime
• Legal Studies: the study of law and legal issues
• Psychology: the study of the human mind and human behavior

Forensic Science Careers:

Television shows like CSI can give people a false perception of forensic science careers. Sometimes, we are made to think that it is the same person who collects evidence, analyzes it, and then chases and catches the bad guy. In reality, it is a team of people who do this, and a forensic science degree can lead a person into a number of directions. Forensic science majors often go on to careers as:

• Computer Analysts
• Crime Scene Investigators
• DNA Analysts
• Entomologists
• Field Technicians
• Lab Technicians
• Law Enforcement Officers
• Forensic Artists
• Forensic Engineers
• Forensic Scientists
• Medical Examiners