can you get a phd in forensic science

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Ph.D. in Forensic Science

The Ph.D. in Forensic Science program is only the second such program in the United States and has a much wider scope than that of the M.S. program. The major emphasis of the program is the development and completion of a research problem that involves advanced techniques and concepts, culminating in an oral defense of the Ph.D. dissertation. Ph.D. students take a common core of advanced forensic science courses and additional courses as deemed necessary by their dissertation committees.

The objective of the Ph.D. program in Forensic Science is to prepare students to work as professionals in academia, government laboratories, or private industry as laboratory specialists. Through a core of advanced course work and a requisite independently executed research project, the program is designed to provide students with the skills needed to critically assess the current state of knowledge within the field, and to solve complex problems at the frontier of the discipline.

Because of the lack of doctoral programs nationally in forensic science, the offering of a Ph.D. program in Forensic Science at WVU establishes the department’s position as a leader in this critically important area of study. The program is strongly science-based and prepares students to work across the foundations of criminalistics: students learn the underpinnings of the discipline, research design, quantitative methods, statistical analysis, and communication skills such as scientific writing and presenting. Since students may enter the program with a wide array of backgrounds, Ph.D. candidates typically enroll in a common core of advanced forensic science courses, followed by additional courses as deemed necessary by their dissertation committees.

The program for the Ph.D. degree reflects a combination of prescriptive coursework as well as a flexible, research-oriented approach geared to develop the interests, capability, and potential of the student. In addition to the curriculum for the M.S. degree, doctoral students are required to take three additional core courses and two colloquium courses. These courses present the essentials of a given discipline on an advanced level and expose the student to the frontiers in a specific area of research. The course offerings are designed to provide guidelines from which students can launch their independent research projects. Ph.D. students are required to enroll and participate in the departmental seminar program for at least four semesters. By doing so, it is anticipated that they will serve as role models for the graduate students in the M.S. program.

Pathway to the PhD via the Department’s M.S.

Students who have completed the M.S. at WVU must formally apply for admission to the Ph.D. program. 

Pathways to the PhD beside that of the Department’s M.S.

Students who have completed an M.S. at another institution can enter the Ph.D. program; their course work will be evaluated against that of WVU’s M.S. program and each student will be appraised of any course deficiencies that need to be completed as part of his/her course of study under the Ph.D. program. 

Academic standards are similar for the M.S. and Ph.D. program. Thesis research is different in that students are encouraged to use the manuscript model for preparing the results of their research, which consists of a series of interrelated chapters/papers on the topic. The quality and contribution of each chapter/paper should be that of an article published in a peer-reviewed scholarly journal. Some chapters/papers may actually be published in advance of the final dissertation. In fact, this latter approach is generally preferable because the chapter/paper in question will already have gone through peer review by experts outside the institution. 

The form for the dissertation, should include 1) an introductory chapter that clarifies the theme of the dissertation, 2) a number of interrelated papers, and 3) a concluding chapter that synthesizes and integrates the papers and proposes ideas for future work.

Requirements for Application

• Personal statement
• GRE taken within the last seven years with a score of 300 or better
• Academic transcripts
• Research writing example of a peer-reviewed publication or thesis 
• If you wish to submit an alternative document for review, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator, Tina Moroose , to determine suitability.
• Three letters of recommendation 
• All references must be familiar with, and able to comment on, the applicant’s academic and/or research skill set

Application Deadline

Although early review of applications will begin December 15, the application deadline for the Ph.D. program is January 15. Late admissions will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Application to WVU

For additional information, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator at: [email protected] or 304-293-5346

How to Become a Forensic Scientist

Forensic science is a field that focuses on using scientific methods to address legal disputes.

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Many forensic scientists work for government-run crime laboratories, and some work for law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

When a serious crime such as a murder occurs, the identity of the perpetrator may not be obvious. In whodunit scenarios, where it is unclear who is responsible for wrongdoing, forensic science often provides the key to solving the mystery.

How Long It Takes to Get a Ph.D. Degree

Ilana Kowarski Aug. 12, 2019

What Is Forensic Science? A Definition

Forensic science is a practical academic discipline that involves solving puzzles. Forensic scientists use their knowledge of basic science fields like biology, chemistry and physics to investigate questions with legal implications, such as inquiries about who is at fault for a particular incident or what caused an injury.

For example, forensic science could clarify whether and when someone was poisoned, and it could indicate whether a particular gun had been used in a homicide.

"It's all about traceable, detailed investigations to solve a problem or solve a crime," says Catherine Jordan, who has a Ph.D. degree in organic chemistry and spent nine years working as a forensic scientist. Jordan previously worked for Minton, Treharne & Davies, an international scientific testing and inspection service provider.

Jennifer Shen – former director of the police department crime lab in San Diego, California – emphasizes that forensic science is "first and foremost, a science" and notes that a person needs some kind of scientific education in order to work as a forensic scientist.

Qualities Needed to Become a Forensic Scientist

A science degree is necessary, but not sufficient, for a career as a forensic scientist. The ability to pass a background check is critical, warns Daniele Podini, chair of the department of forensic sciences at George Washington University , where he is also an associate professor.

Podini also suggests that because forensic scientists often encounter disturbing imagery and hear troubling stories, they need to be able to emotionally detach themselves and keep a level head.

According to Jordan, analytical skills are necessary for success in forensic science. In addition, because forensic scientists often serve as expert witnesses in criminal and civil court cases and frequently testify before judges and juries, they must be eloquent enough to "present their findings well enough to stand up in court," Jordan says.

Though associate and bachelor's degrees are sufficient for certain basic forensic science jobs, high-level jobs in the field usually require a master's degree , and some roles cannot be obtained without a doctorate, experts say.

Because the profession is one that many workers consider glamorous, competition for jobs tends to be fierce, Shen says. Anyone who hopes to gain employment in this sector ought to present themselves to employers in a polished way in order to maximize their chances of getting hired, she adds.

Anita Zannin, a forensic scientist who owns AZ Forensic Associates LLC, a forensic consulting firm in New York, notes that objectivity is essential within the forensic science field.

"Individuals should not get into this field to 'put bad guys away' – it should be just as rewarding to assist in exonerating someone who has been wrongfully accused," Zannin, who earned a master's degree in forensic science from Syracuse University , wrote in an email. "While we are all human, and may have opinions about an individual’s guilt or innocence, that opinion CANNOT play into a scientist’s evaluation of the evidence."

What an Aspiring Forensic Scientist Should Study

Though it is possible for someone to become a forensic scientist if he or she has a degree in a related academic discipline, having a forensic science degree is helpful when competing for jobs in that field, according to experts. Graduate-level credentials can increase someone's odds of advancement within the profession, since technical lead positions often require a master's and some lab director jobs cannot be acquired without a Ph.D. degree, experts suggest.

Forensic science students can expect to take a combination of science classes, including courses in genetics, biochemistry and microscopy, and should anticipate spending a lot of time in the laboratory. They also typically learn how to follow lab protocols and write forensic reports. Graduate students in forensic science programs usually specialize within a particular area of forensic science, such as forensic biology or forensic chemistry.

Forensic Science Careers

Forensic scientists are often employed by federal, state, city or local governments. Many work for government-run crime laboratories, and some work for law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation .

They sometimes work at private-sector labs and occasionally work independently, says Zannin, who also earned bachelor's degrees in forensic chemistry and criminal justice. While forensic scientists typically focus on criminal matters, she explains, they can be involved with civil litigation, serving as expert witnesses in courtroom disputes over product liability and personal injuries.

The median annual salary among U.S. forensic science technicians was $59,150 as of May 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Technician positions typically require a bachelor's degree, the bureau states.

Someone who advances from a technician position to a management role may earn significantly more money. According to the bureau, the median salary among natural sciences managers – people who supervise lab scientists – was $129,100 in May 2019.

Shen says one advantage of forensic science jobs, compared with other science positions, is that scientists in these roles often see immediate results from their labor – something that is rare in other branches of science such as biology . There is also something fulfilling about performing a public service by revealing the truth about what happened in a particular case, she adds.

Podini notes that forensic science jobs often involve significant pressure, since sometimes a backlog of evidence needs to be processed and accuracy is paramount.

"You don't want to make mistakes, because these mistakes can then have an effect on people's lives," he says.

A significant benefit of being a forensic scientist, Podini says, is that "what you do benefits society and is very important for society."

He adds that DNA analysis can lead to wonderful results. "A family can find closure, or a victim can find closure, or an innocent suspect is exonerated, or a person that might hurt others is apprehended and taken off the street."

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PhD in Forensic Science

The mission of the PhD in Forensic Science is to provide students with the critical thinking ability; problem-solving skills; and advanced, discipline-specific knowledge to allow them to advance into leadership positions.

This is accomplished by demonstrating the ability to perform independent, original research; the successful completion of multidisciplinary academic coursework; hands-on experience in the laboratory; and collaboration with accredited forensic laboratories, institutes, and partners.

Educational Objectives

• Provide students the knowledge, skills, and abilities to prepare them for successful careers in forensic science.
• Develop students’ critical thinking ability, problem-solving skills, and advanced discipline-specific knowledge.
• Produce high quality graduates capable of advancement into leadership positions.
• Engage in collaborative research that demonstrates industrial relevance and wider scientific awareness.

The PhD in Forensic Science requires the completion of 86 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree. Students complete:

Dissertation research hours may be substituted for electives (15 SCH maximum) with approval of the Department Chair. 

The curriculum is designed to deliver an essential core curriculum in forensic science, together with specialized electives and intensive research in the area of interest. Students are expected to fulfill the requirements during approximately five years of full-time study.

Students with an MS in Forensic Science from a FEPAC-accredited institution may be eligible to transfer credit towards the eighty-six credit hour requirement. 

Program Breakdown

Additional information : Reference the Program Landing Page for additional information, such as cost, delivery format, contact information, or to schedule a visit.

Review of applications and offers of admission will begin Jan. 15 and proceed until enrollment openings are filled. A holistic review of each student’s application will be completed on a competitive basis.  All applicants are automatically considered for graduate assistantships in the Department of Forensic Science. 

Please submit all documents to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Admission considerations include:

• Graduate Application
• Application fee
• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, biology, forensic or natural science
• Completion of eight credit hours (two semesters or equivalent) of organic chemistry with laboratories 
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
• GPA of 3.5 or higher (strongly preferred)
• Official GRE scores 
• Three letters of recommendation with Admission Recommendation Checklists. At least two must be from academic sources
• A personal statement of 500 - 750 words
• A current resume or vita
• TOEFL/IELTS scores and third-party transcript evaluation for international students (if applicable)
• A personal interview may be requested

The Program Application, Application Checklist, and instructions are available at  Application Resources .

Note: To be eligible for employment at forensic laboratories, students may need to complete additional foundational courses beyond the standard PhD degree requirements. For instance, prospective employees in Forensic Biology must have completed a minimum of nine credit hours in upper-level biology courses, including biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology. Additionally, prospective employees in Forensic Toxicology must have completed at least two courses, each carrying a minimum of three credit hours, in quantitative analysis and biochemistry, or similarly named courses. 

The program requires the completion of a minimum of eighty-six hours of graduate credit, as prescribed in the curriculum.

Students must register full-time and maintain a 3.0 grade point average in all courses. In order to advance to candidacy students must have successfully completed (or be currently enrolled in) forty-four graduate credit hours of coursework and research.  Students must submit a portfolio for review, write a formal research proposal, orally defend the proposal, and pass the qualifying examination (typically by the close of the second spring semester). Once the committee determines that the portfolio, proposal, oral defense, and examination performance are satisfactory, the student may enroll in dissertation research.

A minimum of fifteen hours of dissertation credits are required and students must maintain continuous enrollment until they graduate. Students must complete and defend a doctoral dissertation, which is the product of original scholarly research and is of sufficient publishable quality to represent a meaningful contribution to knowledge in the field of forensic science.

During the first year of study, students are exposed to the major forensic disciplines in addition to the forensic internship. After successfully completing core coursework during the first year, students identify their discipline of study and commence research under the direction of their faculty advisor. 

Students with an MS in Forensic Science from a FEPAC-accredited institution may be eligible to transfer credit towards the eighty-six credit hour requirement.  

FORS 6014 must be taken for a total of six credit hours.

Once the minimum number of dissertation research hours have been met, dissertation hours may be substituted for electives (15 SCH maximum) with approval of the department chair. 

Once enrolled in FORS 8099 , students must enroll in this course every semester until graduation.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) marketable skills initiative is part of the state’s 60x30TX plan and was designed to help students articulate their skills to employers.  Marketable skills are those skills valued by employers and/or graduate programs that can be applied in a variety of work or education settings and may include interpersonal, cognitive, and applied skill areas.

The PhD in Forensic Science is designed to provide graduates with the following marketable skills:

• Advanced discipline-specific knowledge.
• Hands-on laboratory skills.
• Familiarity with legal, ethical, and quality assurance issues.
• Critical thinking skills.
• Impartiality and scientific objectivity.
• Application of statistical concepts to forensic science.
• Familiarity with consensus-based scientific standards in forensic science.
• Advanced instrumental understanding and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to conduct original research.
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A PDF of the 2023-2024 catalog.

Forensic Science, Ph.D.

Degree requirements.

• Credit Hours:  Graduate students in the Ph.D. program must successfully complete a minimum of 71 credit hours. Each student may apply a maximum of 31 credit hours of research toward the 71-hour requirement; the remaining 40 credit hours must be earned in graduate-level courses in Forensic Science.
• Grade Point Average: Students must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in courses applied to the degree.
• Program of Study: The program also includes an oral qualifying examination, a dissertation proposal presentation, and an oral defense of the dissertation.

Oral Qualifying Examination:   Doctoral students must pass a comprehensive oral examination in the field of criminalistics to demonstrate their competency in the discipline and successfully defend the topic of their dissertation research.

Dissertation:   Students are required to complete a dissertation.  Additional information, expectations, requirements, and timeline information is found in the Department's Graduate Student Handbook. 

Benchmarks: For details, go to the Forensics Degree Progress tab .

Curriculum Requirements

Or equivalent graduate course approved by Graduate Studies Committee. Excludes Graduate Seminar (796) and Research (797).

Each attempt at FIS 796 is worth one credit hour; students must successfully complete one credit per semester over six semesters.

Major Learning Outcomes

Forensic science.

As a result of completing the PhD in Forensic Science, students will be able to:

• Assess the value of evidence in different circumstances, propose best practices for its examination and demonstrate mastery in performing a variety of different examinations of evidence
• Identify the limitations in the knowledge and capabilities of forensic science, formulate creative solutions and design and conduct scientifically sound experiments to overcome the identified limitations.
• Execute persuasive communications, in written and oral formats, of his/her test results and research discoveries

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Forensic Science , Doctorate of Philosophy

Available: On Campus

The Doctor of Philosophy in Forensic Science is an interdisciplinary science degree that is designed to provide students with the critical thinking ability, problem-solving skills, and advanced, discipline-specific knowledge to allow them to advance into leadership positions. This is accomplished by demonstrating the ability to perform independent, original research, the successful completion of multidisciplinary academic coursework, hands-on experience in the laboratory, and collaboration with accredited forensic laboratories, institutes and partners.

The PhD in Forensic Science requires the completion of 86 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree. Students complete a total of 43 credit hours of core coursework, a minimum of 15 credit hours of dissertation research and an additional 28 credit hours of electives. The curriculum is designed to deliver an essential core curriculum in forensic science, together with specialized electives and intensive research in the area of interest. Students are expected to fulfill the requirements during four to five years of full-time study.

Program Breakdown

Application deadlines.

Students are accepted in the Fall semester only. All application materials must be received by the deadline for consideration the following academic year. A holistic review of each student's application file will be completed on a competitive basis. Late applications may be accepted; please contact the program office directly. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

• Fall: January 15

Please note that application deadlines will occasionally change. Please contact the program director (listed in the contact section) for confirmation on application deadlines.

Contact Info

Office of admissions.

• Graduate Admissions Website
• 936.294.1971
• [email protected]

Department Chair

• Dr. Sheree Hughes
• 936.294.2608
• [email protected]

• Forensics Colleges » Forensic Education Blog » How to Become » How To Become a Forensic Scientist

How To Become a Forensic Scientist

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There’s undeniable intrigue in careers related to forensic science. Trained to see evidence invisible to the naked eye, these laboratory crime fighters use the rigorous powers of observation, inference, and research-based analyses to reconstruct (often violent) events and put criminals behind bars.

Forensic scientists and forensic science technicians receive ample on-the-job training. Before seeking employment, most pursue college degrees in forensics, biology, molecular biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and other hard sciences, choosing specialized coursework in pathology, DNA, criminology, firearms, genetics, fingerprints, toxicology, trace evidence, and other relevant fields.

The daily responsibilities of forensic scientists vary from standard to specialized. O*NET (2024)—an organization sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor—details some of the common job responsibilities for these professionals. Forensic science technicians gather evidence (e.g., bodily fluids, clothing fibers, weapons, soils, plastics, etc); photograph or document findings (i.e., create “certificates of analyses”); analyze evidence using scientific procedures (e.g., scanning electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography, genetic fingerprinting); visit morgues to examine victims of crime; stay abreast of methodological and technological developments in the field; compare evidence with digital records; liaise with experts in law, medicine, ballistics, metallurgy, handwriting, electronics, and other fields; create presentations for conferences; and testify as expert witnesses in court.

As for work environments, many forensic scientists work for the federal government—the highest-paying employer according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2023—although local governments are actually the top-employing organization in this field. Finally, before seeking jobs in the upper echelons of the discipline, many forensic science professionals choose to become nationally certified through agencies accredited by the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB).

Read on for a more granular look at the salary prospects and steps to becoming a forensic scientist, including typical education, program accreditation, and professional certification options.

Forensic Scientist Career Outlook and Salary Details

There’s excellent news for the future of this profession. The BLS (2024) projects that openings for forensic science technicians will swell 13 percent between 2022 and 2032, which is more than four times the growth rate anticipated for all occupations (3 percent). Furthermore, this expected addition of 2,300 jobs does not include increased opportunities in related careers such as crime scene investigators (CSI), medicolegal death experts, insurance investigators, biological technicians, chemical technicians, laboratory technologists, fire inspectors, etc.

The good news is that there’s no shortage of opportunities for qualified forensic science technicians who have the right training under their belts. According to Indeed.com, in May 2024, there were 284 job postings for these professionals in the United States, including openings at the Montgomery County Government, the City of Santa Monica, the Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County, the King County, RTI International, the US Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. In sum, this is expected to be a high-growth career with employment in various US-based locations in the future.

Regarding the salaries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2023), forensic science technicians enjoy good wages nationwide. Among the 17,520 forensic science technicians around the US, the BLS found an average annual salary (annual mean wage) of $71,540, much more than the mean yearly salary for all occupations in the U.S. at $65,470 ( BLS May 2023). As wages vary by region, experience, education, and other factors, the BLS provides a salary range breakdown for forensic science technicians.

In more detailed terms, here are the salary percentiles in this occupation in the US:

The salary data on PayScale (May 2024)—an aggregator of self-reported wages in common occupations—found slightly different ranges among its 265 forensic scientist respondents:

• 10th percentile: $41,000
• 50th percentile (median): $57,060
• 90th percentile: $85,000

As mentioned above, salary prospects tend to differ according to region. The highest-paying states for forensic science technicians are the following (May 2023):

• California: $98,400 (annual mean salary)
• Illinois: $95,750
• Connecticut: $82,620
• New York: $82,610
• Massachusetts: $82,520

However, these are not necessarily the highest employing states for these forensics professionals, a factor roughly correlating with state population size (May 2023):

• California: 2,390 forensic science technicians employed
• Texas: 2,220
• Florida: 2,030
• Arizona: 860
• Virginia: 700

Finally, good news for Californians: four of the top-five highest-paying metropolitan areas are located in the Golden State (May 2023):

• New Orleans-Metairie, LA: $165,410 annual mean salary
• San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA: $119,460
• Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA: $109,000
• San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA: $102,710
• Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA: $101,350

For more information, please visit the forensic scientist salary page.

Education and Professional Licensure Requirements for Forensic Scientists

The forensic scientist occupation can encompass several different professions, but this section will mainly consider the career of a forensic science technician. New forensic science technicians should earn a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to give themselves the best chance of employment.

In most cases, there are no legal requirements for certification or licensure for forensic scientists. However, Indiana has explicitly developed a Crime Scene Certification Committee to certify crime scene investigators. Other states may follow suit with licensure requirements.

In addition to legal certification, many forensic scientists pursue certification in their chosen specialty to improve employment opportunities. The Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB) accredits forensic toxicology, criminalistics, and document examination certifications. Each certification has discrete requirements, so those interested in pursuing this type of certification should determine the prerequisites.

Steps to Becoming a Forensic Scientist

There are many paths to a promising career in forensic science. Here is one possible path to joining this high-growth field:

Step 1: Graduate from high school

To set themselves up for success, aspiring forensic scientists are advised to graduate from high school, ideally with high marks in biology, chemistry, physiology, statistics, and mathematics. Additionally, some students volunteer or intern in relevant agencies such as police departments, fire departments, medical laboratories, hospitals, or other organizations.

For example, the National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) provides a weeklong summer internship to secondary students in forensic science with hands-on training through forensic simulations, supervised laboratory work, and lectures from experienced professionals. The summer sessions occur at American University and Columbia University, giving students hands-on opportunities to solve simulated crimes and interact with legal experts. Interested students are encouraged to contact local and national institutions to see which opportunities are available.

• Location: New York, NY, and Washington D.C.
• Accreditation: N/A
• Expected Time to Completion: Nine days

Step 2: Earn a forensic science associate degree (two years)

Some associate degree programs are available for prospective entry-level forensic science technicians. Admissions requirements for two-year programs in this field generally call for a high school diploma; a competitive GPA; a personal statement; and TOEFL test scores (for non-native speakers of English). In addition to general education, these programs may have classes in criminal law, fire & arson investigation, and the physical sciences.

Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College (MDC) offers an associate in science degree in crime scene technology, preparing students for employment in criminalistics with a specialty in forensic science or crime scene investigation. The forensic science associate degree prepares students for employment as forensic identification specialists.

Made up of 60 credits, the program includes courses such as human behavior in criminal justice; criminal investigation; introduction to criminal justice; forensic science; crime scene technology; basic fingerprinting; biotechnology methods and applications; and general chemistry & qualitative analysis.

Graduates of the program will be able to pursue entry-level positions in local, state, and federal agencies in forensic sciences, medical investigations, crime scene investigations, insurance investigations, and laboratory technologies.

• Location: Westview, FL, and Kendall, FL
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Step 3: Enroll in a bachelor’s degree program (two to four years)

While there are many ways to become a forensic scientist, earning a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, forensics, or a related field is highly recommended. O*NET Online (2024) confirms this, saying that most forensic scientists have a bachelor’s degree. Not only can a four-year degree enhance employment prospects and earning potential, but it can also open doors to careers in related fields, particularly laboratory work. Graduates from two-year associate’s degree programs can finish their degree in two years, while those enrolling in a bachelor’s program from high school can complete this degree in four years.

Typical applications to scientific bachelor’s programs may include the completion of specific coursework (e.g., high school level chemistry, biology, and mathematics); a competitive GPA; national test scores (SAT or ACT); a personal statement; letter(s) of recommendation; and TOEFL test scores (again, for non-native speakers of English).

In addition to general education, bachelor’s programs for forensic scientists include courses in criminalistics, forensic biology, organic chemistry, and more. The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC)—the primary accrediting body for forensic science programs in the country—evaluates the quality of curricula, educational objectives, student support services, faculty credentials, admissions processes, and other relevant factors in schools nationwide.

The University of Tampa

For those seeking a degree in forensics, the University of Tampa (UT) provides a FEPAC-recognized bachelor of science (BS) program in forensic science. Students in this program receive training in forensic chemistry, crime scene investigation, forensic biology, forensic toxicology, fire debris analysis, and forensic firearms examinations. The curriculum of this program also includes internship opportunities with forensic laboratories.

Similar to many BS programs in forensics, UT provides a rigorous mix of laboratory experience and classes such as forensic chemistry; molecular biology; genetics; organic chemistry; forensic toxicology; introduction to criminal justice; biochemistry; and introduction to forensic research. The program comprises 86 credits.

• Location: Tampa, FL
• Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online bachelor of science degree in forensic science, teaching students about interpreting evidence and solving crimes using the latest technology. They will gain hands-on experience and learn professional forensic science techniques investigating crimes. At the end of the program, students will have to attend an in-person culminating experience on ASU’s West campus.

Comprising 120 credits, the program includes coursework in the fundamentals of genetics; modern concepts in biochemistry; general organic chemistry; principles of forensic science; fundamentals of forensic analysis; testimony and ethics in the forensic sciences; and analytical chemistry for life sciences.

Upon completing the program, graduates can take up roles such as biological scientists, biological technicians, chemical technicians, crime scene investigators, medical scientists, and health sciences managers.

• Location: Glendale, AZ
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Four years

For more bachelor’s programs in this field, visit the FEPAC website or the forensic science education page.

Step 4: Get experience in a police department, crime laboratory, or another relevant setting (one to three years)

At this stage, many graduates of forensic science programs choose to garner some professional experience in medical and diagnostic laboratories, police departments, local governments, federal agencies, hospitals, and other settings. Not only does this address the disjunction between didactic coursework and real-world applications, but it also can put these professionals in a position to seek national certification.

Step 5: Seek professional certification (timeline varies)

Although professional certification may not be required for employment, it can enhance a job candidate’s resume or salary prospects. There are several relevant certification boards accredited by the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB), which include:

• American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE)
• International Board of Forensic Engineering Sciences (IBFES)
• American Board of Forensic Odontology (ABFO)
• American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA)
• American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT)
• American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI)
• Board of Forensic Document Examiners (BFDE)
• International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI)
• International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS)

While requirements for these certifications vary, they typically involve possessing at least a bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to forensics; proof of job experience; letter(s) of recommendation; submitting an application fee; and successfully passing a test. For example, the American Board of Forensic Toxicology’s (ABFT) five-year “specialist” certification calls for official transcripts; a recent passport-style photograph; three professional references; proof of three years of experience; a $300 application fee; and passing a comprehensive exam. This certification is also offered at the “diplomatic” level to those with relevant doctoral degrees and at least three years of experience.

By contrast, the International Association for Identification (IAI) offers more targeted certifications that reflect specific competencies such as footwear identification; forensic art expertise; bloodstain pattern analysis; and ten-print fingerprint certification. Check with certifying boards for specific prerequisites.

Step 6: Enroll in a graduate program in forensic science (optional but encouraged, two to four years)

While a master’s degree may be optional for many positions, pursuing a master’s or doctoral program in forensic science is an enticing option for mid-career forensic scientists seeking to upgrade their knowledge and credentials. Here are graduate degree and certificate programs in forensic science.

Boston University

Boston University’s (BU) School of Medicine hosts a FEPAC-accredited master of science (MS) in biomedical forensic sciences, one of the premier graduate programs of its kind in the country. This program trains students in a variety of disciplines applicable to both evidence analysis and crime scene investigation.

To get accepted into the program, applicants must have a baccalaureate degree (preferably in natural science) from an accredited university, GRE scores (optional), a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, a current CV highlighting research, and TOEFL scores for students whose first language is not English.

In addition to supervised research and mock-court experiences, students must pass challenging coursework in criminal law & ethics; crime scene investigation; forensic biology; forensic chemistry; and trace evidence analysis, among others. The program consists of 38 credits.

Graduates of the program will be prepared to take up several career options in medical examiner offices, crime laboratories, scientific instrument companies, hospital or biotechnology laboratories, and law enforcement agencies.

• Location: Boston, MA
• Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Expected Time to Completion: 24 months

Marshall University

The Marshall University Forensic Science Graduate Program is a prestigious institution that offers a master of science in forensic science degree, which is accredited by FEPAC. The program entails a five-semester core curriculum with both thesis and non-thesis options, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education in forensic science. To enhance their knowledge and expertise, students can opt for one or all of the four areas of emphasis offered by the program: forensic chemistry, DNA analysis, crime scene investigation, and digital forensics.

Applications are accepted every spring for a fall semester start. Applicants to this program must have a bachelor’s degree in forensic or natural science, computer science, computer or electrical engineering, information technology, or equivalent and a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This program is tailored to suit students who seek a deeper understanding of forensic science and to equip them with the necessary tools to excel in this exciting and fast-evolving field.

The 38-credit program includes courses such as crime scene and death investigation, forensic microscopy, forensic comparative sciences, forensic statistics, forensic analytical chemistry, biochemistry, foundations and fundamentals in digital forensics, legal issues in forensic science, and genetics and DNA technologies.

• Location: Huntington, WV
• Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Stevenson University

Stevenson University’s online master of forensic science is ideal for working professionals who wish to learn about the technology, pertinent law, and instrumentation used for collecting evidence for presentation in a court of law. Students in this program will receive training from the top experts in the field, as Stevenson University has a strong relationship with the U.S. Secret Service Lab, the Baltimore County Crime Lab, and the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division.

Applicants to the program must have a bachelor’s degree in a natural science field, official college transcripts from all previous academic work, a GPA of 3.0, and a personal statement. Students must also complete general chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, statistics, and physics prerequisite courses.

As part of the program, students will delve into topics such as physical evidence at crime scenes; serology & immunology; trace evidence; toxicology; crime scene investigation; and DNA analysis.

Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to work as forensic DNA analysts, forensic toxicologists, forensic latent print examiners, and crime scene investigators.

• Location: Owings Mills, MD
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Finally, graduate certificate options are abundant as well, including online programs.

The University of Florida

For example, the University of Florida (UF) offers four distinct 15-credit, online graduate certificates in forensic science: death investigation, toxicology, drug chemistry, and DNA & serology. All of these programs can be completed entirely online.

For the forensic DNA & serology track, students must complete five foundational courses that impart skills in DNA analysis, blood-spatter analysis, interpretations of biochemical evidence, and nucleic acid chemistry, among other abilities.

The graduate certificate in death investigation is offered in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh College of Medicine. The curriculum for this program includes courses such as forensic analysis of DNA; forensic anthropology; and introduction to forensic medicine.

The toxicology graduate certificate is offered by the Department of Physiological Sciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine. It focuses on the principles of toxicology, drug biotransformation, and forensic toxicology.

Finally, the drug chemistry certificate is offered by the College of Pharmacy. It is structured to provide graduates with a solid foundation in drug pharmacology, analytical techniques, expert testimony, forensic drug chemistry, drug synthesis, and QA/QC procedures.

The university also offers a 12-credit graduate certificate in forensic science that includes courses such as biological evidence and serology; principles of forensic science; bloodstain pattern analysis; and forensic toxicology.

Notably, in addition to graduate certificates, the university also offers four master’s degree programs in forensic science, forensic DNA & serology, forensic toxicology, and forensic drug chemistry.

• Location: Gainesville, FL
• Expected Time to Completion: 12 months

For more information on graduate education—both online and on-campus—please visit the forensic science online programs and forensic science education pages.

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Jocelyn Blore

Jocelyn Blore is the chief content officer of Sechel Ventures and the co-author of the Women Breaking Barriers series. She graduated summa cum laude from UC Berkeley and traveled the world for five years. She also worked as an addiction specialist for two years in San Francisco. She’s interested in how culture shapes individuals and systems within societies—one of the many themes she writes about in her blog, Blore’s Razor (Instagram: @bloresrazor). She has served as managing editor for several healthcare websites since 2015.

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