Best Online Master’s in Forensic Science Programs

Our experts at BestColleges have ranked the top online master's in forensic science programs. Compare schools by cost, convenience, and academic quality to help inform how you decide on your...
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Updated on April 19, 2023
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A master's in forensic science equips graduates with specialized law enforcement, science, laboratory, and investigative skills. Typically two years in length, the programs feature training in crime scene investigation and evidence analysis. Graduates can steer toward traditional or specialty law enforcement careers depending on their program choices and interests.

Combining online criminal justice degree and science degree elements, the online master's in forensic science positions graduates to take advantage of a growing field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 16% growth for forensic science occupations between 2020 and 2030. These professionals made a median annual wage of $61,930 in May 2021.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average graduate program tuition and fees cost $19,792 annually in 2019-20. In addition to cost, prospective students should consider program formats, admission requirements, and career outlooks when deciding to attend graduate school. Here, we provide details on these considerations and look at the best online master's in forensic science from the top online schools.

What Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Forensic Science Degree?

Part of preparing for graduate school involves understanding programs of interest and choosing the right style to meet your goals. The typical online master's in forensic science features 30-45 credits and runs for about two years. The training includes topics in criminal profiling and forensic psychology. Students also learn fingerprint analysis, DNA analysis, and toxicology reporting.

The programs usually combine theoretical forensics explorations, research, leadership training, and hands-on lab work. Most programs include an extensive practicum to provide students with practical experience before graduation. Learners develop and hone many skills, including critical thinking, communication, and leadership.

A master's in forensic science can award an MS or a master of forensic science (MFS) degree. While both degrees can lead to the same career paths, they may differ somewhat. For example, MFS programs tend to be more specialized and career-focused. MS programs feature an analytical focus and may provide more varied postgraduate options.

Furthermore, programs can be course-based or require writing a thesis. Forensic science is often offered as its own specialization within a larger program, but students may find further specialization options. For example, degree-seekers might find concentrations in investigation, criminalistics, and behavioral science.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.

Popular Online Master's in Forensic Science Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Master's in Forensic Science Program?

Forensic Science Methods

This course teaches students the leading methods and techniques used by forensic science professionals. The training typically covers evidence collection, analysis, and forensic etymology.

Document Analysis

In this course, students learn how to examine documents as evidence using the leading technologies and techniques. They also learn how to record, protect, and present findings from documents.

Criminal Investigative Analysis

Students in this course examine the criminal investigation process and crime and criminal behavior theories. Learners look at criminal motivations, patterns, and traits, plus analysis methods and techniques.

Trace Evidence

This course shows students how professionals identify and collect trace evidence. They look at the methods and instruments of analysis for chemical and microscopic evidence as well as the reporting process.

Scientific Data Interpretation

In this course, learners look at the methods for interpreting and analyzing scientific data as evidence. They also learn about data collection, data protection, and security measures.

Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master's of Forensic Science Online Program?

Prospective students usually need a bachelor's degree to enter most master's programs. Graduate admission into an online master's in forensic science could require a specific bachelor's degree, such as a criminal justice or a science degree.

Applicants might need specific course prerequisites, such as chemistry, biology, or medical science. Competitive programs might also ask for a minimum GPA. Online programs usually include technological requirements as well.

Application

College application requirements vary by school and program. In general, prospective students need to provide their personal information and identify which program interests them. While most graduate students apply directly to the school of their choice, college application systems can help simplify the process of applying to two or more schools at once.

Test Scores

Standardized test scores provide schools with more information to help compare and contrast applicants. As a result of COVID-19, many schools introduced test waivers, but students are still welcome to submit scores in most cases. To improve their admission chances, prospective students can take GRE prep courses before taking the test.

Letters of Recommendation

Most college applications require 2-3 letters of recommendation, which provide schools with more insight from professionals who know the applicant. These letters usually come from teachers and employers who can speak to the candidate's qualifications and capabilities. Prospective students should give their references enough information and time to ensure they receive the highest quality recommendations.

Resume and Work Experience

Many college applications include a resume, which schools use to gain more information about the candidate's professional history and skills. In some cases, however, the college application resume needs to highlight a minimum amount of relevant experience. Schools may even award transfer credit for work and life experience.

Essays

Grad school essays might look different from each other depending on a program's requirements. Some schools allow prospective students to discuss their personal or academic journeys, whereas others want candidates to discuss their research goals and interests. Schools can also pose a specific question or questions to be answered in the essay.

Official Transcripts

Official transcripts provide schools with the academic history of every applicant. They identify what courses the candidate completed and what grade they received. Transcripts also provide necessary information for admission prerequisites and transfer credits.

What Can I Do With an Online Master's Degree in Forensic Science?

Career Outlook

Steady demand for protective service professionals and the growing technological capabilities of the forensic science field provides a positive job outlook for forensic science graduates. The BLS projects 16% growth for professionals in this field between 2020 and 2030, twice the rate of 8% for all occupations.

In addition to forensic science technician roles, graduates in this field can pursue investigator and analyst roles in government and law enforcement agencies. They can also apply their skills to traditional law enforcement positions.

Not only does a master's degree open the door to more career opportunities, it often leads to higher salary potential as well. While the median annual wage for forensic science technicians was $61,930 in May 2021, the top 10% of earners made over $103,430, as per the BLS.

Find out what professional opportunities await graduates with a master's in forensic science.

Career Paths

Forensic Science Technician

Forensic science technicians collect and analyze evidence used in criminal investigations. They provide investigators with information based on their findings, helping law enforcement professionals reconstruct crime scenes and identify DNA and trace evidence. They may specialize in certain fields, such as biology, chemistry, and toxicology.

Median Annual Salary: $61,930

Police and Detective

Police and detectives investigate crimes, respond to emergencies, and enforce the law. These professionals patrol their jurisdictions and look for suspicious or criminal behavior. They also collect evidence and write reports for their investigations, and prepare and present their findings in court. Police and detectives may specialize by types of crime or by regions.

Median Annual Salary: $66,020

Federal Law Enforcement Agent

Federal agents work for organizations like the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security. These professionals investigate crimes that break federal laws or threaten national security. They may also take over crime investigations from local police when they reach a certain scale or cross state lines.

Median Annual Salary: $93,970

Crime Scene Investigator

Crime scene investigators specialize in collecting, documenting, and analyzing crime scene evidence in a precise and detailed manner. They can help determine the cause of death or find evidence that places a suspect at the crime scene. These investigators may specialize in working with certain types of crimes or evidence.

Average Annual Salary: $50,140

Forensic Computer Analyst

Forensic computer analysts collect, document, and analyze computer-based evidence for investigations. They look at user activities and patterns, pull useful files and records, and restore damaged information. These professionals must follow proper protocol when collecting information and may need more training to qualify for employment.

Average Annual Salary: $75,420

Forensic Science Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing Education

Many graduates enter the workforce after graduation. But learners who wish to teach or pursue the most advanced and prestigious laboratory positions often continue their education. Even entering a law enforcement organization often requires graduates to complete an academy training program.

Master's degree graduates can access many doctoral programs, including forensic science, law enforcement, and criminal justice programs. Other options may include science or computer science doctorates, depending on students' field specialties.

How Do I Choose an Online Master's in Forensic Science Program?

Cost

Cost often plays a primary role in helping prospective students choose the right program. Along with comparing online and on-campus program costs, learners should consider comparing in-state and out-of-state program costs and public and private school costs. They might also look at the true program cost, which factors in the impact that studies have on income.

Program Format

Prospective students need to look at program formats to find the right schedule and study balance. For example, they might begin by comparing synchronous vs. asynchronous learning and full-time vs. part-time studies. If they need to graduate quickly and their schedule allows it, an accelerated program might also work.

Location

Regardless of how they choose between online and on-campus studies, prospective students should think about location. On-campus learners must find a place that they can live near or travel to regularly. Online learners have more flexibility, but they may also need to travel to campus to complete on-campus residency requirements.

Accreditation

Prospective students need to pay close attention to institutional and programmatic accreditation. According to our online college accreditation guide, institutional accreditation can influence a school's access to federal financial aid and ability to transfer credits. While not required, programmatic accreditation from the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission provides quality assurance to forensic science students.

Student Support

The student services a school provides tell prospective students what type of support they can receive during their studies. Online learners should look at the online student services in particular, including online tutoring, career services, and wellness programs. They might also look at things like college mentorships and internship programs.

Best Accredited Online Master's in Forensic Science Programs

Rankings compiled by the the BestColleges Ranking Team

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#1 Best Online Master’s in Forensic Science Programs

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

UF maintains its flagship campus in Gainesville, serving over 52,000 students. The university powers distance education with the Canvas platform and oversees programs like a fully online master's in forensic science. After completing this 32-credit program, graduates are prepared for leadership roles in police departments, hospitals, clinical chemistry laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies.

Required coursework covers topics like biological evidence and serology, applied statistics for data analysis, and forensic toxicology. Students personalize the curriculum through 14 elective credits. Elective options include classes like blood distribution/splatter and natural medicinal products.

Program applicants need a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA on upper-division coursework. All prospective students must submit GRE scores. UF accepts up to 15 transfer credits earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Master’s in Forensic Science Programs

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

UCF delivers more than 90 remote online programs through the Canvas platform. Distance learners may pursue an entirely online master's degree in forensic science; this program is designed for recent college graduates and experienced criminal justice professionals. Learners can complete a thesis or non-thesis track.

The curriculum ranges from 32-34 credits, with non-thesis students taking classes like atomic spectroscopy and applied analytical chemistry. Thesis students complete a concentration in forensic analysis or forensic biochemistry. Individuals who choose the forensic analysis pathway learn to collect, control, and assess ignitable liquids and explosives.

Prospective students need a regionally accredited bachelor's degree earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA and adequate GRE scores. UCF's forensic science program only offers fall admission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Master’s in Forensic Science Programs

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

FIU champions flexible academics by providing over 100 online certificates and degrees, including a master's in forensic science. This program caters to learners currently working in law enforcement agencies and medical examiners' laboratories. Students can complete this accelerated, cohort-based program in 16 months.

The program's curriculum includes classes like organizational behavior, chemistry and analysis of drugs, and accounting for managers. Distance learners also examine professional ethics in the contexts of quality assurance and control within a crime laboratory. Students gain hands-on experience by completing a semester-long internship.

Program applicants must have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Prospective students do not need to submit GRE scores. Additional admission requirements include a statement of purpose and two recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,711
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Master’s in Forensic Science Programs

National University

  • La Jolla, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

NU serves about 17,000 students, many of whom pursue distance learning through the Blackboard Learn platform. NU's offerings include an online master's degree in forensic sciences, which allows students to pick from two specializations: criminalistics and investigation. Learners in the program can complete all coursework online or take some courses at one of NU's 20 campuses across California and Nevada.

Courses in the program span four weeks. The criminalistics specialization includes coursework in advanced trace evidence and DNA analysis. Alternatively, students who specialize in investigation learn about law and criminal procedure and how to conduct major casework.

To gain admission, program applicants need a regionally accredited bachelor's degree earned with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Candidates with a GPA from 2.0-2.49 may qualify for admission if they submit adequate GMAT/GRE/MAT scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
16,670
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Master’s in Forensic Science Programs

Stevenson University

  • Stevenson, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Founded in 1947, Stevenson focuses on accessible and career-relevant education by providing 30 fully online certificates and degrees, including a master's in forensic science. Forensic science graduates gain the skills needed to work as latent print examiners, crime scene investigators, and forensic toxicologists.

The program's foundational courses include serology and immunology, DNA analysis, and physical evidence at crime scenes. All learners complete a biology or chemistry concentration. The curriculum also includes an optional practicum.

All program applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in a natural science-related field. Prospective students also need a minimum 3.0 GPA. The university accepts up to six transfer credits.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,528
Out-of-state
$34,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,040
Out-of-state
$8,040
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
3,579
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Forensic Science Programs

Is a master's in forensic science worth it?

Yes. While every student needs to determine the value of a degree for themself, a master's in forensic science provides many benefits for graduates. With this degree, graduates can access specialized forensic science and science and law enforcement careers.

Students also benefit from the value of an online degree, which provides them with more program selection and flexibility. These benefits often give learners a better chance of finding the most suitable program and school for their interests and learning needs.

What can I do with a master's in forensic science?

After completing an online master's in forensic science, graduates typically pursue forensic science and criminal investigator careers. They can also apply their skills to law enforcement and science careers. Their graduate-level training prepares them for leadership positions as well.

Master's graduates can also continue their training in a doctoral program. Graduates can stay on the forensic science path or move into law enforcement, criminal justice, or traditional sciences.

Are forensic science graduates in demand?

Yes. As the technological capabilities in the field grow, the demand for forensic science graduates often does as well. The BLS projects 16% growth for forensic science technicians between 2020 and 2030, an increase of more than 2,500 jobs per year in the highly specialized field. The BLS also projects 8% growth for protective service occupations and 8% growth for life, physical, and social science occupations during the same time.

How much money can I make with a master's in forensic science?

The wages available to graduates with a master's in forensic science depend on many factors, including their location, employer, credentials, and experience. Forensic science technicians earned median annual wages of $61,930 in May 2021, as per the BLS. The top 10% of professionals in the field made more than $103,430.

The industry type can make a big difference as well. For example, the median annual wages for state government technicians was $64,250, local government wages were $61,930, testing laboratories were $49,900, and medical and diagnostic laboratories were $36,570.

What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in forensic science?

The highest-paying job available to graduates with a master's in forensic science is as a federal law enforcement agent. According to the BLS, federal law enforcement professionals made $93,970 in May 2021. Compared to the median annual wage for police and detectives of $66,020, agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation offer considerable pay bumps.

Other high-paying positions include forensic computer analysts. According to Payscale, these professionals' average annual base salaries exceed $75,000 as of January 2022. Late-career analysts make average wages over $100,000.

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