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Online Master’s Degrees in Forensic Science

“You have no victim to avenge, no guilty or innocent person to convict or save—you must bear testimony within the limits of science.”Dr. P.C.H. Brouardel, 19th-Century French Medico-Legalist

The term “forensic” embraces many meanings. Derived from the Latin word for a public discussion, forensic science is at its heart the process of analyzing evidence for use in a court of law. In addition, forensic science can be defined as the systematic discovery of physical matter and other criminal traces which help law enforcement reconstruct what happened at a crime scene.

While some assume that blood or fingerprints are the predominant sources of evidence in forensics, in reality, the breadcrumbs leading to a criminal perpetrator are varied and include digital documents, soil samples, explosive residues, plastics, tool marks, fibers, and toxins, to name a few. In short, the field of forensic science is complex and varied, but its centrality to public safety and the integrity of the law is undeniable.

Becoming a forensic scientist can prove a rewarding career for those interested in establishing fact- and evidence-based cases to solve crimes, specifically by deconstructing clues with reasoned analysis and scientifically based methods. According to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), forensic scientists search for truth above all else and seek it by processing and testing varied types of evidence in a laboratory using valid, reliable techniques; writing detailed reports on findings; and testifying as expert witnesses in court to convict or acquit alleged criminals, among other duties. These professionals must be methodical, accurate, detail-oriented, and knowledgeable since forensic evidence is often sensitive.

To become a forensic scientist, a person must have proper training and credentials. While some professionals may find that a bachelor’s degree is sufficient for an entry-level position (e.g., forensic science technician), others may wish to develop more granular expertise, pursue leadership opportunities, or qualify for higher pay.

In addition to the traditional campus-based programs, there is a growing number of online master’s degrees in forensic science, which combine distance-based coursework with in-person laboratory externships or residencies completed at approved facilities. In addition, many face-to-face training experiences are completed in federal, state, or local crime labs, and some opportunities are available in private facilities.

Featured Forensic Science Graduate Programs
Arizona State University Forensic Science (PSM)Visit Site
Grand Canyon University MS - Forensic ScienceVisit Site
Stevenson University Online Online Master of Forensic Science (MFS)Visit Site
Stevenson University Online Online MFS - Biology ConcentrationVisit Site
Stevenson University Online Online MFS - Chemistry ConcentrationVisit Site
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Online master’s students generally will specialize in an aspect of forensic science at this stage, gaining expertise in areas such as chemistry, biology, criminalistics, psychology, geology, entomology, anthropology, or other subfields of this exciting discipline, many of which offer professional credentialing through certification entities approved by AAFS’s Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB).

ForensicsColleges.com systematically gathers data about more than 200 online forensics programs in various subfields at the bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and certificate levels. This guide examines online master’s in forensic science programs, three standout professors, details about the distance-based experience, and accreditation information.

Featured Online Master’s in Forensic Science (MFS/MSFS) Programs

As mentioned above, there are over 200 online forensics programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and certificate levels. Here is the complete list of online and hybrid master’s in forensic science programs:

Master of Science in Forensic Science, University of Florida

UF offers several online MS programs through its College of Pharmacy, including specializations in forensic DNA and serology; forensic toxicology; forensic drug chemistry; and forensic science. The latter comprises 32 credits of coursework in criminalistics, environmental forensics, forensic medicine, forensic anthropology, forensic DNA analysis, drug analysis, and toxicology. This program may be ideal for people seeking work in crime labs, law enforcement agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and medical examiner offices.

It’s important to note that this is an online MS program in pharmacy with a concentration in forensic sciences. Additionally, students must visit the campus for a special topics course, which offers three days of reviews, oral exams, and a comprehensive exam. The “critical dates” are provided well in advance for distance-based students to plan accordingly.

  • Location: Gainesville, FL
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $575 per credit (residents & non-residents)

Master of Forensic Sciences, National University

The distance-based MFS program is a professional degree program ideal for those who wish to work with police departments, attorneys, lab personnel, criminal investigators, etc. This 54-quarter-credit program is offered in two specializations: investigation or criminalistics. Please note that those interested in the criminalistics track must have an undergraduate degree in laboratory sciences to qualify.

Both tracks have courses in forensic pathology; forensic psychology; major case investigation; forensic photography; crime scene investigation; and a supervised research program. Since tuition varies by the student’s location and the campus through which they are enrolled, please reach out to program coordinators for a cost estimate.

  • Location: More than 20 campuses in California and Nevada
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
  • Tuition: $442 per quarter-unit (residents & non-residents)

Master of Science in Forensic Sciences, Oklahoma State University

This online MSFS program is offered in two tracks: a thesis (hybrid) and a non-thesis (online) track. The specialized thesis tracks include death scene investigation, forensic biology and DNA, forensic chemistry, and forensic psychology. In addition, students can take the non-thesis options 100 percent at a distance in forensic document examination and forensic science administration.

Notably, OSU provides on-campus programs which are FEPAC-accredited, the gold standard in this academic field. All tracks comprise 39 credit hours and in-state tuition for students from “Academic Common Market” states (e.g., AL, AR, FL, GA, TX, etc.).

  • Location: Tulsa, OK
  • Duration: 24 to 84 months
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Tuition: $234 per credit (residents); $880 per credit (non-residents)

Master of Science in Forensic Science (Hybrid), Stevenson University

This hybrid (i.e., online and on-campus) MS program comprises 28 credits of coursework in subjects such as the survey of forensic science, physical evidence at crime scenes, foundations of criminal justice, evidence, mock trials, and practicum rotations, as well as a thesis. In addition, students in this program take advantage of partnerships through the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, the U.S. Secret Service Lab, and the Baltimore County Crime Lab.

Three distinct tracks determine the rest of the courses: biology, chemistry, and crime scene investigation. While much of the coursework is available online, some classes require face-to-face meetings.

  • Location: Owings Mills, MD
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $695 per credit (residents & non-residents)

Master of Science in Forensic Science (Hybrid), University of Central Florida

This MSFS program offers most of its courses online, but some require in-person attendance. Classes include forensic experts in the courtroom; quality assurance for forensic scientists; statistical analysis; applied molecular spectroscopy; atomic spectroscopy; forensic molecular biology; and advanced biochemistry. This program is offered in three tracks: forensic analysis (thesis), biochemistry (thesis), and forensic professional (non-thesis).

  • Location: Orlando, FL
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $327.32 per credit (residents); $1,151.72 (non-residents)

Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a Forensic Science Concentration, Saint Leo University

Dr. Robert J. Diemer, a renowned investigator in the state with 30 years of investigative experience, directs this online MSCJ program with a forensic science emphasis.

This program offers instruction in the history of forensic science and criminalistics; the laboratory analysis of physical evidence; forensic and medicolegal death investigation; crime scene investigation and management; human resources issues and innovations; offender treatment methodology; information resource systems and technologies; and courtroom acceptance of new forensic technologies, among other topics.

  • Location: Saint Leo, FL
  • Duration: 24 months or fewer
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $635 per credit (residents & non-residents)

Professional Science Master of Forensic Science (Hybrid), Florida International University

The hybrid 33-credit MSFS program is a collaborative effort between FIU, UF, and UCF, a statewide initiative to meet the demand for forensic professionals in the state. In a combination of distance-based classes and a capstone internship, this 16-month program provides instruction in forensic science, leadership, expert testimony, business and management, and other areas.

Once admitted, students in this program can choose from cross-disciplinary fields such as digital forensics, environmental forensics & public health, forensic nursing, law & criminal justice, science communications, and veterinary forensics. In addition, a forensic research library is available as a public cross-disciplinary resource for forensic scientists.

  • Location: Miami, FL
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation (FEPAC)
  • Tuition: $31,350 total (residents & non-residents)

Master of Forensic Sciences Graduate Certificate, George Washington University

GWU’s MFS certificate program can be completed online and provides four concentration options in forensic chemistry, forensic toxicology, forensic molecular biology, and friction ridge analysis. This 18-credit STEM-designated program includes homicide investigation, forensic pathology, and crime scene photography courses. Students can apply the certificate coursework toward the master of science in crime scene investigation degree program in tandem with a GRE score.

Please note that the school also offers four FEPAC-accredited on-campus MS and MFS degrees in forensic science, chemistry, molecular biology, and crime scene investigation.

  • Location: Washington DC
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation (FEPAC)
  • Tuition: $1,825 per credit (residents & non-residents)

Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation, University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a master of science in digital forensics and cyber investigation. This 36-credit program prepares graduates for investigative leadership and cybersecurity careers, protecting private companies and government organizations from cyber threats and bringing digital criminals to justice.

The US Department of Homeland Security awarded the UMGC program with a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. Graduates from this program go on to work as special agents, IT directors, chief information security officers, cryptologic managers, and technical directors.

  • Location: Largo, MD
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $694 per credit (residents and non-residents); $480 per credit (military)

Master of Science in Crime Scene Investigation, Stevenson University

Stevenson University offers six online master’s of science degrees in forensic science. The master of science in crime scene investigation prepares its graduates to become forensic evidence collection and analysis experts. Upon completing this program, students can pursue specialized careers in evidence collection, crime scene photography, forensic artistry, and ballistics or latent printing.

Stevenson University is a member of the FBI National Academy Associates (FBINAA) Academy Alliance, which provides a 20 percent tuition reduction and waives the GRE requirement and application fee when applying to the program.

  • Location: Owings Mills, MD
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $695 per credit (residents & non-residents)

Master of Science in Media Forensics, University of Colorado Denver

The University of Colorado at Denver offers a hybrid master of science in media forensics (MSMF). Most courses are online, with five weeks of in-person residencies spread over the two-year program. These experiential learning visits include time spent in regional crime laboratories and attending scientific conferences focused on applying forensic investigation techniques with audio-visual equipment.

Graduates from this program go on to work in federal, state, and local law enforcement, academic research and teaching, private practice, and corporate research and development.

  • Location: Denver, CO
  • Duration: 30 months
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Tuition: $497 per credit (residents); $552 per credit (non-residents)

Master of Science in Emergency Management, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

The John Jay College of Criminal Justice offers an online master of science in emergency services (MSES) degree. Graduates from this program are prepared to lead response teams in prevention and crisis response efforts in the wake of natural disasters, public health crises, terrorist attacks, and destructive human-created disasters. This 36-credit program divides its curriculum into three parts: required courses in emergency management, management and analytics, and electives.

Students can choose from two tracks to complete their degrees: the thesis track for students with a 3.5 GPA or higher or the comprehensive examination track that assesses essential knowledge of emergency management. Admission to this program is competitive, and students with previous work experience in emergency management are given preference over those without professional experience in the field.

  • Location: New York, NY
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Universities
  • Tuition: $5,545 per semester (residents); $855 per credit (non-residents)

Master of Science in Digital Forensic Science, Champlain College Online

Champlain College Online offers a fully online master of science in digital forensic science (MSDFS).

The college is nationally recognized as a cybersecurity and computer forensics education leader and was designated in 2006 as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the US Department of Homeland Security. The program curriculum focuses on 34 scripting languages and cloud- and software-based applications and leadership and communication skills tailored to the field of digital forensics. Graduates from this program pursue careers in computer and information research science and information security analysis.

  • Location: Burlington, VT
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
  • Tuition: $795 per credit (residents & non-residents); $435 per credit (military)

In addition to the above programs, there’s a wealth of distance-based master’s programs in various forensics subfields. Please check out the main online forensics programs page to explore the options.

Admissions to Online Master’s in Forensic Science Programs

The admissions requirements to online master’s degree programs in forensic science are similar to their on-campus counterparts. Admissions offices typically ask for the following:

  • Completed application with processing fee
  • Official transcripts from a qualifying undergraduate program with proof of prerequisite coursework (e.g., biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, calculus, statistics)
  • Competitive GPA (e.g., >3.0)
  • Personal statement (500-600 words)

Please note that specific tracks within forensic science (e.g., biochemistry) may have additional course prerequisites. Additionally, some programs may require test scores, a candidate interview, a resume, or letters of recommendation.

Accreditation & State Authorization of Forensic Science Programs

Finally, before applying to any online master’s program in forensic science, aspiring students are encouraged to verify the program’s accreditation and state authorization statuses.

Accreditation is a process of programmatic or institutional approval where an established entity evaluates the quality of facilities, curriculum, or faculty; the administration of finances; and student outcomes, among other measures of merit.

As previously mentioned, the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) is the gold standard in evaluating forensic science programs. As of February 2023, 52 United States and Canada programs met the rigorous FEPAC accreditation standards.

In addition to programmatic accreditation, forensic science schools can also have institutional accreditation, bestowed by an entire educational institution. Institutional accreditation is coordinated by the U.S. Department of Education’s Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Six CHEA-approved accreditation agencies approve institutions in different regions of the country:

  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Due to differing laws governing distance-based education, online forensic science schools may not be able to enroll students from certain states. This information is typically available on a program’s website or retrieved from program coordinators. Prospective students can learn more about state authorization by visiting the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) webpage.

Exceptional Professors in Online Forensic Science Programs

Dr. Ian Tebbett University of Florida

Dr. Ian Tebbett earned his PhD in forensic toxicology and has taught at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, and the University of Illinois in Chicago. His research interests include how to teach forensic science most effectively; how drugs traverse the blood-brain barrier and metabolize; and varied methods for toxicological analysis (e.g., FTIR, column switching techniques, etc.).

In addition to his academic responsibilities, he has served as a consultant for various national and international law enforcement agencies, offering expert testimony at trials in Florida, Illinois, and Europe.

Dr. Jeffrey Wells Florida International University

Dr. Jeffrey Wells is an associate professor of biological science at Florida International University. He earned his PhD from the University of Illinois and focuses on developing new genotyping methods and statistical analyses related to forensic biology and insect evolution. His current research areas include novel protocols for human identity and paternity testing; population genetics of forensically essential insects; biosystematics of fly superfamilies; and applications of carrion-feeding insects.

Nancy Toffolo, MS University of Florida

Nancy Toffolo, MS serves as director of distance education programs in forensic science at the University of Florida and is an instructional associate professor. In her previous roles, she worked on life-sciences missions for NASA and a private genomics company. She has authored publications related to forensic science education. She teaches courses at the UF College of Pharmacy, such as the principles of forensic science, toxicology of chemical weapons, forensic immunology, and advanced topics in pharmaceutical sciences. Ms. Toffolo holds a master of science and a bachelor of science from the University of Florida.

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