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The field of forensic science continues to play an important role in the U.S. criminal justice system as law enforcement agencies, laboratories, and legal teams rely on scientific evidence to help solve cases. From collecting and analyzing physical evidence to supporting investigations and courtroom testimony, forensic science professionals contribute to a wide range of public safety and legal processes. As crime scene technology, laboratory methods, and digital evidence analysis continue to evolve, demand remains strong for trained professionals with the right academic background and technical skills.
At the same time, the cost of higher education remains a serious concern for many students. Graduate and undergraduate degree programs can be expensive, and certificate programs also require careful financial planning, especially for students who are already balancing work, family, or other obligations. For many aspiring forensic science professionals, choosing a cheap online program can help reduce student loan debt while still providing the education needed to enter or advance in the field.
Forensic science offers several educational pathways depending on a student’s background and career goals. A bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field can prepare graduates for entry-level laboratory, evidence processing, or crime scene roles. A master’s degree can help current professionals build deeper expertise in areas such as forensic chemistry, digital forensics, or laboratory management. Certificate programs may also be a good option for students who want to gain specialized training quickly or strengthen their skills in a specific area of forensic science.
To help students find the cheapest options, this guide highlights the most inexpensive online forensic science degrees and certificate programs in the United States. The rankings include master’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and certificate programs, giving students a clear look at low-cost pathways into this growing field.
These comprehensive rankings are based on data ForensicsColleges.com hand-collected and verified from 37 online forensic science programs in 2026. This list represents all of the cheapest available online forensic science programs. Each list (master’s, bachelor’s, and certificate) is ordered by the lowest total out-of-state tuition (not the annual cost).
Please reach out with any additions or corrections. We strive to provide the most accurate list possible.
Most Affordable Online Master’s Degrees in Forensic Science
| Rank | School | Programs | Tuition (Out-of-State Cost-per-Credit / Total Cost) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oklahoma State University | $364.00 / $11,648.00 | |
| 2 | University of Florida | $575.00 / $18,400.00 | |
| 3 | Grand Canyon University | MS in Forensic Science | $600.00 / $21,600.00 |
| 4 | National University | Online MA in Forensic Science | $455.00 / $24,570.00 |
| 5 | Stevenson University | $719.00 / $25,884.00 | |
| 6 | Arizona State University | Online Professional Science Master’s in Forensic Science (PSM) | $996.00 / $29,880.00 |
| 7 | University of Central Florida | Online MS in Chemistry – Forensic Science | $1,234.15 / $41,961.10 |
Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Forensic Science
| Rank | School | Programs | Tuition (Out-of-State Cost-per-Credit / Total Cost) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Columbia Southern University | Online BS in Forensic Investigation | $278.00 / $33,360.00 |
| 2 | Colorado Technical University | Online BS in Criminal Justice – Forensic Investigation | $340.00 / $61,880.00 |
| 3 | American InterContinental University | Online BS in Criminal Justice – Forensic Science | $345.00 / $62,100.00 |
| 4 | Arizona State University | $745.00 / $89,400.00 |
Most Affordable Online Certificate Programs in Forensic Science
| Rank | School | Programs | Tuition (Out-of-State Cost-per-Credit / Total Cost) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oklahoma State University |
| $364.00 / $4,368.00 |
| 2 | University of Florida | $575.00 / $5,750.00 | |
| 3 | University of Florida | Online Fundamentals of Forensic Science Graduate Certificate | $575.00 / $6,900.00 |
| 4 | University of Florida | $575.00 / $8,625.00 | |
| 5 | Arizona State University | Online Graduate Certificate in Human Factors in Forensic Science | $701.00 / $10,515.00 |
| 6 | Stevenson University | Online Graduate Certificate in Forensic Investigation | $719.00 / $12,942.00 |