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“[The] intricacy of early twenty-first century criminal activity has seen a rise in the preference for a multi-disciplinary approach to confronting and resolving criminal activity, whether those activities occur in Kentucky, across the US, or in cyberspace.”
Jack Brown, PhD, Director of Graduate Studies and Associate Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice at the University of the Cumberlands
Kentucky may be less populous for aspiring forensic scientists than other states, but it still provides a wide range of educational and professional opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 60 forensic science technicians are currently employed in the state (BLS May 2024). With overall job growth in the field expected to hit 13 percent nationally between 2024 and 2034, there could be many more positions in the coming years (BLS 2025). The average growth rate for all occupations over the same period is only 3 percent.
Those interested in pursuing a career in forensic science should expect a job that allows them to hone their observational skills and attention to detail while working alongside law enforcement and other officials in investigating criminal activity. A career in forensic science can take many forms, from laboratory work to detailed evidence collection. The majority of forensic science technicians, nationwide, are employed by local and state governments, but within those work environments are a broad spectrum of ways to apply one’s forensic training.
A strong educational foundation is key to pursuing this career, and many forensic science programs are designed specifically for working adults looking to balance a busy schedule with a program that allows them to attend classes nearby or online. Kentucky offers many such programs. Keep reading to learn more about these programs and about becoming a forensic science technician or crime scene investigator in Kentucky.
| Featured CSI & Forensic Science Programs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Forensic Science (BS) | |
| Arizona State University | Forensic Science (PSM) | |
| Arizona State University | Forensic Science - Death Investigations (BS) | |
| Purdue Global | BSCJ - Crime Scene Investigation | |
| ECPI University | Crime & Intelligence Analysis (Bachelor's) | |
| Southern New Hampshire University | BA in Psychology - Forensic Psychology | |
| Stevenson University Online | Forensic Investigation Grad Certificate | |
| Stevenson University Online | Online Master of Forensic Science (MFS) | |
| sponsored × When you click on a sponsoring school or program advertised on our site, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details. |
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Meet the Expert: Jack W. Brown, PhD
Dr. Jack Brown is the director of graduate studies and associate professor in the Department of Criminal Justice at the University of the Cumberlands, where he brings more than three decades of experience in criminal justice practice and education. He began his career in the field in 1990, initially focusing on corporate security and embezzlement investigations before expanding into campus security design, security training, interrogation, and private investigation.
Dr. Brown serves law enforcement professionals across the US as a cold-case consultant, with a primary emphasis on homicide investigations and missing-persons cases. He is the founder of the Criminal Justice Assessment Board and the International Journal of Justice Studies. Dr. Brown is also a US Air Force veteran and holds a PhD in administration of justice from the University of Southern Mississippi.
ForensicsColleges.com: In what ways does Kentucky stand out when it comes to forensics and/or criminal justice?
Dr. Brown: Kentucky stands out for being noticeably low in rates of violent crime and in rates of property crime, while having a somewhat high incarceration rate. The state has a bit of a mixed law enforcement profile, wherein parts of the state practice decentralized policing, while other parts of the state have a more centralized police presence (like Louisville and Lexington, for example), and the state also utilizes a state police force, which has broader police powers than a highway patrol. The state has recently begun to enhance its efforts at serving mentally ill offenders through law enforcement outreach and expanded community corrections services.
ForensicsColleges.com: Do you have any advice for those who may be planning their career in this field?
Dr. Brown: If someone is interested in a career in criminal justice I would encourage her or him to enroll in a college-level criminal justice program to learn about the historical and legal foundations of the criminal justice field, and also to take advantage of their time in their college program by participating in one or more internship opportunities so they develop a solid perspective of the three sub-fields of criminal justice: law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
ForensicsColleges.com: What does the future of forensics and/or criminal justice look like to you?
Dr. Brown: I think the future of criminal justice will be more interdisciplinary than in previous years. During the past five to ten years, we have seen fields like digital forensics and addiction counseling find their way into the day-to-day criminal justice operating reality more than ever before. These two emerging sub-fields seem to be omnipresent in law enforcement, courts, and corrections as the twenty-first century continues to unfold. While in the mid-to-late twentieth century, the professionals in the three criminal justice sub-fields performed their roles typically in solo fashion, the intricacy of early twenty-first century criminal activity has seen a rise in the preference for a multi-disciplinary approach to confronting and resolving criminal activity, whether those activities occur in Kentucky, across the US, or in cyberspace.
Meet the Expert: Machia McClain, PhD
Dr. Machica McClain serves as dean of the School of Computer and Information Science at the University of the Cumberlands, where she brings more than 15 years of experience teaching both undergraduate and graduate courses in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, and related disciplines. Her academic research and professional interests encompass cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, distributed database systems, and internet security.
Dr. McClain holds a PhD in information technology from Capella University, and an MS in internet security and a BS in computer systems from American Intercontinental University. She is a member of Women in Cybersecurity (WiCys), the Black Doctoral Network, and Sword of the Shield (Omicron Sigma Sigma). Dr. McClain also serves on the Board of Directors for the Kentucky Cybersecurity and Forensics Conference.
ForensicsColleges.com: In what ways does Kentucky stand out when it comes to forensics and/or criminal justice?
Dr. McClain: Kentucky stands out through the University of the Cumberlands’ nationally ranked programs. Its online master of science in criminal justice is ranked fourth in the nation and has been the [top] program in Kentucky for 10 years. The new digital forensics certificate further strengthens Kentucky’s role in preparing professionals to investigate and combat cybercrime.
ForensicsColleges.com: Do you have any advice for those who may be planning their career in this field?
Dr. McClain: Build strong technical skills early. Choose programs that offer practical, real-world training and scenarios, like those highlighted at Cumberlands. Stay flexible and committed to continued learning. Ultimately, seek out student-centered programs that offer robust support and comprehensive career preparation.
ForensicsColleges.com: What does the future of forensics and/or criminal justice look like to you?
Dr. McClain: The future of criminal justice will be increasingly digital. Cybercrime, digital evidence, and online activity will shape investigations, requiring justice professionals to understand both traditional policing and modern forensic technology. Those who can blend analytical skills with digital expertise will be at the forefront of protecting communities and solving complex cases.
How to Become a Forensic Scientist in Kentucky
When starting on the path to any career, it is understandable to want a clear vision of where to go and what steps to take. Although not all forensic scientists have precisely the same background, titles, degrees, or experience, the following steps provide a basic framework for entering the profession.
Step 1: Graduate High School (four years)
CareerOneStop (2026) is an employment statistics site that sources data from the U.S. Department of Labor. According to this site, 96 percent of forensic science technicians have at least a high school diploma or GED. Because forensic science undergraduate programs can be competitive, it is important for high school students to do well in their relevant coursework, particularly science courses like biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
Step 2: Earn an Undergraduate Degree (two to four years)
A forensic science career requires a strong background in the scientific method, data collection, and analysis. Earning an undergraduate degree is the most effective way to obtain this background education and to begin to specialize in the area of forensics.
CareerOneStop states that 14 percent of forensic science technicians have an associate’s degree (two years), while 32 percent have a bachelor’s degree (four years). Forensic science-specific degrees are available at some institutions, but other degrees may also be relevant, such as biology or chemistry for lab work or criminal justice for work in the courtroom or legal system.
Step 3: Become Professionally Certified (optional, timeline varies)
After earning an undergraduate degree, most forensic scientists find an entry-level position at a lab or with a police department. Those who wish to specialize or advance beyond entry-level will often seek professional certification. Professional certification is available in various fields, with the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB) having approved nine different organizations to issue it. Some available certifications include forensic toxicology, forensic document examination, forensic anthropology, and forensic odontology.
Step 4: Earn a Graduate Degree (optional, timeline varies)
Around 12 percent of forensic science technicians have a master’s degree, while 4 percent have a PhD. Earning a graduate degree is not essential to pursuing this career, but those who do will be better suited to certain high-level positions.
Occupational Demand in Kentucky Today
Overall growth in the forensic science occupation is quite solid. As proof of point, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025) projects that openings for forensic science technicians will increase 13 percent between 2024 and 2034, much faster than the expected growth rate for all occupations (3 percent). And this expected addition of 2,600 positions nationally is only one career possibility for people trained in forensic science.
However, as mentioned above, the Bureau of Labor Statistics states that just 60 forensic science technicians are employed in Kentucky (BLS May 2024). Judging from the growth expected across the country, that number should rise in the coming years. Unfortunately, there is no specific growth estimation for Kentucky itself, nor is there data available for specific geographic areas within Kentucky.
The BLS found that 25 percent of forensic science technicians in the US work for the state government, and 60 percent work for the local government. They work in morgues, crime laboratories, medical examiner offices, or police departments. There are several other places of employment in forensic science, too, depending on one’s specialty.
These professionals may go into several available careers, such as forensic engineers, medical examiners, crime laboratory analysts, crime scene examiners, document examiners, physical anthropologists, behavior scientists, criminal profilers, and digital analysts.
The experiential requirements, education, and training may vary for these professionals. The American Academy of Forensic Scientists (AAFS) has various resources for these professionals, including a list of journal articles, networking organizations, and continuing education opportunities.
The ForensicsColleges blog offers several in-depth career articles for forensic science graduates in its How to Become series, with step-by-step instructions to becoming profilers, crime scene technicians, forensic psychologists, forensic accountants, detectives, and more.
Forensics Salaries in Kentucky
In terms of salary, Kentucky pays forensic science technicians significantly less than the national average. As proof of point, the United States employs 19,450 forensic science technicians with an average annual salary (mean annual wage) of $75,260. In Kentucky, the average salary in this field is $57,210.
In more detailed terms, here is a breakdown of the salary percentiles among all forensic science technicians in the country compared with those in Kentucky (BLS May 2024)—the latest data available as of January 2026:
| United States | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Forensic Science Technicians Employed | 19,450 | 60 |
| Annual Mean Wage | $75,260 | $57,210 |
| 10th percentile | $45,560 | $46,980 |
| 25th percentile | $53,310 | $48,430 |
| 50th percentile | $67,440 | $58,230 |
| 75th percentile | $88,710 | $61,310 |
| 90th percentile | $110,710 | $70,670 |
While the figures for Kentucky are significantly lower than the national salary ranges, it’s important to note that the cost of living is also much lower than in many other US states. For illustration, the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC 20256 found that Kentucky ranked 16th among all American states concerning affordability, boasting savings especially in the realm of housing.
Forensic Science Programs in Kentucky
An on-campus learning experience can be ideal for many students. The camaraderie with classmates and closer relationships with professors can provide the structure and encouragement that many forensic science students need. In addition, those who are investing in advanced forensic science education may also want to consider the program’s accreditation.
The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) is the main accrediting body for forensic science programs. Although there are fewer than 50 FEPAC-accredited programs in the U.S., Kentucky has two of them, both offered by EKU and detailed below.
Eastern Kentucky University (BS in Forensic Science)
Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond may interest students seeking a forensic science college in Kentucky. EKU established its forensic science program in 1974, making it among the oldest in the country and among only 18 undergraduate programs that have earned FEPAC accreditation. EKU students can choose a bachelor of science program in forensic science with a concentration in either forensic biology or forensic chemistry.
Courses include DNA profiling, forensic trace evidence, expert witness testimony, an introduction to forensic science, genetics, bloodstain pattern analysis, drugs and toxicology, forensic toxicology, fire, arson, and explosion investigation, fire and explosion scene analysis, and criminal evidence.
- Location: Richmond, KY
- Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Eastern Kentucky University (BS in Digital Forensics)
In addition, EKU has earned full FEPAC accreditation for its bachelor of science program in digital forensics and cybersecurity. Students in this program learn and develop the required skills and knowledge to become qualified professionals who defend cyber networks, quickly respond to cybersecurity incidents, and examine digital devices such as mobile electronic devices, network devices, and computers to collect digital evidence that can be used in a court of trial for a criminal or civil case.
This 122- to 124-credit program includes courses such as data structures and programming, digital storage device forensics, network forensics and investigation, personal electronic device forensics, computer forensics, multimedia system and forensics, internet forensics, introduction to forensic science, introduction to criminal justice, and microcomputer and network security.
Graduates can take up roles such as cybersecurity, digital forensics, and information security analysts.
- Location: Richmond, KY
- Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Additionally, the University of Kentucky in Lexington offers a professional master’s in forensic toxicology and analytical genetics—the fifth such program in the country. It boasts two emphases: forensic toxicology/chemistry and forensic/analytical genetics.
The core curriculum includes courses such as fundamentals in forensic sciences; forensic science standards and practices; ethics and professional practice in forensic science and analytical DNA; communicating in the forensic science profession; and internships in forensic toxicology and analytical genetics.
The forensic toxicology/chemistry concentration comprises 36 credits and includes courses such as drug metabolism and disposition; forensic and analytical toxicology; general instrumental techniques in forensic chemistry; and fundamentals of biochemistry.
The forensic/analytical genetics concentration requires the completion of 37 credits and includes courses such as advanced human genetics; population genetics; molecular biology and genetics; forensic and analytical DNA; and fundamentals of biochemistry.
- Location: Lexington, KY
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
Thomas More University’s bachelor of arts program in criminal justice is a liberal arts degree, the curriculum of which includes courses in the arts, theology, philosophy, natural sciences, and history. Graduates of this program will be equipped with skills such as critical thinking, oral and written communication, computer knowledge, and research experience that are transferable to any career.
This 120-credit program includes courses in introduction to criminal justice, criminology, theory and philosophy of policing, criminal law and courts, juvenile justice, substance abuse, and research methodology. It also includes an internship in the senior year.
Graduates can take up roles such as drug treatment specialists, correctional educators, juvenile court advocates, and probation or parole officers.
- Location: Crestview Hills, KY
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
For more information on forensics schools, please visit the forensic programs page.
Hybrid & Online Forensics Programs
Students who have difficulty making it to campus for regular courses due to other commitments or distance may want to explore online or hybrid learning options. Online learning allows students to take entire courses online with no campus visits, while hybrid courses have some online work and some in-person requirements. In Kentucky and online, there are good options for students who want this kind of flexibility.
University of the Cumberlands (MJA)
The master of science in criminal justice administration (MJA) at the University of the Cumberlands is an online graduate program designed for both recent graduates and experienced professionals seeking advanced leadership and administrative credentials in criminal justice.
The 31-credit curriculum emphasizes core competencies in justice administration, practical research evaluation, ethical decision-making, and contemporary issues in the field, while allowing students to tailor their study through elective emphasis areas such as Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics. Instruction is provided by experienced faculty with professional backgrounds in law enforcement and justice administration, and the program is positioned to prepare graduates for leadership roles in local, state, federal, and private sector justice organizations.
- Location: Williamsburg, KY
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: One to two years
University of the Cumberlands (Certificate – Digital Forensics)
The University of the Cumberlands also offers a fully online graduate certificate in digital forensics. The 12-credit program program is designed to deepen students’ understanding of techniques and tools used to uncover, preserve, and interpret digital data associated with cyberattacks, data breaches, intellectual property theft, and financial fraud.
Course topics include key areas of digital investigation relevant to both law enforcement and private sector security roles, such as network forensics and the analysis of digital traces on computing devices. This graduate certificate is intended for individuals seeking to enhance their competencies in digital forensics alongside or following advanced study in related fields such as criminal justice, cybersecurity, or information technology.
- Location: Williamsburg, KY
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Less than one year
University of the Cumberlands (Certificate – Criminal Justice)
The University of the Cumberlands also offers a fully online graduate certificate in criminal justice management. The 12-credit program focuses on providing students with leadership, administrative, and organizational competencies within criminal justice settings.
Coursework addresses topics such as organizational leadership, ethical and legal considerations in management, and strategic planning within justice-oriented institutions. This certificate is well suited for current or aspiring criminal justice professionals seeking to advance into supervisory or administrative roles, as well as graduate students who wish to complement a master’s degree in criminal justice or a closely related field.
- Location: Williamsburg, KY
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Less than one year
The University of Louisville offers a bachelor’s and master’s in criminal justice in on-campus and online formats. The online bachelor of science program in criminal justice provides students with a working knowledge of the criminal justice process and the issues surrounding each portion of this process. Students will develop knowledge of current criminology theories, moral and ethical considerations, emerging policies, and effective communications strategies.
The 121-credit online BS includes courses on crime and justice in the United States, law enforcement in the United States, criminal behavior, criminal procedure, research design, quantitative analysis, juvenile justice, criminal law and evidence, and corrections in the United States.
The online MS in criminal justice degree is ideal for professionals working within the legal system who wish to advance their careers or strengthen their knowledge. Comprising 36 credits, the program includes courses such as legal aspects of criminal justice management; theories of crime and delinquency; applied statistics in criminal justice; research methods in criminal justice; and the criminal justice system.
- Location: Louisville, KY
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years
In addition to an on-campus bachelor’s degree, Kentucky Wesleyan College offers a fully online bachelor of science degree completion program in criminal justice and criminology. Students can complete their degree in just two years with transferable general education courses.
The curriculum of this program introduces students to the study of criminal justice systems, criminal behavior, social justice, and law from a multidisciplinary, liberal arts perspective. Students will develop critical thinking skills and be prepared for leadership roles in court administration, law enforcement, juvenile justice, corrections, probation, and parole.
The 120-credit program includes courses such as an introduction to criminal justice, statistics in the behavioral sciences, research methods in behavior science, critical issues in policing, courts and procedure, juvenile delinquency, criminology, and corrections.
- Location: Owensboro, KY
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
For more information on distance-based education and specialties, please visit the online forensic science degrees page.
Accreditation
Students evaluating forensic science programs in Kentucky and beyond should look for both institutional and programmatic accreditation. Institutional accreditation means that the school has been evaluated for its standards and efficacy. For instance, Eastern Kentucky University and Thomas More College hold accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) offers accreditation that is specific to forensic science programs. Although this accreditation is not necessary for most entry-level jobs or certifications, it can be an important indicator of a program’s history in higher education. Eastern Kentucky University is currently the only program in the state with FEPAC accreditation.
Requirements for professional certification differ for each specialty. For instance, to become a Certified Forensic Anthropologist, applicants must have a doctoral degree in forensic anthropology, although there are no accreditation requirements. On the other hand, applicants for a Footwear Identification Certification through the International Association of Identification (IAI) must have some combination of education and experience, ranging from a high school diploma with eight years of experience to a bachelor of science degree with three years of experience. The footwear certification also does not have any accreditation requirements.
Ultimately, students should thoroughly investigate their chosen specialty to ensure that they earn an education that will apply to their future career goals.
Jocelyn Blore
Chief Content StrategistJocelyn 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.
Matt Zbrog
WriterMatt Zbrog is a writer and researcher from Southern California. Since 2018, he’s written extensively about the increasing digitization of investigations, the growing importance of forensic science, and emerging areas of investigative practice like open source intelligence (OSINT) and blockchain forensics. His writing and research are focused on learning from those who know the subject best, including leaders and subject matter specialists from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) and the American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFS). As part of the Big Employers in Forensics series, Matt has conducted detailed interviews with forensic experts at the ATF, DEA, FBI, and NCIS.