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Blood spatter, DNA, bullet ballistics. To make these pieces of physical evidence usable in court, lawyers and prosecutors need forensic analysts trained in biology, chemistry, or physics to interpret their presence at a crime scene.
How did they get there and what does it tell us about what happened? To answer these questions scientists need strong educational backgrounds, such as one of the 20 Best Master’s in Forensic Science.
What Is Forensic Science?
Forensic Science is the application of hard sciences including physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, or engineering to matters of law or criminal justice. Scientists work with law enforcement to investigate things such as the physics of blood spatter or to source trace amounts of drugs with chemistry.
The information and expertise provided by forensic scientists can help provide hard evidence for investigators. Each crime science provides its own unique challenges, which is why investigators must have a strong academic background and critical thinking abilities.
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How Much Money Can I Earn Working in Forensic Science?
Forensic science is a highly specialized field and the skills that students in these programs develop are always in high demand. Entry-level forensic science technicians earn an average of around $58,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Technicians who hold Master’s degree are more likely to earn closer to $75,000-$80,000 per year.
There are currently more than 15,400 people working in this field in the United States, and the BLS expects a 17 percent growth (much faster than average) in this job market over the coming decade. That translates to more than 2,600 new job openings! All waiting for someone with the right credentials.
Why Choose A Master’s in Forensic Science?
Master's degrees give students more options than undergraduate programs can offers. By delving further into their field of choice, students can learn whether or not they prefer the academic or professional aspects of subjects like forensic science.
As mentioned above, master’s graduates who wish to begin their professional careers can enter the field with a salary at least $20,000 more compared to students with just a bachelor’s. And students who find the academic side of the subject more fulfilling will be prepared to enter doctoral programs that can lead to teaching jobs or highly specialized work in the area of their dissertation.
What Are the 20 Best Master’s in Forensic Science?
We’ve found that the best degrees are those that offer fair not only fair prices, but ample flexibility and convenience as well! To find the best degrees for you, we look at the best schools in the country based on reputation, student satisfaction, program quality, and return on investment. Then we review the bottom line - just how much is this going to cost? Check out our methodology page for a more in depth description of our data.
Once we determine all of the above, we curate a list of stellar schools for you! These not only represent the best degrees you can get, but also ones that will fit your budget. Check out our picks below!
Best Forensic Science Master's Degrees
See our rankings methodology page.
#1 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in forensic science program at Sam Houston State University stands out for its academic rigor and flexibility. The master of science in forensic science program allows students to grow their earning potential and advance their careers. Candidates benefit from flexible learning options, which make it easier to work while enrolling in graduate school.
Learners strengthen their theoretical and practical understanding of forensic science through the program's challenging curriculum. Internships and other hands-on learning opportunities allow students to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Learners choose concentrations and electives to build specialized skills in a specific area of forensic science.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Location: Huntsville, Texas
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,765
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,361
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 86%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,014
Average Price After Aid: $13,055
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
Arizona State University
- Phoenix, AZ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking increased professional responsibilities can earn their master's in forensic science degree at Arizona State University. The public institution offers several enrollment options on its Phoenix campus and through its online programs. During the PSM in forensic science program, learners take graduate classes in forensic science that build on their prior knowledge in the field.
Master's candidates participate in campus life and benefit from the university's support services. For example, academic advisors recommend course selections and connect students with tutoring services. Master's degree-seekers also attend networking events and make use of library services.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 25
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,720
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,160
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,200
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The forensic science master's degree at the University of Central Florida is one of 75 master's programs offered at the university. The master of science in forensic science incorporates career-focused training to help students advance their professional opportunities. Graduate programs prioritize flexibility through their enrollment options, which help enrollees balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The master's curriculum encourages a comprehensive understanding of forensic science through both theoretical and practical knowledge. Students apply their classroom knowledge through internships and hands-on learning opportunities, which also build professional connections. Concentrations and electives let learners specialize their forensic science education around particular fields.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Location: Orlando, Florida
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 44%
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,916
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,759
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,728
Average Price After Aid: $11,617
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
For students seeking career advancement, Florida International University offers a master's program in forensic science. From its Miami campus, the public institution offers graduate programs in several enrollment formats, including online options designed for working professionals. During the master of science in forensic science program, learners complete a challenging, graduate-level curriculum that builds an advanced understanding of forensic science.
Master's candidates access a generous selection of college resources and support services during their degree. Financial aid advisors connect students with resources to pay for graduate school, while academic advisors recommend course selections. Master's degree-seekers also take advantage of networking and training events hosted by the university.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 96
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,912
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,393
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $41,500
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
Bowling Green State University
- Bowling Green, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in forensic science program at Bowling Green State University appeals to students seeking career advancement. From its Bowling Green campus, the public university meets the needs of diverse degree-seekers by offering flexible enrollment options. During the program, learners take graduate-level courses in forensic science to enhance their understanding of the field.
Whether enrolled online or on campus, master's candidates can access a generous selection of college resources and support services. Academic advisors recommend course selections, while financial aid counselors connect students with scholarship and grant opportunities. Master's degree-seekers also take advantage of career advising, tutoring centers, and internship programs.
Bowling Green State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 77
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Admission Rate: 72%
Graduation Rate: 61%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,017
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,009
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $33,500
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
Pace University
- New York, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The forensic science master's program at Pace University, one of 48 master's degrees, offers a rigorous education. The master's degree in forensic science incorporates career-focused training to help students advance their professional opportunities. Candidates benefit from flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for full-time professionals.
Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of forensic science through a curriculum that highlights theoretical and practical approaches. Students strengthen their career-readiness through internships and hands-on learning opportunities. Learners work with faculty advisors to choose electives or concentrations that customize the program.
Pace University at a Glance:
Location: New York, New York
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 79%
Graduate Tuition In State: $31,320
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,320
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 97%
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking career advancement benefit from the forensic science minor at East Carolina University. Located in Greenville, North Carolina, the public institution serves degree-seekers of all types thanks to its many enrollment options. During the minor, learners take graduate classes in forensic science that build on their prior knowledge in the field.
While pursuing a master's degree, enrollees benefit from college resources and support services. Academic advisors can help with course selections, while financial aid counselors ensure students can fund their education. The university provides career advising, tutoring, and library services to master's degree-seekers.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 72
Total Online Master's Programs: 41
Admission Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,749
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,898
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,300
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
University of the Cumberlands
- Williamsburg, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of the Cumberlands offers a master's in digital forensics for students seeking career advancement. The private institution, located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, serves degree-seekers with diverse needs by offering many enrollment options. During the program, learners gain an advanced understanding of topics while strengthening their skills.
Master's candidates benefit from the university's support services, which include academic and career services. Academic advisors can help with course selections, while financial aid counselors ensure students can fund their education. The university also hosts networking and training events for master's degree-seekers.
University of the Cumberlands at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 26
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,670
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $5,670
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $28,500
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Nova Southeastern University offers a master's in forensic investigative technology for students seeking career advancement. From its Fort Lauderdale campus, the private institution enrolls degree-seekers with a variety of options, including online delivery formats. During the program, learners take advanced courses in health science and forensic investigative technology that build on their prior training.
Master's candidates benefit from the university's support services, which include academic and career services. For example, financial aid counselors connect students with grant and scholarship opportunities. The university also offers library services, networking events, and more for graduate degree-seekers.
Nova Southeastern University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 93
Total Online Master's Programs: 46
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,665
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,665
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $47,800
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Master’s In Forensic Science Degrees
University of New Haven
- West Haven, CT
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
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