Do you see yourself in the middle of a crime scene, piecing together the complex pieces of a dark puzzle? Or do you envision yourself in the lab, running samples and analyzing results? However you envision your future, a BS in Forensic Science degree will help you get there.
What kind of Forensic Science Degree should you get?
There are many ways to earn a BS in Forensic Science. You can specialize in chemistry or sociology. Or you can become an expert in cyber crime and digital analytics.
However you intend to specialize, all 35 of these programs will provide a sturdy foundation in forensic science. Some of these programs can even be completed fully online. We’ve been sure to highlight those.
For a full listing of online degrees in forensic science and criminal justice, be sure to check out College Choice’s Best Online Degrees in Criminal Justice.
How much money do people make with a Forensic Science Degree?
A degree in forensic science will allow you to work in a range of industries and roles. Because of the variety, the average salary for one holding a BS in Forensic Science degree also varies.
For example, if you decide to become a lab technician then you can expect to make around $56,000 annually, and that’s just in your first few years. However, if you want to become a forensic psychologist, then that number leaps up to $75,000 a year.
However you end up applying your forensic science degree, know that the demand is growing. In fact, the need for those with a BS in Forensic Science degree is projected to rise at least another 17 percent in the next few years.
What are the requirements for a Forensic Science Degree?
The 35 programs here are all four-year undergraduate degree programs. First you will complete two years of general education coursework. Then you will take core forensic sciences classes, in evidence, crime scene investigation, analysis, and more. Many of these programs also allow you to specialize. Some of the concentration areas offered include:
- Biology and Forensic Science
- Anthropology
- Chemistry and Forensic Science
- Criminal Justice
After completing both your core forensic science classes and concentration coursework, you can gain hands-on experience by doing an internship or field practicum.
What are the best Forensic Science Degrees?
While some of these programs specialize in biochemistry and others in cyber security, they share one thing one common: they are the nation’s best Bachelor in Forensic Science degrees.
To determine the best Forensic Science programs we started first with the academic reputation of each school nationwide that offers the degree. Next we looked at students’ satisfaction with program through retention rates. Finally we factored in affordability and early salaries of its graduates.
After our exhaustive research, we found those programs that are the country’s absolute best at training leaders in forensic science. Our figures and information come from the university and colleges’ websites, PayScale, and nationally recognized U.S. News & World Report and The National Center for Education Statistics.
2018 Ranking
See our rankings methodology page.
1
Virginia Commonwealth University
Overview
Located in Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public, research-driven university. It was founded as a medical college, but today offers over 200 academic degree programs to its 31,000 students.
Features
At VCU when you earn a BS in Forensic Science you will explore everything from microscopy to criminal procedure. This exhaustive program is housed in VCU’s renowned Department of Forensic Science and is fully accredited by FEPAC (the Forensic Science Educational Programs Accreditation Commission). You’ll even have the opportunity to specialize in one of the three offered concentration tracks:
- Forensic Biology
- Forensic Chemistry
- Physical Evidence
Notables
VCU is classified as a university with the “highest research activity” from Carnegie. In addition to having nearly 30 well ranked departments and colleges, VCU as a whole is nationally ranked by Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and more.
2
Pennsylvania State University
Overview
Pennsylvania State University is a huge research university with multiple campuses located throughout the state. Nearly 100,000 students study at Penn State, on one of its many campuses or online. It is one of the nation’s largest universities.
Features
At Penn State you will gain a hands-on experience when earning a BS in Forensic Science degree. This program puts you in the lab and crime scene training facilities. You can even join the Forensic Science Club. Some of the classes you’ll take at Penn State include:
- Essential Practices of Forensic Science
- A Scientific Approach to Crime Scene Investigation
- Criminalistics
- Laboratory in Crime Scene Investigation
Notables
Penn State is known for its research activities in the fields of engineering, sociology computer science, psychology, and more. Ranked 50th among all national universities, Penn State is also globally ranked, often landing among the top 100 best schools in the world.
3
Texas A & M University
Overview
Texas A&M University (TAMU) is located in College Station, Texas. It is a large, public university known for its research across the STEM fields. TAMU is a land, sea, and space grant school with nearly 70,000 enrolled students.
Features
At TAMU you will explore both the theoretical and practical applications of forensic science. And you will gain a sturdy foundation in the principles of investigation. You can even specialize in pre-law forensic science. Some of the classes you’ll take while at TAMU include:
- Forensic Implications of Inheritance
- Biotechnology and Forensics
- Forensic Soil Science
- Latent Print Processing
Notables
Because of TAMU’s research initiatives and ambitions, the university sustains close relationships with, and is funded by, NASA, the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and more. U.S. News & World Report ranks TAMU 68th among all national universities.
4
Michigan State University
Overview
Michigan State University (MSU) is located in the state’s capital, East Lansing. It is a public research university that was founded as an agricultural school. Today, however, MSU offers over 200 academic programs to its 50,000 students.
Features
Though not technically a forensic science degree, MSU’s Bachelors in Criminal Justice program allows you to specialize in forensics. You will learn the patterns and causes of crime through a broad-based curriculum. Classes cover the following:
- Introduction to Forensic Science
- Criminology
- Criminal Procedure
- Methods of Research
Notables
The MSU campus is home to dozens of renowned research facilities, labs, and centers. Considered a Public Ivy and a member of the Association of American Universities, MSU is a highly ranked school. U.S. News & World Report consistently includes it among the top 100 best universities in the nation.
5
George Mason University
Overview
George Mason University (Mason) has several campuses throughout Virginia. It is a large research university, the largest in the state, known for its programs in economics, law, business, computer science, and more. Over 34,000 students attend Mason.
Features
George Mason’s College of Science offers a full BS in Forensic Science degree that prepares students for a range of career options. Students participate in a curriculum that offers training demonstrations, CSI techniques, and lab methods. Graduates from Mason have gone on to become:
- Forensic Anthropologists
- Investigation Specialists
- Private Lab Examiners
- Forensic Photographers
Notables
George Mason University is nationally ranked by Forbes and U.S. News & World Report. Campus is comprised of numerous renowned research centers. And the university maintains close affiliations with NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Smithsonian Institute, and more.
6
George Washington University
Overview
George Washington University (GWU) is located in the nation’s capital. It is organized into over a dozen colleges and schools. With nearly 30,000 students, GWU is the largest, and the second oldest, university in Washington D.C.
Features
While George Washington University may not offer a full forensic science program, they do allow students who major in chemistry to specialize in forensics. This program is ideal for students who want to work in federal and state forensic labs. You can also complete a MS in forensic science degree at the same time. Classes cover:
- General Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Forensic Science
Notables
GWU has many strong academic programs, but it is especially known for training leaders in government, journalism, forensic science, and international affairs. Unsurprisingly, The Princeton Review ranks GWU as a top ten campus for political involvement.
7
Marshall University
Overview
Marshall University is located in Huntington, West Virginia. It is comprised of nine undergraduate colleges and a renowned digital forensics program. Around 13,000 students attend Marshall.
Features
At Marshall you can earn a BS in Digital Forensics and Information Assurance degree. This is a perfect program for those who want to combat cyber threats through information technology. You’ll gain hands-on experience conducting tests and analyses while also taking classes such as:
- Digital Evidence
- Network Penetration and Attack
- Computer Crime
- Network Defense
Notables
Marshall is home to two prestigious honors programs: the John Marshall Scholars and the Society of Yeager Scholars. And the university’s forensic science programs were recently ranked first in the nation according to the Forensic Science Assessment Test.
8
St Mary's University
Overview
St. Mary’s University is a Catholic school located just outside of downtown San Antonio, Texas. It was founded by the Society of Mary and today maintains its Catholic distinctions and affiliations. Around 3,000 students attend this private university.
Features
There are many ways to study forensic science at St. Mary’s. In addition to foundational coursework in forensic science you will aso gain crucial real-world experience through the university’s internship program. Concentration options include:
- BS in Forensic Science with Biology
- BS in Forensic Science with Chemistry
- BS in Forensic Science with Criminology
Notables
St. Mary’s University is regionally well ranked by U.S. News & World Report. In addition to its academic reputation, St. Mary’s is also known for its affordability and its commitment to community service. Washington Monthly recently named it one of the best in the country for its social mobility.
9
American InterContinental University
Overview
Over 15,000 students attend American InterContinental University (AIU). It is owned and operated by the Career Education Corporation and is a for-profit university. AIU has three physical campuses, in Atlanta, Houston, and Weston, Florida, plus an online campus.
Features
AIU offers a BS in Criminal Justice degree that can be paired with specialization in Forensic Science. This program is offered online as well as on the Atlanta and Houston campuses. Through AIU you will learn how to investigate and solve crimes as well as understand the theories and causes behind criminal activity.
- Crime Victim Studies
- Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Theory
- Constitutional Issues in Criminal Procedure
- Evidence
Notables
AIU’s online programs have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, AIU is known for being a military friendly university. It was named a “top school” by the Military Advanced Education Guide to Colleges and Universities.
10
Eastern New Mexico University
Overview
Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) is located in Portales, New Mexico, though there are also branches in Ruidoso and Roswell. Around 6,000 students attend ENMU, enrolled in one of the universities four colleges.
Features
At ENMU when you earn a BS in Forensic Science degree you will experience a notably interdisciplinary education. This program teaches you everything from human anatomy to how to handle evidence. And at ENMU you have the option of specializing in one of three areas:
- Anthropology
- Biology
- Chemistry
Notables
U.S. News & World Report regionally ranks ENMU among the schools in the west. Even more, perhaps because of its locations, ENMU boasts one of the top science fiction library collections in the world. There are over 30,000 volumes of books, photos, archives, and more!
11
Fairmont State University
Overview
Fairmont State University (FSU) is a public school located in Fairmont, West Virginia. It was first founded as a community college then expanded into a technical college. Today it offers dozens of degrees in an array of subjects to its 4,000 students.
Features
Through Fairmont State University you can earn a BS in Forensic Science degree steeped in legal analysis, quantitative reasoning, investigation, and lab procedures. Graduates from this program have found work in everything from medical examination to forensic pathology. Courses cover:
- Introduction to Forensic Science
- Forensic Biology
- Forensic Microscopy and Spectroscopy
- Capstone Seminar in Forensic Science
Notables
U.S. News & World Report includes Fairmont State University in its regional rankings of the South. Likewise, the online undergraduate and graduate programs are also highly regarded and well ranked. Especially the criminal justice and forensic science programs.
12
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Overview
The Lincoln branch within the greater University of Nebraska (UNL) system is a research university. It is organized into eight colleges and has over 100 research centers and facilities on campus. More than 25,000 students attend UNL.
Features
At UNL there are many ways to study forensic science. You can combine the BS degree with a pre-law track. Or you can concentrate in crime scene investigation or biochemistry. However you plan your degree, at UNL you will gain a foundation in forensic science through its core curriculum:
- Introduction to Forensic Science
- Overview of Forensic Comparative Analysis Lab
- Current Issues in Forensic Science
- Survey of Criminal Justice
Notables
Nebraska’s oldest university, UNL is a flagship institution. In addition to its academic reputation, UNL is known for its commitment to sustainability. Many of its buildings are LEED certified and campus has organized several successful green campaigns and programs.
13
Hofstra University
Overview
A private, non-profit university, Hofstra University is located on Long Island, New York. It’s 10,000 students are enrolled in one of the university’s 10 colleges, including their highly regarding School of Medicine and School of Law. There are also dozens of research centers and museums spread across on campus.
Features
Hofstra’s BS in Forensic Science program prepares students to work in the legal system. Expect to take classes in an array of subjects while also completing an internship. Hofstra’s highly regarded internship program places students in:
- Government crime labs
- Medical examiner’s offices
- Police departments
- And more
Notables
Hofstra’s online programs are often included among the U.S. News & World Report rankings. And campus is marked by its commitment to research and community. Of the many research institutes at Hofstra are the renowned Institute for Health Law and Policy and the Institute for the Study of Conflict Transformation.
14
West Virginia University
Overview
West Virginia University (WVU) is flagship university and a public land-grant, space-grant, and research institution. It is located in Morgantown and has nearly 30,000 students. WVU is organized into 15 colleges and schools.
Features
WVU offers a BS in Forensic and Investigative Science degree. Through this program you can become a highly trained specialist in one of three areas: forensic examination, forensic biology, or forensic chemistry. You will also take classes such as:
- Professional Forensic Communications
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Law and Evidence
- Court Testimony
Notables
West Virginia University is well-ranked by Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and Washington Monthly. Even more, WVU has graduated dozens of Rhodes, Goldwater, and Truman Scholars. It is recognized for its research initiatives and is thus designated an “R1” Research University.
15
Loyola University Chicago
Overview
Loyola University in Chicago is a private Catholic school. It is one of the largest Catholic universities in the nation with over 16,000 combined undergraduate and graduate students. And, Loyola offers over 200 academic degree programs.
Features
When you earn a BS in Forensic Science degree from Loyola you will have the opportunity to concentrate in forensic biology and DNA or forensic chemistry. Both give you a broad understanding of the criminal justice system. And both require you complete the following courses:
- The Criminal Justice System
- Forensic Science Ethics and Professional Practice
- Expert Witness Testimony and Courtroom Demeanor
- Introduction to Biostatistics
Notables
U.S. News & World Report ranks Loyola University among the top 100 best universities in the nation. On top of these academic accolades, Loyola has earned a notable reputation for its promotion of community service among students on campus.
16
Syracuse University
Overview
Syracuse University located in Syracuse, New York and is a private school. It was originally founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church and is a non-sectarian university today. Over 20,000 students are enrolled at Syracuse.
Features
Syracuse offers an integrated major that combines forensic science with anthropology, biochemistry, biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, or sociology. This will provide you with a broad concept of forensic science theory and applications. Some of the unique classes you can take at Syracuse include:
- Human Osteology
- Bioarchaeology
- Genetics
- Forensic Chemical Analysis
Notables
Syracuse is ranked 61st among all national universities by U.S. News & World Report. It is a member of the Association of American Universities and categorized as a “High Research University” by the Carnegie Classification.
17
University of Central Oklahoma
Overview
The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) is located in Edmond. It is one of the state’s largest universities with more than 18,000 students. And it is the also the state’s oldest university, founded before the twentieth century.
Features
Through UCO’s forensic science program you will learn how to review and interpret evidence. You will also practice communication, learning how to convey complex forensic science information in an accurate and concise manner. At OCU, you can either earn the general BS in Forensic Science degree or you can specialize in one of three areas:
- Molecular Biology
- Digital Forensics
- Chemistry
Notables
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recently recognized OCO for its ongoing use of green power. And OCU is included among Forbes list of “America’s Best Colleges.” Finally, OCU is one of the only schools in the state to offer a forensic science degree.
18
University of New Haven
Overview
The University of New Haven (UNH) is located in New Haven, Connecticut. It is a private school that offers a liberal arts education as well as professional career training. Around 6,500 students attend UNH.
Features
The University of New Haven offers an undergraduate degree in forensic science that teaches students how to use the latest crime-solving technologies. You will take a variety of classes in forensic science fundamentals in addition to completing an internship or research project. Graduates have gone on to become:
- Crime Lab Scientists
- Chief Medical Examiners
- FBI Laboratory Technicians
- Forensic Scientists in Criminalistics
Notables
The University of New Haven has been designated among the top 100 universities located in the Northeastern region of the U.S. And U.S. News & World Report includes it in its “America’s Best Colleges” ranking. UNH is home to the Henry C. Lee Institute of Forensic Science, which houses six research centers dedicated to forensic science.
19
Miami University
Overview
Miami University is located in Oxford, Ohio. It is a public research school and a member of the University System of Ohio. Nearly 25,000 students are enrolled at Miami.
Features
Miami University’s BS in Forensic Science and Investigation degree is markedly interdisciplinary. You will take classes in the natural sciences, criminal justice, and hard sciences. But you will also gain hands-on experience in computer information technology and crime scene technician applications. Courses cover:
- Law and Individual Rights
- Forensic and Crime Scene Evidence
- Evidence Law and Expert Testimony
- Forensic Science Survey
Notables
Miami University, despite its size, gives its students a traditional liberal arts education. It is ranked 79th among all national universities by U.S. News & World Report. And it is an original member of the Public Ivy schools.
20
Middle Tennessee State University
Overview
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It is a public university that was originally founded as a teacher’s school. Today it is comprised of nearly 10 colleges that offer more than 80 academic programs.
Features
MTSU’s forensic science program trains students to work in public crime laboratories, specialized private labs, and law enforcement agencies. You will not only graduate ready for a job at the local, state, or federal level, you will graduate highly specialized. There are three ways to specialize at MTSU, in:
- Criminal Justice
- Chemistry
- Biology
Notables
MTSU has graduated a number of Nobel Prize laureates. Additionally, the university consistently makes the national rankings put out by Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and Washington Monthly.
21
College of Saint Rose
Overview
The College of Saint Rose is a small, private school with around 5,000 students. It is located in Albany, New York and organized into four schools. The college offers over 50 academic degree programs.
Features
At the College of Saint Rose you can earn a BS in Forensic Science degree and enroll in one of two tracks: chemistry or biology. Both tracks are multi-disciplinary and require you complete the following classes:
- Contemporary Topics in Forensic Sciences
- Forensic Assays
- Natural Science Colloquium
- The Court Systems
Notables
The College of Saint Rose was founded by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet. And it is one of only six colleges in the U.S. still sponsored by the Sisters. The college has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and its reduction of carbon footprints.
22
University of Tampa
Overview
The University of Tampa (UT) is located in the heart of downtown Tampa, Florida. It is a large school that offers over 200 academic degree programs to its nearly 9,000 students. Among its most popular programs are those in criminology, forensic science, marketing, nursing, and business.
Features
The University of Tampa’s forensic science program prepares students to collect and interpret crime data, communicate cogently, and work independently. Students receive training specifically in forensic chemistry and toxicology, but also in biology, firearms, and fire debris analysis. This sets you up to find a career in a variety of fields. Indeed, graduates have gone on to work in:
- County crime laboratories
- Biochemistry laboratories
- Health professional schools
- Medical examiner’s offices
Notables
The University of Tampa is a well-decorated school. It makes several of the U.S. News & World Report rankings, including the “Best College for Veterans,” the “Best Value Schools,” and the best among the “Regional Universities of the South.”
23
University of Texas at El Paso
Overview
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is a research-driven university. It is comprised of seven colleges and schools. UTEP offers over 150 programs at all degree levels to its 23,000 students.
Features
UTEP’s College of Science offers a BS in Forensic Science degree. This program meets the high standards set by the American Association of Forensic Science. At UTEP you can specialize in one of four ways:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Physics
Notables
UTEP is an old school, founded over 100 years ago. When it was originally founded it was called the State School of Mines and Metallurgy. Even today, there are mineshafts still on campus!
24
Saint Edward's University
Overview
St. Edward’s University is a private Roman Catholic school. It is affiliated with the Holy Cross tradition and has around 5,000 enrolled students. St. Edward’s is located in Austin, Texas.
Features
At St. Edward’s University when you earn a BS in Forensic Science degree you will receive hands-on training. You will learn how to recognize, collect, document, and preserve forensic evidence. But you’ll also learn about the necessary legal and ethical protocols. There are two tracks at St. Edward’s:
- BS in Forensic Science with a lab emphasis
- BS in Forensic Science with a field emphasis
Notables
U.S. News & World Report has heaped its praise on St. Edward’s. It includes the university among its regional rankings of schools based in the West. And it recognizes St. Edward’s as among the top ten best schools for veterans.
25
Youngstown State University
Overview
Based in the Youngstown, Ohio, Youngstown State University (YSU) is a research university. It is organized into half a dozen undergraduate colleges plus a School of Graduate Studies. Over 15,000 students attend YSU.
Features
At Youngstown you will have the opportunity to work directly in a crime scene lab when earning a BS in Forensic Science degree. Therefore this program is research driven and practicum based. You will even get to do fingerprinting and blood pattern analysis in the lab. Youngstown offers its students three tracks for specialization, in:
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Anthropology
Notables
Youngstown State University is regionally ranked by U.S. News & World Report. It is also known for its business, engineering, and forensic science programs. Finally, the YSU campus is home to several acclaimed research programs and centers.
26
Gannon University
Overview
Gannon University is a private Catholic school. It is located in Erie, Pennsylvania and has around 4,500 enrolled students. Gannon is organized into three main schools, in engineering and business, the humanities, and the health sciences.
Features
After establishing a liberal arts core, at Gannon you will learn the ins and outs of forensic science. This is an interdisciplinary program in which you can focus on either biology or chemistry. Graduates from Gannon have gone on to work in:
- Animal Drug Testing Labs
- Crime Scene Investigation Labs
- Law School
- Medical Examination Offices
Notables
Gannon has been included in U.S. News & World Report’s ranking of “America’s Best Colleges.” It is also regionally ranked, and it’s consistently included among the top 10 best colleges for affordability.
27
Utah Valley University
Overview
Utah Valley University (UVU) is located in Orem, Utah. It is a large, public university with over 37,000 enrolled students. UVU offers nearly 150 academic programs at all degree levels, from certifications to graduate degrees.
Features
At Utah Valley University you can earn a BS in Forensic Science degree. Through this program you will gain experience in crime scene investigation, fingerprinting, foot and tire track analysis, blood stain patterns, and much more. UVU classes cover:
- Criminal Law
- Criminal Investigations
- Laws of Evidence
- Criminalistics
Notables
Utah Valley University is included among Forbes’ national university rankings. Similarly, the school is known for its business, engineering, and criminal justice degrees. UVU students have even garnered prestigious business awards.
28
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Overview
The John Jay College of Criminal Justice is a part of the renowned City University of New York system (CUNY). It is located in Midtown Manhattan and is a liberal arts school. However, the college specializes in providing an education in forensic science and criminal justice education to its 15,000 students.
Features
At John Jay you can earn a BS in Forensic Science degree that offers two tracks of concentration: the criminalistics track or the molecular biology track. Students learn how to apply scientific principles to forensic data while also acquiring fundamental knowledge of physical and biological science.
- Biochemistry
- Forensic Pharmacology
- Instrumental Analysis I and II
- Law and Evidence
Notables
John Jay is a top-of-the-line criminal justice school. Its many rankings and awards reflect this. Forbes and The Economist include John Jay in its list of “America’s Top Colleges.” U.S. News & World Report ranks the college’s many criminology and forensic science programs among the top ten best in the country.
29
San Jose State University
Overview
San Jose State University (SJSU) is one of the founding schools in the California State University system. Thus, SJSU is one of the oldest public universities on the West Coast. Over 30,000 students attend SJSU.
Features
San Jose State University’s BS in Forensic Science degree comes with two areas of focus: in biology or chemistry. However, you will study many of the sub-areas related to forensic science, everything from pathology to toxicology. Some of the classes you’ll take at SJSU include:
- Forensic Anthropology
- Human Genetics
- Systems Physiology
- Evolutionary Genetics
Notables
San Jose State is well ranked and has received much praise from U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, Business Insider, Washington Monthly, and Money Magazine. On top of these academic accolades, SJSU is known for its affordability.
30
Seton Hill University
Overview
Located in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Seton Hill University is a Catholic school. With around 2,500 students, Seton Hill offers a liberal arts education. It was originally a women’s college but became coeducational in 2002.
Features
The forensic science program at Seton Hill integrates biology, chemistry, criminal justice, and physics. And at Seton Hill you will have access to a number of research centers such as the Crime Scene House, the Health Sciences Center, and several analysis labs. Some of the classes you’ll take at Seton Hill include:
- Genetics
- Medical Genetics
- Biochemistry
- Instrumental Analysis
Notables
In addition to its academic reputation, Seton Hill is known for a few unique things: it was the first university to ever provide its entire student population with iPads. Campus is also home to a number of renowned research centers such as the National Catholic Center for Holocaust Education.
31
Columbia College
Overview
Columbia College (in Missouri) is a private, liberal arts college. It is affiliated with the Christian Church and is organized into over a dozen academic divisions. Columbia’s most popular degrees are in business, education, nursing, and forensic science.
Features
Like many of the other programs on our list, Columbia’s forensic science program is a combination of chemistry, biology, criminal justice, and law courses. This multi-disciplinary program means you will have many career options after graduation. Columbia’s core curriculum covers:
- Forensic Anthropology
- Forensic Microscopy
- Fingerprint Evidence
- Pathology
Notables
Princeton Review recently named Columbia College a “Best Midwestern University.” With a small undergraduate population of around 2,000 students, Columbia is known for its individualized curriculums. Students work closely with advisors, faculty members, library and tech staff, career counselors, and more.
32
Trine University
Overview
Trine University is a private school located in Angola, Indiana. Trine is organized into several departments that specialize in business, education, engineering, and the arts and sciences. Around 2,000 students attend Trine.
Features
Trine’s BS in Forensic degree is specifically for those who want to work directly in crime scene investigation. As a Trine student you will be trained in laboratory process. And you will become proficient in all kinds of technologies, from spectrophotometers to ballistics and fiber microscopes. Trine graduates have gone on to become:
- Crime and Arson Investigators
- Lab Technicians
- Law Enforcement Officials
- Law School Graduate Students
Notables
Trine University is ranked among the top 25 best universities in the Midwest. Likewise, U.S. News & World Report ranked it one of the most affordable options for higher education.
33
Pace University - New York
Overview
Since Pace University is located in Manhattan, with two other campuses in Westchester County, students benefit from the proximity to all things NYC. Pace University is a private school. It has over 15,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
Features
At Pace you’ll gain a foundational education in forensic chemistry, criminalistic, biology, and more. You’ll work in the DNA sequencing lab and you’ll learn virtual crime scene reconstruction. Pace University coursework covers:
- Molecular Biology
- Forensic Microscopy
- Forensic Biology
- Forensic Science
Notables
As a whole, Pace is ranked nationally among the top 200 best schools in the U.S. In addition, U.S. News & World Report ranks many of Pace University’s colleges and schools well, especially the law and business departments.
34
University of Findlay
Overview
The University of Findlay (UF) is a private university based in Findlay, Ohio. Though the university offers over 60 areas of study, it is most known for its degrees in science, health, animal science, and equestrian studies. Approximately 2,700 students attend Findlay.
Features
The University of Findlay offers a BS in Forensic Science degree that can be paired with one of two specializations, in biology or chemistry. Or you can dual major in both, gaining a broad foundation in all areas of forensic science. UF classes cover:
- Firearms Identification
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Latent Prints
- Trace Evidence
Notables
The Princeton Review designates Findlay as one of the “Best in the Midwest.” Similarly, U.S. News & World Report calls it one of “America’s Best Colleges.”
35
Long Island University
Overview
Long Island University (LIU) is based in and around the larger New York metropolitan area. It is a private school that offers more than 500 academic programs. Around 18,000 students attend LIU.
Features
Long Island University offers a forensic science degree that brings together science, technology, and the law. At LIU you will learn how to search for clues while also investigating DNA and footprints. LIU’s curriculum is broad and includes:
- Molecular Pathology
- Criminalistics
- Human Genetics
- Forensic Anthropology
Notables
Long Island University is regionally ranked by U.S. News & World Report. It is also known for its excellent online education and for specifically designing degrees for professional, working adults.