Bachelor’s in Forensic Science Programs

Bachelor’s degree programs in forensic science are designed to help you explore different types of crimes, understand what types of evidence are collected from crime scenes, and know how to interpret and collaborate information that is gathered from crime scenes. When you complete this degree, you spend quite a bit of time in the field in addition to your typical classroom hours. In addition, you may work in the lab to learn how to process evidence and discover the care that you must use to handle sensitive materials. Want to make a difference in the legal system and give a voice to the victims of crime? Consider earning a bachelor’s degree in forensic science. Our simple school listings can help you find schools in your area.

Acceptance Requirements for a Bachelor’s in Forensic Science

The acceptance requirements into forensic science bachelor’s program varies. For example, at Grand Canyon University, you will need to:

• Fill out an application form that helps advisors get to know you
• Complete your high school degree (or in some cases, your GED will suffice)
• Submit your high school transcripts and any transcripts for other schooling you may have already received
• Fill out the FAFSA documents if you are applying for student aid

Core Classes for a Bachelor’s in Forensic Science

There are quite a few requirements for those who want to major in forensic science at the bachelor’s degree level. To meet requirements for jobs with a forensic science degree, you may be expected to take courses across a variety of fields, including biology, physics, chemistry, criminal justice, and law. By studying in so many different fields, you can develop the skills you need to work in a forensic laboratory or in the field in a variety of forensic studies jobs.

The core requirements for forensic science degrees tend to be similar across different schools.

You may start with courses like:

• Morality in Criminal Justice
• Principles of Biology
• Introduction to Criminal Justice Administration
• Introduction to Forensic Science

These courses start introducing you to fundamental concepts in this degree. More advanced courses you’ll likely have to pass include:

• Criminalistics Laboratory
• Professional Issues in Forensic Science
• Crime Scene Photography
• Laws of Criminal Evidence

Quite a few courses at the bachelor’s degree level offer training in specific forensic science tasks. Courses that fall into this category include:

• Bloodstain Evidence
• Forensic Microscopy
• Fingerprint Evidence
• Forensic Anthropology

Though real-life experience is an important component of many forensic science courses, it is particularly essential in these courses. By learning how to carry out core job duties in the forensic science field, you can begin preparing for jobs with forensic science degree requirements.

Career Outcomes and Salary for Forensic Science Major Jobs

Earning a bachelor’s degree in forensic science may prepare you for a variety of careers in the criminal justice field. If you’re interested in an administrative job, consider applying to become a records officer. O*Net notes that records officers earn an average salary of $86,280 per year as of 2022. In this position, you may use your knowledge of forensic science to properly store, document, and process evidence for use in cases.

Forensic science technicians may spend most of their time in the lab, looking through items for physical evidence and ensuring that the evidence is treated appropriately. The average salary for a forensic science technician is $63,740 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

Other forensic science degree jobs may take you out into the field as a crime scene investigator. This job may require a strong stomach and a dedication to justice, as you may need to deal with crimes or crime scenes that are particularly gruesome. Your skills can help bring justice to victims.

Does a bachelor’s degree in forensic science sound like your key to a new career? If so, get started today by contacting forensic science schools in your area. Once you’ve completed your education, you can apply for the forensic studies jobs that interest you most. Contact forensic science schools below to get started.

2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures contained here reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2023.

Tips for Picking a Forensic Science Bachelor’s Program

• Find out if the school is accredited. Both the school and the program should be accredited. At the very least, the school should be accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Check the “about us” page for the forensic psychology program you are interested in and ensure the program accreditation is legitimate by performing a quick google search.
• Talk to the school’s academic and career advisors to determine the graduation and job placement rate is acceptable.
• Check if the school offers financial aid or accepts FAFSA.
• Ask about the student to teacher ratio.
• Ask about any research opportunities or special projects going on within the department to see if they interest you.

Bachelor’s in Forensic Science Resources

• New Forensic Science Tools and Technology
• American Academy of Forensic Sciences
• How Forensic Science Cracked the Golden State Killer Case
• Q&A with Chair of the Forensic Science Foundation, Ronald L. Singer, M.S.