Forensic Science Degree Programs in Arkansas

With a degree in this field, you may explore a number of careers in forensics, including forensic science technician, coroner, law enforcement officer, and criminal investigator. The paths that you may pursue depend on your previous work experience and which type of degree you intend to earn.

Curious about career opportunities in forensic science? Check out the list of forensic science schools below and contact programs near you.

The applications of forensic science are relevant to many areas of criminal justice. In addition to the obvious uses for violent and physical crime solving, forensic science can also be used to track cybercrime and uncover security threats. For many businesses, cyber security threats have become one of the most pressing issues in recent years (HBR, 2016). Digital forensic traces tampering and file access. Forensic scientists can protect sensitive information and documents.

This is an excellent option to consider whether or not you have previous experience in criminal justice. Criminal justice professionals may use this degree to take the next step in their career, while professionals from other fields may switch into the criminal justice industry by studying forensic science.

Forensic Science Degrees in Arkansas

Arkansas is home to numerous technical and community colleges, four-year colleges, and universities, all of which offer diverse degree options in this field. Selecting the best degree for you is a major factor in your success, so don’t be afraid to contact multiple schools and visit local campuses to find a program that suits you.

Some students choose to begin their forensic science career with a certificate. Certificate programs are designed to give students a rapid, extensive introduction to this field and its theories, techniques, and procedures. Since these programs tend to be fairly short-term, they can typically be finished in one year or less. You may earn up to 30 credits while working toward a certificate. On top of your theory courses, which you may complete online or in-person, you may get experience in a laboratory setting.

Certificate-Level Forensic Science Courses

• Recovery of Human Remains
• Management of Evidence
• Computer Crime
• Crime Scene Digital Photography and Imaging
• Fingerprint Comparison

If you are interested in earning a degree, you may get started with an Associate’s degree. Associate’s programs in forensic science require between 60 and 70 credits, depending on which school you decide to attend.

After completing certain general education courses, you may start building your knowledge with forensic science courses. You may spend about two years in school to earn this degree. Quite a few Arkansas schools require an internship, since hands-on experience can significantly improve your employability.

Associate’s Degree in Forensic Science Courses

• Advanced Management of Evidence and Recovered Property
• Bloodstain Pattern Documentation
• Crime Scene Interpretation and Reconstruction
• Crime Scene Investigation
• Crime Scene Courtroom Testimony

If you’re ready to really explore high-level forensic science theories and techniques, consider pursuing a Bachelor’s degree. From start to finish, this degree lasts about four years. However, if you have a certificate or Associate’s degree from an Arkansas school, you may be able to save time by transferring some of your credits.

By the time you graduate, you need at least 120 credits. Since this type of study delves into advanced techniques and ideas, you can expect to get hands-on experience in lab courses, practicum rotations, and internship opportunities.

Completion of a Bachelor’s degree may prepare you for numerous criminal justice job titles or give you the foundation you need for graduate study in this field.

Courses Offered for Bachelor’s Degree Students

• Forensic Science Survey
• Criminal Investigation
• Criminal Evidence and Procedures
• Forensic Computing
• Human Genetics
• Special Topics in Forensic Science

Each degree level helps you learn how to become a forensic scientist. It all depends on how much time you want to spend in school, which career paths interest you, and how much previous education you have.

To find out which forensic science degrees best suit you, request information from online and Arkansas schools below.

Working as a Forensic Scientist in Arkansas

The field of criminal justice offers a wide range of job titles and positions for qualified individuals. With a background in forensic science, you may work for police departments, countywide criminal justice agencies, state agencies, research labs, and crime labs.

If you are ready to use your education in law enforcement, there are several options you may consider. As a law enforcement officer, you may respond to crime scenes, conduct interviews, and collaborate with investigative professionals. The average salary for an Arkansas law enforcement officer is $42,000 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). Job openings are expected to increase 11% through the year 2030 (CareerOneStop, 2022).

Those who take on the role of criminal investigator earn a mean salary of $60,680 (BLS, 2022). Through 2030, job openings may see a 7% increase (CareerOneStop, 2022).

Coroners handle the difficult task of assessing, analyzing, and preserving bodies. This often requires on-call duties, including night and weekend shifts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average salary of $70,520 per year (2022). Job openings for coroners may swell 9% through 2030 (CareerOneStop, 2022).

In crime labs over Arkansas, you may find forensic science technicians. Demand for forensic science technicians may jump 18% by 2030 (CareerOneStop, 2022). On average, professionals in this role earn $45,630 annually (BLS, 2022).

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

Start your journey now by contacting Arkansas forensic science schools.