Forensic Science Programs in Nebraska

The advances made in science are truly amazing, and they make this one of the best times to start a career in forensic science. The techniques used to solve crimes today are likely completely different from what will be used in five years.
When you pursue one of the forensic science degrees available at Nebraska schools, you learn about cutting-edge developments and put yourself in a position to learn about new types of technology as they become available. Even better, this technology is used to directly improve the quality of life in your community by solving crime and keeping people safe.

Take this opportunity to learn how to become a forensic scientist.

Reach out to Nebraska criminal justice schools to learn more about different degrees and how to get started.

Featured Online Criminal Justice Programs

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A recent mystery in Nebraska showed how incredibly advanced the field of forensic science has become in recent years. The body of an unidentified man was found near a major Nebraska city; without any identifying clothing or documentation, criminal justice professionals were baffled (Journal Star, 2017).

What Can I Do with a Forensic Science Degree in Nebraska?

With forensic science equipment, they were able to identify the man’s age, racial background, and roughly how long he had been in the wild. As a result, they were able to identify the man. Now, forensic scientists are working to figure out what caused the man’s death and bring closure to his friends and family.

Forensic Science Degrees in Nebraska

What’s the lowdown…?

Choosing the right forensic science program is a major part of your academic success and career growth. There are online programs that accommodate distance learners, small programs that give you plenty of individualized assistance, and larger programs that offer the intellectual diversity of a sizable academic institution.

It’s important to weigh your choices carefully. Contact multiple schools and compare the information you receive. Many schools let prospective students tour the campus and sit in on classes to find out if the institution is a good fit.

The more comfortable you feel with a facility and its professors, the more you may be able to interact, ask questions, and grow professionally.

Some of the more widely available programs in Nebraska are certificate and Bachelor’s degree programs. These are good options for those who have not earned a Bachelor’s degree, since they lay the groundwork for further study and provide an in-depth introduction to the complex field of forensic science.

Certificate in Forensic Science Classes

Forensic Biology: Explore the connection between key biology concepts and forensic science.
Forensic Chemistry: Learn how to use chemistry techniques and terminology to analyze forensic evidence.
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: The science of bloodstain analysis can help you understand exactly what happened during the commission of a crime, creating a more accurate timeline.
Crime Scene Analysis: Learn how to analyze crime scenes, take photographs, and collect evidence in such a way to maintain the integrity of the crime scene.

Bachelor’s Degree in Crime Scene Investigation

Current Issues in Forensic Science: With how rapidly this field changes, it’s important to stay on top of recent developments and challenges. The content of this course changes each semester to encompass the most recent news in forensic science.
Crime Scene Investigation: Develop your skills in crime scene analysis and preservation. Topics may include crime scene photography, collection of evidence, and processing of evidence at the scene of a crime.
Forensic DNA Analysis: Learn about key techniques used to analyze DNA samples and compare them to existing samples.
Forensic Entomology: This course shows you how the study of insects can be used to get more information on crime. The presence of insects in human remains can help professionals determine the time of death and other information.
Human Remains in Forensic Science: Human remains must be handled and processed in specific ways to maintain their integrity. Learn about protecting bodies from cross-contamination in this course.
Advanced Forensic Photography: Properly photographing crime scenes and evidence is an important skill in this field, and it’s the focus in this class.

What about planning for the future?

Those who already have a Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field may choose to earn a Master’s degree in forensic science. This degree covers more complex topics than undergraduate programs.

Graduate Courses in Forensic Science

Forensic Hair Analysis: Learn how forensic experts analyze hair to identify victims, determine the people with whom a victim had contact, and place suspects at the scene of a crime.
Forensic Anthropology: The skills provided by a forensic anthropology background are very useful in forensic science, particularly when investigators are working with an unidentified victim.
Forensic Genetic Data Analysis: This class explores gene analysis and shows how it is used in crime solving procedures.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to study forensic science, NE schools are here to help you.

Contact Nebraska forensic science programs to request more information now.

Working as a Forensic Scientist in Nebraska

Here’s the best part…

Forensic science programs offer a combination of theoretical education and hands-on practice that may make you a valuable asset to employers throughout the state.

The more hands-on experience you have, the more options you may have when it comes to employment. Knowing how to navigate a crime lab and analyze evidence may minimize the amount of training you need, making employers more willing to invest in you. Consider completing an internship while earning your undergraduate or graduate degree to get some contacts in this field and learn how to work in a crime lab.

Forensic science technicians come from different levels of study within this field. Having a more advanced degree may allow you to take on more responsibility in your lab work. Nebraska forensic science technicians earn an average of $53,090 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017). Between 2014 and 2024, job openings for forensic science technicians may swell 28% (O*Net, 2017).

Criminal investigators also bring a strong knowledge of forensic science to their daily work. In Nebraska, they claim an average annual income of $75,780 (BLS, 2017). Demand is expected to jump 8% by the year 2024 (O*Net, 2017). This career path is a good fit for those who want to spend more time in the community than in the crime lab.

Coroners fill a very specific need in the world of criminal justice. Prompt processing of human remains is key to evidence collection and analysis. In fact, the evidence gained during an autopsy is often the first step toward creating a case and establishing criminal activity. Demand for coroners may swell 8% in Nebraska by 2024 (O*Net, 2017). The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average income of $75,780 per year (2017). Depending on where you live in Nebraska, you may work for the city or for the county. In less densely populated areas, coroners often cover several cities in their service area. As a result, travel may be part of this job.

The insight gained from forensic science information is invaluable to criminal investigations.