Want to go to graduate school to learn how scientific methods are used to solve crimes? Here are today’s top online master’s degrees in forensic science, with program details, costs, and career outlooks.
Author: Ellery Weil, MA
Expertise: Public HealthEducationSocial WorkEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- School Spotlights
A Closer Look into Three Forensic Science Online Master’s
Read more - Curriculum
What You’ll Learn in an Online Forensic Science Graduate Program
Read more - Admissions
Common Admission Requirements for Forensic Science Master’s Programs
Read more - Financial Aid
Tuition and Financial Aid for Forensic Science Majors
Read more - Careers
Popular Forensic Science Careers
Read more - FAQs
Online Forensic Science Master’s FAQs
Read more - Top Schools
Best Online Master's in Forensic Science Degrees
Read more
Forensic science careers are growing at more than double the national average rate. But to move from a budding interest into a real career, you’ll need a master’s degree.
The good news: online programs make it possible to earn that degree without putting your life on hold. This guide covers the best programs, what they cost, what you’ll learn, and where the degree can take you.
A Closer Look into Three Forensic Science Online Master’s
The right program depends on your background, schedule, and career goals. Here are three high-quality, fully online programs that balance academic rigor with accessibility and affordability.
Arizona State University
- Degree: Professional Science Master’s (PSM) in Forensic Science
- Credits: 30
- Format: Fully online; designed to be completed while working full time
- Capstone: Applied project (no traditional thesis)
- Minimum GPA: 2.75 in a relevant undergraduate field
ASU’s program is career-focused and built for students already working in forensic science or related fields like law enforcement. Sample courses include:
- Applied biology and biostatistics
- Forensic botany and entomology
- Criminal procedure for forensic scientists
Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as biology, criminal justice, or psychology from an accredited school.
University of Florida
- Degree: Master of Science in Forensic Science
- Credits: 32 (18 core + 14 electives)
- GRE: Not required
- Transfer credits: Up to 15 accepted
- Minimum GPA: 3.0 upper-division undergraduate GPA in a natural science field
UF’s program has a strong emphasis on biological science. Expect multiple courses in medicine and forensic toxicology, with electives covering areas like forensic DNA analysis. Students earn a Master of Science in Pharmacy upon completion.
Oklahoma State University
- Degree: MS in Forensic Sciences
- Credits: 32
- Start dates: Two per year
- Minimum GPA: 3.0; verified prior employment in forensics required
- In-state tuition eligibility: Students in FL, GA, KY, SC, TX, and VA may qualify through the Academic Common Market program
OSU offers several specialization pathways:
- Arson, Explosives, Firearm and Tool Mark Investigations (AEFTI)
- Forensic Investigative Sciences (FIS)
- Forensic Psychology
- Forensic Science Administration (FSA)
Financial aid may be available. Two application deadlines per year give students flexibility on start timing.
What You’ll Study in an Online Forensic Science Master’s
Course offerings vary by program, but these five topics appear across most online forensic science master’s curricula:
Applied Statistics and Data Analysis
Forensic science isn’t just microscopes and evidence bags — it’s a data-heavy field. This course covers advanced statistical analysis in forensic contexts, including biostatistics and biodata.
It’s a required course in most programs and an essential foundation for research and law enforcement work.
Forensic Psychology
This course teaches advanced applications of psychology in forensic and criminal justice settings. Topics typically include:
- Abnormal and deviant behavior
- Criminal profiling methods
- Psychology of the criminal justice system
For some students, this course serves as a gateway to a forensic psychology specialization.
Criminal Procedures in Investigation for Forensic Scientists
Forensic scientists must follow strict legal and ethical procedures, both to protect the integrity of findings and to ensure evidence holds up in court.
This course covers criminal law and policy across a range of scenarios, with a focus on procedural requirements specific to forensic work.
Forensic Analysis of DNA
DNA evidence has transformed criminal justice over the past few decades. This course covers:
- Fundamentals of collecting and analyzing DNA evidence
- Crime-scene procedures for safely handling DNA-containing materials (blood, hair, sweat, etc.)
- DNA matching techniques and the use of law enforcement DNA databases
Forensic Toxicology
Toxicology is the study of toxic substances: poisons, drugs, and chemicals. In forensic contexts, it’s used in cases ranging from narcotics crimes to homicides to product tampering. This course covers the fundamentals of forensic toxicology and may include lab-style projects you can complete from home.
Admission Requirements for Forensic Science Master’s Programs
1. Bachelor’s Degree from An Accredited School
You’ll need to have completed — or be on track to complete — an undergraduate degree before starting your master’s. Most programs prefer a degree in a relevant field like biology, chemistry, or criminal justice, and many set a minimum GPA requirement.
2. Online Application Form
You’ll submit your application through the school’s admissions portal. Typical fields include work and educational history, relevant awards and extracurricular activities, and demographic information.
3. Letters of Recommendation
Most programs require two to three letters of recommendation. These should ideally come from academic sources, like a former professor or faculty member, or from professional references like an employer or supervisor.
Give your recommenders plenty of advance notice. A rushed letter rarely makes a strong impression.
4. Personal Statement
Your personal statement is the “why” of your application. The application form covers who you are; this essay explains why you want a master’s in forensic science and why you’re a strong candidate.
Most programs have a strict word limit. Use the space to give the admissions committee a sense of who you are, so don’t be afraid to get personal.
5. GRE Scores
Many programs have made the GRE optional or eliminated it entirely. Some still require scores, however, and you may choose to submit them even to “optional” programs to strengthen your application.
If the GRE is required or you plan to submit scores, build in enough time to study and potentially retake the exam before your application deadline.
Tuition and Financial Aid for Online Forensic Science Master’s Programs
Know your costs — and your options — before you apply. Tuition varies significantly across programs, and most schools offer multiple ways to reduce what you pay out of pocket.
| School | Program | Credits | Est. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master’s in Forensic Science | 30 | $20,238 |
| University of Florida | Forensic Science Online Master’s Degree | 32 | $18,400 |
| Oklahoma State University | Forensic Sciences MS Online | 32 | $10,361 – $14,527 |
How to Fund Your Degree
- School-based financial aid — fellowships, research and teaching assistantships, scholarships can cover tuition and provide a stipend
- FAFSA — submit on time to maximize eligibility for federal aid
- Private scholarships — especially worth pursuing for forensic science specifically; narrower eligibility often means less competition
- Employer tuition assistance — many employers offer tuition benefits; check your HR policy or look for employers who do
- Federal student loans — a last resort after exhausting free money, but low-interest federal loans are preferable to private lending
Forensic Science Career Paths
A forensic science master’s opens doors in law enforcement, government agencies, private industry, and research. Here are five careers worth considering.
Forensic Science Technician
Forensic science technicians collect and analyze crime scene evidence for state, local, or federal law enforcement agencies. Most develop a specialty — ballistic analysis, blood spatter, fingerprinting, or forensic entomology are common examples.
Forensic science technicians are sometimes called to testify as expert witnesses in criminal proceedings.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $64,940 | $107,490 | 13% | Government |
Source: O*Net OnLine & BLS
Digital Forensics Analyst
Digital forensics analysts investigate cybercrime and security breaches by analyzing digital traffic, records, and data. They work in both law enforcement and the private sector, tracing digital crimes on one side, defending against industrial espionage on the other.
This is one of the fastest-growing roles in the field, with a 32% projected growth rate through 2032.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $104,920 | $182,370 | 32% | Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services |
Source: O*Net OnLine & BLS
Life Scientist
Forensic science overlaps with biology, botany, entomology, toxicology, and more. A master’s in forensic science can lead to a life scientist role in any of these areas: research, government, or the private sector.
Note: for an academic career in a specific life science discipline, a PhD is typically expected. A master’s is a strong credential for doctoral program applications.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $86,950 | $172,060 | 5%-8% | Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services |
Source: O*Net OnLine & BLS
Chemist
Chemists conduct experiments, develop new products, and ensure quality and safety for chemical products, including pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. Most work in laboratory settings across the public, private, and academic sectors.
More senior roles in chemistry typically require additional education, up to the doctoral level.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $84,680 | $149,550 | 6% | Manufacturing |
Source: O*Net OnLine & BLS
Police Identification and Records Officer
Police identification and records officers work on the front lines of evidence collection for state and local government. Core responsibilities include:
- Dusting for and collecting fingerprints
- Collecting and analyzing footprints
- Photographing and documenting crime scenes
This role can serve as a stepping stone toward more advanced law enforcement positions, including detective work.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $74,910 | $117,100 | 3% | Government |
Source: O*Net OnLine & BLS
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online forensic science master’s programs more affordable than in-person programs?
Yes, online master’s programs are generally less expensive overall, even when posted tuition rates are similar. The bigger savings come from not having to relocate, commute, or pay for campus amenities you’re not using.
Online programs are also designed to be completed while working, which means you can keep your income. Check each program’s specific tuition and financial aid options before applying.
How long does it take to earn a forensic science master’s degree online?
Most students finish in about two years of full-time study. Programs typically require 30–35 credits.
Your timeline depends on how you enroll:
- Full-time: approximately 2 years
- Part-time: longer, but lower weekly time commitment
- Accelerated: faster completion, but a more intensive day-to-day workload
Can I earn an online graduate certificate in forensic science instead of a master’s degree?
Yes, many schools offer online graduate certificate programs in forensic science. Certificates are a less advanced credential than a master’s, but they’re significantly shorter (some take only weeks or months) and typically less costly.
A certificate is a strong option if you want to build specific skills for professional development, explore the field before committing to a full degree, or supplement an existing credential in a related area.
Is earning a forensic science master’s degree online more flexible than traditional, on-campus programs?
Yes, in most cases significantly so. Online programs eliminate the need to live near campus, and many are built specifically for working professionals.
What typically makes them more flexible:
- Asynchronous coursework — study on your own schedule
- No commute — more time in your week
- Evening and weekend course options in many programs
- Ability to study from anywhere, not just near a specific campus
Can I apply for a PhD after my online master’s program in forensic science?
Yes, a master’s in forensic science is strong preparation for a doctoral program. Many PhD programs in forensic science and related fields actually require a master’s degree as a prerequisite for admission.
If an academic or research career is your goal, your master’s is the right first step. Look for programs with research opportunities and faculty whose work aligns with your interests — these connections can be valuable when you apply for doctoral programs.