Online forensic science degrees are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people seek flexible and convenient ways to pursue higher education.
These degree programs offer students the necessary knowledge and skills to enter the field of forensic science, which involves the application of scientific methods to solve crimes.
Students in these programs learn about forensics, crime scene investigation, evidence analysis, forensic psychology, and other important aspects of the criminal justice system.
The programs included in this ranking cover various specializations in forensic science, from digital forensics to crime scene investigation, accounting, and cyber security.
These online programs offer flexibility for working adults and allow students to complete coursework on their own time. With the ability to study from anywhere and at any time, online forensic science degree programs offer students the opportunity to balance their education with work, family, and other obligations.
The programs range from associate to master’s degrees, with varying credit requirements, concentrations, and tuition costs. Some programs require a certain level of prior education, such as a science or criminal justice background, while others have a more general focus.
Overall, our ranking of online forensic science degrees highlights the importance of affordability, retention rates, and graduation rates. These programs aim to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the criminal justice system, and their specializations reflect the diverse needs of this field. As the demand for forensic science continues to grow, these online programs offer a flexible and accessible way for students to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in this dynamic and vital field.
1. American Public University System
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Location: Charles Town, WV
- Average Net Price: $10,563
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 18%
- Median Earnings: $59,367
- Acceptance Rate: –
- Average ACT: –
- Annual Average Cost of Attendance: $16,569
The Bachelor of Science degree program in Criminal Justice offered by American Public University is entirely online and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of crime, criminal behavior, and digital forensics. It requires 120 credits, with the option to transfer up to 90 credits. The cost per credit is $285, but there is a military grant available that can bring the cost down to $250 per credit.
The degree program has various concentration options, including Digital Forensics (27 semester hours) or General Education, Arts & Humanities, Civics, Political & Social Sciences, Communication: Writing, Oral, Multimedia, History, Mathematics and Applied Reasoning, and Natural Sciences. Students must choose one of these concentrations.
The core requirements for the program include 30 semester hours of coursework covering topics such as criminal justice administration, criminology, criminal investigation, ethics in criminal justice, criminal profiling, crime analysis, criminalistics, constitutional law, criminal law, and research design and methods.
Students must also complete 30 semester hours of general electives, which can be any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Finally, students must complete the Criminal Justice Capstone – Digital Forensics, a 3-credit course.
The program aims to equip graduates with the necessary skills to recognize and explain law enforcement systems and organizations, analyze the political and public administrative aspects of law enforcement organizations, communicate and apply major theories and concepts of crime and criminal justice, conduct research associated with criminal justice and criminology theories, and sharpen analytical and communication skills.
In summary, the Bachelor of Science degree program in Criminal Justice offered by American Public University is an online program that focuses on crime, criminal behavior, and digital forensics. The program requires 120 credits, has various concentration options, and includes 30 semester hours of core coursework, 30 semester hours of general electives, and a 3-credit Criminal Justice Capstone – Digital Forensics course. Graduates are expected to have a solid foundation in digital forensic science and the scientific methods used in the criminal justice field, as well as analytical and communication skills.
2. Stevenson University
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Location: Stevenson, MD
- Average Net Price: $24,906
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 58%
- Median Earnings: $56,567
- Acceptance Rate: 89.18%
- Average ACT: –
- Annual Average Cost of Attendance: $53,066
Stevenson University Online offers several online master’s programs in forensic science, forensic accounting, forensic investigation, cybersecurity, and digital forensics, providing highly specialized training in these fields. The online Master’s in Forensic Science program is designed for working adults with a background in science. This program provides students with highly specialized training in the sciences, as well as a core of law courses. Students will receive training from the top experts in the field, thanks to Stevenson University Online’s relationships with the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, U.S. Secret Service Lab, and the Baltimore County Crime Lab. This program is designed to prepare students to work as forensic specialists in this interdisciplinary and applied scientific field.
The online Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics program provides students with a well-rounded, in-depth knowledge of forensic tools and techniques. The program trains students in current techniques and tools to detect, investigate, analyze, preserve, interpret, document, and present digital evidence. Relevant legal and theoretical topics are also covered to provide students with a holistic understanding of the environment in which they will work. Students will gain experience in areas such as network and cloud forensics, e-discovery, incident response, and penetration testing. This program is designed to prepare students to work in cybersecurity and digital forensics.
The online Master of Science in Forensic Accounting program is designed to provide students with the accounting and auditing skills they need to investigate and analyze financial evidence. Graduates of this program will be prepared to succeed in public and private practices, corporations, government agencies, and other organizations where the demand for forensic accountants continues to increase.
The online Master of Science in Forensic Investigation program prepares students to conduct investigations for business and government agencies. Coursework emphasizes the proper methods of gathering and reporting on testimonials and physical evidence. Students are trained to conduct investigations by interviewing witnesses, analyzing documents, and synthesizing the results into factually accurate investigative reports and court testimony.
The online Master of Science in Forensic Studies program is designed for students whose career goals overlap in two or more areas within forensics or those who wish to develop general knowledge in the field. The broad-based knowledge obtained in the program prepares students for careers in forensic accounting, digital investigation, and other areas requiring forensic expertise. Graduates of this program will be prepared to conduct investigations and examine the evidence for the purpose of presenting their findings in legal proceedings as experts in forensic accounting or digital forensics.
All of the online Master’s programs offered by Stevenson University Online can be completed in as little as 18 months on a full-time schedule, depending on the number of transferable credits a student has. Each program requires the completion of 36 total credits, and the cost is $695.00 per credit or $2,085.00 per course (3 credits). Students in these programs have access to various resources and support services, including academic advising, career services, and a digital library, among others. These online Master’s programs are an excellent choice for students who are looking for a flexible and convenient way to earn their degree while still maintaining their current work or family responsibilities.
3. Oakland City University
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Location: Oakland City, IN
- Average Net Price: $11,120
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Median Earnings: $37,286
- Acceptance Rate: 63.31%
- Average ACT: 19
- Annual Average Cost of Attendance: $37,683
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program offers students a comprehensive education in law enforcement and criminal justice systems and practices. The program includes a 45-credit Core, followed by two options: an 18-credit general criminal justice concentration or an 18-credit concentration in investigative forensics. The degree program provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to enter various criminal justice professions upon graduation.
The Investigative Forensics concentration includes courses on basic criminal investigations, as well as basic and advanced crime scene investigation. The Criminal Justice Generalist concentration provides students with foundation-level information and skills, as well as advanced education in policing, investigations, report writing, probation and parole, and police organizations. Graduates of the 120-credit program can pursue a career in forensic science, law enforcement, or criminal justice.
The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program prepares students for employment in the criminal justice field by providing them with a foundational understanding of the subject matter. Students complete 24-credit hours in Foundational Core courses and 33-credit hours in Criminal Justice. This 60-61 credit program prepares graduates for careers in law enforcement, public safety, or the legal system at the local, state, and federal levels. Graduates can choose to enter the workforce directly or transfer into a baccalaureate program to further their education.
The Criminal Justice, Corrections, and Investigative Forensics minors are each six-course (18-credit) programs that focus on specific aspects of the criminal justice system. The Criminal Justice minor familiarizes students with the U.S. criminal justice system’s foundations and emphasizes critical thinking skills. The Corrections minor focuses on theories of penology and strategies for dealing with convicted offenders. The Investigative Forensics minor combines criminal investigation and crime scene investigation and processing courses to provide students with the skills necessary for a career in investigative forensics.
4. Columbia Southern University
- Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
- Location: Orange Beach, AL
- Average Net Price: $11,241
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Median Earnings: $74,398
- Acceptance Rate: –
- Average ACT: –
- Annual Average Cost of Attendance: $15,491
Columbia Southern University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration degree program with a concentration in Forensics. The program is suitable for entry-level and experienced law enforcement professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of forensics and its relationship with the judicial system. The program teaches students how to analyze forensic psychology in relation to criminality, evaluate crime scene investigation procedures, and reconstruct criminal activity.
The degree program consists of 120 credits, with a maximum of 90 transfer credits accepted. Tuition is $245 per credit, making it an affordable option for students. The program prepares students for a variety of criminal justice careers, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections operations. Graduates of the program can also continue their education in a master’s degree program or a related discipline.
The program focuses on developing students’ decision-making and problem-solving skills for the daily challenges they may face in the criminal justice system. Additionally, it promotes continued scholarship and service among graduates as future members of law enforcement, courts, and corrections initiatives in a diverse community.
The Forensics concentration of the program equips students with the foundational concepts of forensic investigation to prepare them for advancement in the criminal justice and public safety fields. Students learn to analyze forensic psychology in relation to criminality and evaluate crime scene investigation procedures, as well as reconstruct criminal activity.
CSU’s tuition rates are affordable and lower than many competitors, with the undergraduate tuition rate at $245 per credit hour. The program is designed to provide a strong academic experience for students at an affordable cost. Graduates of the program may pursue careers in a wide range of criminal justice fields, and the program’s concentration in Forensics prepares students for specialized roles in the ever-evolving forensic investigation field.
5. Liberty University
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Location: Lynchburg, VA
- Average Net Price: $29,382
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- Median Earnings: $42,394
- Acceptance Rate: 50.13%
- Average ACT: 25
- Annual Average Cost of Attendance: $40,567
Earn a BS in Criminal Justice with a focus on Crime Scene Investigation through Liberty University’s 100% online program, which consists of 120 credit hours and can be completed in an average of 3.5 years. This flexible program offers 8-week courses, allowing you to transfer up to 75% of the degree’s total credit hours. Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC.
The program aims to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice field and the skills required to analyze forensic laws. You’ll learn vital skills for conducting criminal investigations, protecting and recording evidence, and ensuring its accurate analysis.
The online format offers flexibility, enabling you to complete the program in under four years without compromising your career. You’ll study both the scientific and analytical aspects of forensics and gain insights from past criminal cases. Learn how to identify, collect, preserve, process, and analyze various types of evidence while also mastering crime scene photography.
The program covers essential aspects of criminal investigations, such as processing crime scenes, collecting evidence, and understanding the legal framework governing police and citizen actions.
Featured courses include Introduction to Forensics, Crime Scene Photography, Crime Scene Management, and Criminal Investigations I.
Liberty University supports military students with tuition discounts, additional benefits for veterans and first responders, and potential college credit for military training. There’s also a 25% tuition discount and other benefits for active-duty law enforcement and first responders.
Admission requirements include a 2.0 minimum GPA, an admission application, an application fee, official college transcripts, a high school self-certification form, and proof of English proficiency for non-native English speakers.
Liberty’s Crime Scene Investigation Bachelor’s Degree is recognized for its academic quality, affordability, and accessibility. The university has frozen tuition rates for the past eight years, offers electronic textbooks for all undergraduate courses at no cost, and is accredited by SACSCOC. As an online student, you’ll have the chance to network with leaders and experts in the crime scene investigation field from across the country.
6. University of Maryland Global Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Location: Adelphi, MD
- Average Net Price: $15,395
- Retention Rate: 53%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Median Earnings: $55,598
- Acceptance Rate: –
- Average ACT: –
- Annual Average Cost of Attendance: $19,764
The online Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation from the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is designed to help you develop investigative, leadership, and executive skills in analyzing and mitigating cybercrime. Learn how to identify cyberattacks and compromised systems and master methods for identifying, preserving, analyzing, and presenting evidence for legal prosecution and administrative proceedings.
If you have an undergraduate degree in cybersecurity technology from UMGC, you can take advantage of a vertical pathway that allows you to reduce your total coursework for this program by up to 6 credits.
The program requires 36 credits, including a foundation course, core courses, and a capstone course. All courses are available online, with some hybrid courses available. Tuition per credit is $694 for in-state and out-of-state students and $480 for military students. Up to 6 transfer credits are allowed.
This program aims to prepare you for work in government organizations, the private sector, and law enforcement agencies in the areas of computer and digital crime. A background in computing and programming is recommended, and additional courses are available to help you improve your skills.
This program meets standard UMGC admission requirements and has no military or state-specific restrictions. You must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and fulfill all degree requirements within five consecutive years.
Program highlights include developing investigative skills, evaluating digital evidence, analyzing data scenarios, identifying responsible parties, gaining hands-on experience, and preparing professional reports. The program is designed to help prepare you for certification exams such as EC-Council Certified Incident Handler, EnCase Certified Examiner, GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst, GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner, and GIAC Network Forensic Analyst.
UMGC also offers an online bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity Technology, which is related to the Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation.
7. Columbia College – SC
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Location: Columbia, SC
- Average Net Price: $20,247
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Median Earnings: $36,585
- Acceptance Rate: 97.07%
- Average ACT: 19
- Annual Average Cost of Attendance: $33,178
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice at Columbia College is an undergraduate program available online, designed for students interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice. The degree course requirements are the same for both undergraduate and evening program students. The program offers various areas of focus, including general concentration and forensic concentration.
The general concentration covers topics such as terrorism, homeland security, and emergency and disaster management. The forensic concentration includes courses on forensic toxicology, forensic DNA, FBI fingerprinting, and crime scene investigation. For those interested in the Forensic Track, three required courses include DNA, Toxicology, and the FBI Fingerprint Recognition and Comparison course.
In addition to major course requirements, students can also pursue a minor in Criminal Justice or various certificate programs, such as Criminal Justice Leadership, Investigation, and Command College.
Student organizations related to the program include the Alpha Sigma Alpha Honor Society – Sigma Delta Pi Chapter and the CJ/Pre-Law Club.
The Forensic Track prepares students for careers in forensic sciences, both in laboratories and crime scene investigations. With opportunities in criminal justice growing rapidly, higher education is essential for achieving better earning potential and command-level positions.
A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice is often required for advancement in law enforcement, corrections, and courts. In some jurisdictions, a bachelor’s degree is mandatory for entry-level positions in law enforcement.
The BA in Criminal Justice provides students with a well-rounded background for various careers at local, state, and federal levels. The program helps students understand criminal justice components, constitutional limitations, theoretical approaches, and critical thinking skills needed to address diversity in a constantly changing environment. Furthermore, the program prepares students for leadership in administration and develops research skills for graduate school.
Professors prioritize student-centric learning and a hands-on approach, advising and guiding students throughout their academic journey.
8. DeVry University-Georgia
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Location: Decatur, GA
- Average Net Price: $27,206
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 19%
- Median Earnings: $44,484
- Acceptance Rate: 39.81%
- Average ACT: –
- Annual Average Cost of Attendance: $34,215
The Bachelor’s Degree Program in Liberal Arts focusing on Justice Administration and a specialization in Digital Forensics at DeVry University aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of justice administration while focusing on solving computer crimes. This program equips students with foundational criminal justice skills, including investigation techniques, data analysis, and police practices. The Digital Forensics specialization helps students learn about the diverse nature of computer crimes and the laws governing electronic information. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, operating digital forensic tools, and investigating illegal and unethical activities on computers and local area networks (LANs).
If you are interested in investigating computer crimes, this program could be a suitable choice. Graduates who complete this degree may consider careers such as Forensics & Electronic Discovery Manager, Private Investigator, or Police Officer.
The program covers essential skills such as preparing professional reports, working with diverse populations, analyzing policies and procedures, and evaluating sources to conclude. Students will also learn about the structure and practice of the criminal justice system in the United States, the nature and purpose of criminal law, criminal justice policy and procedure recommendations, and the application of the Rules of Evidence in criminal proceedings.
The specialized Digital Forensics component teaches students to use software and technology to solve computer crimes, practice key investigation techniques, and gain critical knowledge of information systems security in organizations.
The program requires a minimum of 122 credit hours for graduation, which takes approximately two years and eight months to complete. The curriculum covers various subjects, including communication skills, humanities, social sciences, mathematics and natural sciences, personal and professional development, business, computing, and criminal justice foundation courses. The Digital Forensics specialization consists of 15 credit hours.