What Will I Learn in a Forensic Science Degree Program?

With this course of study, you will learn important skills and knowledge that will enable you to work in forensic science within the criminal justice system. Course work for forensic science will focus on subjects such as chemistry, criminal justice, math, biology, anthropology and physics. After earning this degree, you will have a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system and evidence, solid analytic reasoning abilities, and excellent writing and speaking skills, which are all needed for a successful forensic science career.

BS in Forensic Science	MS in Forensic Science

What Can I Do With a Forensic Science Degree?

Forensic science technicians most often work for state and local governments in crime labs. Your work as a forensic scientist will often take you to the field, collecting evidence from crime scenes that you will take back to a lab for analysis. Your area of forensic science specialization will determine the kind of work you do, such as ballistics, DNA analysis and substances. Some of the sites and evidence you collect may be disturbing or hazardous, but with the proper procedures, you can protect yourself. You'll document findings, techniques and share information. You may be called on as an expert witness about your findings and work with other experts, technicians and investigators.

What Is the Career Outlook for Forensic Science Degree Students?

Forensic science has recently been popularized by TV crime shows, so many new workers are entering the field. However, this increase in forensic scientists has not decreased the demand for those who are qualified to work in the field. By 2018, jobs in forensic science are expected to increase by 20 percent, growth that is much faster than the average for all occupations. This rise in demand is thanks to the expanding application of forensic science techniques for the examination, solving and prevention of crime.