Forensic Science Schools and Programs in The United States

Forensic Science Studies in The United States

Forensic science applies the natural sciences, above all chemistry and biology, to questions that matter in a court of law. Forensic scientists and technicians identify, analyse and interpret physical evidence such as DNA, drugs, fibres, fingerprints, firearms and digital traces, and they explain their findings in reports and in court. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), forensic science technicians aid criminal investigations by collecting and analysing evidence, and they often specialise in either crime scene or laboratory analysis. SpainExchange lists 36 colleges and universities in the United States that teach forensic science.

How the degree is organised

There is no single national degree title; most universities award a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in forensic science, and each institution sets the number of credits needed to graduate. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years of full-time study; at Chaminade University of Honolulu, for example, the B.S. in Forensic Sciences is a four-year programme. Programmes are science-heavy: the University of New Haven describes its B.S. in Forensic Science as focusing heavily on the natural sciences, with courses on the criminal justice system and professional practice. It requires 122-123 credits, offers three concentrations and can be combined with one of four master's degrees.

The main quality mark for the subject is accreditation by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC). It applies to individual programmes, not whole universities, so check the programme you are interested in: the University of New Haven's bachelor's programme is FEPAC-accredited, and Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, offers a FEPAC-accredited master's degree and a PhD in forensic science. A master's degree usually takes about two years. Community colleges offer two-year associate degrees, and BLS notes that an associate degree may be enough for some positions.

Admission, language and costs

Teaching is in English, and U.S. universities require an English language proficiency test before admission. Each university sets its own entry requirements; a solid background in chemistry, biology and mathematics is the best preparation. For a full degree, international students need a student visa: once accepted by a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), the international student office issues the Form I-20 used in the visa application.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), average tuition and fees at 4-year institutions in 2022-23 were $9,800 at public institutions (the in-state rate) and $40,700 at private nonprofit institutions, so check what each university charges non-residents. Credits earned at a community college, which is usually less expensive, can lower the total cost of a bachelor's degree.

Where to study forensic science

Boston and Los Angeles each have two schools in this directory: Suffolk University and Emmanuel College in Boston, and the University of Southern California and American InterContinental University in Los Angeles. The others are spread across the country. Examples include public universities such as Penn State in University Park, West Virginia University, Sam Houston State University, Florida International University in Miami, the University of North Texas and the University of Alabama at Birmingham; private universities such as the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, Hofstra University and Chaminade University of Honolulu; and community colleges such as Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, New York, and Broward College in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Recognition and careers

A forensic science degree is an academic qualification, not a licence. According to BLS, forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor's degree, in physical science, biology or forensic science, and learn laboratory specialties on the job; professional certifications are usually not required to start but can show specific skills. Programmes may specialise in areas such as toxicology, pathology or DNA. Most jobs are in the public sector: local governments employ 64% of forensic science technicians. The University of New Haven warns that background checks similar to those for law enforcement officers are likely to be a condition of employment, so international students should check each employer's eligibility rules. Check also that the university is accredited: EducationUSA notes that a school certified by SEVP may not hold national or regional accreditation.

Typical roles include crime laboratory analyst, crime scene technician, DNA analyst, toxicologist and digital evidence examiner. BLS projects that employment of forensic science technicians will grow 13% from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average, with about 2,800 openings a year. Graduates can also continue to graduate study in chemistry, biology or forensic science.

Frequently asked questions

What does FEPAC accreditation mean?

FEPAC, the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission, accredits individual forensic science programmes. Check whether the specific bachelor's or master's programme holds it, not only the university.

Is forensic science more science or law?

Mostly science. Programmes focus on chemistry, biology and laboratory methods, with courses on the criminal justice system, rules of evidence and professional ethics.

Can I work as a forensic technician with an associate degree?

For some positions, yes, but BLS says most forensic science technicians need at least a bachelor's degree.