Deborah Sabinus is a freelance writer for finance and technology verticals committed to creating content that helps people make informed decisions. She’s an avid storyteller with an enthusiasm for travel, fiction and language.
Deborah Sabinus
Deborah Sabinus is a freelance writer for finance and technology verticals committed to creating content that helps people make informed decisions. She’s an avid storyteller with an enthusiasm for travel, fiction and language.
Brenna Swanston is an education-focused editor and writer with a particular interest in education equity and alternative educational paths. As a newswriter in her early career, Brenna's education reporting earned national awards and state-level accolades in California and North Carolina. Since 2018, she has worked in the higher-education web content space, where she aims to help current and prospective students of all backgrounds find effective, accessible pathways to rewarding careers.
Reviewed
Brenna Swanston
Brenna Swanston is an education-focused editor and writer with a particular interest in education equity and alternative educational paths. As a newswriter in her early career, Brenna's education reporting earned national awards and state-level accolades in California and North Carolina. Since 2018, she has worked in the higher-education web content space, where she aims to help current and prospective students of all backgrounds find effective, accessible pathways to rewarding careers.
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
The popularity of true crime entertainment is on the rise, and with it, interest in forensic science careers. However, the reality of this field may be different from what you see on screen, and if you want to do real forensic work, you will need a master’s degree. If you want a career that applies scientific methods to criminal investigations, you can get started by earning a master’s in forensic science online.
When it comes to providing the skills and credibility needed to succeed in competitive forensic fields, not all master’s programs are created equal. We list which forensic science online master’s degrees offer the most value in 2023, according to our methodology.
Whether you aspire to specialize in DNA analysis, toxicology, advanced forensics or crime scene investigations, consider one of the master’s in forensic science online programs ranked below. Our list compiles all U.S. programs that meet our ranking criteria.
Our Methodology
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Show Summary
- Best Master’s in Forensic Science Online Options:
- Should You Enroll in a Master’s in Forensic Science Online Program?
- Accreditation for Forensic Science Online Master’s Programs
- How To Find the Right Master’s in Forensic Science Online Program for You
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Master’s in Forensic Science Online Programs
Best Master’s in Forensic Science Online Options:
Should You Enroll in a Master’s in Forensic Science Online Program?
An online master’s in forensic science can be a great way to advance your career, as distance-learning programs typically offer the same course curricula and value as their on-campus counterparts. However, it’s important to first consider whether online learning is right for you, both in the short and long term. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Budget. Online learning can also be a great way to save money on your education since it reduces housing and transportation costs. And if you attend an out-of-state public university, you might still access in-state rates as an online student.
- Learning style. Are you a self-motivated learner with strong time management skills? If so, you may thrive in an online learning environment. However, if you prefer more structure and accountability from your instructors and peers, you might prefer an in-person or hybrid program.
- Schedule. Many online programs—especially at the graduate level—cater to working professionals. If you have a busy work life, you could benefit from the flexibility of an online degree.
Accreditation for Forensic Science Online Master’s Programs
Institutional accreditation is the formal approval of a university by an official review board. It signifies that a school meets stringent standards for educational quality. Accreditation communicates important information about a school’s legitimacy and value, and you must attend an accredited school to be eligible for federal student aid. Plus, many employers require job candidates to have degrees from accredited programs.
To find out if a school is properly accredited, you can check the Council for Higher Education Accreditation’s directories or the U.S. Department of Education’s database. The school’s website may also indicate their accreditation details.
Programmatic accreditation provides quality assurance for individual departments and degree programs. FEPAC is the primary programmatic accrediting body for forensic science programs; its accreditation signifies that a program has met industry standards for curriculum, faculty and student resources, among other criteria.
When researching online forensic science master’s programs, look for FEPAC accreditation as an indicator of program quality and reputation. Limiting your selection to properly accredited online forensic science master’s programs ensures you receive a respected, valuable graduate education meeting industry benchmarks.
How To Find the Right Master’s in Forensic Science Online Program for You
Consider Your Future Goals
If you have decided on a career path, ensure you choose an online forensic master’s program whose coursework and specialization offerings can help you meet your goals. Your chosen program should position you as an expert in your field.
If pursuing an online program, make sure your school has the resources to provide you with well-rounded virtual labs, simulations, practicals, and experiments on DNA analysis and scene investigations.
Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options
Tuition rates for the programs on our list range from $442 per quarter credit to $670 per semester credit, averaging approximately $25,200 for a full master’s degree. Note that all of the schools in our ranking are private universities, which usually charge more for tuition than public institutions.
For comparison, the average private, nonprofit graduate program costs $28,445 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. That’s nearly $57,000 for a two-year master’s degree—significantly more than the online programs listed on this page cost.
Though you might save money by studying forensic science online, $25,000 is still a large chunk of change. Submit the FAFSA to ensure your eligibility for government student aid, which may include loans, scholarships and work-study programs. You might also consider scholarship resources, private loans and assistantships to help fund your degree.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Master’s in Forensic Science Online Programs
Can you be a forensic scientist with a master’s degree?
Yes, with a master’s degree in forensic science, you can become a forensic scientist. This graduate degree provides the advanced training and expertise necessary to qualify for technical and leadership opportunities in the field.
How long is a forensic science master’s?
A forensic science master’s degree usually takes 18 to 24 months to complete. Part-time learners may need more time to complete their degrees.
Is a master’s in forensic science hard?
A master’s in forensic science can be demanding and time-consuming, requiring strong analytical skills. This degree combines anatomy, chemistry, math, physics and law, so the curriculum can be broad. But if you are passionate about problem-solving, manage your time well and put in the effort, you can succeed in a forensic science master’s program.
