Those with an inquisitive mind and a passion for the justice system may be well suited to the field of forensic science. Professionals already working in law enforcement, crime laboratories, medical examiners' offices, and other similar fields can hone their skills and knowledge with an online forensic science degree and advance their career. Forensic scientists often testify as expert witnesses in court and provide psychological profiling in criminal cases. Popular careers include crime scene investigators, medical examiners, or crime laboratory analysts.The field of forensic science is growing due to advances in science and technology, and professionals have a broad range of opportunities to choose from. Forensic science technicians will see a much faster than average rate of job growth between 2014-2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many working students and aspiring professionals opt to earn their forensic science degree online due to the flexibility an online classroom offers.
Meet Our Expert: Anthony Buffone
Science and Biology Teacher, Homer-Center School District
LinkedInOnline Forensic Science Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $9,316 | 19.71% | 1+ years | Not reported | $54,300 | Not reported |
| Bachelor's | $10,080 | 9.58% | 4-Mar years | $48,000 | $60,000 | 5.2% |
| Master's | $24,043 | 6.13% | 1.5+ years | $55,000 | $78,000 | Not reported |
Online forensic science degrees allow maximum flexibility for busy students or working professionals, and many colleges and universities offering an online forensic science degree provide financial aid and scholarships. While an associate degree provides a solid starting point for a career in forensic science, a majority of employers in this field require at least a bachelor's degree for entry-level work, and many forensic scientists choose to pursue graduate degrees for more specialized careers and higher salaries. A doctorate degree in forensic science is highly specialized, and usually pursued by those who wish to work in academia or university-level teaching.
Online Forensic Science Degrees
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Online Forensic Science Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forensic Pathologist | $214,029 | 27% | 14400 |
| Criminologist | $44,083 | 27% | 14400 |
| Forensic Science Technician | $51,205 | 27% | 14400 |
| Forensic Medical Examiner | $183,125 | 5% | 7680 |
Online Forensic Science Degree in Action
Meet Our Expert: Anthony Buffone
Science and Biology Teacher, Homer-Center School DistrictAnthony has earned a BA in Biology and a BS Ed in Science Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania as well as an MS in Forensic Science from University of Florida. He has previously taught in The School District of Palm Beach County (FL) and at Armstrong-Indiana Intermediate Unit Adult Education Programs in Western Pennsylvania. He is currently in his 11th year teaching high school Science and Biology at Homer-Center School District in Homer City, Pennsylvania.
LinkedInOnline Forensic Science Professional Requirements
Becoming certified in forensic science is an excellent option for those who are unsure about committing to a bachelor's degree, or for those who have degrees and want a competitive edge among job-seekers. There are no official certifications required to work in the field of forensic science, but many professionals choose to get certified by the American Board of Criminalistics or the American College of Forensic Examiners Institute to get ahead in the job market.
ACFEI Certifications
There are many options for ACFEI certification. Among others fields, you can become a certified forensic nurse, medical examiner, criminal investigator, or engineer. Certified forensic nurses are registered nurses with experience identifying forms of violence and injuries, collecting evidence, and understanding forensic examinations. A certified medical examiner may be asked to analyze crime scenes or DNA evidence. In order to become certified through ACFEI, you must obtain either 15 or 30 credits every three years (depending on the certification) and successfully pass certification exams. Certification maintenance fees, study material fees, and exam fees range from $400 – $800.
American Board of Criminalistics
The American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) is the first certification body accredited by the Forensic Specialty Accreditation Board. In order to become ABC-certified, you must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and have at least two years of full-time work experience (including on-the-job training), and pass the certification exam. Fees associated with the ABC certification include a $300 exam fee and ongoing certificate fees after you have passed the exam. The ABC certification is important for those wishing to move forward in the field of forensic science, as certification is a type of quality assessment that demonstrates specialized knowledge and skills.