Online Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science

Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in forensic science teaches you how to interpret evidence and solve crimes using the latest science and technology. In this program, you’ll learn practical forensic science techniques and gain hands-on experience investigating crimes. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to work in crime labs at the local, state and federal levels.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 01/13/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 40

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered

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Prepare for a career in the field of forensic science

Forensic science degrees focus on applying scientific methods to matters of law. In this program, you’ll explore the investigative and scientific principles behind examining different types of evidence from crime scenes. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with the analytical skills required to pursue jobs related to forensic investigations.

Scientific and technological advances as well as increasing caseloads mean there is expected to be an increased demand for skilled forensic technicians over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth for forensic science technicians is projected to increase 13% from 2022-2032, much faster than average for all occupations.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop in this program

In this forensic science program, you’ll learn how to uncover and analyze evidence that can be used in court during criminal and civil cases. You’ll learn the essential science, investigative and communication skills needed to meet this demand and be successful in the field. The beginning of the program focuses on building strong foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry and math. You’ll take various lab courses including two organic chemistry labs which must be completed in person.

Later in the program, you’ll take advanced forensic science courses covering the common techniques used in crime labs. Key course topics include, forensic botany, toxicology, forensic anthropology, molecular genetics and more. These courses will teach you how to analyze crime scenes, fingerprints, DNA, blood patterns and other types of evidence. Graduates will be equipped to pursue careers or a graduate degree in forensics and other science-related fields.

Gain hands-on experience with in-person lab sessions

To gain necessary laboratory skills and hands-on experience, this program requires two, separate, in-person summer lab experiences in Arizona.

The first lab experience includes completing two organic chemistry labs at the ASU Tempe campus for one week, followed immediately by another four-day, in-person session at the ASU West campus in Glendale to complete experiments for the biochemistry lab. Alternatively, you can choose to complete equivalent organic chemistry lectures/labs at your local community college or university to transfer into the program. Since the biochemistry lab is a 300-level course, this cannot be taken at a community college. Learn more about these hands-on lab opportunities.

To culminate the program, you'll complete a second two-week in-person summer lab experience at the ASU West campus during the summer session. During these two weeks, you’ll gain experience utilizing key forensic field skills including photography, fingerprint collection and analysis, blood pattern analysis and DNA analysis.

Will my diploma say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Online forensic science degree courses

During this transdisciplinary program, you’ll gain valuable knowledge in the fields of natural science, math and communication, alongside forensic science. This approach prepares you to uncover essential evidence, provide expert testimony and explain your findings in detail. You’ll also have the opportunity to customize your learning experience with a wide range of electives to match your career goals.


The jobs you could get with a forensic science degree

This program prepares you for a variety of jobs working in crime labs as a crime scene investigator, evidence technician and other similar roles. You’ll also be equipped to pursue a graduate degree in forensics, which can help you advance your career and move into a leadership position.

Biological Scientist (General)


Growth: 3.9 %
Salary: $87,300

Biological Technician


Growth: 4.7 %
Salary: $49,650

Chemical Technician


Growth: 3.2 %
Salary: $50,840

Chemist


Growth: 6.2 %
Salary: $80,670

Clinical Trial Manager


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $144,440

Crime Scene Investigator


Growth: 12.6 %
Salary: $63,740

Health Sciences Manager


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $144,440

Life Scientist


Growth: 5.2 %
Salary: $83,930

Medical Scientist


Growth: 9.8 %
Salary: $99,930

Study with award winning faculty members

As an online student at ASU, you’ll get the New College experience from world-renowned faculty. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.

Study with award winning faculty members

As an online student at ASU, you’ll get the New College experience from world-renowned faculty. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.

How to apply

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Study at a top school for innovation

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report. 

#1


in innovation for 10 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Top 5


best online bachelor’s programs.

Top 10%


best global universities.

80%


of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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