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Forensic Science Degrees in Vermont

vermont forensic science degree

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in Vermont.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

 

Forensic Science Requirements in Vermont

Forensic scientists are crucial to a well functioning criminal justice system, as they often are responsible for providing the evidence that determines a defendant’s guilt or innocence. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for forensic scientists is good. The 13,000 forensic scientist jobs in the U.S. in 2010 are expected to increase by 19 percent, by 2020.

Job specialties for forensic scientists in Vermont include the following:

  • Forensic Scientist
  • Ballistics Expert/Technician
  • Ballistician
  • Crime Lab Technician
  • Laboratory Analyst
  • Crime Scene Analyst

Forensic Science Training in Vermont

The first step toward getting a forensic science job in Vermont is to earn a bachelor’s degree. There is one school in Vermont that has a bachelor’s degree program in forensic science from which nine students graduated in the 2008-09 school year.

In addition to a solid background in chemistry, biology and math, forensic sciences must have knowledge of scientific rules/methods, the English language, word processing, record keeping and report writing. The following personal characteristics are also needed for a successful career:

  • Persistence
  • Patience
  • Critical thinking
  • Detail-oriented
  • Active listener
  • Able to tolerate stress
  • Ethical
  • Independent
  • Self-controlled

Employers of forensic scientists include government offices and insurance companies. Although entry-level salaries are often low, there is a potential for significant increases with five or more years of experience. Salaries also vary with location.

Working forensic scientists can increase their potential for advancement and salary increases by attaining professional certification.

The American Board of Criminalists offers certification in comprehensive criminalistics, as well as in special disciplines such as drug chemistry or trace evidence analysis. Candidates must successfully pass a three-hour, 220 multiple-choice-question examination to qualify.

The American Board of Toxicology offers a “Toxicology Specialist” certification to individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a natural science and at least three years professional experience in forensic toxicology. Candidates must be currently employed as forensic toxicologists and pass a written examination on the principles and practice of analytical toxicology.

Vermont Forensic Laboratory (VFL), a division of the State of Vermont Department of Public Safety, is the only forensic laboratory that serves Vermont’s entire criminal justice system. Evidence is brought to the lab by law enforcement departments, state attorney’s investigators, public defenders and game wardens. Opened in 1947, the lab was originally staffed entirely by sworn law enforcement officer. However, a conversion began in 1968 and by 2009 all personnel were civilians.

Forensic Science Salary in Vermont

The primary source of forensic science jobs in Vermont is with the state’s Department of Public Safety’s Forensic Lab.  This lab in Burlington is the state’s only forensic lab and provides services to a wide range of agencies.  Some of the types of professionals that seek the lab’s services include:

  • Police officers
  • Game wardens
  • Attorneys’ investigators
  • Public defenders

Since the Forensic Lab is the only crime lab, it provides a range of services.  Lab technicians perform a wide range of analyses, while other personnel investigate crime scenes.  While crime scene investigators (CSIs) are frequently sworn officers, this lab is staffed entirely by civilians.

Salaries for 2012 are available for some of the crime lab positions.  The following forensic scientist positions can involve either working in the lab as a technician or in the field as a crime scene investigator.  The 2012 annual salary for two of these positions is shown below:

  • Forensic chemist II           $42,411
  • Forensic chemist I            $40,498

Other forensic scientists in this division work entirely in the lab and frequently specialize in particular types of analyses.  2012 salary information was available for the following position:

  • Forensic lab latent print examiner III:  $63,419

Other specialties for forensic scientists include:

  • Toolmark examination
  • DNA analysis
  • Blood pattern analysis
  • Impression analysis

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Vermont

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Vermont

University Castleton State College, Forensic Psychology B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $20,406 in-state; $35,070 out-of-state per year
Program link

 

Castleton, the 18th oldest institution of higher education in the United States, emphasizes undergraduate liberal arts and professional education while also offering selected graduate programs. The College is dedicated to the intellectual and personal growth of students through excellence in teaching, close student-faculty interaction, numerous opportunities for outside-the-classroom learning and an active and supportive campus community. Castleton strives to learn, use and teach sustainable practices. The College prepares its graduates for meaningful careers, further academic pursuits, and engaged, environmentally responsible citizenship. As a member of the Vermont State Colleges, Castleton is committed to supporting and improving the region’s communities, schools, organizations, businesses and environment.This concentration focuses attention on applications of psychological research and theory to the judicial process including: courts, law enforcement, corrections, probation and parole, and the general practice of law. The core modules are:

  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Theories of Personality
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Psychological Research I and II
  • Biopsychology
  • Social Psychology
  • Criminal Behavior
  • Juvenile Delinquency

Castleton State College is a small public university located in Castleton, Vermont. The 165-acre campus is just west of Rutland, and students have easy access to stunning venues for hiking, skiing, camping, fishing, and mountain biking. The college’s roots go back to 1787 making Castleton the 18th oldest college in the country. Students can choose from over 30 majors, and the university does better than most public institutions in providing students with personal attention. Academics at Castleton are supported by a 14 to 1 student / faculty ratio. Campus life is active with over 70 student clubs, organizations and honor societies. For students interested in athletics, the Castleton Spartans compete in the NCAA Division III North Atlantic Conference (NAC) and the Eastern Collegiate Athletics Conference (ECAC). The college fields ten men’s and ten women’s varsity teams, and students can also participate in a range of club sports and intramural sports.

Master’s Degree Programs in Vermont

There are currently no master’s programs offered in Vermont.

Forensic Science Degrees in New Jersey

new-jersey forensic science degree

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in New Jersey.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

Forensic Science Requirements in New Jersey

The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department in New Jersey has been on the forefront of forensic science in its criminal investigations since the 1970s. Although the Criminal Investigation Unit started in 1970 with just crime scene photographers and fingerprint analysts, it grew in the 1980s to include a forensic photo technician and two forensic chemists. Additionally, the department began using a specialized forensic laser system in its forensic work in the 1980s, which only 12 forensic science departments in North America were using at the time.

In more recent years, the Ocean County Criminal Investigation Unit has assisted crime expert Dr. Henry Lee by letting him use its forensic laser system in processing criminal evidence from his own Connecticut cases. The FBI has also consulted with this forensic science department due to its use of modern technology and techniques.

With New Jersey at the cutting edge of forensic science technology, it is an exciting time for those who wish to pursue forensic science jobs in the state. Becoming a forensic scientist in New Jersey requires dedication, education and experience.

Possible forensic science careers in New Jersey include, but are not limited to:

  • Microbiology Project Assistant
  • Radiochemistry Analyst
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Digital Forensic Engineer
  • DNA Examiner

Forensic Science Training in New Jersey

  • New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences – The official crime laboratories for the New Jersey State Police. There are four laboratories, plus a DNA laboratory, all of which are American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors-Lab Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB) accredited. These laboratories are located in:
    • Hamilton  – Central Regional Laboratory (analyzes toxicology, arson, drugs, forensic serology and trace evidence)
    • Hamilton – DNA Laboratory (performs CODIS, mitochondrial DNA analysis, and nuclear DNA analysis)
    • Hammonton – South Regional Laboratory (analyzes arson, toxicology and drugs)
    • Sea Girt – East Regional Laboratory (analyzes arson, toxicology and drugs)
    • Little Falls – North Regional Laboratory (analyzes arson, toxicology and drugs)
    • Hamilton  – Forensic Anthropology Laboratory  (performs dental and skeletal identification)
    • Hamilton – OFS Breath Testing Unit (supports the New Jersey State Police’s breath testing and internet breath testing database)
  • Office of the New Jersey State Medical Examiner, Toxicology Laboratory – This lab, which is accredited in Forensic Urine Drug Testing by the College of American Pathologists, performs various toxicology analysis procedures for the Office of the New Jersey State Medical Examiner. It is located in Newark.
  • Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Criminalistics Division – The forensic division of this county sheriff’s office has some of the most modern equipment and techniques in the country. For this reason, it has been utilized by renowned forensic expert Dr. Henry Lee of the Connecticut State Crime Lab as well as by the FBI. The laboratory is located in Toms River.
  • Union County Prosecutor’s Office Forensic Laboratory – The main crime laboratory of the county prosecutor’s office performs analysis of biological evidence, including DNA, as well as of controlled substances and other drugs. It is located in Elizabeth.
  • – This county sheriff’s office laboratory analyzes weapons evidence, such as firearms, bullets and shell casings, for criminal cases in Essex County, New Jersey. It is located in Newark.

Some forensic scientists in New Jersey seek professional certification or membership through a specialized organization. Both certification and membership have their benefits to forensic scientists, including continuing education and networking possibilities.

Forensic Science Salary in New Jersey

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development projects the number of forensic science jobs in the state to increase by 8.8% from 2010 to 2020.  Ninety such scientists were employed in the state in 2012 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

BLS data indicates that the average salary of a forensic science technician in New Jersey was $55,430 in 2012.  Experienced professionals in the top 90th percentile earned an average of $75,770 that year.

One major source of forensic scientist jobs in New Jersey is the Office of Forensic Sciences that is part of the Investigative Branch of the State Police.  It has four labs that are located in the following cities:

  • Hamilton
  • Hammonton
  • Sea Girt

The forensic office has specialties in the following areas:

  • Breath testing
  • DNA
  • Drug analysis
  • Forensic anthropology
  • Forensic serology
  • Toxicology
  • Trace evidence

Additional specialties offered by this bureau are crime scene investigation (CSI) units for the north, south, and central parts of the state.  They are headquartered in the following cities:

  • Buena Vista
  • Hamilton
  • Totowa

CSIs in the state can be either sworn officers or civilian employees.  Salary levels differ widely depending on the level of experience of the specialist.  Indeed.com gave the average salary for a crime scene investigator in New Jersey as being $61,000 in the year leading up to October 2013.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in New Jersey

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in New Jersey

University Fairleigh Dickinson University, Forensic Psychology Concentration B.A.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $34,904 per year
Program link

By taking only 42 credits of prescribed psychology courses, students are able to complete the requirements for the major and the track without exceeding the normal 128 credits required for graduation. The three additional credits beyond the 39 that are normally required for a general psychology major come from free elective credits, which are reduced from 24 to 21. If students wish to take additional psychology courses outside the track, including any of the courses recommended below, they may do so as free electives. The core modules are:

  • Psychology & the Law
  • Psychology of Criminal Behavior
  • Psychological Profiling of Homicidal Offenders
  • Child Development
  • General Psychology I and II
  • Perspectives on the Individual
  • Global Issues
  • The American Experience

Fairleigh Dickinson University is a center of academic excellence dedicated to the preparation of world citizens through global education. The University strives to provide students with the multi-disciplinary, intercultural, and ethical understandings necessary to participate, lead, and prosper in the global marketplace of ideas, commerce and culture.

FDU became the first American university to own a campus in England when it acquired Wroxton College from Trinity College, Oxford University. Opened in 1965, Wroxton College offers American students an array of graduate and undergraduate programs as well as an enriching cultural experience. Formerly a 13th-century abbey, Wroxton College is now a beautifully restored and modernized Jacobean mansion. In 2007, FDU commenced undergraduate classes at a new facility in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Recognizing that the student profile on most U.S. campuses is changing dramatically, the University’s Petrocelli College of Continuing Studies (originally New College of General and Continuing Studies) was formed in 1998 to provide a unified approach to and enhanced focus on the adult learner and to continue to position FDU as a leader in providing learning opportunities in a strong academic foundation for students of all ages.

University Saint Peters University, Computer Science and Crime Forensics  B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $32,170 per year
Program link

The Department of Computer and Information Sciences offers four programs (Computer Information Systems, Management Information Systems, Computer Science, and E-commerce) leading towards the Bachelor of Science degree in computer science as well as minor programs in management information systems and computer science. Students majoring in criminal justice can pursue a concentration in computer science and crime forensics. The core modules are:

  • Elementary Calculus I
  • Fund Comp Prog: Html Javascript C++
  • Advanced Programing Techniques Using C++
  • Mathematics of Finance
  • Capstone for Computer Science
  • Introduction to Criminology
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Forensic Science
  • Intro Computers & Information Processing
  • Computer Ethics
  • Intro to Forensics Techniques
  • Cryptology

Saint Peter’s University, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, commitment to individual attention and grounding in the liberal arts, educates a diverse community of learners in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment.

Saint Peter’s University remains faithful to its commitment to the education mission of the Society of Jesus.  Saint Peter’s University, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, commitment to individual attention and grounding in the liberal arts, educates a diverse community of learners in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment. Today, President Eugene J. Cornacchia leads the University onward toward a promising future.  Saint Peter’s University is a landmark on Kennedy Boulevard in Jersey City, and also offers several off-campus locations for adult undergraduate and graduate students.

University The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Forensic Investigation Concentration  B.A.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $31,613 per year
Program link

The forensic investigation concentration is designed to give students an overview of career options in crime scene investigation, blood spatter examination, crime scene photography, fingerprint examination, ballistics, and criminal behavior. Students interested in careers in law enforcement, and the legal profession will find this unique track challenging and rewarding. The core modules are:

  • Introduction to Forensic Science
  • Criminal Procedures: Investigations or Evidence
  • Forensic Behavior Analysis
  • Advanced Forensic Science
  • Forensic Science Internship

Stockton College is committed to building a community that values differences of race, religion, gender, ethnicity, national origin, socio-economic status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, ability or disability. We accept our responsibility to create and preserve an environment that is free from prejudice and discrimination. A diverse college environment is also necessary for students to gain a greater understanding of themselves. This process of self-discovery requires that students interact in a safe, respectful and affirming environment with people–faculty and staff as well as other students–who have different life experiences than their own. This interaction teaches that people are individuals who cannot be characterized by stereotypes and overgeneralizations. Engagement with diversity prepares students to become cooperative and productive contributors to our society. Stockton values diversity and the differing perspectives it brings. Accordingly, we are unequivocally committed to implementing the principles of affirmative action in the composition of our student body, faculty and staff.

University The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Forensic Psychology Concentration  B.A.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $31,613 per year
Program link

Forensic psychology is a burgeoning field in the social and behavioral sciences. It explores the application of the science and the profession of psychology to questions and issues relating to the law and legal systems. Research and practice in forensic psychology have been approached from a broad range of theoretical perspectives, from psychoanalytic to behavioral-genetic. Forensic psychologists explore issues ranging from the criminal mind to the origins of rules that govern the structure of societies. The core modules are:

  • Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Theories of Criminality
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Sex Crimes
  • Personality
  • Forensic Behavior Analysis

Stockton College is committed to building a community that values differences of race, religion, gender, ethnicity, national origin, socio-economic status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, ability or disability. We accept our responsibility to create and preserve an environment that is free from prejudice and discrimination. A diverse college environment is also necessary for students to gain a greater understanding of themselves. This process of self-discovery requires that students interact in a safe, respectful and affirming environment with people–faculty and staff as well as other students–who have different life experiences than their own. This interaction teaches that people are individuals who cannot be characterized by stereotypes and overgeneralizations. Engagement with diversity prepares students to become cooperative and productive contributors to our society. Stockton values diversity and the differing perspectives it brings. Accordingly, we are unequivocally committed to implementing the principles of affirmative action in the composition of our student body, faculty and staff.

Master’s Degree Programs in New Jersey

University Fairleigh Dickinson University, Forensic Psychology M.A.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $20,396 per year
Program link

The broad discipline of forensic science applies empirical research to the solution of crimes or the adjudication of criminals. Forensic science is quite old, dating back at least to the time of Song Chi (1186-1249) who wrote “Collected cases of injustice rectified through forensic science.”  Forensic science embraces well over 20 professional disciplines, from accounting and anthropology to toxicology and virology. Forensic psychology / psychiatry is one of those 20+ disciplines.

Forensic psychology / psychiatry is a relative newcomer, emerging in the 19th century, primarily in response to a series of cases that deeply perplexed the courts and prompted assistance from mental health professionals (exclusively psychiatrists in the early years). Historically, the criminal justice system recognized only two elements: (1) the offense, and (2) the penalty. The 19th century brought about the emergence of a third element – the offender – and with it, the need to understand the “actor.”

Today, forensic psychology is a vigorous, flourishing sub-division of the American Psychological Association. Founded in 1981, the American Psychology-Law Society (Division 41 of APA) has roughly 2,500 members. The equivalent organization for psychiatrists, the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, was founded in 1969 and has about 1,500 members. This niche of forensic science is supported internationally by 15 or more high caliber academic journals. The core modules are:

  • Statistics and Research Methods
  • Psychopathology
  • Introduction to Forensic Psychology
  • Psychological Basis of Criminal Behavior
  • Evaluating Criminal Responsibility and Competency to Stand Trial
  • Forensic Evaluation & Assessment
  • Forensic Interviewing Techniques
  • Clinical Practice in Forensic Contexts
  • Ethical Issues in Forensic Psychology
  • Externship and Proseminar
Although many forensic psychologists are academics who teach and do research, most are full-time practitioners. Forensic psychologists are, essentially, clinicians trained to conduct specialized evaluations for the courts and testify as expert witnesses. The evaluations that the courts may request vary widely, ranging from criminal responsibility, diminished capacity and competency to child custody, disability, personal injury, death penalty mitigation, malingering, and violence / dangerousness risk.Masters-level forensic psychologists will not, for the most part, be assigned to conduct these evaluations, although they may assist under the supervision a doctoral-level forensic psychologist. Masters-level forensic psychologists most frequently are employed as clinicians who conduct therapy with forensic clients, either in forensic settings (e.g.,  jails, prisons, locked forensic units in state hospitals) or in the community with probationers or parolees. Masters-level forensic psychologists are also employed to do research with a variety of justice-related agencies and organizations. As noted, masters-level forensic psychologists may also be hired by court clinics or private practitioners to assist with evaluations under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.Our program at Fairleigh Dickinson University is designed to offer our students the maximum possible exposure to the broad field of forensic psychology while at the same time streamlining a curriculum that allows students to finish in 18 months. Students are exposed through coursework to all of the aforementioned areas of forensic psychology practice. In addition, students gain invaluable clinical experience through the completion of a 300-hour externship placement, and have the option to participate in forensic research and do a thesis.

Forensic Science Degrees in Nebraska

nebraska forensic science schools

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in Nebraska.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

Forensic Science Requirements in Nebraska

A Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science is the first step for individuals who want to learn how to become forensic scientists in Nebraska. Within this field, it is quite common for colleges and other degree-granting schools to offer a number of tracks or specializations.

For example, students may focus their Bachelor in Forensic Science on Crime Scene Investigations or Forensic Biology. A concentration in Forensic Biology, which is most often sought by those individuals who want to pursue forensic scientist jobs, is designed to prepare students to work in a laboratory setting, where they will identify and analyze a wide range of biological evidence, including DNA.

A Bachelor’s in Forensic Science with a concentration in Forensic Biology is an interdisciplinary program that includes coursework in the sciences, including molecular biology, forensic biology, biochemistry, and genetics, among others, along with a core curriculum typically consisting of:

  • Survey of Criminal Justice
  • Introduction to Forensic Science
  • Forensic Science Seminar
  • Comparative Analysis
  • Current Issues in Forensic Science
  • Forensic Science Seminar

Individuals who want to learn how to become a forensic scientist must first set their sights on an undergraduate degree in one of the natural sciences or in forensic science, as the minimum requirement to work as a forensic scientist in Nebraska is a bachelor’s degree in one the following fields of:

  • Natural science
  • Physical science
  • Forensic science
  • Criminalistics

Further, because forensic scientists in the Crime Laboratory are called upon to perform DNA analyses, these professionals must also complete specific coursework (at least 9 semester credit hours), in the following:

  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Statistics/Population Genetics

The preferred requirement for these forensic professionals is at least one year of experience performing DNA casework within an accredited forensic science laboratory.

All candidates for forensic science jobs in Nebraska should expect to undergo an extensive background screening as a condition of their hire, and all candidates will be screened for a criminal history through a fingerprint-based check.

Forensic Science Training in Nebraska

The Nebraska State Patrol Crime Laboratory, which was established in 1971, is a full-service forensic laboratory that is responsible for performing services necessary to preserve, identify, and analyze evidence materials related to the investigation of crimes. The Crime Laboratory, which is fully funded by the government, provides services to all law enforcement agencies in the state, including local, county, state, federal and military agencies.

The forensic science services provided to the law enforcement agencies of Nebraska, from Omaha to Bellevue to Grand Island, are divided into sections:

  • Drug Chemistry Section
  • Latent Fingerprints Section
  • Biology/DNA Section
  • Trace Chemistry Section
  • Questioned Documents Section
  • Toxicology Section

Nebraska’s Crime Laboratory, which is now housed entirely in Lincoln, includes a staff of 24. It is ASCLA/LAB accredited and the forensic scientists there are often called upon to provide technical assistance and educational services to the state and local agencies regarding forensic science matters.

Forensic Science Salary in Nebraska

Forensic scientists in Nebraska made an average of $61,000 in the year preceding October 2013 according to Indeed.com.  Within Nebraska, several cities have crime labs that employ forensic scientists.

The Nebraska State Patrol’s Crime Laboratory is in Lincoln.  Two crime labs are located in Omaha:  that of the Omaha Police Department and the Douglas County Crime Lab.  The latter crime lab handles cases from across the state and even from some other states.

Because of the large number of forensic science technicians working in Omaha, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides employment and salary information for forensic scientists in this area.  Fifty such scientists were employed in the Omaha area in 2012.  They made an average of $49,710 a year in 2012 with experienced professionals in the top 90th percentile making $65,020.

Forensic scientist positions can entail either analyzing evidence in a lab or processing crime scenes.  The latter type of scientists are known as crime scene investigators (CSIs).  They document the site and collect evidence that undergoes further analysis in a lab.  The types of positions for CSIs vary greatly.

Some law enforcement agencies in Nebraska have investigators that are sworn officer who specialize in the collection of forensic evidence and the processing of crime scenes.  These professionals are paid according to the standard rates for law enforcement officers.

In other cases, civilians perform the crime scene investigation work.  One such position in Omaha in 2013 was for a CSI with three years of experience.  It was a crime scene investigator III position that paid from $48,080 to $60,216 a year.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Nebraska

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Nebraska

There are currently no bachelor’s degree programs in Nebraska.

Master’s Degree Programs in Nebraska

University Nebraska Wesleyan University, Forensic Science M.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $1o,080 per year
Program link

The Master of Science in Forensic Science (MSFS) degree prepares students for leadership positions in forensic science laboratories. Emphasizing hands-on learning and coursework in the natural sciences, the curriculum is designed to provide students a solid foundation in the forensic sciences, particularly in forensic DNA and forensic chemistry. A new degree approved in 2011, the MSFS grew out of the Master in Forensic Science (MFS) degree biology/chemistry concentration, which began in 2001. The MSFS program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and by the Forensic Education Program Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).

Focus on Experiential Learning: Nebraska Wesleyan’s forensic science graduate program focuses on building real-life experiences. The university offers a designated Crime Scene House adjacent to campus. Here, faculty and advanced students (or “faux felons”) develop scenarios and create mock crime scenes. Students from all three tracks work together to process the scene, analyze blood spatter, collect DNA evidence, develop latent fingerprints and reconstruct the crime. Over the course of 10 months, students identify a suspect and testify before a mock grand jury. Research Facilities: A former microbiology lab has been reconfigured into a research lab equipped with microscopes, freezers and cameras. Students enjoy space that can be devoted to conducting their own research. The core modules are:

  •  Survey of Forensic Science
  •  Advanced Crime Scene Investigation
  •  Advanced Investigation I and II
  • Law and Evidence
  • Administration of Justice
  • Advanced Criminalistics I and II
  • Physical Analysis in Forensic Science
  • Medicolegal Investigation and Identification
  • Forensic DNA Analysis
  • Criminal Law

People planning a career in forensic science should have an aptitude for mathematics and be able to analyze, compare, and interpret facts and figures quickly. In addition communication skills, critical thinking, listening, nonverbal communication, and problem-solving abilities are valuable assets. Because legal decisions are made on the basis of their statements and services, they should have high standards of integrity.

Nebraska Wesleyan University offers a 42-credit-hour forensic science program through which graduate students may earn a Master of Forensic Science (MSFS). The first year curriculum focuses on giving graduate students a broad-based knowledge of the forensic sciences. Over the next summer, they complete a two-week internship with a medical examiner or coroner.

During the second year, students focus on biological and chemistry courses. They also participate in a yearlong crime scene investigation course that counts for two credits. The last class for most students is “Forensic Science 599”. This course involves research and internship work relevant to students’ individual interests and concentrations.

Forensic Science Degrees in Missouri

missouri forensic science schools

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in Missouri.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

Forensic scientists in Missouri are responsible for collecting, identifying, and analyzing physical evidence related to criminal investigations. They may perform tests on weapons or substances to determine their significance related to an investigation, and they may also be called upon to testify as an expert witness.

Entry-level forensic scientists must possess at least 60 college credit hours from an accredited college or university, and all candidates must be able to pass a polygraph examination and submit to periodic random drug testing. Further education, professional certification and/or experience may be required for specialized or advanced forensic scientist jobs in Missouri.

Forensic Science Requirements in Missouri

The Crime Lab Division (CLD) of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, which was established in 1936—one of the first of its kind in the country—provides forensic science services and technical support to all local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in Missouri, from Kansas City and St. Louis to Springfield and Independence, through the utilization of state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.

The CLD’s central laboratory is located in Jefferson City, with regional labs located in:

  • Macon
  • St. Joseph
  • Carthage
  • Park Hills
  • Springfield
  • Willow Springs
  • Cape Girardeau

Forensic scientists of the Missouri CLD provide the following services to criminal justice and law enforcement agencies within the state:

  • DNA Coursework
  • Drug Chemistry
  • CODIS
  • Firearms and Toolmarks
  • Latent Prints
  • Toxicology
  • Trace Evidence

Forensic Science Training in Missouri

According to recent statistics by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Division of Career Education, the most common degree for forensic science technicians (45.7 percent) is a bachelor’s degree. It is therefore easy to find a number of degree-granting schools offering bachelor’s degrees in forensic science and related disciplines in Missouri.

Many forensic science bachelor’s degrees also allow students to focus their undergraduate degree on a specific area, thereby preparing them to work in specialized areas of forensic science, such as DNA, toxicology, and latent prints, just to name a few.

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science

A Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science prepares students for careers in forensic science laboratories. This type of degree draws from a number of areas, including the biological sciences, physics, chemistry, and the criminal justice system. As such, it is often considered a cross-disciplinary program, as study is focused in both the scientific and social environments of crime and criminal justice.

Forensic Science Salary in Missouri

Job growth in the field of forensic sciences is promising in Missouri.  The state’s Department of Economic Development projects an increase of 14.89% in the availability of forensic science jobs from 2010 to 2020.  Of the 188 jobs they expect to become available during this ten year period, 74% are expected to be due to the replacement of people leaving the workforce.In 2012, there were 320 forensic science technicians employed in Missouri according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).  The annual median wage throughout the state was $45,270 in 2012.  Those in the top 90th percentile of their wage bracket made an average of $65,970 that year.

A criminalist specializing in toxicology earned from $48,040 to $52,176 a year in 2013 in Springfield.

Other types of jobs for forensic scientists include processing the evidence at crime scenes to preserve it for further analysis.  Such crime scene investigators (CSIs) can be either police officers or detectives with training in forensics or they can be civilians who have some educational background in forensics or criminal justice.

Salaries vary for CSIs depending on their level of experience.  According to Indeed.com, the average salary for a crime scene investigator in Missouri was $56,000 in the period from September 2012 to October 2013.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Missouri

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Missouri

University Colorado Technical University, Forensic Investigation Concentration B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $14,950 per year
Program link

Students enrolled in Colorado Technical University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Investigation program have the opportunity to learn the skills needed to pursue a career in forensic investigation. Learn more about Colorado Technical University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Investigation program here. Prospective students who are considering applying to Colorado Technical University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Investigation program should have an interest in criminal justice and the process of forensic investigation. Applicants to Colorado Technical University’s programs should have already earned a high school diploma or equivalent. Colorado Technical University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Investigation program is designed to teach students about the foundational areas of criminal justice, such as the court system, corrections, and law enforcement as well as the process and science of forensic investigation. Lab practicum experiences provide students with an opportunity to learn about forensics and crime scene investigation. The core modules are:

  • Introduction to Criminalistics
  • Advanced Crime Scene Forensics
  • Forensic Photography & Crime Scene Documentation
  • Medico-Legal Death Investigations
  • Introduction to Ridgeology
  • Interview and Interrogation
  • Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • Criminal Justice Ethics
  • Criminal Procedure
  • Criminology
  • Criminal Law
  • Victimology
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology

Colorado Technical University also offers its Virtual Campus, making it the university of choice for career-motivated students whose lifestyles and responsibilities make it impractical to enroll on a traditional college campus. Students can earn a professionally focused degree in a supportive online community that offers you an incredible amount of freedom, flexibility, convenience and one-to-one support, all courtesy of their committed, experienced faculty and staff. The CTU Online campus offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs that can be completed in as little as 17 months*.

In 2009 the Computerworld Honors program named CTU’s virtual campus the “Best of the Best” in the Academia and Education category. Students enroll in one of its more than 100 online undergraduate and graduate programs are able to learn from professors who have real world experience. They are also able to collaborate with their peers throughout the nation.

University Columbia College, Forensic Science B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $21,200 per year
Program link

The major in Forensic Science is designed to provide training for students seeking to work in forensic science laboratories or who are planning to pursue careers in the field of forensic science. The major draws from the biological sciences, physics and chemistry as well as from the fields of criminal justice and the law. The degree is generated from a cross-disciplinary perspective, blending faculty expertise from both the criminal justice and science program areas. A principal focus of the program is to prepare students for entry-level positions and for advancement in various occupations and professions in the criminal justice and science areas. The faculty encourages wide and varied preparation in both the liberal arts and sciences to provide students with an appreciation of the scientific and social environment of crime and criminal justice. As students prepare for a career in forensic sciences, they should be reasonably informed on which area to focus. For example, if one wishes to work in a crime laboratory, most positions are of the ‘criminalist’ category, but various areas will require specific coursework. The core modules are:

  • Physical Evidence
  • Criminalist I – DNA
  • Trace Evidence
  • Toxicology
  • Latent Prints
  • Questioned Documents
  • Organic Chemistry I and II
  • Senior Seminar in Forensic Science
  • Criminal Investigation
  • Introduction to Forensic Science

Originally founded as Christian Female College, the college was the first women’s college west of the Mississippi River to be chartered by a state legislature. The college changed its name to Columbia College in 1970 when it transitioned from a two-year women’s college to a four-year coeducational college. Though Columbia College has retained a covenant with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) since its inception, the college is a nonsectarian school welcoming students of all religious denominations.

Through its network of campuses in 36 nationwide locations, the Day Campus and Evening Campus in Columbia, Mo., and the Online Campus, the college serves more than 29,000 students annually.

University University of Central Missouri, Forensic Chemistry B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $26,300 per year
Program link

The chemistry degree programs at UCM provide a balanced curriculum of classroom instruction and practical laboratory experience. As a student with a major in chemistry, you will receive extensive state of the art, hands-on experience with instrumentation, such as UV-Visible, FTIR, and FTNMR spectroscopy; chromatography (GC/MS/MS/HPLC); calorimetry; fluorometry; electrochemical analysis and others. The student to faculty ratio at UCM is 17 to 1, which allows professors to get to know students and provide personalized attention. Active research, workshop and seminar participation keep chemistry faculty current in the ever-advancing field of science. In addition to a wide range of academic and professional experience, all faculty members in UCM’s chemistry programs have earned doctorates in their fields of expertise. The core modules are:

  • Causes of Crime
  • Comparative International Systems
  • Criminal Evidence
  • Forensic Science
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology
  • Ballistics Expert
  • Drug Analyst
  • Forensic Psychologist
  • Homicide Investigator
  • Medical Examiner
  • Toxicology

The graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Chemistry will use the knowledge and skills obtained in the program to: collect, analyze and apply information to solve problems (managing information & higher-order thinking); understand how to safely utilize laboratory instruments and employ the appropriate laboratory techniques to investigate chemical systems (technology); understand chemical concepts and use evidence to draw conclusions (higher-order thinking); use the language and concepts of chemistry to communicate effectively in oral and written form (communicating); function in independent and collaborative settings to solve problems (interacting); ethically and with integrity, apply chemical knowledge, materials, and skills that impact society (valuing); be prepared for post-baccalaureate education and employment in the public and private sectors.

Master’s Degree Programs in Missouri

There are currently no master’s programs offered in Missouri.

 

Forensic Science Degrees in Mississippi

mississippi forensics science schools

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in Mississippi.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

 

Forensic Science Requirements in Mississippi

 The Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s Crime Laboratory, which was established in 1956, consists of a main laboratory in Jackson, along with three regional laboratories in Meridian, Batesville, and Gulf Coast. The Mississippi Crime Laboratory (MCL) provides forensic services to the state’s law enforcement agencies, from Gulfport and Biloxi to Hattiesburg and West Gulfport.

Mississippi is home to many colleges and universities that offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees in forensic science and similar disciplines that allow students to acquire the ability to communicate scientific principles and analytical results through a strong theoretical understanding of basic scientific principles.

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science with an emphasis in Biological Sciences

A Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science with an emphasis in Biological Sciences provides students with the skills needed to pursue forensic scientist jobs in such areas as DNA analysis and identification.

Common core coursework may include:

  • Introduction to forensic science
  • Forensic biology
  • Forensic analysis
  • Fingerprint analysis and techniques
  • Survey of forensic toxicology
  • Forensic laboratory policies and procedures
  • Drug identification
  • Crime scene documentation

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science with an emphasis in Chemistry and Biochemistry

A Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science with an emphasis in Chemistry and Biochemistry is designed to prepare students for forensic science careers in such areas as: serology, toxicology, and drug identification.

Common core coursework may include:

  • Introduction to Forensic Science
  • Forensic Biology
  • Forensic Analysis
  • Fingerprint Analysis and Techniques
  • Survey of Forensic Toxicology
  • Crime Scene Documentation
  • Arson and Explosives
  • Special Projects in Forensic Science

Forensic Science Training in Mississippi

There are two major job classifications through the MCL: forensic scientists and forensic biologists, with careers ranging from trainees to Level 5, depending upon education, experience and professional certification.

Forensic scientists in Mississippi may work through either the Impression Evidence Division or the Analytical Division.

A forensic science trainee in the Impression Evidence Division must possess a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university, while a forensic science trainee in the Analytical Division must possess a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university, with at least 24 semester hours of chemistry and analytical chemistry.

A forensic biologist trainee in the MCL’s Bioscience Section must possess a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a directly related field.

Forensic Science Salary in Mississippi

According to the Mississippi Department of Economic Security (MDES), 300 forensic science technicians were employed in the state in 2010.  The field is growing nationally and in Mississippi.  The MDES projects job growth in the double digits throughout 2020.  The increase is projected to be 13.3% with fifteen jobs becoming available each year.

Forensic labs are scattered throughout Mississippi.  The Columbus and Jackson Police Departments have their own crime labs, while the Mississippi Department of Public Safety has its main lab in Jackson.  Additional regional labs are located in the following cities: Batesville, Gulf Coast, Meridian.

Forensic scientist salaries can vary widely depending on the amount of experience and the specialty of the scientist.  The average salary for a Mississippi forensic science technician in the period from September 2012 to October 2013 was $66,000 according to Indeed.com.

In addition, many forensic scientists are crime scene investigators (CSIs).  This position entails rapidly arriving at a crime scene to document the site and collect and preserve evidence for further examination in a lab.

The types of positions for CSIs vary greatly in Mississippi.  Some law enforcement agencies hire civilians for these positions, while others use senior patrol Deputies or sworn Criminal Investigators as their crime scene technicians.  The average salary for a crime scene investigator in Mississippi was $62,000 in the year preceding October 2013 according to Indeed.com.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Mississippi

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Mississippi

University University of Southern Mississippi, Forensic Science B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $15,736 in-state; $32,296 out-of-state per year
Program link

The School of Criminal Justice degree program in forensic science with an emphasis in biological sciences is designed to provide students the skill set necessary to enter the profession with an eye toward DNA analysis and related identification/investigative tasks. The program is open to freshman and transfer students alike. The school prides itself on quality and individualized advisement–both professional and academic–so that students are empowered to accomplish their highest personal aspirations. The faculty are easily approachable, and all are nationally recognized in their respective areas of expertise, lending strong credibility and practical knowledge to the classroom experience.

Students will acquire the ability to thoroughly communicate scientific principles and analytical results in a professional or legal setting. Students completing the program must be able to demonstrate a competency in written and oral communication skills. Students completing the program will acquire the requisite level of technological skills necessary to compete within the modern employment or higher education arena. Students completing the program will understand the historical development, structure and services provided by Forensic Scientists as their role applies to the various justice and law enforcement systems. Students completing the program will gain a strong theoretical understanding of the basic scientific principles of their respective discipline and how they relate to the practice of Forensic Science. The core modules are:

  • Introduction to Forensic Science I and II + Laboratory
  • Forensic Biology I and II
  • Forensic Analysis
  • Fingerprint Analysis and Techniques + Laboratory
  • Survey of Forensic Toxicology + Laboratory
  • Drug Identification + Laboratory
  • Forensic Laboratory Policies and Procedures
  • Crime Scene Documentation + Laboratory
  • Special Projects in Forensic Science
  • Laboratory for Forensic Science
  • Field Study in Forensic Science

The University of Southern Mississippi will emerge as the premier research university of the Gulf South — engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. Education provides opportunities to improve the quality of intellectual, social, economic, and personal well-being. These opportunities should be available to all who are willing and able to meet our standards of excellence. The success is reflected by the degree to which our students become well-read, articulate, and creative and critical thinkers. It is measured by their display of specialized knowledge and abilities suitable to the pursuit of a career and life in our complex, ever- changing world. The university cherishes innovation in the creation and application of basic and applied research findings, creative and artistic expression, meaningful learning experiences, the scope of services provided to our students and the broader community that we sustain, and the continuing evolution of degree programs that both respond to and anticipate the evolving demands of our society, employers, and the labor market.  Academic freedom and shared governance are long-established and living principles at the university. We cherish the free exchange of ideas, diversity of thought, joint decision making, and individuals’ assumption of responsibility.

University Mississippi State University, Forensic Science Concentration B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $16,960 per year
Program link

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program within the Department of BCH-EPP involves disciplines at the cutting edge of a revolution in biology. Molecular methods and the use of genetic engineering have given scientists unprecedented power to begin to understand the chemistry of life processes. The Department of BCH-EPP aims to prepare students at Mississippi State in this exciting area. In addition to the undergraduate curriculum in biochemistry and molecular biology, the department provides opportunities for an M.S. degree in Agricultural Life Sciences with a concentration in Biochemistry and a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology (See the Graduate Bulletin for description of programs and requirements for advanced degrees). For the Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry, the objective of this curriculum is to provide the student with a strong background in science, and to prepare the student for entry into professional schools, graduate study and/or highly technical scientific careers after graduation. There are sufficient individual choices in the curriculum to allow students to tailor their programs to any of several areas of specialization by appropriate use of elective hours. The core modules are:

  • Introduction to Biochemistry
  • Introduction to Forensic Science
  • Special Topics in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology
  • Senior Seminar
  • Directed Individual Study in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology
  • Principles of Biochemistry
  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Internship
  • Essentials of Molecular Genetics
  • Macronutrients: Human Metabolism
  • Advanced Forensic Science
  • General Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Principles of Biochemistry
  • Advanced Forensic Science

This program requires careful planning by the student in order to complete the requirements for the B.S. while beginning a research program that should result in successful completion of a Master’s thesis at the end of the second summer after the B.S. Only exceptional and motivated students should attempt this program. It is critical that General Biochemistry be scheduled in the spring of the sophomore year. The student will be expected to begin a research project in the senior year by taking up to nine hours of Directed Individual Study courses . Research will continue during the summer after completion of the B.S. degree. The student must register for  (3 hours), Thesis Research during the summer. In addition, the student should schedule a graduate level BCH course and in the spring of the senior year.

The student interested in the five year program should apply early in the undergraduate program to facilitate the scheduling of courses to conform to time constraints. In addition to applying for admission to the graduate program, the student must also take the Graduate Record Examination early enough so that the results are available by the beginning of the semester in which the student expects to graduate. The student must complete the courses required for completion of the BS degree with no more than 10 hours remaining in the semester of expected graduation.

Master’s Degree Programs in Mississippi

University University of Southern Mississippi, Forensic Science M.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $19,116 per year
Program link

The Director of Master’s Studies has the discretion to request the transfer of a maximum of six (6) semester hours of graduate course work earned by the student at an accredited institution of higher learning (including USM) where the assigned grade is no lower than an “B.” Courses which were graded as pass/fail may not be transferred into the program. This policy does not apply to the transfer of courses into the Graduate Certificate program.
Credit earned for courses more than six (6) years before the student has been admitted to the program and courses which were utilized towards another degree are not eligible for transfer.The core modules are:

  • Survey in Forensic Toxicology
  • Drug Identification
  • Forensic Serology
  • Forensic DNA Technology

The University of Southern Mississippi will emerge as the premier research university of the Gulf South — engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities. Education provides opportunities to improve the quality of intellectual, social, economic, and personal well-being. These opportunities should be available to all who are willing and able to meet our standards of excellence. The success is reflected by the degree to which our students become well-read, articulate, and creative and critical thinkers. It is measured by their display of specialized knowledge and abilities suitable to the pursuit of a career and life in our complex, ever- changing world. The university cherishes innovation in the creation and application of basic and applied research findings, creative and artistic expression, meaningful learning experiences, the scope of services provided to our students and the broader community that we sustain, and the continuing evolution of degree programs that both respond to and anticipate the evolving demands of our society, employers, and the labor market.  Academic freedom and shared governance are long-established and living principles at the university. We cherish the free exchange of ideas, diversity of thought, joint decision making, and individuals’ assumption of responsibility.

 

 

Forensic Science Degrees in Michigan

michigan forensic science schools

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in Michigan.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

The Michigan State Police 2012 Crime Data and Statistics Uniform Crime Report (UCR) shows decreases in totals for certain kinds of crimes in the state between 2011 and 2012. For example, justifiable homicides were down 36.17 percent. Negligent homicide/manslaughter cases were decreased by 25 percent. Other decreases were noted in sexual assault, non aggravated assault, and aggravated/felonious assault cases from 2011 to 2012.

Nevertheless, crime is still occurring in Michigan, increasing the need for forensic scientists in the state. It is the responsibility of those holding forensic science jobs in Michigan to process evidence gathered at crime scenes statewide. The analysis of this evidence is crucial to criminal cases being tried in the state. Students who graduate from forensic science colleges and degree granting schools in Michigan should be well prepared to fill the need for forensic scientists in the state.

Forensic Science Requirements in Michigan

Many employers of forensic graduates in Michigan are looking for job candidates who graduated from programs accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Degrees in forensic science that are available in Michigan and online include:

  • Associate of Science in Criminology and Forensic Technology
  • Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science
  • Bachelor of Science in Forensic Biology
  • Bachelor of Science in Forensic Biochemistry
  • Master of Science in Forensic Science

Forensic Science Training in Michigan

  • Michigan State Police Forensic Science – The main laboratory used by the Michigan State Police is located in Lansing and serves all three regions of the state. All of the MSP labs are nationally accredited by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors, Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB). There are six other MSP laboratories in the following locations that process crime scene evidence:
    • Marquette
    • Grayling
    • Bridgeport
    • Grand Rapids
    • Northville
    • Sterling Heights
  • Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Investigative and Forensic Services Division – This laboratory analyzes evidence from crime scenes throughout Oakland County, Michigan. Analyses performed here include narcotic/drug determinations, composites, physical matches, Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) operations, latent fingerprints, fingerprints, forensic crime scene photography, and expert testimony on blood spatter interpretation.
  • G4S – A private security company with locations nationwide, the G4S office in Auburn Hills employs forensic scientists and investigators in the computer and digital analysis areas.
  • City of Southfield Specialists/Crime Lab – This city police department’s crime laboratory provides forensic analysis of evidence obtained at crimes scenes in the Southfield area. They often coordinate forensic services with other laboratories as well.
  • Grand Traverse County, Michigan Crime Lab – The main crime laboratory for Grand County, Michigan processes evidence collected at crime scenes throughout the county.

Forensic Science Salary in Michigan

The job outlook in Michigan is promising for forensic scientists according to the state’s Department of Technology, Management, and Budget.  They projected the number of forensic science positions to grow by 25.6% in the ten year period leading up to 2018.  Sixty-four percent of these positions are projected to be due to the replacement of people leaving the workforce.

A significant number of forensic scientists worked in Michigan in 2012 according to information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).  They indicated that 190 such professionals worked in the state in 2012.

2012 BLS salary date for Michigan is available for forensic science technicians.  Their average salary that year was $70,650—the third highest of any state in the country.  Experienced professionals commanded substantially higher wages.  The average salary for those in the top tenth percent of their field in Michigan was $159,640.

The state of Michigan pays a range of salaries to its forensic scientists depending on their level of experience and expertise.  Some of the specialties of these scientists include:

  • Chemical/biology
  • Firearms
  • Latent prints and questioned documents

In addition to having jobs as lab technicians, other forensic scientists investigate crime scenes.  For instance, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office in Pontiac has a mobile crime lab that will respond to any crime scene around the clock.

Crime scene investigators (CSIs) can be employed as either sworn officers or civilians.  According to Indeed.com, the average crime scene investigator position in Michigan paid $57,000 in the one year period preceding October 2013.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Michigan

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Michigan

University Lake Superior State University, Forensic Chemistry B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $15,000 per year
Program link

The B.S. in Forensic Chemistry combines elements of criminal justice and biology with a strong chemistry program. The forensic chemist analyzes and interprets materials collected at crime scenes, accidents, and at sites of terrorist activities.

The degree is offered in response to strong student, state and local government demand for an undergraduate academic program to prepare students for careers in forensic chemistry. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics 2010 Occupational Outlook Handbook, forensic science technicians will grow much faster than average.

Graduates with a bachelor of science in forensic chemistry work in forensic laboratories for federal, state, or local government agencies or in some cases, work for private investigative laboratories. Some graduates may also go on to pursue a graduate degree.

The Chemistry Program at Lake Superior State University is now accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS).  According to the 2011 National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimator, more people are employed as chemists and chemical technicians than in any other job classification in the life and physical science occupations.  With many free electives and a common general education core, a chemistry degree can also be used in combination with other majors or minors such as pre-professional (medicine, pharmacy, veterinary, law, etc.), engineering, business, biology, and many more to match student interest and career plans.

Graduates with a bachelor of science in chemistry work in many disciplines and industries, and many proceed on to graduate school in natural sciences, medicine, law, or engineering.  Internships in chemistry are encouraged where students can gain valuable real-world work experience while gaining college credit.  In addition, students pursuing the ACS certified degree will participate in an applied research project in close collaboration with faculty members to address meaningful chemical-based problems.  These projects, through the excellent preparation they provide our students, are often cited as important factors in successful job searches and entry into graduate programs.

The LSSU chemistry program has been approved by the American Chemical Society, and may provide a certified degree in Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry, and Pre-Professional Chemistry degrees if a student chooses this track.  Graduates completing the prescribed requirements are awarded an ACS certificate signifying their completion of the approved degree and can qualify for membership in the Society upon graduation. The core modules are:

  • General Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Introductory Toxicology
  • Junior Seminar
  • Forensic Science
  • Biochemistry
  • Applied Spectroscopy
  • Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • Criminalistics
  • Procedural Law
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Abnormal Psychology

All LSSU bachelor’s degree candidates must complete the LSSU General Education Core Requirements, or have earned the MACRAO Stamp (Michigan Community College transfer students), or have completed the general education certification (Sault College transfer students), or have already earned a bachelor’s degree (honors bachelor degree from a Canadian university). A minimum of 124 credits (at the 100 level or higher) must be earned for graduation with a cumulative gpa of 2.50 or higher.  A gpa of 2.50 or higher is required in your Major, and a gpa of 2.00 or higher is required in your General Education Core Requirements.

University Northern Michigan University, Forensic Biochemistry B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $15,000 per year
Program link

This major is designed to prepare students for a career in the field of forensic science. It provides the science background required for working as a forensic investigator in a crime lab. In addition, it prepares students for entry into a graduate program in forensic science. The forensic biochemistry curriculum includes courses from multiple departments and is the credit-hour equivalent of a major plus a minor, therefore no additional minor is required. Students who are interested in pursuing this degree should have a strong background in science, including two years of high school algebra and one year of high school chemistry. The capstone course for this major, CH 440, is offered every other year, therefore students should consult with their adviser early in their program to ensure that they are prepared to take CH 440 when it is offered. The core modules are:

  • General Chemistry
  • Quantitative Analysis
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Gas and Liquid Chromatography
  • Forensic Chemistry
  • Introduction to Biology
  • General Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology
  • Drugs, Crime and the Justice System
  • Criminal Procedure

Northern Michigan University, located in Marquette, Michigan, is a dynamic four-year, public, comprehensive university that has grown its reputation based on its award-winning leadership programs, cutting-edge technology initiatives and nationally recognized academic programs.

Northern Michigan has a population of about 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students.  It offers 147 degree programs, including 25 graduate programs.  The university has two semesters per year, a fall and winter semester, and two summer sessions.  NMU  is one of three Michigan public universities to also serve a community college role for its region, which means the breadth of NMU’s academic programs range from one-year diplomas through master’s degrees. NMU will begin offering its first doctoral program – the Doctor of Nursing Practice –  in fall 2014. NMU’s most popular bachelor’s degrees are art and design, nursing, criminal justice, elementary education and biology.  The university’s fastest growing academic areas are clinical science, biology, and the geographical and environmental sciences.

University Madonna University, Forensic Science B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $16,430 per year
Program link

The Forensic Science program provides students with knowledge and laboratory skills in the biological and physical sciences required to engage in forensic analyses. Graduates are qualified to seek employment as forensic technicians who investigate crimes by analyzing physical evidence. The program was designed with the assistance of regional crime lab supervisors to meet the qualifications needed for practitioners in this field. Also, a dual-track plan is available for students who wish to double major in forensic science and criminal justice.

Beyond the Classroom:
Students with high science grades have the opportunity to join the Sigma Zeta Honor Society, the Math and Science Honor Society for Madonna University. All Forensic Science majors have the opportunity to join the Madonna University Forensic Science Society (MUFSS). Internship opportunities are available for qualified students. In addition, students have the opportunity to do research with forensic science faculty funded by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and present their research at Madonna University and at professional meetings. The core modules are:

  • General Biology
  •  Genetics with Lab
  • Molecular Biology
  •  Introductory Principles of Forensic Science
  •  Impression and Trace Evidence Analysis
  • Firearm and Tool Mark Analysis
  •  Forensic Biology
  •  Forensic Chemistry
  • Ethics and Expert Testimony

Madonna University receives its institutional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The HLC accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the North Central region of the United States, and thereby grants membership in the Commission. The mission of Madonna University, a Catholic and Franciscan institution of higher learning, is to instill in its students Christian humanistic values, intellectual inquiry, a respect for diversity, and a commitment to serving others through a liberal arts education, integrated with career preparation and based on the truths and principles recognized within a Catholic tradition.

University Marygrove College, Forensic Science B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $19,866 per year
Program link

Forensic science is an interdisciplinary major and does not require an additional minor to be completed. The requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree with forensic major are a minimum of 59 credit hours in forensic science and related courses. The core modules are:

  • Introduction to Forensic Science
  • Crime Scene Investigation and Evidence Collection
  • Forensic Biology or 440 Forensic Chemistry
  • Special Topics in Forensic Science
  • Senior Seminar: Library Research
  • Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • Criminal Behavior
  • Criminal Law

Marygrove College, an independent Catholic liberal arts college sponsored by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, is committed to fostering Christian values, to educating students from diverse backgrounds, and to serving the people of Metropolitan Detroit and beyond.

The fundamental purpose of Marygrove College is to educate each student toward intellectual and professional competence; toward career flexibility through grounding in the liberal arts; and toward active compassion and commitment. To this end, Marygrove provides a personalized learning environment which, through excellent teaching in its undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs, sets for its students these goals: competence, compassion and commitment.

 

Master’s Degree Programs in Michigan

University Michigan State University, Forensic Science M.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $22,450 per year
Program link

Forensic science – the application of the methods of science to legal matters – is an exciting, complex and multidisciplinary program of study. In it one employs the principles of chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics, as well as social science theory and law, to help solve crimes and serve justice. Forensic science offers students who have a bachelor’s degree in a natural or physical science an opportunity to apply their knowledge to serve justice. The program includes courses in criminal justice, forensic science, and law. Research in the forensic sciences takes place throughout a student’s tenure.

Michigan State University has long been recognized as a premier institution for research and education in forensic science. The School of Criminal Justice first offered a major in forensic science in 1946, and administers the oldest continually functioning educational degree program in forensic science in the United States. Michigan State University is home to a number of excellent resources for the study of forensic science. The School of Criminal Justice maintains modern laboratory facilities containing equipment and instrumentation for the analysis of virtually any type of physical evidence, from chromatography equipment for drugs, explosives, and arson evidence to microscopy techniques for trace evidence analysis, to genetic analyzers for the analysis of DNA.

The Forensic Science Masters program at Michigan State University is designed to give students a broad theoretical and practical background in the scientific, legal, and investigative aspects of forensic science while providing the opportunity to study one of the major disciplines in depth. There are three concentrations offered: Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Biology, and Forensic Anthropology. The core modules are:

  • Advanced Analytical Chemistry
  • Law and Forensic Science
  • Forensic Analysis of Drugs and Alcohol
  • Forensic Chemistry and Microscopic Evidence
  • Molecular Biology
  • Forensic Chemistry and Microscopic Evidence
  • Conservation and Genetics
  • Osteology and Forensic Anthropology

Michigan State University’s School of Criminal Justice has some of the most modern research and teaching forensic science laboratories in the country. Housed in the Chemistry Building, the forensic chemistry laboratory contains state-of-the-art equipment including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, FTIR, capillary electrophoresis, HPLC, fluorescence spectrophotometer, and polarized light microscopy. Additional laboratory instrumentation is available in the chemistry department. The DNA laboratories, located in Giltner Hall, include PCR and genetic analysis equipment (ABI 310 and Beckman CEQ 8000 genetic analyzers), electrophoresis equipment, digital photography equipment, and multiple thermocyclers. The forensic anthropology labs, located in Fee Hall, are equipped with bench space for osteological exams, a stereozoom microscope, an image superimposition center, and a GE portable X-ray unit.

The laboratory headquarters of the Michigan State Police Forensic Science Division is conveniently located near the MSU campus. This full-service laboratory is available as a source of research resources and internship placements. Faculty in the Forensic Science Program and elsewhere on the campus regularly consult with the state police and conduct joint research projects with the help of forensic science students.

Through its career development and internship offices, the School of Criminal Justice provides internship opportunities for forensic science students, giving them a chance to learn firsthand how a crime lab works. Many interns carry out research projects under the auspices of laboratory personnel. Academic credit is awarded for successful completion of internship placement.

Although the Master of Science degree in Forensic Science is administered by the School of Criminal Justice (College of Social Science), several colleges and departments cooperate in offering this interdepartmental degree. These include the colleges of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Human Medicine, and Natural Science, as well as the departments of Anthropology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radiology, Resource Development, Statistics and Probability, and Zoology. Also participating are the Center for Advanced Microscopy, the Genetics Program, and the Medical Technology Program.

 

Forensic Science Degrees in Maryland

maryland forensic science school

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in Maryland.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

 

Forensic Science Requirements in Maryland

The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences accredits forensic science education programs that uphold the standards of the Academy. Most forensic science employers in Maryland require that applicants are graduates of FEPAC-accredited programs.

Most forensic scientist jobs in Maryland require that the applicant hold at minimum a bachelor’s degree. Usually a degree in one of the following fields is acceptable:

  • Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Medical Technology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmaceutical Science
  • Criminal Justice
  • Forensic Science

If an applicant’s bachelor’s degree is not in one of the above- mentioned disciplines, he or she may still be able to apply for forensic scientist jobs in Maryland. A range of 24 to 30 undergraduate credits may be required from the following fields:

  • Physical Science, such as:
    • Physics
    • Astronomy
    • Earth Science
    • Atmospheric science
  • Natural Science, such as:
    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Forensic Science

All science courses listed above must include a laboratory component.

Forensic Science Training in Maryland

Some forensic scientists in Maryland go on to obtain additional continuing education, and often professional certification, within a specialized discipline in forensic science. This can be helpful when seeking advancement or new challenges in a forensic science career.

Examples of organizations that provide such continuing education and/or certification include:

  • American Board of Criminalistics – offers the Forensic Science Assessment Test, which can be taken to show potential employers an applicant’s advanced knowledge in Forensic Science
  • American Board of Forensic Toxicology – offers certification as a Forensic Toxicology Specialist to those with a bachelor’s degree and three years of applicable experience

Forensic Science Salary in Maryland

Maryland is a good state for finding jobs as forensic scientists.  There are several reasons for this.

Forensic scientist employment level. Maryland had the fifth highest level of employment of forensic scientists in the county in 2012 according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).  Six hundred and fifty such scientists were working in the state in 2012.

Employment levels are expected to increase to even greater levels.  Maryland’s Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning projected that 81 positions would become open for forensic scientists in the period from 2012 to 2014.

Another factor to look at that shows the availability of jobs is the concentration of jobs in the state.  Maryland had the third highest concentration of forensic science jobs of any state in the county.  Approximately one out of every 4000 employees in the state was a forensic scientist.

Two cities in Maryland were in the top six metropolitan areas in the country with the highest concentration of jobs.  Baltimore was fifth, while Bethesda-Rockville-Frederick was sixth.

Forensic scientist salaries.  The Bethesda area had the seventh highest average salary for forensic scientists of any city in the country.  The average salary for the state and selected cities for 2012 is shown below, along with the average salary of experienced professionals in the 90th percentile of their wage bracket. Statewide, the average annual salary is $65810 and the 10th percentile salary is $93420.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Maryland

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Maryland

University University of Baltimore, Forensic Studies B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $16,036 in-state; $37,784 out-of-state per year
Program link

The Bachelor of Science program for transfer students only has been developed and is delivered in partnership with the Baltimore Police Department, bringing you as close to real-world forensic studies as possible. You’ll study the theory of forensics and practice its applications through your coursework, a portion of which you’ll complete in the Baltimore Police Department. This experiential learning opportunity provides you with the background and forensic experience you’ll need to become a forensic science specialist or a criminal investigator. This concentration focuses on the scientific aspects of criminal investigation. You’ll be working in the University of Baltimore’s state-of-the-art Jami R. Grant Forensic Laboratories, built in conjunction with the Baltimore Police Department to train students and to serve as a reserve crime lab for the city. Your coursework in the lab will allow you to interact with forensic professionals and gain experience with sophisticated equipment. The core modules are:

  • Forensic Science
  • Crime Scene Investigation
  • Interviews and Interrogations
  • Trace Evidence
  • Microscopy
  • Forensic Serology
  • Death Investigation
  • Forensic Documentation
  • Art and Forensics
  • Laboratory Topics in Forensics

The College of Public Affairs at the University of Baltimore is a vibrant, urban college engaged in personalized teaching and innovative research that promotes excellence in the public and nonprofit sectors. CPA is an intellectual catalyst for local, regional, national and global leadership in the fields of public administration, international affairs, conflict management and negotiation, health and human services, and criminal justice. CPA influences the broader community through traditional degree programs, continuing education, research and engaged practice.

The College of Public Affairs inspires and educates a diverse student body whose education grounds them in theory and practice and readies them to contribute to their organizations and communities. Our engaged faculty and practitioners are committed to improving the practice in their fields through excellence in instruction, research and applied practice.

University University System of Maryland, Investigative Forensics B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $14,956 in-state per year
Program link

The investigative forensics major prepares students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical principles necessary to process and report on physical evidence at a crime scene or in connection with a civil investigation. Students will understand both the theory and practice of the forensic disciplines and of police work. The curriculum, based on national guidelines, provides students with a basic foundation in investigative, scientific, and laboratory-based forensics, and introduces them to the various disciplines that make up the forensic collaborative workgroup. It prepares students for further education or employment in the field.

The student who graduates with a major in investigative forensics will be able to: apply the scientific method to draw conclusions regarding forensic information;utilize ethical principles and an understanding of legal precedents to make decisions related to investigation, analyses, and testimony as a crime scene or forensic professional; access, interpret, and apply investigative, forensic, and criminal justice research to maintain competency within the field; use effective written and oral communication to clearly report and articulate information, analyses, or findings to relevant end users in a timely manner; recognize and evaluate evidence to determine all appropriate analyses to gather all available forensic information; synthesize forensic, evidential, and investigatory information from multiple sources to generate theories about a crime; use an understanding of the capabilities, processes, and limitations of the crime laboratory to be an informed consumer or practitioner; a degree with a major in investigative forensics requires the successful completion of 120 credits of coursework, including 35 credits for the major; 41 credits in general education requirements; and 44 credits in the minor, electives, and other degree requirements. At least 18 credits in the major must be earned in upper-level courses (numbered 300 or above). The core modules are:

  • Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Medical Technology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmaceutical Science
  • Criminal Justice
  • Forensic Science

The University System of Maryland at Hagerstown (USMH) is a regional higher education center that offers upper-division-undergraduate and graduate academic programs of the universities within the University System of Maryland at its state-of-the-art facility in downtown Hagerstown. USMH works collaboratively to develop innovative partnerships with local community colleges, businesses, and civic leaders to ensure a seamless and quality learning experience for students.

USMH undergraduate and graduate programs are premier offerings of the USM educational institutions, chosen because they meet the needs of the Washington County business community and of prospective students from Hagerstown and Frederick Community Colleges. Students graduating from USMH programs will be prepared with the knowledge and skills necessary to make positive contributions to society and to thrive in the economy.

Master’s Degree Programs in Maryland

University Stevenson University, Forensics M.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $15,005 per year
Program link

The cost of economic crime in the United States has grown to at least $200 billion annually. Accounting firms, law enforcement agencies, law firms,  and other organizations are increasingly incorporating forensic teams into their practices to combat these losses. Stevenson’s M.S. in Forensic Studies has been designed to prepare forensic accountants, investigators, computer forensics specialists, and other highly-skilled professionals to fill this growing need.

Stevenson University’s innovative, accelerated M.S. in Forensic Studies is designed for working adults as well as select Stevenson juniors and seniors who want to complete their degree quickly and expand their career horizons. With the cost of U.S. economic crime nearly doubling during the past decade, many organizations rely on forensic teams. The M.S. in Forensic Studies will prepare you to be a forensic specialist who can conduct investigations and examine evidence for the purpose of presenting your findings in criminal or civil law cases. Accomplished faculty with real-world experience and achievement ensure that you will be able to demonstrate technical and core competencies, critical thinking, and effectively communicate both orally and in writing. These marketable skills are in great demand by public and private sector employers and the justice system.

The program offers six tracks of study: Accounting, Computer Forensics, Criminalistics, Interdisciplinary, Investigations, and Legal. You will select a track based on your education and experience, personal interests, and career aspirations. Most courses are offered on our Owings Mills campus but all courses can also be completed  online with the exception of a one-week residential summer mock trial if you decide not to take mock trial on campus at other times of the year. Courses are offered in two eight-week sessions in the fall and spring and one eight-week and one seven-week session in the summer with on-site courses, other than the mock trial, meeting just one evening per week. The program culminates in the rigorous and realistic Mock Trial Capstone, which meets two evenings per week for approximately 13 weeks or for one week during the summer for online students. The core modules are:

  • Criminal Justice
  • Forensic Journal Research and Review
  • Evidence
  • Mock Trial Capstone
  • Technology Law and Enforcement Activities
  • File Systems Forensic Analysis
  • Survey of Forensic Science
  • Pattern Analysis
  • Criminology
  • Forensic Information Technology

There are more possible tracks that can be followed for this master’s specialization. The Accounting track is designed to prepare students to synthesize the accounting, auditing, computer, and investigative skills necessary to investigate and analyze financial evidence; to interpret and summarize their findings; and to communicate those findings in a courtroom setting. The fiscal challenges faced by both the private and the public sectors and the implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act have created a need for forensic accountants in public accounting firms, businesses, government agencies, and other organizations to aid in fraud investigation and in fraud prevention. Graduates of this track will be prepared for these positions. As computer technology becomes more complex, the ways to breach computer security also become more complex. Incidents of computer crime are increasing at alarming rates.

The Computer Forensics track is designed to prepare students to identify, acquire, restore and analyze electronic data and to testify as experts in court. Further, as the use of digital evidence in litigation becomes more prevalent, students will be prepared to assist in litigation support services in the areas of electronic evidence. Criminalistics is the science of associating and identifying evidence, interpreting the results of various scientific tests (e.g., ballistics, DNA, gunshot residue, etc.), and reconstructing crime scenes. The Criminalistics Track is designed to help students acquire the skills, knowledge, and abilities necessary to evaluate the results reached by criminalists in the performance of their duties, and to apply those results at trial and other legal proceedings.

The Interdisciplinary Track is designed for students who have interests that overlap two or more of the other program tracks. This track enables students who are interested in careers that require general knowledge of accounting, information technology, law, and investigations to take appropriate courses in two or more of these areas.

This track may be appropriate for persons with general interests in multiple areas such as managerial or executive personnel who need a general understanding of a variety of forensic specialties which fall under their areas of responsibility. The Investigations Track provides the knowledge to plan and conduct investigations. Courses emphasize the gathering and reporting of testimonial and physical evidence and prepare students to conduct investigations by interviewing witnesses, analyzing documents, and synthesizing the results into factually accurate and objective investigative reports and court testimony.

The increases in fraud exposures, fraud investigations and prosecution of white collar crimes necessitate a demand for forensic legal professionals. The Legal Track will provide students with the necessary skills in the areas of fraud investigation, fraud prosecution and defense, and litigation support. Through courses emphasizing legal research and writing, interviewing and investigating skills, criminal evidence and procedure, and courtroom presentation skills, graduates will become valuable members of the forensic team. Graduates will find careers in the investigative, prosecutorial and criminal defense arenas.

University University of Baltimore, Forensic Science – High Technology Crimes M.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $13,550 per year
Program link

The University of Baltimore’s M.S. in Forensic Science – High Technology Crime prepares you to excel in a rapidly changing field as you become an expert in investigating criminal activity involving computer and digital information systems, accounting fraud and health-care fraud. The program is designed for professionals who want to become expert at managing advanced technological resources to combat cyberthreats and related financial crime.  Through a 10-course core and a three-course specialization area, you’ll develop skills and knowledge in 21st-century forensic investigations to become an agent of positive change. You’ll explore: forensic investigation techniques; computer and digital information crimes; financial and health-care fraud; prevention and security management strategies; legal interventions and resolutions. You’ll gain practical, hands-on experience in a brand-new digital computer lab where you’ll be able to break down computer hardware and learn to employ specific software for investigation purposes.You also have the opportunity to take advantage of UB’s partnership with Atius Technology Institute to take your professional certification exams through the Information Technology Academy (without having to take the academy’s prep courses—this program prepares you well to pass the exams). In addition, the academy offers a series of cohort learning sessions in such areas as Cisco Certified Network Engineering, Information Technology Security Auditing & Cyber Forensic Investigation, Database Management, Healthcare Informatics and Information Technology Project Management. The core modules are:

  • Legal Issues in Forensic Accounting
  • Legal Issues in High Technology Crime
  • Identifying Organizational Liabilities and Crime
  • Information Retrieval: Paper and Electronic
  • Forensic Investigative Techniques
  • Introduction to Cryptanalysis
  • Computer and Digital Forensics
  • Information Systems, Threats, Attacks and Defense Strategies

The College of Public Affairs at the University of Baltimore is a vibrant, urban college engaged in personalized teaching and innovative research that promotes excellence in the public and nonprofit sectors. CPA is an intellectual catalyst for local, regional, national and global leadership in the fields of public administration, international affairs, conflict management and negotiation, health and human services, and criminal justice. CPA influences the broader community through traditional degree programs, continuing education, research and engaged practice.

The College of Public Affairs inspires and educates a diverse student body whose education grounds them in theory and practice and readies them to contribute to their organizations and communities. Our engaged faculty and practitioners are committed to improving the practice in their fields through excellence in instruction, research and applied practice.

have decades of practical experience in investigating and prosecuting crime, and they work in metropolitan, state and national agencies and in corporate and private industry. They research in collaboration with professionals around the globe and consult nationally and internationally. Many faculty work in the field in addition to teaching, bringing expertise to the classroom from their jobs in law enforcement agencies, state’s attorney offices, forensic laboratories, and corporate and private security in areas focusing on fraud and high-tech crime.

Forensic Science Degrees in Maine

 maine forensic science school

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

 

The Maine State Police Crime Laboratory, which was created in 1926, provides forensic services to all law enforcement agencies working in the State of Maine. Using state-of-the-art equipment and instrumentation, the forensic scientists of the Crime Laboratory compare evidence collected from crime scenes through its four sections:

  • Forensic Chemistry
  • Forensic Biology
  • Firearms/Toolmarks
  • Latent Prints

Forensic scientists in Maine conduct scientific analyses in the following forensic disciplines:

  • DNA analysis
  • Fingerprint and palm print comparisons and identification
  • Fire debris analysis
  • Firearms examinations
  • Footwear and tire comparisons and identification
  • Gunshot residue and distance determination
  • Physical matching comparisons and identification
  • Serial number and VIN restoration
  • Serological screening and bodily fluid identification
  • Toolmark examinations
  • Trace evidence identification and comparison

Forensic Science Requirements in Maine

Forensic science degrees prepare students to become forensic scientists who are called upon to examine and evaluate physical evidence using instrumental, chemical and physical methods of analysis. Both undergraduate and graduate degrees in forensic science prepare students to serve as expert witnesses in court hearings and conduct research on new technologies, equipment, and techniques.

Forensic Science Training in Maine

Undergraduate Level – A bachelor’s degree in forensic science provides students with competency in the following areas:

  • Crime scene processing
  • Evidence documentation and preservation
  • Justice system
  • Presumption and confirmatory testing of forensic samples
  • Judicial and courtroom procedures
  • Research and analytical methods

Graduate Level – Students seeking specialized training in the field of forensic science commonly seek a Master’s in Forensic Science. Some of the tracks within a master’s degree include: toxicology, drug analysis, forensic anthropology, forensic medicine, criminalistics, biological evidence, and forensic DNA analysis, among others.

Individuals who want to learn how to become a forensic scientist at an entry level must possess a bachelor of science in one of the following fields:

  • Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Medical laboratory science
  • Molecular biology

Individuals who want to achieve forensic scientist jobs in DNA analysis must also complete coursework in the following:

  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics
  • Molecular biology
  • Statistics/Population genetics

Forensic Science Salary in Maine

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that forty people worked as forensic science technicians in Maine in 2012.  Their annual median salary was $42,440 with scientists in the top tenth of their wage bracket making an average of $59,060 a year.

One primary employer for forensic scientists in Maine is the Crime Lab of the Maine State Police. The lab investigates 800 to 1,000 cases a year.  Some of the analyses that scientists perform at this lab include:

  • DNA comparisons
  • Fingerprint and tire track comparisons
  • Fire debris analysis
  • Sexual assault tests
  • Weapons examinations

The forensic scientist occupational category includes both lab technicians and crime scene investigators (CSIs) who work at the scene of the crime.  The primary CSIs in many states are civilians who work for law enforcement agencies or independent forensic labs.

In Maine, though, investigators and officers from the Maine State Police perform much of the crime scene investigation work.  They are primarily based out of Bangor and Portland.

While many CSIs have specialties such as latent fingerprint or impression analysis, most of Maine’s CSIs are trained as generalists.  They have a working knowledge of a wide range of forensic science.  According to Indeed.com, the average salary for a crime scene investigator in the state in the year leading up to October 2013 was $49,000 a year.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Maine

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Maine

University Thomas College, Forensic Psychology B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $33,560 per year
Program link

Are you interested in both psychology and the legal system? Forensic Psychology is the field where both areas meet. Individuals with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology may find themselves working with law-enforcement officials, in the court system, or in a rehabilitation or correctional facility. Obtaining a master’s or doctoral degree will allow students to work as forensic psychologists. Students may evaluate and/or treat individuals in many areas of the legal system, conduct research in a number of interesting areas, or serve the court system as a consultant or expert witness.

The Forensic Psychology program provides a strong foundation in the general discipline of psychology–the scientific study of behavior, thoughts and feelings. In addition, students train in specific areas related to criminal and civil law. Courses include Abnormal Psychology, Personality Theories; Psychology and the Law; Psychology of the Criminal Mind, Drugs, Addiction and Crime; and several courses taken through the Criminal Justice Department.

Faculty work with students to design a program of study to fit particular goals. The flexibility of the Forensic Psychology curriculum allows students to focus their classes on the areas of the justice system that interest them most, and they can also minor in criminal justice, sociology, political science, etc. Double majors are also possible. The core modules are:

  • General Psychology
  • Introduction to Computer Applications
  • Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • Experimental Design and Analysis
  • Foundations of Quantitative Analysis
  • Professional Writing in Psychology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Physiological Psychology
  • Psychology and the Law

Forensic Psychology Concentration Program Objectives Upon completion of the psychology program with a concentration in forensic psychology at Thomas College, students will be able to: demonstrate familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology;  apply basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation; respect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and, when possible, the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes; weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, act ethically, and reflect other values that are the underpinnings of psychology as a discipline; demonstrate information competence and the ability to use computers and other technology for many purposes; communicate effectively in a variety of formats; recognize, understand, and respect the complexity of sociocultural diversity; develop insight into their own and others’ behavior and mental processes and apply effective strategies for self-management and self-improvement; demonstrate an understanding of mental health law, evidence-based practice, the distinction between forensic and clinical practice, the processes of the criminal and civil justice systems, and characteristics of various forensic populations; implement their forensic psychological knowledge, skills, and values in occupational settings that include courts, law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities and treatment programs or further their education in graduate school.

University Husson University, Forensic Science B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $31,434 per year
Program link

Providing science and criminal justice students the opportunity to qualify for entry-level forensic science positions within crime laboratories, police departments and medical-related fields. A student identifies key marks on a footprint.Forensic Science is the application of science to legal proceedings. A student pursuing this degree will study Chemistry, Biology, and Forensic Science as well as substantive, evidential and procedural law. Forensic science specialists examine and evaluate physical evidence, using chemical, microscopic, instrumental and physical methods of analysis. They may be required to work with blood and other biological fluids, hair, gunshot residue, drugs, fibers, paint and glass. Forensic science specialists also typically are responsible for preparing written reports on their findings, serving as expert witnesses in court hearings and conducting research regarding new technologies, equipment and techniques.

Jobs for forensic science technicians (those with a bachelor’s degree only) are expected to increase much faster than average. Employment opportunities for forensic scientists are expected to increase at an average rate. Job growth to some extent is directly related to crime rates and the number of civil action cases brought against companies accused of endangering personal or public health. The core modules are:

  • Criminal Profiling
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Forensic Science I and II
  • Forensic Seminar
  • Concepts and Issues in Forensic Science
  • Basic Law Enforcement Training

The goal of this degree will be to give science and criminal justice students a new educational avenue to pursue and the opportunity to qualify for entry level forensic science positions within crime laboratories, police departments and medical related fields. Husson University wants to respond to the current and future needs of the forensic science community for highly educated individuals to fill entry level forensic science positions. The field of forensic science is expected to expand in the near and distant future. The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) has made a commitment to improving forensic science in the U.S.A.

Master’s Degree Programs in Maine

There are currently no master’s programs offered in Maine.

Forensic Science Degrees in Louisiana

louisiana forensic science

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in Louisiana.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

The Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory, which is part of the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, was created in 1937 to provide forensic services to the State of Louisiana. The Crime Laboratory is responsible for assisting local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in the investigation of criminal activity through scientific analyses of physical evidence.

Forensic Science Requirements in Louisiana

As the largest laboratory of its kind in the state—the lab receives more than 18,000 requests for analyses each year—the Crime Laboratory is used by both law enforcement and judicial agencies, from New Orleans to Baton Rouge and Shreveport.

The Crime Laboratory is accredited by the American Society of Crime Lab Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board in the following forensic science disciplines:

  • Controlled substances
  • Trace evidence, including fire debris, impression evidence, and general physical analysis
  • Biology
  • Latent prints
  • Toxicology
  • Firearms
  • Toolmarks
  • Crime scene

The Crime Laboratory is organized into distinct units, including:

  • DNA Unit
  • Drug Analysis Unit
  • Evidence Receiving Unit
  • Photo Lab
  • Physical Evidence Unit
  • Toxicology Unit

Forensic Science Training in Louisiana

Prospective students who are seeking a good option for schooling in Louisiana will find that the forensic science field could lead to an exciting career. Today, there are more forensic science specialists working in the state than there were a couple of years ago, and there are several quality forensic science colleges in Louisiana that offer the courses and the training that people interested in the field will need to prepare for a career in the field of forensics. As well, students choosing to attending one of the forensics colleges in Louisiana could be eligible for student affiliate membership in the American Academy of Forensic Sciences(AAFS), which provides a plethora of resources and information germane to the forensic science field.

Forensic Science Salary in Louisiana

According to 2012 information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 110 forensic science technicians were employed in the state, and they earned mean annual wages of $45,520. The job opportunities for forensic science technicians available in Louisiana are expected to grow by 17 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to Career One Stop, which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. This job growth could provide opportunities to recent graduates of forensics colleges in Louisiana or even online programs. Many opportunities could be available in Louisiana’s largest cities, including Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Students wishing to pursue job opportunities outside of Louisiana will be reassured to know that job growth nationwide is expected to increase by 19 percent from 2010 to 2020 for forensic science technicians.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Louisiana

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Louisiana

University Loyola University, Forensic Chemistry B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $24,635 per year
Program link

The Bachelors of Science in Forensic Chemistry program at Loyola University seeks to provide students with an excellent education in chemistry with specialization in forensic science.

In 1999, our department began offering a degree track in forensic chemistry. Our program provides students with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry, focusing on forensic analytical techniques used in the field and in the laboratory. Graduates leave the program with both specialized chemical knowledge and substantial laboratory experience.

The degree track is designed to prepare students to step into a job in a forensic laboratory or to pursue an advanced degree in forensic chemistry. Recent graduates have worked in professional laboratories including the New Orleans Police Department Crime Lab and Quest Diagnostics, and have been accepted into graduate programs at universities including George Washington University and the University of New Haven. The core modules are:

  • General Chemistry I Lecture
  • Organic Chemistry I Lecture
  • Intro to Forensic Methods
  • Integrated Chemistry Lab
  • Techniques in Biochemistry
  • Forensic Instrumental Analysis
  • Forensics Seminar

Of the 31 CHFS graduates who have provided post-graduation information, 42% continue on to graduate school, usually in either forensic science or chemistry.  An additional 16% entered medical school after graduating from Loyola. The remaining graduates progress directly into employment in a laboratory setting; 50% of these students are currently working in forensic laboratories.

The curriculum includes the specialized science coursework required for forensic laboratory analysis, with coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, and statistics. Students may select from three different concentration options: Instrumental Analysis, Biochemistry and Genetics, or Human Mind and Behavior.

Incoming students should plan for a rigorous curriculum by reviewing the required degree plan. Students (especially transfer students) are urged to consult with the Program Director to discuss their area of interest and the appropriate curriculum.

Master’s Degree Programs in Louisiana

There are currently no master’s programs in Louisiana.

Forensic Degrees in Iowa

iowa forensic science

Forensic Science

Forensic science combines science and investigation in order to aid and support  the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. While the profession has been widely romanticized by various TV shows, make no mistake – this job is most likely different that you expect.  In contrast with popular perception, this is a highly scientific role, which often involves detailed, painstaking work. Field duties are limited to a few areas of expertise, and most often than not a forensic scientist will spend his time in the lab.

If you made it this far, though, congratulations! You’re taking the first steps in joining a very rewarding profession and itsGOV is here to guide you through what you need to know and what you need to do to join a forensic science program in Iowa.

Depending on the type of forensic science practiced, different degrees and educational backgrounds may help a candidate get a job and excel in this field. Regarding formal education, requirements vary across jobs, but you should definitely have a solid background in mathematics, biology and chemistry.

The National Institute of Justice, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, offers guidelines for model undergraduate and graduate forensic science degree programs. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, strong programs should offer a curriculum that concentrates on scientific writing, laboratory skills, public speaking, and computer software application training.

 

Forensic scientists in Iowa are responsible for applying scientific methods to the analysis of evidence collected from crime scenes and civil investigations and work on behalf of either the Criminalistics Laboratory or the State Medical Examiner.

The Division of Criminal Investigation, Criminalistics Laboratory, under the Iowa Department of Public Safety umbrella, is responsible for providing forensic science services to the local, state and federal agencies in Iowa. The Criminalistics Laboratory, which was created in 1969, consists of the following sections:

  • Drug Identification
  • Impression Evidence (footwear and tire tracks, latent prints)
  • Photography
  • Breath Alcohol
  • Arson
  • Crime Scene Processing
  • DNA
  • Questioned Documents
  • Toxicology
  • Evidence Processing
  • Firearms and Toolmarks
  • Trace Evidence

Forensic Science Requirements in Iowa

Education is the key to becoming proficient in a profession as demanding as forensic science. Des Moines is home to a number of colleges and universities which can help in preparation for a career in CSI, and others can be found online. Earning a bachelor’s degree is one of the best ways to enter the field of crime scene investigations or forensic lab science.

There are certain degree programs that are directly relevant to CSI work available in Des Moines. These degree programs tend to be science based and include:

  • Forensic Science
  • Criminal Justice
  • Criminology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Physics
  • Chemistry

Des Moines is somewhat unique in relation to other cities when it comes to crime scene investigation training. There are community colleges that offer courses in criminal investigation in conjunction with concentrations in law enforcement. Other CSI-specific courses include:

  • Crime Scene Investigation
  • Impressions and Bloodstains
  • Scientific Investigation

Forensic Science Training in Iowa

Iowa is home to a multitude of colleges and degree-granting schools that offer forensic science programs. In addition to undergraduate degrees in chemistry and biology, a number of institutions now offer programs in forensic science. These programs offer courses in not only biology, physics, and chemistry, but also in collection and processing of evidence, forensic practice and ethics, providing students with a strong foundation for a career as a forensic scientist.

In addition to a number of graduate programs in forensic science, such as a Master of Science in Forensic Science, many students pursue a graduate certificate upon completion of an undergraduate program.

A Forensic Science Graduate Certificate helps prepare Iowa’s students for careers in the forensic sciences and to serve the larger forensics community.

Forensic scientists in Iowa, who are often referred to as criminalists, are responsible for collecting and preserving evidence and conducting a wide array of complex forensic analyses and examinations. These forensic professionals also conduct forensic examinations and analyses using a variety of electronic and digital source media and write laboratory reports on analyses conducted on physical evidence.

Individuals who want to become a forensic scientist in Iowa must possess a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, forensic science, biology, physics, or a closely related physical or natural laboratory science.

Candidates for forensic scientist jobs may also qualify by substituting one year of education for experience, with crime laboratory experience in one or more of the following:

  • Latent print identification
  • Firearms identification
  • Document examination
  • Forensic toxicology
  • Crime scene investigation
  • Forensic training
  • Trace evidence

All candidates for forensic scientist jobs in Iowa must also pass a thorough background investigation conducted by the Division of Criminal Investigation.

Forensic Science Salary in Iowa

The average salary of a Forensic Science Technician is $63,240. Salaries start from $48,240 and go up to $83,590. Please note that the average salary for a Forensic Science Technician may vary depending on several factors, like level of education, amount of experience, industry, company size and location. Our source, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, produces some of the United States most sensitive and important economic information, which is based on their strongest commitment to accuracy, quality and integrity.The top 10% of Forensic Science Technicians in Des Moines, Iowa earn $83,590, the top 25% of Forensic Science Technicians in Des Moines, Iowa earn $79,310, the middle 50% of Forensic Science Technicians in Des Moines, Iowa earn $58,990, the bottom 25% of Forensic Science Technicians in Des Moines, Iowa earn 51,130, and the bottom 10% of Forensic Science Technicians in Des Moines, Iowa earn 48,240.

Forensic Science Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Iowa

University Graceland University, Pre-Forensic Studies B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $24,570 per year
Program link

Students interested in pursuing a M.S. or Ph.D. in forensic science or another related field should major in Biology or Chemistry. For the best preparation, we recommend a double major in both Biology and Chemistry. Students should review the admissions requirements for the graduate schools of their choice. The core modules are:

  • Internship in Biological Science
  • Human Anatomy
  • Human Physiology
  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular and Cellular Biology
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Instrumental Analysis
  • Introduction to Statistics
  • Calculus I

Graceland University educates students for advanced study, for productive careers and for rich lives. Its student body is a targeted, yet diverse group that includes persons of different ages, backgrounds and national origins who share a commitment to learning. Its curriculum, firmly rooted in the liberal arts tradition and enhanced by career-oriented practical experiences, affirms different styles of learning and prepares students to become competent professionals. Its highly qualified faculty excel in teaching and engage in scholarly, creative and professional activities. Together with the administration and staff, they care deeply about students.

Graceland offers a learning environment for the residential as well as the non-residential student that nurtures personal growth. Its challenging academic program stresses the joy of lifelong learning, the rigor of intellectual discipline and the relationship of both to a satisfying professional and personal life. Its size fosters genuine concern for the individual while providing fellowship and a sense of belonging. For the residential student, its rich co-curricular program of interest groups, athletics, student government, residential life and leisure activities provides opportunity to develop interpersonal skills, relationships, creativity and leadership.

University Simpson College, Forensic Science B.S.
Duration 24 months
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $32,550 per year
Program link

The biochemistry/forensic science major is intended to prepare students to obtain entry-level jobs in labs performing forensic analyses, go on to graduate work in forensic science, or to provide a good foundation for advanced degree work in areas such as chemistry, biochemistry, forensics, molecular or cell biology, or related technology fields.

In addition to a series of typical biology and chemistry courses, supporting work in math, physics and forensics/criminal justice is required. Transfer students are welcome and may be able to complete many of the required courses before entering this program. Students intending to seek entry level forensic positions after graduation are strongly encouraged to enroll in an internship. The core modules are:

  • General Chemistry I and II
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Principles of Biology
  • Molecular Genetics
  • Biostatistics
  • Instrumental Analysis
  • Cellular Biology
  • Criminal Justice Systems
  • Criminal Investigations and Law Enforcement
  • Criminology
  • Introduction to Forensic Science

The department allows students to fulfill the requirement of a capstone experience in a variety of ways. Students can combine a summer research experience (like an REU), an internship, a seminar Biol/Chem 370) or on campus research experience (Biol/Chem 398) with Chem 386 – Capstone Writing and Presentation to complete the capstone requirement. Students using a seminar as part of the capstone experience will need to complete a literature review of a topic explored in the seminar as a basis for their paper and presentation in Chem 386.

The Simpson College community is equally committed to: promoting integrative learning that enables students of all ages to develop intellectual and practical skills; nurturing values which foster personal worth and individuality within a creative, diverse and just community; graduating students who continue to grow as free, responsible and fulfilled individuals in the world of family, work, service and scholarship.

University Upper Iowa University, Forensic Science B.S.
Duration 4 years
Type Full time, Part time
Tuition and fees $26,084 per year
Program link

The forensic science major is a broad-based program with a strong science core which is excellent preparation for students seeking to continue their education at the graduate level. The major in forensic science can be individualized to prepare students for entrance into professional programs at schools of medicine or graduate programs in forensic science, biology, or chemistry. The core modules are:

  • Introduction to Forensic Science
  • Physical Methods
  • Forensic Professional Practice and Ethics
  • Evidence Collection, Identification and Processing
  • Forensic Chemistry
  • Forensic Biology
  • Precalculus
  • General Chemistry I and II
  • Organic Chemistry I and II
  • Introduction to Toxicology

Forensic science is the application of science to the law. Forensic scientists use scientific methodology to collect and analyze evidence. Forensic science is an applied discipline which requires an extensive background in the natural sciences, coupled with practical laboratory experience.

As a graduate, you will be prepared for careers with state, local, and federal crime laboratories as well as commercial laboratories that process forensic samples. You also will be ready for graduate study in forensic science, biology and chemistry.

 

Master’s Degree Programs in Iowa

There are currently no master’s programs in Iowa.