Online Forensic Sciences Degrees
Basic Degree Info
Forensic science refers to the general study of the application of science to solve problems within the criminal justice field. While popular television may have exaggerated the tools at the disposal of the forensic scientist, forensics still plays a very important role in
the criminal justice system and allows for more accurate and reliable information than simply an eye witness. If you are looking for a fast paced, science based career
in criminal justice then forensics is for you. Exciting developments are made all the time in the field and as
a result, continued growth is possible. As technology advances are made, this field will only become more important.
Courses & Degree Levels
Welcome to the field that popularized the study of DNA for most non-scientists. Courses in forensics will include a basic study of biology, chemistry and physics in order to create a foundation for more advanced studies in computers, microbiology and high level chemistry. Courses in genetic engineering, forensic microscopy and criminal evidence are also popular. Depending on the specialty that the program focuses upon, there may also be classes offered in psychology and accounting. These are disciplines which may be utilized for specific jobs after graduation. No matter the course, an emphasis will be placed on strong analysis and the use of statistics. Both masters and Ph.D graduate level programs are also available for forensic science.
Job Outlook
Job opportunities for forensic scientists are quite varied. If you are interested in health and medicine, you can become a medical examiner with a forensics degree. If the criminal justice system is more your thing, forensics is the prerequisite for jobs as crime scene investigators, forensic toxicologists, forensic accountants who investigate fraud and embezzlement, forensic psychologists who profile offenders at-large to help police during an investigation and computer forensic specialists who find and preserve digital criminal evidence. The average annual salary for forensic scientists in 2007 was about $47,000.
