BS in Forensic Science Degree
BS in Forensic Science Degree
journey today.
With the rapid advances in biology and technology, advancements in solving crimes have reached an almost futuristic level1 and courts are allocating greater weight to forensic evidence.2 This has created faster-than-average job growth for personnel with specialized training in the field within state and local governments.3 If you aspire to help crime victims and their families achieve justice, the Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science at Grand Canyon University offers essential education in crime scene investigation and specialized areas like toxicology, pathology or DNA, helping you prepare for a career or further education in the field.
This bachelor’s in forensic science degree combines a foundation in biology and chemistry with specialized knowledge in forensic photography, analysis and processing. Experienced faculty will guide you through scientific principles for investigating and analyzing evidence. The program also covers legal procedures and criminal law, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the field.
As part of the forensic science program, you’ll dive into a variety of courses that teach the essential skills for forensic investigation including evidence-based practices. You will also have the opportunity to take specialized classes that explore the legal side of forensics, covering essential topics like courtroom procedures, evidence collection and presentation, helping you feel confident in practical situations.
These course topics are designed to equip you with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of forensic investigations and can help you prepare to pursue specialized roles in the field.
Topics covered in forensic science courses include:
Hands-on Education for Future Forensic Professionals
While pursuing your degree, you’ll have many hands-on learning opportunities, such as lab work and research projects, allowing you to apply classroom theories. These experiences will help you develop essential skills like analytical reasoning, attention to detail and communication, all vital in forensic science.4 You’ll also examine how to collect, analyze and interpret physical and biological evidence using innovative instruments and techniques, enhancing your practical skills in real scenarios.
Prepare for Your Career or Graduate School
As a forensic science student, you will receive extensive education in the collection and analysis of forensic evidence in both lab and field settings. You will also study crime scenes and gain skills in photographing, documenting, collecting and analyzing evidence to establish connections among the victim, suspect and scene. The BS in Forensic Science can provide preparation for graduate work in specialized areas of forensic science.
With a firm grasp of forensic science competencies, you may seek employment in various work settings, such as local or state government agencies, educational institutions, testing laboratories and medical and diagnostic labs.5
You can apply your knowledge to assist in the following:6
Crime scene investigators
Laboratory and DNA analysis
Firearms analysis
Toxicology
Drug analysis
Latent fingerprint development and analysis
Medicolegal death investigation
Autopsy analysis
Research projects
Legal proceedings
14%
Estimated job growth for forensic science technicians from 2023 to 20337
$64,940
Median annual wage for forensic science technicians as of May 20238
As an institutionally accredited university, GCU prioritizes the quality of our instruction and curriculum. The Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968. The College of Natural Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may have questions about our bachelor’s degree in forensic science and the career opportunities it offers. Check out the frequently asked questions to learn what to expect and see if this degree can be the right one for you.
A forensic scientist is typically a highly trained professional with education in forensic analysis, chemistry or biology, specializing in analyzing physical evidence to aid criminal investigations.9 Usually working in laboratories, forensic scientists examine evidence, conduct sophisticated tests, analyze the results and give testimony in court. Some forensic scientists may contribute to the body of knowledge in the field by making breakthroughs in forensic methodologies or technology.9
While they perform similar job duties, it’s important to note that the role of a forensic scientist is different than a forensic science technician. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in a field such as physical science, biology or forensic science.4 To become a forensic scientist, additional or advanced education may be required for certain positions in the field.9
There are many options available to individuals who have earned a bachelor’s in forensic science. It's important to evaluate your skills and interests and determine which path best aligns with your goals and aspirations. Some graduates go on to pursue a career as a life, physical or social science technician, while others may choose to advance their education with an:
Assist in Crime Scene Investigation
Transform your passion for science into a powerful force for justice.
- Forensics Colleges. (2024). Modern Forensic Science Technologies (2024). Retrieved Sept. 20, 2024.
- National Academy of Science. (n.d.). Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward. Retrieved Sept. 20, 2024.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). Forensic Science Technician: Job Outlook. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Oct. 15, 2024.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). How to Become a Forensic Science Technician. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 20, 2024.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). Forensic Science Technicians: Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 20, 2024.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). What Do Forensic Science Technicians Do. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 23, 2024.
- COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Forensic Science Technicians, retrieved on Sept. 23, 2024.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Forensic Science Technicians, as of May 2023, retrieved on Sept. 23, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as forensic science technicians, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
- CareerExplorer. (n.d.). Forensic Scientist vs Forensic Science Technician. Retrieved Sept. 20, 2024.