Online Bridge to Master’s in Forensic Science
Transition Into Forensic Science With an Online Pathway
The Bridge to the Master of Science in Forensic Science program at Grand Canyon University is designed for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in a different discipline but want to pursue graduate study in forensics. Through this online pathway, you’ll complete the essential undergraduate science coursework — from chemistry and biology to molecular processes and analytical reasoning — that can prepare you for admission into GCU’s Master of Science in Forensic Science.
This bridge to a master’s in forensic science pathway is intended to help you build confidence in core scientific thinking, including interpreting data, evidence processing and understanding how matter behaves at both the molecular and structural levels. It’s a seamless way to transition into a forensic graduate program without restarting your academic journey.
Online: $485 per credit [More Info]
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
- 16+ years old
- High School Graduate
- 3.0+ Unweighted GPA
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
- ACT: 19
- SAT: 1000*
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
Strengthen Your Skills in Evidence and Investigation at GCU
Students in this bridge pathway are taught by knowledgeable faculty who can help them explore key scientific principles through interactive online coursework and lab-based experiences. These learning activities mirror practical forensic applications, from interpreting reaction patterns to understanding how genetic information flows and changes within cells.
GCU’s learning environment emphasizes ethical practice, meticulous analysis and the responsibility required in criminalistics and trace evidence professions. This means you’re not just meeting prerequisites — you’re developing the scientific mindset vital for work in accredited forensic laboratories, investigative units and research settings.
GCU’s online learning management system provides our learners with an education without taking away from an already busy schedule. You’ll have access to coursework, discussions and resources anytime, allowing you to study with convenience. With intuitive navigation and built-in support, online learning can help you stay organized, connected and confident as you move toward your degree.
GCU is committed to affordable education, offering a variety of scholarships and grants to help reduce students’ out-of-pocket costs. From merit-based scholarships to need-based aid, GCU provides financial solutions that make quality, private Christian education more accessible.
This bridge pathway fulfills the undergraduate prerequisites necessary to apply for GCU’s master’s in forensic science degree. As you advance through essential chemistry, biology and analytical reasoning concepts, you are taught the competency expected for graduate-level study in disciplines such as toxicology, DNA analysis, trace evidence evaluation and analytical instrumentation.
What Subjects Are Required for the Forensic Science Pathway?
In this pathway, you can build a well-rounded scientific proficiency through coursework in quantitative reasoning, chemistry, biology and molecular science. By the end of the bridge program, you will have been taught the analytical and scientific skills needed to advance into the MS in Forensic Science program.
The coursework in this bridge program explores:
Hands-on scientific application
Conduct simulated or in-person lab experiences focused on classifying reactions, measuring thermodynamic changes, analyzing chemical systems, modeling kinetics and interpreting experimental data.
Quantitative and logical reasoning
Interpret functions, analyze probability and use mathematical models to solve real scientific problems.
Fundamental chemistry concepts
Examine atomic structure, chemical reactions, gas behavior and bonding, then progress to thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, kinetics, acids and bases, electrochemistry and nuclear processes.
Biological and cellular understanding
Cover cell function, membrane transport, energy generation and the transfer of genetic information from DNA to protein.
Organic chemistry principles
Examine molecular structure, reactivity, reaction predicting, functional group analysis and learning basic synthesis and purification techniques.
Advanced molecular and genetic concepts
Focus on gene regulation, protein expression, PCR analysis and DNA sequencing, supporting core forensic DNA processes.
Advance Your Education at an Accredited University
GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968, demonstrating our commitment to integrity, academic quality and continuous improvement. We take pride in providing programs that emphasize academic rigor and thoughtful curriculum design within a supportive learning environment
Frequently Asked Questions
These answers to frequently asked questions can help clarify how the bridge to a master’s in forensic science pathway supports your academic and professional goals.
How do bridge programs work?
How does an online forensic science bridge program help you transition into the field?
Do forensic scientists need a master's degree?
Is it worth it to complete an MS in forensic science bridge program?
Program Curriculum
Core Courses
Build the scientific foundation you need and take the next step toward your MS in Forensic Science at GCU.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). How To Become a Forensic Science Technician. Retrieved February 2026.
- Career Explorer. (2026). Education and Training Requirements for a Forensic Science Technician. Retrieved February 2026.
- 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 August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Forensic Science Technicians: Job Outlook, retrieved February 2026.