Online Master’s in Forensic Science Degree
Online Master’s in Forensic Science Degree
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GCU is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The College of Natural Sciences upholds this standard by offering programs grounded in academic quality, ethical principles, and a curriculum aligned with industry-relevant practices.
Deciding to pursue a master’s degree in forensic science online is the first step toward enhancing your knowledge and skills. To assist you in making this decision, we have addressed some frequently asked questions about the degree and field.
A master’s degree in forensic science can be a worthwhile investment, depending on your career goals and the job market in your area. The programs can provide a comprehensive education in the scientific principles and techniques used in forensic analysis, equipping students with a solid foundation for careers in the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians had a median annual wage of $67,440 in May 2024.4
The difficulty level of an online forensic science master’s program can vary depending on several factors, including your prior educational background, level of dedication and study habits. However, the curriculum and advanced topics taught in a master’s in forensic science online degree program is considered to be challenging overall due to the nature of crime scene investigations, laboratory analysis and forensic techniques. You will need to have a strong foundation in natural sciences, such as biology and chemistry, to prepare for the academic rigor of the program.
Earning a master’s degree in forensic science can prepare graduates for roles in the criminal justice system, private sector and government agencies.2 Specialties may include forensic chemistry, toxicology, fingerprint analysis, firearms analysis and human identification. Graduates may pursue careers as forensic science technicians, chemists, toxicologists, firearms experts or DNA analysts, often working in crime labs, at crime scenes or as expert witnesses in court. These roles involve investigative work, evidence preservation and contributing to legal processes through precise analysis and reporting.5
The need for forensic science professionals is expected to continue to grow in the coming years due to advancements in technology and an increasing focus on forensic evidence in the legal system. In fact, the BLS estimates job growth for forensic science technicians to increase by about 14% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average, accounting for an estimated increase of 2,500 jobs in the field.3
The master’s degree in forensic science from Grand Canyon University caters to individuals who want to deepen their understanding of forensic science, including crime scene processing and laboratory techniques used in forensic and medicolegal fields.
During the forensic science master’s program, you will have the opportunity to enhance your understanding of investigative techniques and develop practical skills for analyzing physical, biological and chemical evidence. Through a combination of online coursework and lab-based education, you will explore topics such as forensic biology, forensic chemistry and evidence preservation, which can prepare you for careers in forensic and criminal justice environments.
Students in the MS in Forensic Science program will study an array of forensic science competencies, including:
Microscopic analysis of hairs, fibers and cells
Integrity and ethical principles in forensic science
Effective courtroom testimony
Laboratory quality management
Chain of custody and authoring forensic reports
Applied forensic statistical analysis
Forensic toxicology
Impression evidence comparison
Serology, DNA and controlled substance analysis
Instrumental analysis including microscopy and spectroscopy
While a bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum requirement for roles in forensic science, earning a master’s degree in forensic science can equip individuals with the expertise that may be needed for specialized roles in the field.1 Career opportunities vary based on location, industry demand and qualifications. Additionally, some positions may require additional undergraduate coursework to fulfill specific lab or accreditation standards.
Graduates may explore various career paths in settings such as:2
Estimated job growth for forensic science technicians expected from 2023 to 20333
Earn your MS in Forensic Science online to strengthen your qualifications and build valuable skills to contribute to the forensic science field.
The online MS in Forensic Science allows students to work toward their career goals through curriculum that focuses on both practical skills and ethical forensic education. The program explores advanced topics in criminalistics, forensic ethics and courtroom evidence while also examining complex legal procedures from a Christian worldview.
Earning your master’s in forensic science online offers you the convenience and flexibility to complete your coursework while balancing personal and professional commitments.
To be admitted to GCU’s forensic science master’s program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field, or a bachelor's degree in any field, along with completed coursework in chemistry, organic chemistry and advanced biology. For more information about program admission, please fill out the form on this page to connect with a university counselor.
Online: $600 per credit [More Info]
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
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.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
