Online Master’s in Forensic Science Degree

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Degree Level

Master's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Science

Program

MS in Forensic Science

Current Education Level

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Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

No military affiliation

Country

United States

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Overview

Strengthen Your Skills in Crime Scene Analysis

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.

Master of Science in Forensic Science

Offered By

College of Natural Sciences

Class Settings

Online

Tuition Rate

Online: $600 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 36

Online: 8 weeks

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Transfer Credits

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

Admission Requirements (Master's)

Undergraduate Degree*
2.8+ GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

GMAT: 500
GRE: 300 combined**

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).

Why GCU

Develop Forensic Expertise With Practical Education

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.

Earn Your MS in Forensic Science Online

Earning your master’s in forensic science online offers you the convenience and flexibility to complete your coursework while balancing personal and professional commitments.

Online Learning

Program Requirements

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.

Graduate Admission

Coursework

Grow Your Skill Set With a Master’s in Forensic Science Degree

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

Careers

Career Opportunities for Graduates With an MS in Forensic Science

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.^{(See disclaimer 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:^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Government crime labs
Private forensic analysis firms
Law enforcement agencies

14%

Estimated job growth for forensic science technicians expected from 2023 to 2033^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Accreditation

Earn Your Master’s Degree From an Accredited University

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.

FAQ

Online Master’s in Forensic Science FAQs

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.

Is a master’s in forensic science worth it?

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.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Is a master’s in forensic science hard?

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.

What jobs can you get with a MS in Forensic Science degree?

Earning a master’s degree in forensic science can prepare graduates for roles in the criminal justice system, private sector and government agencies.^{(See disclaimer 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.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

Is it hard to find a job after graduating with an MS in Forensic Science?

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.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

Major36 credits

Degree Requirements36 credits

Core Courses

UNV-507

2 Total Credits

FOR-505

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course will cover the Code of Ethics statements published by major forensic science organizations. The role quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) principles play in maintaining high ethical principles is discussed. Issues involving failure to maintain QA/QC and resulting ethical dilemmas will also be addressed. Accreditation and its place within the crime laboratory is included to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of the importance of maintaining quality within the laboratory.

FOR-515

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to the various procedures used to document, collect, package, and preserve evidence found at crime scenes. The body as it pertains to medicolegal death investigation with an examination of the guidelines for death scene investigations is also discussed. Concepts such as maintaining chain of custody, ethical considerations, and report writing are also covered. Prerequisite: FOR-505.

FOR-525

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the use of statistics within various forensic disciplines. Analytical sampling, basic statistical analyses, and uncertainty measurements are covered with respect to comparative disciplines. Statistics as applied to the analysis of DNA evidence, including probability of inclusion, likelihood ratio, and random match probability are also covered. The impact of statistics on the valuation of evidence is included.

FOR-530

4 Total Credits

FOR-540

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course serological testing of blood, semen, and saliva is introduced through a discussion of various presumptive and confirmatory chemical tests. DNA profiling of various samples types is covered, with a focus on the processes used to obtain a DNA profile: extraction, quantification, amplification, and electrophoresis. The comparison of DNA profiles, report writing, and DNA mixture interpretation are also discussed. Prerequisites: One of the following combinations: FOR-515, FOR-525, and FOR-530, or CHM-360, CHM-360L, and BIO-457.

FOR-560

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course students will learn various laboratory methods and procedures for the detection of drugs/controlled substances from both physical specimens and bodily fluids (blood and urine). Instrumental and chemical techniques used to separate, detect and quantitate controlled substances are discussed. The creation and detection of designer drugs is also covered. Prerequisites: FOR-515 and FOR-530, or CHM-231 and CHM-231L.

FOR-575

4 Total Credits

FOR-600

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on the ways in which science is used by the criminal justice system and how to effectively present evidence in court. The impact of landmark court cases, including the Daubert and Frye decisions, are addressed in relation to expert witness testimony and the admissibility of scientific evidence. The role of the forensic scientist in relation to the Federal Rules of Evidence is also addressed. Students also learn how to be an effective expert witness, including how to prepare for testimony, how to properly convey scientific technology in layman’s terms, and how to be perceived as a credible witness. Prerequisite: FOR-530, FOR-540, FOR-560, FOR-575.

FOR-620

2 Total Credits

Course Description

This course discusses various topics that students are likely to encounter as working forensic scientists. The ways in which the public views forensic science is addressed, with a focus on the CSI Effect and the publication of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Report and the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) Report. Ways in which to address conflicting results from multiple experts is discussed. Prerequisite: FOR-530, FOR-540, FOR-560, FOR-575.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Take Your Next Step in Forensic Science

Earn your MS in Forensic Science online to strengthen your qualifications and build valuable skills to contribute to the forensic science field.

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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022, Sept. 8). How To Become a Forensic Science Technician. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 2, 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024, May 14). Forensic Science Technician Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 2, 2025.
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 Technician, retrieved July 2, 2025.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Forensic Science Technicians as of May 2024, retrieved July 11, 2025. 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 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.
Level Up Degree. (2024, May 8). Is a Master's in Forensic Science Worth It? Retrieved July 30, 2025.