Online Forensic Science Programs

Sample Online Associates in Forensic Science Courses

If you plan to enroll in an online Associate Degree program in Forensic Science, you may find that the classes vary depending on the university. Our researchers have found some common courses amongst the different programs available online, which you can view below.

• Criminalistics – Physical and Biological Evidence
• Forensic Anthropology
• Criminal Investigation
• Criminal Law
• Administration of Justice

Sample Online Bachelors in Forensic Science Courses

The online Bachelors in Forensic Science involves many of the diverse principles that come into play during criminal investigations. There are many platforms that are favorable for crime, so it is important for students to have a long reach when it comes to forensic knowledge. Some of the courses are outlined below to give you a better idea of what to expect in these programs.

• Criminal Procedure & Evidence
• Cyber Crimes and Security
• Medical and Legal Death Investigations
• Fingerprint Analysis
• Firearms Analysis

Sample Online Masters in Forensic Science Courses

Depending on your specialization, you could be introduced to varying topics in forensic science. Some of the common core elements of this online degree programs are listed below for you to review.

• Forensic Toxicology
• Applied Statistics for Data Analysis
• Forensic Analysis of DNA
• Biological Evidence and Serology
• Metabolic Biochemistry

Forensic Anthropology

Anthropology as a whole encompasses the various human elements of civilization including cultural diversity and physiological characteristics. In forensics, these professionals are especially helpful in cases that involve human remains and the investigation of crime scenes. Forensic anthropologists can play a large role in the analysis of skeletal remains, potential trauma, and biological profiles of individuals being studied. This is a great career path for students that exhibit an interest in physiological sciences and criminal investigations.

Forensic Chemistry

In the event that a crime has taken place, many different hands are needed to properly identify mysterious substances or materials that could have been used during the criminal act. Using the extensive knowledge of chemistry and chemical reactions, forensic chemists provide expert advice about unknown substances found at a crime scene. Items or substances that seem irrelevant at first glance could prove to be a case-breaking element during an investigation. It is imperative that forensic chemistry professionals work alongside crime scene investigators in order to assist with piecing together the various pieces of a disorderly crime scene.

Forensic Nursing

When someone is hurt during the commission of a crime, the first person they are likely to come in contact with is a nursing professional. Forensic nurses are trained to properly assess victims to provide supporting evidence should a criminal case be apparent. Through diagnostic tests and observations, forensic nurses gather what evidence they can from the victim in an effort to provide information about how the injury occurred, which can be an important part of a criminal court hearing. Professionals in this field may also be called before the court to testify about their findings during medical examinations.

Computer Forensics

The rise in cyber crimes has opened doors to even more fields in forensic science. Computer forensic specialists work to investigate computer systems that are used during a crime, or provide evidence regarding criminal activities. Individuals that have experience working with computers or that have an interest in both computer and forensic science are a great fit for this specialization. Investigating web-searches, emails, internet activity, or business activity are a few of the responsibilities of those that choose this path.

DNA Analyst

For a long time, law enforcement was forced to investigate criminal cases without the knowledge of DNA fingerprints. Since the DNA information system has been implemented, DNA analysts are needed to test DNA that is found during the course of a criminal investigation. These methods are used in an effort to identify criminals based on previous criminal records, identify victims without a known identity, and identify fluids found in crime scenes to provide a better outlook for potential conclusions.

Medical Examiner

Medical examiners are forensic pathologists that have received licensure as physicians. These professionals conduct full internal examinations of the deceased to find a potential cause of death. Medical examiners perform autopsies that look closely at each bodily organ, the tissues of the body, and the weigh and amount of fluids to help determine how the patient died. This information plays a large role during criminal investigations.

The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)

The AAFS is the largest professional organization for forensic science professionals. If you are working in forensic science, organizations such as this one are a great way to network with other professionals in the field and have access to important publications and relevant information in forensic science. Only FEPAC accredited universities can advertise through this agency and receive support through the AAFS website, use of AAFS mailing labels, and exhibits at events.

The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC)

The FEPAC is the largest accreditation agency for forensic science programs across the country. The primary purpose of organizations such as this one is to review and accredit degree programs in forensic science. If you choose an online forensic science degree program that has been accredited by this agency, you can rest assured that you are receiving a high-quality education that will be deemed acceptable by higher-education authorities as well as other professional organizations within the forensic science field.