Do the thoughts of fingerprint, DNA, and bloodstain pattern analysis interest you? Are you passionate about science and don’t mind possible gory details? Then the field of forensic science might be right for you! Forensic science is a critical element of the criminal justice system. And you could be the next “detective with a microscope,” examining and analyzing evidence from crime scenes and elsewhere to develop findings and expert opinions that can assist in the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of crime or relieve an innocent person from suspicion. Are you interested in earning a forensic science degree in the USA? Read on to learn how you can!

What Forensic Science Classes Do I Need to Take?

The courses you take as a forensic science student will teach you analytical skills, how to look at the evidence, create conclusions, and ethics. Within your first two years of pursuing a forensic science degree, your classes will incorporate physical science and law in the context of forensic investigations through a scientific curriculum and plenty of hands-on experience. From there, your classes will provide education in the technical aspects of forensic science, biological sciences, physics, and chemistry to build a foundation in the scientific and social environment of crime and the criminal justice system. Some classes you may be enrolling in as forensic science student:

• Clinical Microbiology
• Anatomy
• Crime Scene Investigation
• Crime Scene Photography
• Bloodstain Evidence
• Criminal Investigation
• Introduction to Criminal Justice Administration
• Criminal Procedures
• Forensic Pathology
• Logic and Critical Thinking

What Are the Different Concentrations for a Forensic Science Degree?

Forensic science is a broad field, so many programs offer concentrations for you to choose from as a forensic science student in the U.S. Some future employers may require you to hold a forensic science degree with a specific concentration. Potential concentrations that may be available for you to select include:

• Forensic psychology
• Investigative forensics
• Forensic anthropology
• Forensic toxicology
• Digital forensics

What U.S. College or University Should I Attend to Earn My Forensic Science Degree?

With more than 4,700 degree-granting institutions in the United States, there is sure to be at least one that is perfect for you! It is important that the program seeks to employ forensic science professionals to ensure you are getting the most up-to-date curriculum possible and allow you to connect with resourceful figures in the forensic science community. If you’re interested in a forensic science program that ensures the highest standard of excellence, check if the program has accreditation through organizations like the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission.

It would be best to consider choosing a school located in the kind of place you want to study and that will give you the maximum exposure to the field. The location of the college or university that you choose can impact the internships, work experience, and job placement opportunities available to you during your enrollment and post-graduation.