Forensic Science ,BS
Biology, Crime Lab, Crime Scene Investigator, DNA, Forensic Science, Forensic Scientist, Forensics, Science, approved for STEM-OPT extension, chemistry, crime analysis, law, prelaw, premed, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
Delve into a world where science meets the justice system, and gain practical experience in solving actual cases while learning scientific techniques for collecting and analyzing crime scene evidence.
Forensic science is the study and application of scientific methods to matters of law.
The Bachelor of Science program in forensic science is built on a solid foundation in biology and chemistry and is designed to develop students' basic and upper-level laboratory skills. Students complete holistic, rigorous coursework in the natural and mathematical sciences to prepare to enter a competitive workforce. The interdisciplinary nature of the program is distinctly designed to train students in forensic techniques as varied as crime scene collection, evidence analysis and mock courtroom testimony.
Along with completing coursework and gaining the necessary scientific skills to succeed in this field, students have the opportunity to gain practical experience in a laboratory setting through involvement in research or an internship. Students can conduct research under experts of varying forensic fields, including biology, entomology and anthropology. Students also may apply for and participate in forensic science internships sponsored by crime labs around the country. Internships are highly competitive.
Job applicants and students who are seeking a volunteer or internship position within a crime lab are required to undergo an extensive background check that includes a polygraph exam, fingerprinting and drug testing. Applicants can be disqualified for recent or past illicit drug use (including marijuana), felony convictions, drunk driving convictions or other reasons.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- Location:
West Valley
or
Online
,
ASU Local
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
- First
required math course:
MAT 210 - Brief Calculus
or MAT 251 Calculus for Life Sciences - Math
intensity: Moderate
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.
It is now possible to earn an ASU degree with ASU Local, an integrated college experience in which students take advantage of in-person success coaching and programming experiences on site while completing one of 130+ undergraduate online degree programs, all of which come with online faculty interaction and tutoring support.
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.
Studying abroad enables students in the forensic science program to learn about science and law enforcement in other countries.
With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, students are able to tailor their experience to their unique interests and skill sets. Students in these programs build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network. Participation in a study abroad program provides students with the heightened cultural competency, and leadership and critical thinking skills that enhance their resumes and help them stand out in a competitive career field. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students in the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences can explore how their varied fields and interests interact in different settings around the world.
Scientific and technological advances in the field of forensic science and continually increasing caseloads in law enforcement are projected to increase the number of forensic science technicians needed over the next decade. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that between 2023 and 2033, employment of forensic science technicians will increase 14% --- an average increase much greater than for most occupations.
Graduates of the forensic science program are prepared to work in crime labs and private forensic science labs at the local, state and federal levels. Graduates also are prepared for graduate programs in forensic science, law school, medical school and related fields.
Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
| Career | *Growth | *Median salary |
|---|---|---|
|
3.9%
|
$87,300
|
|
|
4.7%
|
$49,650
|
|
|
3.2%
|
$50,840
|
|
|
6.2%
|
$80,670
|
|
|
4.8%
|
$144,440
|
|
|
12.6%
|
$63,740
|
|
|
4.8%
|
$144,440
|
|
|
5.2%
|
$83,930
|
|
|
9.8%
|
$99,930
|
|
|
4.6%
|
Not available
|
School of Interdisciplinary Forensics
|
FAB N101
sifadvising@asu.edu
602-543-3000
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
