Top 10+ Most Prestigious Schools for Forensics and Crime Solving Careers in US Today

The concept of equating forensics as dissecting and working with corpses makes these professional training courses always absent from the past. However, forensic examination of the dead is only a small area of forensic science. The object of forensic science is quite wide, including age assessment, gender assessment, DNA assessment, etc. Forensic profession requires the use of all specialized knowledge and skills and the application of other specialties including mathematics. , physics, chemistry, botany, entomology... With the current crime situation, the forensic industry is thirsty for human resources, students in this field do not worry about finding a job.

But where in the US is the best place to study forensic science? After much investigation, we have come up with a list of the best places for you.

What is forensic science?

The use of forensic science is heavily stressed in the criminal justice system. It is a field of study that can be pursued at the undergraduate level at a wide range of colleges and universities, and it is also a stimulating and rewarding major.

Instead of being a single discipline, forensic science is an interdisciplinary combination of disciplines like biology, chemistry, law, and computer science. Forensic science technicians are crucial to the functioning of the legal system and law enforcement organizations.

One of the most well-liked and sought-after career paths in the US's criminal justice system today is forensic science. Everything from chemistry and biology to forensic psychology and digital forensics is included in this field.

Best Schools for Forensics and Crime Solving Careers in US

1. West Virginia University (WVU)

West Virginia University

Link: https://forensics.wvu.edu/

The FBI ranks WVU as a national leader in biometrics research, home to the nation's largest scientific research center and one of the first universities to award forensic science degrees.

Studying at WVU, students have the opportunity to practice - accumulate professional experience for at least 270 hours, lasting about 8 weeks, 35 hours/week. The internship will be equivalent to 6 credits at WVU.

The Department of Criminology - West Virginia University has the nation's largest criminology training complex consisting of four main academic buildings, a ballistics testing center, and special outdoor areas around the buildings. home…

The school's forensic and investigative science club attracts faculty from a variety of subject areas. The unit regularly organizes educational conferences and field trips throughout the school year. Their previous destinations include the FBI's CJIS Headquarters in Clarksburg, the FBI's Laboratory at Quantico, the West Virginia State Police Crime Laboratory, the Office of the Medical Examiner, and the Forensic Laboratories. and Police Station.

2. Ohio University

Link: https://www.ohio.edu/cas/chemistry/undergraduate/forensic-chemistry

Ohio University has a Forensic Science major that prepares students for careers in law enforcement and crime laboratories. Students who are interested will take courses in forensic toxicology, microscopy, and forensic biology. The bachelor's degree program aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of biochemistry and chemistry while also introducing practical applications.

The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) has accredited this program, making it an excellent choice for future forensic pathologists and crime lab analysts.

3. Texas A&M University

Link: https://entomology.tamu.edu/b-s-forensic-investigative-sciences/

The BS in Forensic and Investigative Sciences degree program at Texas A&M University has two emphases: Pre-Law and Science. The forensic science bachelor's degree program at Texas A&M University is the only one in the state of Texas that is accredited by (FEPAC). The BS program at A&M is one of the best forensic science bachelor's degree programs for those looking for a job in the courtroom or criminal justice field that requires the ability to collect, preserve, and analyze evidence. Upon acceptance, A&M allows up to 65 credits to be transferred.

4. The Saint Louis University

Link: https://www.slu.edu/about/index.php

Saint Louis University's forensic science major employs the methodologies, instruments, and points of view of the fields of biology, chemistry, anthropology, sociology, physics, mathematics, and medicine to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the intersection of law and science.

Students will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of scientific technique as it relates to a wide range of businesses.

Students can participate in fieldwork internships and/or independent research at various locations thanks to the department's contacts with forensic science laboratories in the St. Louis metropolitan area, where they can also do independent research.

5. George Mason University

George Mason University

Link: https://catalog.gmu.edu/colleges-schools/science/forensic-program/

This university, located in Fairfax, Virginia, provides its students with solid foundational and theoretical approaches to forensic sciences. A team of knowledgeable faculty members with operational and practical backgrounds in the field teach students.

In addition, the school offers two graduate program pathways to meet the needs of all students: a Master's degree and a graduate certificate. Forensic Photography and Forensic Drone Photography are two standout courses, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded and hands-on learning experience.

The school has a 91% acceptance rate, with an average SAT score of 1140-1350. In-state tuition is approximately $13,400.

6. Pennsylvania State University

Link: https://www.psu.edu/

Penn State's forensic science program is an inter-college collaboration of various academic units that provides a foundation in biological, physical, and mathematical sciences, as well as criminalistics, forensic chemistry, forensic biology, crime scene investigation, and social sciences. Students can choose between two degree emphases: Biology and Chemistry. They can use a cutting-edge crime laboratory and crime scene training facilities.

7. Mercyhurst University

Link: https://www.mercyhurst.edu/academics/applied-forensic-sciences

The Department of Sciences at Mercyhurst University offers a multidisciplinary undergraduate major in applied forensic sciences that is dedicated to educating students in science, forensic science, society, and the law. The program begins by providing students with a solid foundation in the natural sciences, from which they will learn to identify, collect, analyze, and interpret forensic evidence.

Mercyhurst students hone their skills in the school's cutting-edge facilities, including the Ted A. Rathbun Osteology Laboratory.

8. California State University, Los Angeles

Link: https://www.calstatela.edu/nss/psychology/master-science-forensic-psychology

California State University, Los Angeles' Master of Science in Forensic Psychology is for students who are interested in the intersection between psychology and the criminal justice system.

Instructor mentors guide each student through the program. Required courses include Courtroom and Legal Affairs in Criminology, Psychology and Law, and a seminar on Abnormal Psychology. Students must also take a quantitative course related to statistics or research methods.

Elective offerings include seminars in Developmental Psychology, Intercultural and Intercultural Psychology, and Social Psychology. The degree's 33 to 34 subject units constitute a nine-month practical experience in a forensic environment. such as a family service counseling center, a sex abuse crisis center, or a prison. Each student culminates in the program with a master's thesis.

9. University of North Texas

Link: https://www.unt.edu/academics/programs/forensic-science-certificate-1

Are you into crime scene investigations? Through the forensic science certificate program at the University of North Texas, cultivate your interest in forensic analysis. Top-notch graduates in forensic chemistry, forensic and investigative science, and drug analysis are to be produced by the program.

Aside from taking different courses in forensic science, you’ll also be able to participate in an internship, where you’ll get a chance to work in crime laboratories and get hands-on experience analyzing evidence. Utilize cutting-edge machinery and follow the advice of industry experts when analyzing trace evidence.

10. Towson University

Towson University

Link: https://catalog.towson.edu/undergraduate/fisher-science-mathematics/chemistry/forensic-science/

Towson University’s BS in Forensic Chemistry comes from the Fisher College of Science and Mathematics. The General Track, the DNA Track, and the Drug Analysis/Trace Evidence Track are the three distinct concentrations offered in TU's forensic science bachelor degree programs. To graduate from each forensic evidence chemistry track, you need 120 credits. One of the 38 forensic science programs that have received FEPAC accreditation is at Towson University.

Towson University’s BS in Forensic Chemistry comes from the Fisher College of Science and Mathematics. The General Track, the DNA Track, and the Drug Analysis/Trace Evidence Track are the three distinct concentrations offered in TU's forensic science bachelor degree programs. To graduate from each forensic evidence chemistry track, you need 120 credits. One of the 38 forensic science programs that have received FEPAC accreditation is at Towson University.

11. Hofstra University

Link: https://www.hofstra.edu/undergraduate/forensic-science.html

The Forensic Sciences program at Hofstra offers its undergraduate students a variety of opportunities. Students will graduate with valuable experience and connections to the industry thanks to the cutting-edge labs, opportunities for research and publishing, and student organizations.

The university's outstanding Dr. Bruce and Doris Lister Endowed Fellowship provides recipients with a $4,000 stipend and additional funding to assist with living expenses.

It's also not a problem if students want to start working right after finishing their undergraduate studies! Hospitals, research facilities, universities, and other public and private organizations employ Hofstra alums.

12. University of Nebraska, Lincoln

Link: https://forensic.unl.edu/forensic-biology

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's program in forensic science, which is a part of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, offers three distinct paths.

Forensic serology (body fluid identification) and DNA analysis methods are the main areas of focus for those who select the forensic biology option. The curriculum includes instruction in molecular biology, forensic biology, genetics, human remains, and immunology, all of which are conducted in accordance with the procedures used in active U.S. crime laboratories.

The Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) option teaches students how to gather, preserve, and interpret physical evidence and is more than just the moniker of a popular television program. Students who choose the CSI career path take courses in forensic photography, comparative analysis techniques, palynology, entomology, physical anthropology, chemistry, and biology. These courses follow standard crime scene investigation and evidence analysis procedures.

Conclusion

The job of a forensic scientist is similar to that of a detective. Aside from the hours worked and dedication you put into becoming a forensic scientist, the choice of school is also an essential factor to consider.

To date, no university has offered forensics as an in-person undergraduate course. Therefore, you need to review the school's programs before applying. The best forensic schools to consider are those that offer both master's and doctoral programs.

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