Online Masters of Forensic Science Degree Programs

Career options with an online masters of forensic science degree including working in criminal justice positions in state and federal agencies and police departments at local levels including other areas.

To be successful in this line of work, specific personal qualities and skills are essential. Much of the work is routine, detailed, painstaking, and monotonous. Therefore, the ability to concentrate for long periods of time is necessary, as is patience. The work is highly analytical so attention to detail is vital. Because it may be necessary to appear in court, Forensic scientists and forensic science specialists must have the ability to remain methodical, logical, and unbiased in their approach to crime-solving. Being able to work effectively in a team and as an individual is another necessary attribute. An outgoing personality and good communication skills are required as the work entails giving verbal reports and presentations. The degree leads to careers in areas like criminology, forensic investigations, crime scene investigations, and other areas related to solving of crimes.

Online Forensics Degree Programs

Walden University

• M.S. in Forensic Psychology
• M.S. in Forensic Psychology - Forensic Psychology in the Community
• M.S. in Forensic Psychology - Mental Health Applications
• M.S. in Forensic Psychology - Program Planning & Evaluation in Forensic Settings
• M.S. in Forensic Psychology - Psychology & Legal Systems

University of Liverpool

• MSc in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Investigation

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

• Certificate in Applied Forensic Psychology
• MA in Applied Forensic Psychology Services

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Forensic Science Education and Training

Once a student has obtained a Bachelors degree in a related subject, he or she can study for a Masters of Forensic Science degree. There are numerous Masters (MA) programs available in the United States. Some colleges and universities offer specialties in forensic chemistry, anthropology, or biology.

FS professionals use physics, biology, and chemistry to analyze evidence to solve crimes. Therefore, those who work in this field must have an excellent knowledge of the sciences, analytics, and mathematics. A Bachelors degree must be earned before a student can enroll in an accredited study program. Those who go on to achieve MA degrees will earn higher salaries and be capable of taking on top-level positions.

The Bachelors degree may include subjects such as natural sciences, math, biology, and chemistry. The coursework for a masters of forensic science degree is built on the foundation of these subjects. It also includes theoretic and practical skills in criminal justice, analytics, and communication. Concentrations might include:

• Forensic Toxicology
• Drug Chemistry
• Forensic DNA and Serology
• Environmental Forensics

While training, students in masters of forensic science degree programs work with computer software, tools, and instruments commonly used in their area of specialty. Some of these are microscopes, crimescopes, refractometers, and spectrometers. In addition to chemistry, biology, and anthropology, other specialty fields in forensic science are toxicology, criminalistics, pathology, and engineering science. Particular forensic science courses may include:

• Forensic Genetics
• Pharmaceutical Analysis
• Forensic Toxicology
• Applied Statistics and Data Analysis
• Biological Evidence and Serology

Forensic Science Careers

Employment opportunities in this sector have grown rapidly in recent years. This is largely due to technology advances and the increased use of Forensic Science (FS) for solving minor crimes. The work involves analyzing samples of collected evidence.

These could be anything from hair and body fluids to drugs, glass, or paint. Techniques utilized are DNA profiling, chromatography, and mass spectrometry. Senior forensic science professionals with several years experience are often called to give evidence in court.

Self-confidence is an important component for anyone with a Masters of Forensic Science degree. This is especially essential in a court room environment while being cross-examined by prosecutors and defense lawyers.

The ability to explain evidence in a simple, uncomplicated way is vital because most jury members have no scientific knowledge. A strong stomach and a cool head are also needed because some crime scenes are upsetting and gruesome.

Estimated Income and Projected Career Growth

Those with a masters of forensic science degree can pursue other positions like senior forensic scientist or lab director. These jobs offer higher salaries than entry-level posts. For instance, a senior forensic scientist who works for the federal government earns between $71,000 and $95,000 annually.

Other job titles for MA graduates are forensic science profiler, forensic science engineer, medical examiner, and crime lab analyst. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the employment for forensic science technicians is expected to increase by 20% between 2008 and 2018.