Online PhD in Forensic Science Programs

This article provides a brief overview to campus and online PhD in Forensic Science degree programs.

One of the most common ways of pursuing a forensic science PhD is to enroll in doctorate programs in chemistry or biochemistry. The entry requirement for the program also differs from one institution to another. However it is important for potential students to have successfully completed a bachelors or masters degree in a science related program. One should also possess good communication skills in writing and speaking. The curriculum one chooses should have a strong emphasis on forensic pathology or science for one to benefit from their studies. A doctoral program in this field is heavy on research and students should expect to do a lot of reading and writing. The forensic science curriculum is designed to allow students to gain the necessary skills, practice and knowledge in collecting and analyzing evidence from a crime scene.

Selected Online PhD in Criminal Justice Programs

Capella University - Online

• PhD in Criminal Justice
• PhD in Public Safety Leadership

Walden University

• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision - Forensic Mental Health
• Ph.D. in Public Policy & Admin. - Criminal Justice

Colorado Technical University Online

• Doctor of Management in Homeland Security

University of the Rockies

• Doctor of Psychology in Criminology & Justice Studies

Northcentral University

• Doctor of Business Administration - Criminal Justice
• Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration - Criminal Justice

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Forensic Science Education and Training

The forensic science courses involved make it possible for one to evaluate the evidence to help them to understand the cause of physical injuries or cause of death in a given situation. One is also sure to learn how to handle, preserve and store evidence so that it is not contaminated.

Another aspect of the program is that it allows students to get thorough training in science and law. A program can take up to five to six years. The length of the study period may differ from one individual to another as it might be determined by the type of research topic one chooses to focus on.

Since the PhD in Forensic Science program aims at teaching students new methods and techniques that might be instrumental in solving crime and cases related problems, one is sure to work on some of the following research areas. This includes topics such as instrumental analysis for drugs and fire, DNA fingerprinting, fingerprinting science, document authentication, dye and pigment analysis, physiology and post mortem change, criminal investigation analysis, surface analysis, mechanical properties of biological materials, etc.

Forensic Science Courses

There are general topics that students should expect to cover while going through the program. The coursework is drawn from three major subjects which include biology, chemistry and biochemistry. One is sure to find specialized knowledge in the discipline such as analysis of forensic evidence, chromatography, pharmacological analysis, mass spectrometry, fundamentals of DNA typing and trace analysis.

Other courses might include: Crime Detection and Investigation, Research Methods in Criminology, Crime Scene Investigation, Criminal and Delinquent Behavior, DNA Technologies, Legal Issues in Forensic Science, among others. As with most doctoral programs, a combination of coursework and research culminating in a dissertation is a requirement for fulfilling PhD in forensic science requirements.

Forensic Science Careers

Individuals interested in developing a career or starting one in the field can find jobs in academia or research. One can also choose to work as a professor, forensic researcher or consultant or biomedical researcher. Employment in the field has been growing over time due to technological advances and the increased dependence on forensics by police forces.

An individual with a PhD in Forensic Science can consider working in a hospital laboratory to help them get work experience as they look for employment. One can also gain some experience in scientific recruitment agencies or law enforcement agencies. This can be instrumental in developing skills acquired during the program.

Qualified forensic scientists work in labs, hospitals, federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI and DEA. Others work with police departments, sheriffs, district attorneys, state agencies, medical examiners offices, etc.

Estimated Income and Projected Career Growth

There has been a growing demand for people who are qualified and well trained in the field. Individuals with a PhD in forensic science can expect to start earning a yearly salary of about $50,000. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual earnings of forensic science technicians in 2009 was being around $49,860, with the top 10% earning $80,330 and the lowest paid 10% making around $30,990. However one is sure to make more depending on their work experience, skills, and position of leadership or management held.