Online Colleges with Degrees in Forensics: How to Choose

Careers in forensics can be found through several different online degree programs including criminal justice, information technology and medical forensics. Forensics programs train students in the methods of gathering and using evidence to solve a crime.

How to Choose an Online Computer Forensics Degree

Career Direction and Program Focus

There are different careers that require a degree in forensics, such as computer forensic technician, forensic investigator or forensic analyst, with some positions requiring higher-level degrees. Criminal justice and information technology are the most common online bachelor's programs offering a focus in forensics. The core curriculum in a criminal justice program focuses more on criminal forensic investigation and criminal profiling; whereas, information technology is built on digital crime and digital forensics. Master's degree programs in forensics delve more into the medical side of forensic analysis, such as biological evidence and toxicology.

Scheduling Flexibility

Online forensics degree programs, especially at the master's degree level, are designed for scheduling flexibility to allow students to continue working full-time. In this type of program, classes do not normally operate on any given schedule. Instead, students access their coursework online whenever they choose to and submit assignments and tests by a given due date. Alternatively, some programs may feature classes run on a more scheduled basis, requiring students to attend live-streaming lectures or real-time conferences. Comparing options available for each program may help students find a program aligned with their current schedule.

Online Degree Options for Forensics

Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Forensic Science

A bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a focus in forensic science is designed to teach students forensics from a criminal prosecution standpoint. Classes in criminal justice management, restorative justice, risk management, forensic psychology and contemporary corrections are typically included. Many online criminal justice degrees follow a relatively strict class schedule, but allow students to log in asynchronously to allow for scheduling flexibility.

Online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Computer Forensics

A Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a focus in computer forensics approaches forensics by focusing first on computer technology. The forensic investigative aspect of the program is a secondary focus. Students investigate malicious software, mobile computing analysis and network security. The program also probes the legal aspects of computer forensics. Online computer forensics programs are taught over the Internet, students upload assignments and online materials through online learning platforms.

Online Master of Science in Forensic Science

A master's degree program in forensic science often deals with the medical side of forensic investigations. Students explore biological evidence, toxicology, forensic genetics, biotransformation, scientific evidence and statistics. They may also be required to complete supervised independent research and a master's thesis. Online master's degree programs in forensic science offer full-time and part-time options. Lectures and assignments are typically presented through online course management systems.