Online Schooling in Forensic Entomology with Program Information

Forensic entomologists may work as crime scene, architectural or food service investigators. While online degree programs specifically in forensic entomology do not exist, online graduate programs in entomology or forensic science may provide sufficient coursework in the field. Students may also benefit from individual online courses and research opportunities offered through some schools.

How to Find an Online School in Forensic Entomology

Award Levels

The majority of online programs in forensic entomology are found at the master's level, though they are rare. Most schools offer an online or hybrid graduate program in either forensic science or entomology, though both may contain coursework in insect usage during crime scene investigation. Students may find these online courses available as stand-alone, non-credit options, or as part of the curriculum within a degree program. Additionally, concentrated courses from the master's syllabus in forensic and medical entomology may be offered as a continuing education or certificate program.

Graduate Research Opportunities

A few schools may provide faculty-led research opportunities for students of a forensic entomology program. Others encourage research study through departmental programs and affiliated organizations. Independent research may be counted toward degree credit, and the cooperative study with professionals and other students in the field are designed to enhance the program's studies. Research opportunities may include molecular and evolutionary entomology, insect classification and the pest control.

Career Options and Salary Information

Few forensic entomologists work in the field full time. Career paths may follow a forensic science route or concentrate more on insect control and research. Opportunities in the forensics field include employment in a medical examiner's office, police department or crime lab. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported the median 2009 salary for forensic science technicians at $51,480. Alternately, those interested more in the science of entomology may find work in agriculture or food control. The BLS stated 2009 average annual wages for food scientists and technologists was $64,370, while soil and plant scientists made approximately $65,180.

List of Online Forensic Entomology Programs

Master of Science in Forensic Science

To earn a master's degree in forensic science, most programs require a baccalaureate degree in a natural science major. Online forensics graduate programs typically include one or more in-depth courses in forensic entomology. Of particular importance are insect classification techniques, life cycles and the study of insect succession.. Further coursework teaches criminal lab procedures, legal factors and entomological case studies.
Students may pursue studies at their own pace within the allotted term, but are encouraged to communicate regularly with faculty and peers on discussion boards, live chat and e-mail. Printed textbooks may be required in addition to online resources, and some schools offer an online library for research. Courses may have limited availability, though many allow for open enrollment year round.

Master of Science in Entomology Program

Online master's programs in entomology may require a bachelor's degree or undergraduate studies in entomology, biology, math and chemistry. Following courses on basic insect science and biology, the program is organized around how insects are involved in various areas, such as forensics, natural history, toxicology, pest management and medicine. Several courses may be included which center on forensic entomology. In addition to insect succession and crime scene reconstruction, students learn to photograph insect evidence at crime scenes.
Classes are taught through the Internet, CD-ROM and streaming video, and most schools use a learning management environment such as ANGEL or Blackboard. Many schools offer entomology courses via distance learning as stand-alone, non-credit options for those interested in the subject or professionals seeking extended or continued education. Some distance learning programs may require hands-on lab work at the campus or affiliated research sites to complete a thesis, research project or independent study.