Online Schools for Becoming a Forensic Science Technician: How to Choose

Forensics is the field of collecting and analyzing evidence, often in some type of criminal or legal investigation. Most employers in this field require at least a bachelor's degree due to the complexities that are often involved in this line of work. Students interested in studying forensics can participate in online educational programs in pursuit of certificates, bachelor's or master's degrees.

How to Choose an Online Forensic Technician School

Program Levels

Certificate programs are available at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Undergraduate certificate programs are typically designed for newcomers to the field of forensics, while graduate certificates are designed for professionals in the legal system. Graduate certificate program often feature concentrations in areas such as digital forensics and forensic criminology.
Bachelor's and master's degrees in forensic science are also available online; some of these programs offer concentrations in a variety of areas including toxicology, DNA and forensic investigation. Some bachelor's program offer a master's track that tailors coursework so students are prepared for work on the graduate level.

Overall Objective

Depending upon the specialization and level, most online programs begin by teaching the basics of forensic science and the art of collecting and analyzing evidence at crime scenes. Students learn how to evaluate crime scenes and analyze physical and psychological evidence.
Programs may also teach students how to present effective courtroom evidence and testimony. Graduates are trained to work in a variety of legal and criminal fields and often find work in state and federal court systems, correctional facilities, law enforcement, mental health facilities and juvenile facilities.

Program Types

Students of online programs should make sure they have the correct technology and networking facilities before enrolling, which can include a computer and a reliable Internet connection. Most classes are conducted through a school's distance learning website where students can access coursework, study aids and other materials.
Some courses may require online class or teacher/students meetings, in which case students may need some type of teleconferencing or instant messaging program. Most forensic science programs don't require specific software besides common office programs, such as word processing and presentation applications.
Some schools offer hybrid forensic science programs where students can complete their coursework online and perform their lab work at the school's laboratory facilities. Graduate programs may require students to attend on-campus orientation sessions or serve internships at some type of local law enforcement facility.

List of Online Forensic Science Degree Programs

Online Undergraduate Certificates

Undergraduate certificate programs typically provide a background in the principles of criminal culpability and circumstantial evidence and are designed for those just entering the forensic science field. Sometimes called criminal evidence, crime scene or criminal investigation certificates, coursework can include introductory courses in criminal justice, criminology and physical sciences.

Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Many students may obtain their bachelor's degree in an online criminal justice program that offers a concentration in forensic science, crime scene investigation or forensic psychology. Courses may include crime scene technology, law enforcement photography and death investigation.

Online Master of Science in Forensics

Students can obtain an online master's degree in a variety of forensic science specializations, including toxicology, forensic DNA and Serology. Coursework can include blood splatter, post-mortem investigation and environmental forensics. These programs may require a thesis, project or in-person internship for completion.

Online Graduate Certificates

Graduate certificate programs are typically designed for professionals who hold a bachelor's or master's degree and wish to specialize or continue their education in forensic science. These professionals can include investigators, lab analysts, judges, lawyers and corporate computer security specialists. Certificate specializations can include forensic death, DNA and toxicology.