Top Forensic Science Universities in USA: Courses & Fees
Decode Crime with Science
Table of Content
- What is Forensic Science and Why Study it in the USA?
- Top Forensic Science Universities in USA
- How to Choose the Best Forensic Science Universities in USA
- Popular Forensic Science Degree Programs in USA
- Forensic Science Eligibility Criteria
- Forensic Science Tuition Fees in the USA
- Scholarships and Financial Aid for Forensic Science Students
- Forensic Science Career Prospects
Forensic science is the use of biology, chemistry, and technology to investigate crimes. It includes everything from DNA and fingerprint analysis to toxicology, digital forensics, and ballistics. If you're interested in solving real-life mysteries and using science to serve justice, this is the field for you.
The USA is one of the best places to study forensic science, with over 100 accredited programs and strong ties to agencies like the FBI, DEA, and local law enforcement. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians earn a median salary of $63,740, and the field is expected to grow 11% by 2032—much faster than the average for all occupations.
In this blog, you’ll learn about the top forensic science universities in the USA, what to consider when choosing a program, tuition fees, scholarship options, and the types of high-demand careers available after graduation.
What is Forensic Science and Why Study it in the USA?
Forensic science is the application of scientific techniques and principles to solve criminal cases. It spans a wide range of specializations, including DNA analysis, toxicology, digital forensics, forensic psychology, and crime scene investigation. In the USA, the forensic science industry is valued at over $21 billion as of 2025 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.3% through 2030, driven by rising crime rates and technological advancements.
The U.S. is home to over 100 universities offering forensic science degrees accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC). Schools such as Penn State, University of Florida, and George Mason University offer state-of-the-art forensic labs and direct connections with agencies like the FBI, CIA, DEA, and local police departments. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians earn a median salary of $63,740, with top earners making over $104,000 annually. Studying forensic science in the USA means access to cutting-edge research, hands-on training, and excellent job prospects in both public and private sectors.
Top Forensic Science Universities in USA
These best universities for forensic science in USA that offer accredited programs, strong faculty, and real-world lab experiences:
| University | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania State University | University Park, PA | Ranked top for forensic science research; strong alumni network |
| University of California, Davis | Davis, CA | Offers forensic chemistry and biology tracks |
| Texas A&M University | College Station, TX | Known for forensic anthropology and lab training |
| Florida International University | Miami, FL | One of the largest programs; research in digital forensics |
| Boston University | Boston, MA | MS in Biomedical Forensic Sciences; urban research access |
| George Washington University | Washington, D.C. | Offers forensic toxicology and CSI-focused courses |
| Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI | Strong in criminal justice and forensic science integration |
How to Choose the Best Forensic Science Universities in USA
Consider these factors while choosing your best universities for forensic science in usa:
Specialization Offered: Choose between forensic biology, digital forensics, toxicology, or anthropology.
Lab Facilities: Schools with crime scene simulation labs or on-site crime units give more hands-on experience.
Location: Urban campuses may offer better internships with police departments or crime labs.
Cost & Financial Aid: Look for scholarships, assistantships, and affordable tuition.
Faculty Expertise: Check if professors are active in forensic research or consultancy.
Popular Forensic Science Degree Programs in USA
Most of the best universities for forensic science in usa offer these forensic science programs:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Forensic Science – 4 years
Master of Science (M.S.) in Forensic Science – 1.5–2 years
Ph.D. in Forensic Science or related field – 4–6 years
Dual Degrees – e.g., Forensic Science + Law, Criminal Justice, or Psychology
Forensic Science Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a forensic science degree at the best universities for forensic science in USA, students typically need:
1.A completed bachelor's degree (for master’s programs)
2.Transcripts with a minimum GPA (usually 3.0 or higher)
3.English proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS for international students)
4.Statement of Purpose (SOP)
5.Letters of Recommendation
6.GRE scores (some universities may waive this)
7.Resume or experience (especially for M.S. applicants)`
Forensic Science Tuition Fees in the USA
Here's a general idea of the tuition costs of the best universities for forensic science in USA
| University | Program | Tuition/Year | Estimated Total Cost (Incl. Living) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania State University | M.S. | ~$24,000 | ~$45,000–$50,000 |
| Boston University | M.S. in Biomedical Forensics | ~$28,000 | ~$55,000 |
| George Washington University | M.F.S. | ~$30,000 | ~$56,000 |
| Florida International University | M.S. | ~$20,000 | ~$40,000 |
Note: Living costs vary by location—urban cities may be more expensive.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Forensic Science Students
Many universities offer merit- or need-based financial aid. Check each university’s financial aid page for deadlines.
1.George Washington University – Graduate merit scholarships up to 40%
2.FIU – Offers research assistantships and fellowships
3.Boston University – Limited scholarships + work-study options
4.Penn State – Departmental scholarships for M.S. students
Apart from theseamberalso offers various scholarships through amberscholar.
Forensic Science Career Prospects
Graduates from the best universities for forensic science in USA can work in various roles:
1.Forensic Scientist in Crime Labs
2.DNA Analyst or Toxicologist
3.Crime Scene Investigator (CSI)
4.Forensic Consultant for Law Firms
5.Forensic Psychologist (with additional study)
6.Hospital/Medical Examiner’s Office
7.Digital Forensics Expert (Cybersecurity roles)
Top recruiters include FBI, DEA, local police departments, private labs, and federal research agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which forensic science program is best for research careers?
Penn State, Texas A&M, and GWU offer strong Ph.D. pathways.
Can I apply for forensic science with a biology background?
Yes, most programs accept students with degrees in biology, chemistry, or criminology
Do I need GRE scores?
Some top schools still require GRE, while others have made it optional or waived it entirely.
Is it worth studying forensic science in the USA?
Absolutely. The U.S. offers top-tier labs, research, and job connections with high-paying career options.