In a forensic science program, you’ll take classes in topic areas such as ballistics, accounting, toxicology, computer sciences, and psychology. Many forensic science programs, especially at the masters degree level, also allow you to specialize, concentrating on one specific area of forensic science, such as forensic archeology, forensic pathology, or body identification. No matter what your specialty, going to school that is top-ranked can help boost your resume, which in turn can help you find a job. Let’s take a look at some of the top forensic science schools out there:

Pennsylvania State University

Penn State has long been ranked one of the top 50 colleges in the United States. Their accredited program is taught through the Eberly College of Science and gives students the option to focus on either chemistry or biology. As a student at Penn State, you’ll benefit from the school’s alumni network as well as the on-campus activities available specifically for those interested in your field, such as the Forensic Chemistry Research Group or the Penn State Forensic Science Club.

University of California at Davis

The Davis campus at the University of California has been named the best college in the west by the Princeton Review and its forensic science program is consistently named one of the best in the nation. At the University of California, you’ll find some of the top professors in this field, as well as have the ability to specialize in criminalistics or DNA analysis. There masters degree program has both thesis and non-thesis tracks based on whether you’re interested in practicing in the forensics industry, taking a research position, or going on to get a doctorate and teaching in this field.

John Jay College Criminal Justice

Lastly, if you’re interested in attending a smaller, more specialized school, consider John Jay College Criminal Justice in New York. This school is part of New York’s City University and has long been considered one of the top schools for forensic science and related fields. At this school, you’ll benefit from a more individualized education and personal attention from top forensic professors.Even though City University itself is the largest public college in the nation, this school is smaller in order to give you a more intimate approach to education.

While there are a limited number of programs focused specifically on forensic science, many schools offer related programs that can be applied to positions in that field. Subjects can include forensic psychology, general criminal justice programs, and computer forensics - the latter being an increasingly more important field with each day. Find highly-rated online forensic science and criminal justice degrees below or search for other degrees using the widget to the left.

BS: Justice/Forensic Sci	American InterContinental University : AIU's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Forensic Science program educates students in a variety of topics, including the criminal justice system, juvenile justice process, criminology, law enforcement, law adjudication, and corrections. Concentrations are available in crime documentation and evidence handling.
BS: Forensic Psychology BS: CSI	Kaplan University : The BS in Forensic Psychology Program at Kaplan University features general education/criminal justice requirements that deliver an overview of material on critical thinking, technology, communications, and criminological theory. The Forensic Psychology portion of the degree covers the uses of psychology in law enforcement and crisis intervention techniques. Kaplan also offers an online program for a BS in Crime Scene Investigation degree.
AS: Criminal Investigations	Everest University : The Everest AS in Criminal Investigations opens doors to the exciting world of investigative law enforcement. Focusing on the science and theory of crime scene investigation, the program offers courses in criminalistics, fingerprints, crime scene photography, technology crimes, and evidence. Graduates work in forensic laboratories, medical offices, or hospitals.
BCIS: Computer Forensics	DeVry University : As a Computer forensics student at DeVry University, you will immerse yourself in the fascinating world of electronic evidence. Learn valuable skills in navigating computer forensic software applications while you also discover laws and principles of computer forensics and electronic evidence. Classes include Digital Crime and Computer Ethics.
MS: Forensic Psychology	Walden University : One of only several online graduate programs in forensic psychology, the MS in Forensic Psychology from Walden teaches research methods, forensic assessments, and correctional systems. Specializations include Forensic Psychology in the Community, Mental Health Applications, Program Planning and Evaluation in Forensic Settings, and Psychology and Legal Systems.
AA: Criminal Justice	University of Phoenix : The AA in Criminal Justice degree program at the University of Phoenix offers working professionals an online pathway to an associate's degree that can truly open new doors of opportunity. Courses examine policing practices, corrections, the criminal court system, and juvenile justice. Students rave about the program's informed, dedicated professors.
AA: Criminal Justice BS: Criminal Justice	Liberty University : Liberty University has two (2) accredited, online degrees in the field of Forensic Science added to their course catalog. The Associates and Bachelors programs in Criminal Justice both explore the investigative process of the justice system, and students enter the workforce with knowledge, skills, and resources they can apply to real-world issues and situations upon graduation.
BS/CJ: Computer Forensics	Strayer University : The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice of Computer Forensics at Strayer University features a curriculum that explores the theoretical, operational, and legal areas of law enforcement. Specializations include Computer Security and Forensics, Criminal Justice Administration, Homeland Security, Emergency Management, and Homeland Security Technology.
BS: CSI	South University : The Crime Scene Investigation Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree from South University redefines law enforcement education by including core courses in criminal justice and crime scene investigation that examine the most recent issues in law enforcement. The capstone project is a practicum that provides real-world experience.
MS: Forensic Psychology	Argosy University : Offered through Argosy University's American School of Professional Psychology, the online MS in Forensic Psychology degree focuses on clinical, counseling, and neuropsychology skills within the criminal justice and civil legal systems. Graduates join the law enforcement team, serving as mental health professionals, counselors, and caretakers.
MS: Forensic Psychology	University of Liverpool : The M.Sc. Investigative & Forensic Psychology program at the University of Liverpool is a one-year post graduate course of study. The curriculum features both research and academic topics that stimulate shared discussion and collaboration. Courses examine professional, legal and ethical issues, and communication and dissemination skills in the practice of forensics.