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As the importance of forensic evidence In Crime Scene Investigations and Forensic Sciences continues to grow, the demand for crime scene investigators is projected to increase rapidly. These professionals play a crucial role in collecting and analyzing evidence, whether it be physical or digital, to help solve crimes.
To become a crime scene investigator, a bachelor’s program in Forensic Science or Natural Science is typically required. While some schools offer a specific bachelor’s degree in crime scene investigation, many programs offer a concentration in this area within a broader criminal justice degree.
For working professionals or those with additional commitments, online crime scene investigation programs offer flexibility without sacrificing the rigor of a traditional program. Graduates of online criminal investigation programs can expect similar job opportunities and career advancement as those from brick-and-mortar institutions.
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The Lowdown
Crime scene investigators play a key role in criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing physical evidence to help solve cases. From analyzing DNA to examining fingerprints, they use science and technology to uncover clues and identify suspects.
Crime Scene Investigation requires the competency to collect, preserve, and analyze evidence, as well as testify in court as an expert witness. The best online Bachelor’s in Crime Scene Investigator degrees will prepare you for a variety of careers in law enforcement, forensic science, and related fields.
Methodology
To determine the best online bachelor’s in crime scene investigator degrees, we used the following criteria:
- Accreditation: All programs on our list are accredited by a recognized regional or national colleges and schools commission or agency such as the National Commission on Forensic Science.
- Curriculum: All program curricula have been reviewed to ensure they cover essential topics, such as forensic science, criminal law, and evidence collection.
- Faculty: Credentials and experience of the faculty have been verified to ensure they are qualified to teach and mentor students in the field.
- Student Support: The availability and quality of student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling, have been assessed.
- Flexibility: The programs’ flexibility in terms of scheduling, online delivery, and credit transfer policies have been considered.
- Affordability: The cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses to determine the overall affordability of each program are all factored in.
10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Crime Scene Investigator Programs
University Of Maryland Global Campus
Online BS in Investigative Forensics
The Online BS in Investigative Forensics program at the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) could be the perfect fit for someone who may be interested in being a part of a law enforcement agency as a crime scene investigator.
- It prepares students for careers in crime scene investigation, forensic science, and related fields.
- It covers crime scene processing, forensic laboratory techniques, criminal law and procedure, forensic psychology, and more.
- It is the Middle States Commission on Higher Education-accredited, which is one of the most respected accrediting bodies in the country.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The online BS in Investigative Forensics program at UMGC stands out from other programs in several ways:
- It is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields and bring real-world experience to the classroom.
- It is designed to be flexible, so students complete their coursework conveniently.
- It includes hands-on learning experiences, such as internships, providing students with real-world experience in the field.
- It is focused on preparing students for careers in the crime scene investigation field, which means that they can graduate with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
Did You Know?
The online BS in Investigative Forensics program at UMGC is one of the most affordable online bachelor’s degree programs in the country. Plus, UMGC offers a range of financial aid options to help students pay for their education, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
With its flexible, fully online format, experienced faculty, and hands-on learning experiences, this program can help you prepare for a rewarding career in investigative forensics.
Florida State University
BS in Criminal Justice (BSCJ)
Florida State University offers a wide range of undergraduate and undergraduate degrees to meet the needs of potential crime scene investigators, such as the BS in Criminal Justice (BSCJ).
These are some of the most important features of this program:
- It is a program that focuses on forensic science and crime scene investigation.
- Its topics include crime scene processing, forensic laboratory techniques, criminal law and procedure, forensic psychology, and more.
- It is taught by faculty members who are amongst the most productive in the country.
- It has a required internship that gives students a chance to be exposed to real-world scenarios.
- It is accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), which ensures that the program meets the highest standards in forensic science education.
What Makes This Program Unique:
- It offers a specialized curriculum to succeed in the field of forensic science.
- It provides students access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including a forensic anthropology lab, a forensic DNA lab, and a forensic microscopy lab.
Did You Know?
The CSI Major at Florida State University is a top-ranked program in the country. FSU offers various options to help students pay for their education, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Miami Dade College
BAS in Public Safety Management – Concentration on Crime Scene Investigation
The BAS in Public Safety Management with a Concentration on Crime Scene Investigation offered at Miami Dade College is a workforce-driven degree that provides the necessary training and education for those who wish to succeed in the public safety sector.
- It is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of public safety, including crime scene investigation, law enforcement, emergency management, and more.
- Its topics include criminal investigations, forensic science, evidence collection, crime scene analysis, and more.
- It is Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)-accredited.
What Makes This Program Unique:
- It is fully online, which means that potential students can complete their coursework wherever and whenever they want.
- It offers hands-on learning experiences, such as internships, to give students a glimpse of what a crime scene investigator really does in the field.
- It prepares students for careers in the field of public safety, which means that students graduate to succeed.
- It is affordable, with a cost per credit hour that is lower than many other online programs.
Did You Know?
Miami Dade College’s BAS in Public Safety Management with a Concentration on Crime Scene Investigation is one of the most affordable online bachelor’s degree programs in the country. The program also offers different financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and loans.
Baker College
BS in Criminal Justice
Enrolling in Baker College’s BS in Criminal Justice degree program is the most critical step you need to take to kick-start your journey in criminal justice.
Program Overview:
- It provides students with a deeper understanding of how the criminal justice system works, including in courts, corrections, and law enforcement.
- It focuses on the latest theories and practices in the field of criminal justice, including crime scene investigation, forensic science, and evidence collection.
- It is Higher Learning Commission-accredited, which is one of the most respected accrediting bodies in the country.
What Makes This Program Unique:
- It is entirely online, so students complete their coursework on their own schedule.
- It offers a variety of concentrations, including a concentration in Crime Scene Investigation, which provides students with specialized training in this area.
- It offers 150-hour work experience.
Did You Know?
The Online BS in Criminal Justice program at Baker College is one of the most affordable online bachelor’s degree programs in the country.
- It is a 4-year program with 120 credit hours (12 hours of criminal justice studies and 78 hours of major courses).
- It also includes 30 hours of criminology and general education.
Salem University
BAS in Criminal Justice: Crime Scene Investigation Specialization
Salem University’s BAS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Crime Scene Investigation is built upon the core curriculum of criminal justice.
- It is approved by the Higher Learning Commission, one of the most respected accrediting bodies in the country.
- It teaches students about advanced crime scene management and security.
- It gives students a firm foundation on scene photographing, documenting, and processing.
- It prepares students for the proper collection and labeling of evidence, such as biological matter, trace fiber, tracks, and prints.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Salem University is passionate about ensuring that education meets the needs of each student. Their criminal justice program is only one proof of their commitment to excellence.
The BAS in Criminal Justice: Crime Scene Investigation Specialization offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in this dynamic and fast-paced field. Whether you’re interested in law enforcement, forensic science, or criminology, our program will prepare you for a rewarding career in crime scene investigation
Did You Know?
Salem University’s BAS in Criminal Justice: Crime Scene Investigation Specialization program is one of the most affordable online bachelor’s programs in the country. Plus, Salem University offers a range of financial aid options to help students pay for their education, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Texas A&M University
BS in Forensic & Investigative Sciences
Students who are looking to gain entry into careers in cyber forensics, forensic photography, and law enforcement may enroll in Texas A&M University’s BS in Forensic & Investigative Sciences (FIVS) program.
- The degree includes courses such as physics, crime scene investigation, chemistry, principles of law, statistical methods, forensic soil science, and applied forensic entomology, to name a few.
- Prospective students can take emphasis tracks on Pre-Law (Non-FEPAC Accredited) or Science (FEPAC Accredited), where they can have the opportunity to participate in research and internship projects for course credits.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Texas A&M University’s BS in Forensic & Investigative Sciences produces graduates with strong analysis, problem-solving, and research skills, which are essential to remaining competitive across various industries.
Did You Know?
Graduates of BS in Forensics & Investigative Sciences may work with the armed forces, federal government offices, forensics laboratories, graduate/medical/law schools, police, fire departments, private laboratories, and even veterinary clinics.
Liberty University
(Online) BS in Criminal Justice – Crime Scene Investigation
A career in crime scene investigation is both exciting and challenging. For those who have a passion for solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Crime Scene Investigation can be a great starting point.
Liberty University offers a comprehensive and flexible online Bachelor’s program that can help students prepare for a rewarding career in this field.
- Students tackle scientific and analytical aspects of forensics by analyzing past criminal cases.
- Students learn to identify, collect, preserve, document, process, and analyze evidence of any kind, especially using digital photography to capture the crime scene.
- Students gain the essential skill of being able to thoroughly conduct a crime scene investigation, which includes processing the scene of the crime and collecting proof via interviews and subpoenas.
- Students will be able to determine what the Constitution considers legal and how police and civilian actions are governed by laws.
What Makes This Program Unique:
- Liberty University has been a pioneer in distance learning since 1985.
- Liberty University’s Online BS in Criminal Justice: Crime Scene Investigation is affordable and at the forefront of forensic sciences.
- Liberty University has accreditation from the SACSCOC, ensuring that your degree meets strict academic standards and accreditation requirements.
- Liberty University is recognized for its affordability, accessibility, and academic quality.
Did You Know?
Liberty University provides many opportunities for students to network with experts and leaders in the field from across the United States of America.
As it is their commitment to providing affordable education, the university offers electronic textbooks for all undergraduate students for free, helping students save $800 to $2,000 on books per year.
American Intercontinental University
BS in Criminal Justice: Forensic Science
Gain an in-depth understanding of how the criminal justice system operates in the country, as well as crime theories and constitutional principles focusing on crime scene investigation and forensic science concepts by enrolling in American Intercontinental University’s BS in Criminal Justice with a Specialization in Forensic Science.
- It is a balanced education program in law enforcement practices, investigation methodologies, and science.
- It has mobile-friendly coursework to allow students to earn the degree on their own timelines.
- It prepares students to apply crime causation theories and crime scene investigation techniques.
- It tackles criminal justice fundamentals and practical applications of forensic science.
What Makes This Program Unique:
AIU’s BS in Criminal Justice: Forensic Science boasts a diverse and dynamic curriculum that goes beyond the basics of general education. It covers topics like English composition, technology and information literacy, interpersonal communication, academic and professional success, and more.
One of the key highlights of this program is its strong criminal justice foundation. This component of the curriculum explores the U.S. legal system, crime theory, constitutional procedure, crime victim studies and in great detail. By gaining a thorough understanding of these topics, students are better equipped to work in the criminal justice field.
The other major component of the curriculum is specialized forensic science courses that are taught online. These courses cover a range of topics, including forensic toxicology, forensic biology, forensic anthropology, and more. The program culminates in a senior capstone project in criminal justice that allows students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.
Did You Know?
AIU’s online forensic science degree program is a perfect blend of academic rigor and practical experience. It is taught by industry professionals who are up-to-date with current policies and national events, ensuring that students receive the most relevant and timely education.
Colorado State University
Online BS in Criminal Justice
Anyone who has a passion for being a public servant can start their career with an Online BS in Criminal Justice at Colorado State University.
- It requires students to complete a total of 120 credits, including elective courses, general education courses, optional degree specializations, and a mix of core degree courses.
- It is 100% online and offers a flexible schedule, which is ideal for students who work full-time.
- It helps students better understand the criminal justice system.
- It explores both traditional and contemporary methods of balancing public safety and civil liberties.
- It exposes students to contemporary topics, such as terrorism, forensics, cybercrime, international investigations, and white-collar crime and technology.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Whether you’re just starting out or have prior experience in criminal justice, CSU’s Online BS in Criminal Justice program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all the essential topics. From law enforcement and investigations to political science and social work, this program prepares you to pursue a wide range of career paths.
The curriculum focuses not only on the technical skills needed in criminal justice but also on developing critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities. These skills are crucial for success in any career, and this program ensures that you have them in spades.
Did You Know?
The online BS in Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration: Criminal Forensics Specialization program at Colorado State University is one of the most respected and affordable online bachelor’s degree programs in the country.
Colorado State University also offers affordable and reputable courses and degrees that are recognized for their value and quality. Its Online BS in Criminal Justice ranks number 1 in the U.S. News & World Report’s the 10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice Degree Programs.
Troy University
BS in Criminal Justice
Troy University’s BS in Criminal Justice has exciting programs that will equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to help them land their dream job in crime scene investigation.
- Faculty members will help students gain a comprehensive knowledge of law enforcement and the courts and corrections, helping them shape criminal justice policy.
- Students will study the processes and agencies involved in criminal justice administration, as well as the different areas of corrections, criminology and law, criminal procedure, constitutional law, and law enforcement.
- Students are given the option to choose a minor in homeland security or digital forensics to add value and skills to their degree.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Troy University’s online BS in Criminal Justice program is consistently ranked as an outstanding online bachelor’s program. Plus, Troy University offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students pay for their education.
Did You Know?
Troy University became the first college in Alabama to offer those who wish to complete their bachelor’s and Juris Doctor degrees within six years. This was after they partnered with Thomas Goode Jones and Cumberland Schools of Law in 2015.
Students who are taking up accelerated law programs at Troy University will have the chance to apply to Thomas Goode Jones School of Law, Mississippi College of Law, and Cumberland School of Law, depending on their GPA and LSAT scores.
Career Prospects for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Crime Scene Investigation
Obtaining an online bachelor’s degree in crime scene investigation is a wise choice for those who want to make a difference in society by investigating crimes and bringing justice to victims.
In 2023, there are several top-ranked online degree programs that can provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this field.
Salary
The salary for a graduate of an Online BS in Crime Scene Investigation program varies depending on the job title and work experience. The median annual pay for forensic science technicians: $63,740
The following is a breakdown of salaries for other jobs related to crime scene investigation:
- Police and detectives: $69,160
- Private detectives and investigators: $52,120
- Information security analysts: $112,000
Job Opportunities
Graduates of Online BS in Crime Scene Investigation degree programs have several career paths to choose from. Many work in local and state law enforcement agencies, including police departments, sheriff’s offices, and state investigative bureaus. Private investigation firms also hire individuals with a degree in Crime Scene Investigation, as do insurance companies and financial institutions.
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Forensic Science Technician
- FBI Agent
- Homicide Detective
- Private Investigator
- Crime Scene Photography Specialist
Job Stability, Outlook and Performance
The job outlook for those with an online BS in Crime Scene Investigation is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has disclosed that the demand for forensic science technicians will demonstrate a 13% growth until 2032. The need for forensic science technicians to work on criminal investigations and in private laboratories is expected to increase in the coming years.
While a career in crime scene investigation can be rewarding, it can also be challenging. Crime scene investigators are often exposed to hazardous materials, violent crime scenes, and traumatic events. Investigators must also work long and unpredictable hours, including weekends and holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical tuition rate for an online BS in Crime Scene Investigation degree program?
The tuition rate for an Online BS in Crime Scene Investigation degree program varies depending on the school and location. However, many online programs offer lower tuition rates than traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. The cost of tuition can range from $10,000 to $30,000 per year.
What are the admission requirements for an online BS in Crime Scene Investigation degree program?
The admission requirements for an online BS in Crime Scene Investigation degree program vary depending on the school. Generally, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent and provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Key Takeaways
- An Online BS in Crime Scene Investigation leads to careers like crime scene investigators, forensic science technicians, police officers, and FBI agents.
- Graduates of online BS in Crime Scene Investigation degree programs can work in local and state law enforcement agencies, private investigation firms, insurance companies, and financial institutions.
Additional Info:
- Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
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- Best Online Crime Scene Technician Certificate Programs
