Top Forensic Science Universities in USA: Courses & Fees

‍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:

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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

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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 these amber also 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.