Program Overview

Overview of the Online Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science

The online Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science at Arizona State University teaches students how to interpret evidence and solve crimes using the latest science and technology. This program provides practical forensic science techniques and hands-on experience investigating crimes, preparing graduates to work in crime labs at the local, state, and federal levels.

Program Details

• Total classes: 40
• Weeks per class: 7.5
• Total credit hours: 120
• Next start date: 01/12/2026

Degree Questions Answered

The program focuses on applying scientific methods to matters of law, exploring investigative and scientific principles behind examining different types of evidence from crime scenes. Upon graduation, students are equipped with analytical skills required to pursue jobs related to forensic investigations.

Knowledge and Skills Developed

In this program, students learn how to uncover and analyze evidence that can be used in court during criminal and civil cases. They develop essential science, investigative, and communication skills needed to meet the demand for skilled forensic technicians. The beginning of the program focuses on building strong foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, and math.

Hands-on Experience

To gain necessary laboratory skills and hands-on experience, this program requires two separate, in-person lab experiences in Arizona. The first lab experience includes one week at ASU’s Tempe campus to complete two organic chemistry labs, followed by a four-day in-person biochemistry lab session at the ASU West campus in Glendale. The second experience covers key forensic field skills, including photography, fingerprint analysis, blood pattern analysis, and DNA analysis.

Course Curriculum

The program includes a range of courses such as:

• BIO 181: General Biology I
• BIO 182: General Biology II
• LSC 347: Fundamentals of Genetics
• LSC 348: Fundamentals of Genetics Laboratory
• BCH 371: Modern Concepts in Biochemistry
• BCH 372: Modern Concepts in Biochemistry Laboratory
• CHM 113: General Chemistry I
• CHM 116: General Chemistry II

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of jobs working in crime labs, such as crime scene investigators, evidence technicians, and other similar roles. They are also equipped to pursue a graduate degree in forensics, which can help advance their career and move into leadership positions.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to ASU, applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed at least 14 of the following courses:

• Four years of math
• Four years of English (non-ESL/ELL courses)
• Three years of lab sciences
• Two years of social sciences
• Two years of the same second language
• One year of fine arts or career and technical education

Applicants must meet at least one of the following:

• Top 25% in their high school graduating class
• 3.00 GPA in competency courses
• ACT score of 22 for Arizona residents (24 nonresidents) or SAT Reasoning score of 1120 for Arizona residents (1180 nonresidents)

Tuition and Fees

The tuition calculator can be used to estimate full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Most students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Accreditation and Rankings

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research, and high-quality academic programs. It has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report, including being ranked #1 in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years.