The 10 Best Schools for Forensic Science in the World

Are you a big fan of Sherlock? Do you binge-watch true crime documentaries into the wee hours of the night? Maybe those interests have made you consider taking up forensic science. Well, you’ve come to the right place since we’ll be talking about the best schools for forensic science in this article.

Whether you’re curious how insects can help determine the circumstances of a person’s death or how to tell how long ago a person has died, there’s an institution that specializes in that.

• 10 Best Schools for Forensic Science
• Career Paths for Forensic Science Graduates
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

10 Best Schools for Forensic Science

Talking about the best schools for forensic science is pretty subjective since what works for you may not necessarily interest others as well.

It’s also worth noting that forensic science tends to be offered as a master’s degree or certificate program/concentration of an undergraduate degree. Regardless, the schools below have excellent programs and research and internship opportunities that can give you the foundation you need to thrive in your career.

With that, below are the top 10 forensic science colleges in the world.

1. University of Leicester

Location: Leicester, England

Acceptance rate: 71.4%

The University of Leicester is historically known in the forensic science field for two main reasons:

1. Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys’ groundbreaking discovery of DNA fingerprinting, a foundation of modern forensic science, and
2. The school’s major role in the identification of King Richard III, which showcased its expertise in multidisciplinary forensic investigations.

It remains one of the best schools in forensic science thanks to its multidisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from various disciplines such as chemistry, biology, and criminal justice.

The University of Leicester offers postgraduate programs through its distance learning MSc in Forensic Science and Criminal Justice. In this program, you’ll learn a wide range of topics, including crime scene examination, trace evidence analysis, forensic genetics, and toxicology.

The school is also part of the Global Forensics Network, which allows you to take modules from other universities like the University of Florida and the University of Canberra.

2. University of Lausanne

Location:  Écublens, Vaud, Switzerland

Acceptance rate: 31%

The University of Lausanne is one of the oldest academic institutions dedicated to forensic science, giving it time to cement itself as one of the best schools in the field.

Nowadays, the school is still highly active in forensic science research, contributing significantly to advancements in the field with groundbreaking research. The strong research focus presents you with plenty of opportunities to participate in ongoing research projects.

The university offers a Master of Science (MSc) in Forensic Science with specializations like:

• Chemical Criminalistics. Focuses on analytical chemistry techniques in forensic science.
• Physical Identification. Deals with the identification of people and objects.
• Digital Investigation and Identification. Addresses the growing field of digital forensics.

You get access to modern laboratories equipped with advanced forensic technology. This includes specialized equipment for various forensic analyses, including DNA analysis, trace evidence analysis, and digital forensics.

The University of Lausanne also participates in networks like the ENFSI (European Network of Forensic Science Institutes) which allows for more collaboration and shared knowledge.

3. Michigan State University

Location: East Lansing, Michigan, United States

Acceptance rate: 84%

Michigan State University (MSU) has a long and respected history in forensic science education, making it one of the best schools for those pursuing this field. MSU’s Forensic Science Masters program has been accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).

The school places a strong emphasis on research, providing you with opportunities to engage in independent research projects. This helps develop critical thinking and analytical skills. You’re also given opportunities to present research at conferences and publish research in peer-reviewed journals.

The program includes courses in criminal justice, forensic science, law, and an especially strong focus on forensic chemistry. They also offer concentrations in Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Biology, and Forensic Anthropology.

Its modern laboratory facilities are equipped with advanced instrumentation—chromatography (for analyzing drugs, explosives, and arson evidence), microscopy (for trace evidence analysis), and genetic analyzers (for DNA analysis).

As for internships, placements are possible in:

• The Michigan State Police Forensic Science Division
• The State of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
• The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office

4. University of Tennessee – Knoxville

Location: Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

Acceptance rate: 46%

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is another one of the best schools for forensic science, particularly forensic anthropology. Rather than a separate forensic science program, UTK offers forensic anthropology as a specialization within its anthropology major.

The school is renowned for its Forensic Anthropology Center, often called the “Body Farm,” a unique research facility where decomposition processes are studied. This provides hands-on experience in forensic anthropology. This specialization also makes UTK a leading institution for those interested in skeletal analysis and human decomposition. You can participate in research projects at the Body Farm, including assisting with decomposition studies.

Aside from that, you can use well-equipped laboratories for various forensic analyses, with forensic tools like advanced imaging technologies. Of course, you also have access to skeletal collections and other research materials and expertise within the Anthropology Department.

5. University College London

Location: London, England

Acceptance rate: 24.7%

University College London offers an MSc in Crime and Forensic Science. This program takes a holistic approach by combining forensic science with crime science. This means you learn not only about the scientific techniques but also about the broader context of crime.

Some of its core modules include:

• Law and Expert Evidence
• Understanding and Interpreting Forensic Evidence
• Quantitative Methods
• Designing and Doing Research
• Foundations of Security and Crime Science

You can also take additional optional modules to specialize in areas like:

• Forensic Geoscience
• Forensic Anthropology
• Forensic Biology and DNA Interpretation
• Digital Forensic Science and Technology

This variety of optional modules allows for a more tailored educational experience, making University College London one of the best schools for forensic science.

The school has strong connections with law enforcement and other organizations that may provide opportunities for practical experience. The program’s practical crime scene investigation training, developed and delivered with input from London-based police forces, is an excellent practical opportunity.

6. Texas A&M University

Location: College Station, Texas, United States

Acceptance rate: 63%

What we’ve presented to you so far are graduate programs in forensic science. But for one of the best schools for forensic science for undergrads, you should consider Texas A&M University at College Station.

The school is renowned for its strong science programs, especially in biology and chemistry, which are very important to forensic science. Texas A&M has particular strength in forensic entomology, the study of insects in criminal investigations. You’ll learn to use insects to estimate the time of death, determine if a body has been moved, and more. 

You can also take courses in general entomology to establish a solid foundation in insect science, analytical chemistry, and other topics that can be helpful in crime scene investigation.

To support the specialization, Texas A&M has modern laboratories equipped with advanced instrumentation, insect collections, and research facilities especially for forensic entomology studies.

You’ll have the chance to participate in forensic entomology research projects with faculty members, intern with law enforcement agencies or forensic laboratories, and engage in fieldwork related to forensic entomology.

Their B.S. Forensic and Investigative Sciences program is only one out of two in Texas that is nationally accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission.

7. Simon Fraser University

Location: Burnaby, Canada

Acceptance rate: 77%

Simon Fraser University (SFU) offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Criminology with a concentration in Forensic Science. The program has an especially strong focus on statistical analysis of forensic evidence. Courses you can take for the certificate program include:

• Forensic Chemistry. Covering analytical techniques used in forensic analysis.
• Forensic Biology. Focusing on DNA analysis and other biological evidence.
• Forensic Anthropology. Dealing with the analysis of skeletal remains.
• Crime Scene Investigation. Providing practical training in evidence collection and documentation.

The university provides access to specialized facilities for DNA analysis, trace evidence analysis, and forensic imaging. They even have crime scene simulation areas for more hands-on learning to apply your knowledge in practical settings. This makes SFU one of the best schools for forensic science.

You can also intern with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), provincial forensic laboratories, and other law enforcement agencies. The school also has the Science Co-operative Education (Co-op) Program, which connects you to a range of job opportunities, letting you gain more real-world work experience.

SFU encourages students to take part in research, whether through independent work or with faculty members. You also have the chance to present research at conferences and publish your findings.

8. Leiden University

Location: Leiden, Netherlands

Acceptance rate: 30%

Leiden University is another one of the best schools for forensic science, particularly at the master’s level.

The institution combines different scientific disciplines, including chemistry, biology, and statistics, for a more comprehensive understanding of forensic science. Some of the topics you can expect from its curriculum include:

• Advanced Forensic Chemistry
• Forensic Biology and DNA Analysis
• Trace Evidence Analysis
• Statistics for Forensic Science
• Crime Scene Investigation

They especially place a high priority on the statistical evaluation of forensic evidence.

Leiden University’s program includes a research component, letting you conduct independent research projects. Aside from that, you can intern with the Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI), forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies, and research projects with faculty members.

9. University of California – Davis

Location: Davis, California, United States

Acceptance rate: 41.9%

UC Davis offers a Master of Science in Forensic Science, which is designed to provide a strong foundation in research, preparing you for a career in forensic laboratories or further academic pursuits. You can choose between the Forensic Criminalistics or Forensic DNA tracks. Regardless of your track, you can expect coursework in:

• Forensic Criminalistics
• Forensic DNA analysis
• Advanced forensic science techniques
• Statistical analysis of forensic evidence

The program is also very research-focused and emphasizes hands-on lab work to reinforce your coursework. Faculty members have a wide range of interests and expertise, so it’s easy to find an adviser who can support your thesis—whether it’s about mitochondrial DNA degradation or trace evidence.

The school’s professional connections allow you to have potential internships with California Department of Justice laboratories and federal law enforcement agencies like FBI, ATF, and DEA. A strong alumni network can further help you with career opportunities. All this make UC Davis one of the best schools for forensic science.

10. Pennsylvania State University

Location: University Park, Pennsylvania, United States

Acceptance rate: 54%

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is one of the best schools for forensic science, thanks to its comprehensive education with a strong scientific foundation, especially in chemistry and biology.

Their BS Forensic Science program lets you specialize in areas like forensic chemistry and forensic molecular biology. Some courses you can expect are:

• Forensic Chemistry. Covering analytical techniques used in forensic analysis.
• Forensic Biology. Focusing on DNA analysis and other biological evidence.
• Crime Scene Investigation. Providing practical training in evidence collection and documentation.
• Trace Evidence Analysis. Dealing with the analysis of hairs, fibers, and other microscopic evidence.
• Forensic Toxicology. Analyzing body samples for drugs and other potentially harmful substances

To further support you in your studies and research, Penn State has state-of-the-art laboratories with advanced forensic analysis tools, including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and DNA sequencing equipment. They also have crime scene simulation facilities for a more realistic hands-on experience before going out into the field.

You have opportunities to participate in internships and research projects with faculty members, forensic laboratories, federal agencies, and state and local law enforcement agencies.

Career Paths for Forensic Science Graduates

After graduating from one of the best schools for forensic science, you might be wondering where you can go next. The field is actually a lot broader than what many people realize, spanning crime scene investigation, laboratory analysis, research, and even legal roles. Here’s a quick look at some career paths for forensic science graduates:

1. Forensic Scientist/Criminalist (Laboratory-Based)

Average yearly salary: $65,174

When you think of a forensic science professional, this is probably the first that pops into your mind.

As a forensic scientist, you’ll use laboratory equipment and techniques to analyze evidence collected from crime scenes, such as DNA, fingerprints, hair, fibers, and bodily fluids. You will also be expected to prepare detailed reports of findings and provide expert testimony in court when necessary.

Even within the world of forensic scientist, there are different specializations you choose from, such as:

• Forensic DNA analyst. Focuses on analyzing DNA evidence.
• Forensic chemist. Analyzes chemical substances, such as drugs, explosives, and trace evidence.
• Forensic toxicologist. Examines bodily fluids and tissues for the presence of drugs and poisons.
• Trace evidence analyst. Analyzes microscopic evidence, such as hair, fibers, and glass fragments.
• Firearms examiner/ballistics expert. Examines firearms and ammunition to determine their involvement in crimes.

If you’re interested in being a lab-based forensic scientist, you’ll need a lot of laboratory experience and strong skills in analytical and critical thinking skills, communication, and report-writing.

2. Crime Scene Investigator (CSI)

Average yearly salary: $62,699

If you want to be one of the first ones on the scene of a crime, you should consider being a CSI.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Responding to crime scenes to collect and preserve physical evidence
• Documenting crime scenes through photography, sketching, and note-taking
• Using various techniques to locate and recover evidence
• Maintaining the chain of custody of evidence

You’ll need solid knowledge of crime scene investigation techniques and strong observational and problem-solving skills. Of course, you should also have the ability to work in stressful and potentially dangerous environments.

3. Forensic Pathologist

Average yearly salary: $109,706

Forensic pathologists are medical doctors who specialize in determining the cause and manner of death, particularly in cases of sudden, suspicious, or violent deaths.

You’ll be expected to thoroughly conduct examinations of deceased individuals, both internally and externally, to identify injuries, diseases, or other abnormalities that may have contributed to the death. You should also meticulously document your findings (including photographs, diagrams, and detailed written report) since you may be asked to provide expert testimony in court.

If this sounds interesting to you, you should know that you’ll also need to complete medical school first.

4. Digital Forensic Analyst

Average yearly salary: $70,682

If you’re a very techie forensic scientist, you can also consider being a digital forensic analyst.

In this role, you’ll be recovering and analyzing digital evidence from computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices to investigate cybercrimes, such as hacking and data breaches.

You’ll also be expected to assist in legal proceedings by identifying, preserving, and analyzing electronic evidence for use in court. You should also ensure that electronic evidence is collected and handled in a forensically sound manner to maintain its admissibility in court.

Some tools and technologies you should learn how to handle are:

• Forensic imaging software (like FTK Imager and EnCase)
• Data recovery software (like Recuva and EaseUS Data Recovery)
• Network analysis tools (like Wireshark)
• Hex editors and other specialized software

5. Forensic Anthropologist

Average yearly salary: $61,910

Forensic anthropologists are specialized physical anthropologists who apply their knowledge of skeletal biology and archaeology to legal investigations, especially those that involve human remains.

You’ll be analyzing skeletal remains to identify people and determine the cause and manner of death. You’ll also be assisting in the recovery of buried remains.

Some important skills and knowledge you should have include:

• Human osteology. A deep understanding of the human skeleton and its variations.
• Archaeological techniques. Knowledge of excavation and documentation methods.
• Forensic taphonomy. Understanding of the processes that affect human remains after death (like decomposition and scavenging).
• Trauma analysis. The ability to recognize and interpret skeletal trauma.
• Biological anthropology. A strong background in human evolution and population variation.
• Communication skills. The ability to clearly and concisely communicate complex scientific information.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which school is the best for forensic science?

“Best” is subjective and depends on what your goals and interests are. If you want to focus on forensic molecular biology, Penn State would be a great option. If you’re especially interested in forensic entomology, Texas A&M could be one of the best schools for forensic science for you.

2. What is the highest-paid job in forensics?

Perhaps the highest-paid job in forensics is forensic medical examination. It takes such a long time to become a forensic medical examiner. After all, you’ll need to finish your undergraduate degree, a medical degree, complete residencies, and pass requirements.

3. What degree is best for forensics?

There are many possible paths to becoming a forensic scientist, but a BS in Forensic Science could give you a good general foundation in your undergrad years. But if you’ll be taking forensics as a graduate program, an undergraduate in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or other related fields is good too.

Takeaways

Whether for undergraduate or graduate degrees, one of the best schools for forensic science can give you the experience you want.

• Some of the best schools for forensic science in the world include University of Leicester, University of Lausanne, Michigan State University, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, University College London, Texas A&M University at College Station, Simon Fraser University, Leiden University, University of California Davis, and Pennsylvania State University.
• If you’re wondering what you can do after graduating from the best schools for forensic science, you can consider having a career as a lab-based forensic scientist/criminalist, crime scene investigator, forensic pathologist, digital forensic analyst, or forensic anthropologist.
• Thinking of what program or extracurriculars to take to make your forensic science dream come true? A private consultant can offer you guidance and tips on how you can get there.