Students searching for the best affordable colleges for forensic science degrees are ready to dive into an exciting career. These economical programs are training students to become professionals in the field of forensics. They help in diagnosing issues and concerns that arise in the form of criminal acts or discovering ancient civilizations. The field is always expanding. Now is a great time for students to begin their undergraduate work as they will be able to keep up with the technology, trends and changes. The demand, however, has led to a great question: how do students choose the right forensic science degree for them?
There are a lot of factors that go into choosing the right program, which is where we come in at Affordable Schools. Information in this ranking covers tuition, student: faculty ratio, degree requirements, specializations and more. It makes a great starting point for most students. Students who are looking for accredited, excellent programs will find exactly what they are looking for in this ranking.
Methodology
Research is at the heart of this ranking. In order to provide a list of the best schools, it was necessary to review schools on an individual basis to ensure that information was up to date. We consulted the National Center for Education Statistics website and its free College Navigator database. Then we did a search for bachelor’s degrees in forensic science with a maximum tuition of $20,000 to make our list of potential candidates for our ranking.
Two factors were given weight in the ranking process:
- tuition
- student: faculty ratio as reported by NCES
Tuition is a major concern for students, especially if they are paying for their education themselves or need a program that provides them with a little more fiscal flexibility.
Tuition for one year – based on 15 hours per semester:
Under $7,500 – 3 Points
$7,500 – $15,000 – 2 Points
$15,001 and above – 1 Point
Student: faculty ratios were also considered, as there is a direct correlation between this factor and the engagement level of a student. Graduation and retention rates are also tied into individualized attention, which stems from smaller class sizes, making this a factor that requires serious consideration.
Student : faculty ratio:
10:1 or less – 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1 – 2 Points
Greater than 15:1 – 1 Point
The 15 schools that made the final cut were chosen based on the total points accrued during the research process. They are listed below in descending order.
Table of Contents:
- How Much Can You Earn in the Field of Forensic Science?
- Is it Necessary to Choose a Degree Specialization in Forensic Science?
SUMMARY RANKING OF TOP 10 beST AFFORDABLE forensic science degree programs:
- Fayetteville State University
- Miami University of Middletown
- West Virginia University Institute of Technology
- Utah Valley University
- Savannah State University
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Southern University at New Orleans
- CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- The University of Central Oklahoma
- Fairmont State University
Ranking 15 Best Affordable Forensic Science Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2020
15. Wichita State University
Wichita, Kansas
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Wichita State University offers a best-value affordable degree in forensic sciences, perfect for students interested in working in the field. The only BS in Forensic Sciences degree of its kind in the state, this program is designed to prepare students to become forensic science technicians in the criminal justice profession. The 120-credit hour program features 91 credit hours in the field. This makes it one of the most comprehensive programs on this list. It’s a great choice for students ready to take on generalist education. With an eye towards criminal justice, courses range from Forensic Identification of Marijuana to Biological Anthropology, offering students a wide range of subjects that can help them in the field after graduation.
Tuition
In-State: $8,270
Out-of-State: $17,452
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
14. The University of Wisconsin at Platteville
Platteville, Wisconsin
Total Points: 4
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for forensic science degrees is at the University of Wisconsin at Platteville. This school offers students the chance to complete a low-cost Bachelor of Science in Forensic Investigation that comes with two emphasis areas:
- crime scene
- laboratory
Students in this inexpensive 120-credit hour forensic science degree program will find that this is the first and only public institution in the Midwest to offer this degree. It comes with some pretty unique features. Along with small class sizes and affordable tuition, students at this school will be able to participate in projects that take place in the Forensic Investigation Crime Scene House, which is a ranch house that was equipped to help students in this field.
Tuition
In-State: $7,796
Out-of-State: $15,646
Student: Faculty Ratio: 22:1
13. San Jose State University
San Jose, California
Total Points: 4
Program Website
San Jose State University offers two affordable forensic science degrees:
- BS in Forensic Chemistry
- BS in Forensic Biology
This inexpensive forensic science major was designed to meet the American Academy of Forensic Sciences Forensic Education Program Accreditation guidelines. This is an interdisciplinary degree that has funding from a variety of institutions, including the National Science Foundation and the California Association of Criminalists. Along with low tuition rates and an excellent curriculum, students have access to:
- internship opportunities
- research projects
- scholarships
Students who complete this inexpensive forensic science degree will be ready to move into graduate study or apply for jobs straight after graduation, making this a great option for all students.
Tuition
In-State: $7,796
Out-of-State: $19,676
Student: Faculty Ratio: 27:1
12. Washburn University
Topeka, Kansas
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The high-value forensic science degree at Washburn University was designed for students interested in becoming major players in the field. The economical BS in Forensic Science comes with four options:
- forensic chemical science
- digital forensics
- forensic investigation
- forensic anthropology
The affordable forensic science degree program was developed with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Faculty are practitioners in the field and have years of experience. Forensic science internships are available and the school has a facility dedicated to forensic study. There is also a Forensic Science Club on campus which provides students with extracurricular and co-curricular activities that will help them in their careers. Along with affordable tuition and small class sizes, students are offered a welcoming atmosphere.
Tuition
In-State: $8,312
Out-of-State: $18,560
Studen: Faculty Ratio: 15:1
11. SUNY Buffalo State University
Buffalo, New York
Total Points: 4
Program Website
SUNY Buffalo State University offers a best-value affordable forensic science degree. It’s fully accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Council. The school’s cheap BS in Forensic Chemistry is a great choice for students who are interested in working in the fields of criminal justice or medicine. The program provides a strong foundation in the various aspects of the field that are required for employment. This affordable forensic science degree program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and provides flexibility in the program. Students can choose from a list of directed electives for most of their requirements, enabling them to find an interest and specialize in it. Small class sizes and individualized attention make this a great choice for most students. The school tries hard to cap the number of students in the program to ensure that all students receive the education they need to succeed in the workforce.
Tuition
In-State: $8,210
Out-of-State: $17,990
Student: Faculty Ratio: 15:1
10. Fairmont State University
Fairmont, West Virginia
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Fairmont State University, one of the most affordable colleges for forensic science, offers a BS in Forensic Science which focuses mainly on STEM subjects as they relate to the criminal justice field. This is an ideal program for immediate employment after graduation or for further graduate study. It’s also possible to double major in a related field, such as chemistry, biology, or psychology. All of these related fields will make a student more marketable after graduation. This affordable forensic science degree program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. They consist of mainly courses in the field, eliminating the general education requirements required by most schools in favor of courses that will make a difference in a student’s career.
Tuition
In-State: $7,514
Out-of-State: $16,324
Student: Faculty Ratio: 15:1
9. The University of Central Oklahoma
Edmond, Oklahoma
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The University of Central Oklahoma offers a low-cost forensic science degree. The BS in Forensic Science is the only degree on this list that requires a dual major, ensuring that students will be able to find jobs that they are uniquely suited for. This affordable 120-credit hour forensic science degree program comes with access to the Forensic Science Institute. The Institute is a comprehensive training and research organization that provides the necessary education and training needed to become experts in the field. Scholarships and tuition waivers are also available at this school, making it a great choice for students looking for an inexpensive but excellent program.
Tuition
In-State: $7,489
Out-of-State: $18,376
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
8. CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
New York, New York
Total Points: 4
Program Website
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice is one of the most affordable colleges for forensic science degrees. The top-value BS in Forensic Science is a program that was built for all career paths and comes with three tracks:
- criminalistics
- molecular biology
- toxicology
This is a chemistry-driven major that is supplemented with courses in biology, law, and physics. This economical 120-credit hour forensic science degree program was designed for students who want to work in the criminal justice system or in a related field. The program is comprehensive. With affordable tuition rates and small class sizes, graduates will be prepared for immediate employment or graduate study.
Tuition
In-State: $7,270
Out-of-State: $14,940
Student: Faculty Ratio: 18:1
7. Southern University at New Orleans
New Orleans, Louisiana
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Southern University at New Orleans offers a high-value cost-effective forensic science degree program. The affordable Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science is classified as a “high-need subject area” and consists of 125 credit hours of coursework and practical experience. The school prides itself on focusing on students of color, providing the field with needed diversity. Students in this economical forensic science degree program will be able to find work straight after graduation or move into graduate study seamlessly. Tuition rates are kept low for students who are both in-state and out-of-state, providing a way for all students to take advantage of this program, regardless of residency status.
Tuition
In-State: $7,033
Out-of-State: $15,934
Student: Faculty Ratio: 20:1
6. Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, New Mexico
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The low-cost forensic science degree program at Eastern New Mexico University was designed for students interested in a variety of specializations. This BS in Forensic Science offers students the chance to complete a degree from just one of 20 schools to offer a major in the field. Concentrations include:
- forensic anthropology
- forensic biology
- forensic chemistry
This affordable forensic science degree program is a 120-credit hour course of study that will provide students with the knowledge they need to find employment after graduation or pursue graduate study. The school is also home to the Forensic Science Society and other co-curricular activities that will provide students with the practical experience they need to make a difference in the field.
Tuition
In-State: $6,326
Out-of-State: $8,247
Student: Faculty Ratio: 17:1
5. Savannah State University
Savannah, Georgia
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Savannah State University is an accredited affordable college for forensic science degrees. The BS in Forensic Science offers two tracks:
- biology
- chemistry
A certificate in Virtual Forensic Science is also available. Students will have access to current technological advances, and labs and equipment used in the field today. Students in this inexpensive 120-credit hour forensic science degree program often find work immediately after graduation or go on to graduate study. With affordable tuition rates available for both in-state and out-of-state students, this degree is one that all students should seriously consider as their foundational degree.
Tuition
In-State: $5,743
Out-of-State: $16,204
Student: Faculty Ratio: 17:1
4. Utah Valley University
Orem, Utah
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Utah Valley University, one of the most affordable colleges for forensic science degrees, is a great choice for students. The BS in Forensic Science with a forensic investigation emphasis is a strong interdisciplinary program. It provides students with the knowledge necessary to become experts in the field and work for both the public and private sectors. This is a top-value 126-credit hour forensic science degree program that offers students a strong foundation in the field. Courses include everything from Principles of Chemistry to Blood Pattern Analysis. Students enjoy small class sizes and an affordable tuition rate, making it a school to strongly consider for a degree in the field.
Tuition
In-State: $5,726
Out-of-State: $16,296
Student: Faculty Ratio: 25:1
3. West Virginia University Institute of Technology
Beckley, West Virginia
Total Points: 5
Program Website
West Virginia University Institute of Technology offers an affordable degree in forensic science. It’s designed to blend practical experiences with lectures, providing students with a comprehensive overview of the field. This school offers a generalist Bachelor of Science in Forensic Investigation. It includes a Crime Scene House, just one of a handful of schools to offer such an experience. Students can interview witnesses in a mock crime scene, participate in a clandestine-grave dig, and more. Class sizes are small, offering students individualized attention as well as a familial atmosphere.
Tuition
In-State: $7,464
Out-of-State: $18,648
Student: Faculty Ratio: 13:1
2. Miami University of Middletown
Hamilton, Ohio
Total Points: 5
Program Website
The low-cost forensic science degree at Miami University of Middletown is a great choice for students who want to work in the field. The school offers a BS in Forensic Science as well as a best-value BS in Forensic Investigation. Both programs are are science-heavy majors that require a minimum of 120 credit hours and some practical experience. This inexpensive forensic science degree program was designed for everyone and can provide a pathway to immediate employment or graduate study. With small class sizes, individualized attention, and a dedicated faculty students will be well on their way to completing a degree that meets their needs.
Tuition
In-State: $5,880
Out-of-State: $16,472
Student: Faculty Ratio: 14:1
1. Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Fayetteville State University tops this year’s list for the best affordable colleges for forensic science degrees. The school’s BS in Forensic Science is an experiential-focused degree which offers a comprehensive look at the field at large. The low-cost forensic science degree program was designed to combine lectures and hands-on experiences, enabling a student to get a feel for the field. This inexpensive 120-credit hour forensic science course of study is supported by a variety of co-curricular activities, including student clubs and study abroad opportunities. This program prepares students for employment or to move on to graduate school. Courses range from chemistry to forensic psychology.
Tuition
In-State: $5,249
Out-of-State: $16,857
Student: Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Affordable Degree in Forensic Science?
A forensic science degree is a great option for students who want to combine detective work with the sciences. The field is growing each year as technology advances. Below is a small sampling of the career options available with a bachelor’s degree in forensic science.
-
- Forensic Medical Examiner
- Police Detective
- Biomedical Scientist
- Teaching Laboratory Technician
- Forensic Engineer
- CIA or FBI Special Agent
- Crime Laboratory Analyst
- Toxicologist
- Forensic Accountant
- Public Defense Attorney
- Analytical Chemist
- Forensic Computer Analyst
- Federal Crime Scene Investigator
- Forensic Scientist
The great thing about a low-cost forensic degree is that it can be applied to several other fields. These degrees teach specific skills that can be used in a wide range of industries and career paths. However, some of the careers listed above will require additional training and education, so it’s a good idea that students consider their career path and do research to ensure they are following the right steps.
How Much Can You Earn in the Field of Forensic Science?
The current average salary for a professional in the forensic science field is $53,951. However, it may be possible for students to earn more than that, with some salaries being closer to $125,000, depending on additional professional training and education. Region also plays a large role in how much professionals can expect to get paid, with careers in Chicago paying 47 percent more than most other regions that require professionals in the field.
Additionally, students will need to consider specializations. These concentrations serve as markers of expertise, which means that students who take on a specialization may find it easier to find jobs, and high-paying ones at that, than those who do not complete a specialization. These specializations can begin at the undergraduate level, so it is worth considering. Toxicology is one of the most in-demand by companies nationwide.
Is it Necessary to Choose a Degree Specialization in Forensic Science?
It is not necessary to complete a specialization for a forensic science degree at the bachelor’s level. However, a specialization is highly recommended due to the specialized nature of the field itself. Forensic science is a field that requires different skills for different careers. While a general forensic degree will serve students in entry-level jobs, students will quickly find that there is a difference between a forensic psychologist and a computer forensics specialist. This is because the skills and processes are pretty different in the real world.
If a student is not sure about what specialization to choose, then the best course of action is to suggest taking different courses, which can be completed as part of the free or directed electives provided for in the curriculum. This will help students find out what interests them the most. Alternatively, many schools provide practical experience opportunities for students, which is also a good way to learn what specialization may be right for them.
Professionals in the forensic science field are in high-demand. From criminal justice to the humanities, these professionals are making a difference in how humans, animals and culture are viewed in the present day as well as making advancements for the future. By choosing one of the best affordable colleges for forensic science degrees, students will be able to find a college that fits financially and academically.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the 15 Best Affordable Colleges for Forensic Science Degrees (Bachelor’s).
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