Forensic scientists contribute to criminal investigations with specialized equipment and laboratory tests to analyze the evidence. The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) approved programs, forensic science are offered at several top universities in the ED Read on to learn more about some of these programs.
Top U.S. Forensic Science Colleges
1. Pennsylvania State University in University Park
In 2011, Pennsylvania State University was ranked as the nation's 47th best college by U.S. News & World Report. Penn State also earned a spot on the Princeton Review's 2011 best northeastern colleges list. Through the Eberly College of Science, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Forensic Science with a focus in biology or chemistry. Penn State also offers a Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) in Forensic Science. Students can participate in on-campus organizations, including the Penn State Forensic Science Club.
2. Syracuse University in New York
Listed as a 2011 best northeastern college by the Princeton Review, Syracuse University features degrees in many fields of science, including forensic science. Syracuse's forensic and national security sciences department offers a number of master's degrees, including a Master of Science (M.S.) in Forensic Science and a combined M.S./Juris Doctor (J.D.) in Forensic Science and Law. Although Syracuse doesn't offer a major in forensic science at the undergraduate level, students can still explore this field as a minor or an Integrated Learning Major, the latter of which requires 25-26 credits, in addition to a major in a related field like chemistry or sociology. Students can take part in internships offered by various organizations, including the FBI, CIA, New York State Police and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
3. University of California - Davis
The University of California - Davis (UC Davis) was named a top public university by U.S. News & World Report in 2011. UC Davis also made the Princeton Review's 2011 best western colleges and best value in public colleges lists. The forensic science faculty at UC Davis consists of engineers, psychologists, scientists and doctors, as well as faculty who work with the California Criminalistics Institute. At UC Davis, students can pursue an M.S. in Forensic Science with a specialization in criminalistics or DNA analysis. Students take classes in forensic science instruments and methods, identification and DNA typing, arson inspection, courtroom testimony and forensic science research methods.
Forensic Science Colleges Top In United States
