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Forensic Science Concentration in Criminal Justice
A forensic science concentration focuses on a defined area within criminal justice. It typically builds on the program core and adds courses that deepen subject knowledge and applied skills.
Quick Answers
What is a forensic science concentration in criminal justice?
A forensic science concentration is a focused set of courses within a criminal justice program that emphasizes this subject area.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover core concepts, applied methods, and domain-specific tools related to forensic science.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Criminal Justice Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Evidence analysis, crime scene investigation, and laboratory techniques
- Key career: Forensic Science Technicians – $72,060 median salary (BLS, May 2025)
- Job outlook: +12.8% growth (2024-2034) – much faster than average
- Annual openings: 2,900 (BLS, 2024-2034)
- Degree levels: Available as bachelor’s concentration or graduate specialization
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Criminal Justice Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Crime Scene Investigation | Evidence collection, preservation, chain of custody procedures |
| Forensic Biology | DNA analysis, serology, and biological evidence examination |
| Digital Forensics | Computer evidence recovery, data analysis, and cybercrime investigation |
| Forensic Chemistry | Drug identification, toxicology, and chemical evidence analysis |
| Expert Testimony | Courtroom presentation of forensic findings and expert witness standards |
| Evidence Analysis Methods | Fingerprint analysis, ballistics, trace evidence, and pattern recognition |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How criminal justice concentrations compare
If laboratory work and evidence analysis draw you in, the criminology and homeland security concentrations share its analytical, investigative emphasis.
| Concentration | Key Career | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections | Correctional Officers | $57,970 | -7.8% |
| Courts | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $61,010 | +0.2% |
| Criminology | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $93,580 | -0.7% |
| Forensic Science | Forensic Science Technicians | $67,440 | +12.8% |
| Homeland Security | Information Security Analysts | $124,910 | +28.5% |
| Law Enforcement | Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers | $76,290 | +3.1% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
Next Steps
- Compare lab and field roles in the criminal justice salary guide.
- Find programs at accredited online colleges.
- Interested in digital evidence and cybercrime? Compare cybersecurity programs.
Data verified: June 7, 2026. Salary, employment, and tuition figures on this page are sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS May 2025; Employment Projections 2024–2034) and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (2023 cohort). The source agency and data year are cited inline with every statistic.