What Are the Core Courses of a Forensics Associate Degree Program?
An Associate of Applied Science in Forensics or an Associate of Science in Forensics is a degree option available at 2-year colleges and technical schools. Students study basics in biology, criminal justice, forensic science and chemistry. Many courses from a 2-year A.A.S. or A.S. program will count toward a 4-year degree program.
Forensics Associate's Degree Programs
An associate's degree program in forensics is a great way to test the waters of the field. Students may enroll in an A.A.S. or A.S. degree program in forensics or forensic science. Many associate's degree programs in the field will give students an overview of the broad concepts pertaining to forensics. Students may also have the opportunity to move their 2-year degree program's credits over to a 4-year degree program at another college once the associate's degree in forensics is complete.
Important Facts About Forensics Associate Degrees
| Prerequisites | High School Diploma or GED Equivalent |
| Degree Fields | Forensic Science; Forensic Investigation |
| Online Availability | Yes |
| Continuing Education | Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science |
| Median Salary (2021) | $61,930 (for forensic science technicians) |
| Job Growth (2021-2031) | 11% (for forensic science technicians) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Forensics Associate's Degree Program: Core Courses
The idea behind a forensics associate's degree program is to give students an overview of the field. Students will study concepts in psychology, biology, criminal justice, forensic science and chemistry. All of these courses play pertinent roles in the field of forensics.
Forensics Skills Developed
Moving through a forensics degree program gives students the opportunity to develop hands-on skills in scientific analysis and testing. Students learn through DNA, blood and computer data investigation. Analytical skills are crucial in a forensics career and are developed during an associate's degree program. Students will also develop skills in:
- Evidence identification
- Test interpretation
- Accident reconstruction
- Computer forensics programs and tools
Forensics Career Options and Outlook
The career outlook for those interested in forensics looks best for those who pursue additional education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Forensics or a Master of Science in Forensic Science. Careers range from positions in the non-medical area, such as forensic chemists and geologists, to areas with more medical emphasis, such as a medical examiner. Other positions in the forensics industry include:
- Fingerprint expert
- Forensic psychologist
- Forensic pathologist
- Crime scene photographer
- Forensic psychiatrist