10 Best Community Colleges That Offer Forensic Science Programs

Pursuing an education in forensic science at your local community college is an affordable way to begin a career in crime-scene investigation and evidence analysis. We've uncovered the best community college forensic science programs, each of which provides hands-on training, strong transfer pathways to four-year universities, and practical skills valued by employers.

Whether you want to enter the workforce quickly or continue your education, community colleges offer excellent opportunities. Keep reading to discover the best schools with forensic science programs nationwide.

Do Community Colleges Offer Forensic Science Programs?

Yes, you can find many forensic science community colleges near you with dedicated programs. Community colleges across the U.S. provide associate degrees and certificates in forensic science, often featuring hands-on lab work, crime-scene training, and strong transfer pathways to four-year institutions. These programs are designed to prepare students for careers in forensic investigation or seamless continuation into advanced studies.

What Type of Forensic Science Community College Programs Are Available?

Students interested in forensic science can find a range of options at community colleges, from short certificates to full associate degrees. These programs are designed to provide foundational skills while supporting transfer pathways to bachelor's programs.

• Associate of Science (AS) in Forensic Science: This degree offers a broad foundation in biology, chemistry, and criminal justice, preparing students for entry-level roles or transfer to four-year universities.
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Forensic Technology: Some community colleges offer an AAS, which focuses on practical, career-ready skills like crime-scene investigation, evidence collection, and laboratory analysis.
• Certificate Programs: These short-term credentials emphasize specialized areas such as forensic photography, criminalistics, or forensic psychology.

10 Best Community Colleges With Forensic Science Programs

If you're exploring community colleges that offer forensic science, you'll find many schools with affordable programs and clear transfer pathways.

1. Grossmont College

Grossmont College offers an Associate of Science in forensic technology that blends classroom instruction with practical training in crime scene investigation, evidence handling, and forensic photography. Students gain a strong foundation in criminal justice and scientific analysis, preparing them for careers in law enforcement or transfer to four-year programs.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,332
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) and Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

2. New River Community College

New River Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in forensic science, featuring lecture and lab training in crime-scene processing, latent evidence, ballistics, chromatography, and spectrophotometry. The college supports transfer opportunities to four-year forensic science programs and integrates modern crime lab techniques into its curriculum.

• Estimated tuition cost: $4,979
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. De Anza College

De Anza College's crime lab program offers hands-on training using bullet trajectory kits, forensic stereo microscopes, fingerprint fuming chambers, and evidence collection tools. Students learn key investigative techniques through classes in criminal investigation, forensic science, and evidence analysis, making De Anza a strong choice among community colleges that offer forensic science in California.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,571
• Accreditation: ACCJC and WASC

4. Catawba Valley Community College

The Associate of Applied Science in criminal justice with a focus on forensic science at Catawba Valley Community College offers coursework in evidence evaluation, fingerprint analysis, crime scene processing, and human testimony. The program prepares students for forensic support roles or further study in criminal justice disciplines.

• Estimated tuition cost: $2,427
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Tidewater Community College

At Tidewater Community College, students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in criminal justice can specialize in forensic science, engaging in coursework that covers crime scene investigation, DNA and firearm analysis, and evidence documentation. The college also offers a career studies certificate in forensic science for more focused training.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,588
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. Fayetteville Technical Community College

Students in this criminal justice technology program, which offers a forensic science concentration, explore evidence collection, crime scene procedures, fingerprinting, and forensic laboratory techniques. The curriculum connects physical and biomedical sciences with criminal justice practices, helping learners build practical skills for immediate employment or prepare for transfer into advanced forensic or criminal justice studies.

• Estimated tuition cost: $2,628
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. East Los Angeles College

The forensic crime scene investigation program offers both an Associate of Science degree and a certificate. It emphasizes crime scene processing, fingerprint analysis, evidence recovery, and Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) operation. The program uses advanced tools to prepare students for forensic roles or university transfer, especially within California's public system.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,238
• Accreditation: ACCJC and WASC

8. Prince George's Community College

This Associate of Science in forensic science blends physical science, criminal investigation, and legal studies with hands-on training in evidence collection, processing, and analysis. This 60-credit transfer program refines investigative techniques, critical thinking, and communication skills, making it an ideal foundation for advancing to a bachelor's degree or pursuing a career in forensic fields.

• Estimated tuition cost: $4,034
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

9. Genesee Community College

This criminal justice program with a concentration in forensics equips students with practical knowledge of crime scene investigation and lab procedures, including fingerprinting, toxicology, and serology. Its solid science focus builds strong analytical skills and supports smooth transfer to four-year State University of New York (SUNY) institutions.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,900
• Accreditation: MSCHE

10. Central Maine Community College

This Associate in Applied Science in forensic science emphasizes areas like crime scene photography, fingerprint and trace evidence collection, and blood and fiber analysis. The curriculum also includes chemistry and biology to build strong investigative foundations, while offering clear transfer pathways to the University of Southern Maine.

• Estimated tuition cost: $4,140
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

How We Rank Schools

We carefully evaluate each college to ensure students can make informed choices about forensic science education.

• Accreditation: We only include schools recognized by respected accrediting agencies to confirm quality and academic credibility.
• Affordability: Tuition rates are compared to highlight colleges that provide strong programs at accessible costs.
• Program reputation: Student outcomes, faculty expertise, and transfer pathways help determine which programs stand out in the field.

FAQs About Community Colleges for Forensic Science Programs

Students exploring forensic science programs at community colleges often have general questions. The following FAQs provide helpful guidance and clarity.

How Much Does a Forensic Science Degree Cost at a Community College?

According to the U.S. Department of Education, average tuition and fees at community colleges ran around $3,307 for in-district students, plus $671 in required fees in the 2021 to 2022 academic year. Forensic science associate programs typically fall within this cost range, though specialized lab fees or supplies may add a few hundred dollars more, depending on the institution.

Can I Go To Community College for Forensic Science?

Yes, you can pursue forensic science at community colleges. Many schools offer associate degrees or certificates that introduce crime scene investigation, evidence analysis, and criminal justice fundamentals. These programs provide affordable pathways to entry-level forensic careers or seamless transfer opportunities into four-year universities for students seeking bachelor's degrees in forensic science or related fields.

Are Forensic Degrees Worth It?

Forensic science degrees can be highly worthwhile for students passionate about criminal justice, investigation, and scientific analysis. They open doors to careers in law enforcement, crime laboratories, and forensic research, while also serving as strong preparation for advanced study. With growing demand for skilled forensic professionals, these programs often provide meaningful career opportunities and solid returns.

What Major Is Best for Forensics?

The best major for forensics often combines science and criminal justice. Many students pursue forensic science, chemistry, or biology to gain strong laboratory and analytical skills. Others choose criminal justice programs with forensic concentrations. Community colleges frequently provide these pathways, helping students build a foundation for transfer or direct career entry in forensic fields.

Which Job in Forensics Pays the Most?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians earn a median annual wage of $67,440, with the top 10% earning more than $110,710.

Among forensic careers, the highest-paid positions are often federal government roles, where salaries typically exceed those in local or state agencies. Specialized leadership or laboratory management positions within federal organizations provide the greatest earning potential for forensic professionals.

Discover More Forensic Science Degrees

Exploring forensic science at community colleges can open doors to exciting careers. Continue researching top programs and transfer options at Learn.org.