Based on an assessment of the top 171 accredited colleges and universities in the nation, Intelligent.com has released a ranking of the top 38 master’s in forensic science degree programs for 2021.
“We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. Our top picks for the best Master’s in Forensic Science Degree program are affordable, respected and flexible,” explains Intelligent.com’s website.
According to the site, the 2021 rankings are calculated through a unique scoring system that includes student engagement, potential return on investment and third-party evaluations. The methodology employed uses an algorithm that collects and analyzes multiple rankings into one score to easily compare each school.
While each program received a score from 0 to 100, Intelligent.com also revealed the best attribute for each university/college on the final list of 38.
By score only, the top five programs are:
- Stevenson University (Maryland)
- La Salle University (Pennsylvania)
- Florida International University
- University of Central Florida
- University of New Haven (Connecticut)
While Stevenson was chosen as the overall top program, La Salle was named the best online program, with Florida International as the best on-campus program. University of Central Florida was chosen as the best public research university, while the University of New Haven was named best private university.
You can view the full list of 38 universities/colleges here. In the meantime, let’s take a look at a few of the programs ranked as “best of” when it comes to forensic sub-disciplines.
9. Marshall University (West Virginia)- Best Digital Forensics focus
14. Michigan State University- Best Forensic Anthropology program
16. Arcadia University (Pennsylvania)- Best Toxicology focus
18. Boston University- Best Forensic Biology program
29. Bowling Green State University (Ohio)- Best Forensic Chemistry focus
31. Carlow University (Pennsylvania)- Best Fraud Investigation program
33. Drexel University (Pennsylvania)- Best Molecular Biology focus
36. Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine- Best Forensic Medicine program
37. Texas Tech University- Best Forensic Investigation focus
Other important program attributes to consider:
10. Oklahoma State University- Most Affordable
23. Towson University (Maryland)- Best Job Placement Rate
27. University of Southern Mississippi- Best Research Opportunities
According to Intelligent.com, the forensic science field is expected to grow 14% by 2029, which is much faster than average.
“Students who pursue any one of these programs can expect to gain employment much quicker in comparison to candidates without a degree. In addition to accessibility and cost, the steady job growth in this market is one of the many reasons [we] researched and ranked the Top Master's in Forensic Science Degree Programs,” Intelligent.com said in a press release.