Forensic scientists work with police and private investigators to collect and analyze evidence like fingerprints, tire marks, or shoe prints. Aspiring forensic scientists should note that it’s typical to pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related science field before applying to professional roles that require on-the-job training.
The New York State Police Department is one of the largest employers of forensic scientists statewide, and they provide a range of forensic science positions for graduates interested in joining the police department and making a difference in their community.
Students can earn their degree in forensic science in-person or online, though programs usually require in-person lab time and field research. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports over 1,000 forensic scientist positions statewide with salaries that can reach almost $70,000 annually.
Syracuse University offers undergraduates the opportunity to enroll in their forensic science program, which is the first step for students interested in a career in criminal justice. It is common for students to take classes in chemistry and physics as an introduction to the broader field of forensic science. Syracuse offers a four-year path with opportunities to apply early to positions made available within their alumni network.
CUNY’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice program provides a foundation for undergraduate students that want to become involved in the justice system at multiple levels. Students interested in exploring this track learn skills like how to acquire and document evidence, and how to photograph a crime scene. Undergraduates at John Jay are required to complete an on or off-campus internship during their junior year, and complete calculus to graduate in four years.
Hofstra University offers a bachelor’s degree in forensic science for students in Long Island that have an interest in crime scene investigation. Courses in this program include a combination of chemistry, physics, and eye-witness testimony, and students are recommended to declare their forensic science major before their junior year to complete the program before graduation. Anyone considering the school should note that Hofstra has a large network locally to assist recent graduates in post-graduation job placement.
Hilbert College offers 5 Forensic Science degree programs. It's a very small, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large suburb. In 2022, 66 Forensic Science students graduated with students earning 66 Bachelor's degrees.
Excelsior University offers 4 Forensic Science degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 41 Forensic Science students graduated with students earning 41 Master's degrees.
SUNY Buffalo State University offers 2 Forensic Science degree programs. It's a medium sized, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 15 Forensic Science students graduated with students earning 13 Bachelor's degrees, and 2 Master's degrees.
The College of Saint Rose offers 3 Forensic Science degree programs. It's a small, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 13 Forensic Science students graduated with students earning 13 Bachelor's degrees.
CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College offers 1 Forensic Science degree programs. It's a large, public, two-year college in a large city. In 2022, 20 Forensic Science students graduated with students earning 20 Associate's degrees.
Long Island University offers 1 Forensic Science degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large suburb. In 2022, 8 Forensic Science students graduated with students earning 8 Bachelor's degrees.
Erie Community College offers 1 Forensic Science degree programs. It's a medium sized, public, two-year college in a large city. In 2022, 7 Forensic Science students graduated with students earning 7 Certificates.
School | Average Tuition | Student Teacher Ratio | Enrolled Students | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Syracuse University Syracuse, NY | 19 : 1 | 22,698 | ||
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice New York, NY | 34 : 1 | 13,921 | ||
Hofstra University Hempstead, NY | 21 : 1 | 10,238 | ||
Utica University Utica, NY | 22 : 1 | 3,861 | ||
Farmingdale State College Farmingdale, NY | 34 : 1 | 9,314 |