Forensics Science Colleges in Kansas

During his career, Dr. Michael Baden has had the opportunity to review cases and evidence related to more than 3,000 homicides, drug deaths, and suicides. This includes the passing of people such as John F. Kennedy, David Carradine, and even Dr. Martin Luther King. Of course, not everyone develops such a high-profile forensic science career, but Baden’s experiences are illustrative of the kinds of opportunities that could develop from an interest and education in the field.

A bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences and a master’s degree in forensic science are often needed to enter the field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2024). Of course, nothing is ever set in stone and some graduates may be able to find an entry-level position with just a bachelor’s degree in forensic science. Once employed, new forensic science technicians could then work on a master’s degree if desired, and maybe even find an employer to cover or partially cover the costs of this continued education. Whatever any individual chooses, it’s important to know that forensic science training is essential to assessing evidence in the lab and that is why so many forensic science degrees focus heavily on science learning, particularly in biology and chemistry.

A career as a crime scene investigator could be another forensic science option. Most people in this field complete a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, but may also be able to train for the job by completing a law enforcement academy. In an academy, students can learn about how to become a police officer or sheriff’s deputy and gain crime scene investigation (CSI) skills as part of their training or learn later through career and agency opportunities on the job.

While lab work and crime scene work are two different forensic science paths, at times the individuals in these fields may have the opportunity to collaborate on cases together. In Kansas (KS), students and graduates who want to pursue work in the field of forensic science will find plenty of opportunities to learn and advance their careers in this fascinating field. Perhaps one Jayhawk will even become the next Michael Baden.

Read below to learn about degree programs, certifications, and the job outlook for forensic scientists in Kansas.

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How to Become a Forensic Scientist in the Sunflower State

Usually, a bachelor’s degree is required to compete for entry-level employment in the forensic science field, but a master’s can be advantageous. In a bachelor’s degree program, students are introduced to many of the sciences and can heavily study both biology and chemistry. Forensic science students can expand their knowledge in a master’s program or pursue more nuanced studies. Below is one of the most common paths that people follow when pursuing a forensic science education:

Step 1: Complete a bachelor’s degree (four years)

A bachelor’s degree can take four years to complete. Students can pursue this undergraduate degree in biology or chemistry or find a program that focuses on forensic science. A forensic science degree can introduce you to topics such as trace evidence, latent prints, physical evidence, toxicology, and questioned documents. Career One Stop, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor shows that 35 percent of all forensic science technicians in the U.S. have a bachelor’s degree.

Step 2: Work on a master’s degree (two years)

One reason to continue your education is that those with a master’s degree have some of the best job opportunities, according to the BLS. On top of that, advanced degrees are required to be able to work in some fields, according to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS). Further, Career One Stop shows that 11 percent of all forensic science technicians in the U.S. have a master’s degree.

Step 3: Seek certification from a national organization (timeline varies)

Although certification is not required to practice in the field, some employers may want to see their employees working toward certification or already in possession of it. There are currently nine organizations accredited by the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB), and the prerequisites to join each vary but typically involve an application and a test of competence. Please note that some of these certifications require graduate coursework.

Step 4: Top it off with a doctoral degree (timeline varies)

A PhD or other terminal degree is not necessary to enter the forensic science field but could be helpful to entering some fields, such as forensic pathology, or taking high-level positions, such as heading a crime lab or an academic program at a university. While only 3 percent of those in the field have a PhD or professional degree in forensic science, the dedication to this type of academic work can put certain positions within reach.

Following these steps, aspiring forensic science techs in Kansas may seek jobs in various contexts, such as psychiatric hospitals, police crime labs, and government at all levels, to name a few.

The AAFS also lists a variety of characteristics that are important to becoming a forensic scientist. These include:

Having curiosity, integrity, and the ability to be unbiased
Having solid speaking skills, as well as note-taking and observation skills
Possessing writing skills to be able to write scientific reports

In all, it could take four or more years in Kansas to be able to work as a forensic scientist. However, it is up to the individual to decide if they want to pursue forensic science beyond four years and complete either a master’s degree or even a PhD, which could add multiple years to their education.

How to Become a Crime Scene Investigator in Kansas

Crime scene investigation (CSI) is a different field of forensic science that may require less training than is needed to be able to work in a lab. Much of the work is done in the field, although investigators may consult with lab professionals. Various degrees and certificates are available in CSI, and students may want to complete a more advanced education once they have obtained entry-level work. Some options include:

Option 1: Work on a certificate or associate degree.

It may be hard to believe, but it is possible to start off a CSI education by working on a one-year certificate or a two-year associate degree. Both a certificate and an associate’s degree may cover a broad range of fundamentals varying from crime scene safety to fingerprint development and can be important in providing the building blocks for graduates to continue their education later on.

Option 2: Complete a bachelor’s degree.

A bachelor’s degree in CSI typically takes four years to complete and provides many foundational elements, just like an associate’s degree. However, a bachelor of science (BS) or bachelor of arts (BA) often focuses even more on the sciences and provides elective options. Students may find many of these degrees actually offered in criminal justice with the more niche skills available through specializations such as crime scene investigation or crime scene technology.

Option 3: Go through a police academy.

Often, adults receive CSI training by completing a police academy and then learning on the job. As they are promoted or change positions within a law enforcement agency, investigators may have the opportunity to become more involved in CSI or to complete training specific to the field. Continuing education can almost always be beneficial whether it is completed on the job or separately at an academic institution.

As with forensic science training for the lab, certification can also be useful in the CSI field, particularly for showing potential employers that an applicant has developed critical skills. Organizations to consider seeking CSI certification through include the International Association for Identification (IAI) and the International Crime Scene Investigators Association (ICSIA), both of which offer a variety of certifications.

Strong Demand for Forensic Scientists in Kansas and Salary Data

There is excellent news for aspiring forensics professionals in KS: forensic science is a field on the rise. As proof of point, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024) projects that openings for forensic science technicians nationwide will increase 13 percent between 2022 and 2032, much faster than the growth rate expected for all occupations during that time period (3 percent). This expected addition of 2,300 positions nationally is only one career possibility for people trained in forensic science.

The outlook is even brighter for residents of KS. Projections Central (2024) found that demand for forensic science technicians in Kansas specifically is expected to grow 13.6 percent between 2022 and 2032.

The largest cities in Kansas include Wichita, Overland Park, and Kansas City. Although the overall population of Kansas is just 2.9 million, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, crime can occur anywhere and is not dependent on population. The Kansas City Bureau of Investigation (KBI) could be just one place to look for a job after completing forensic science or CSI training. The KBI includes a biology section, chemistry section, latent print section, and evidence control center, all with the mission of providing investigative and lab services within the state. Other organizations that may have employment opportunities include the:

Keep in mind that many forensic science technicians and CSIs find employment with governmental agencies. In fact, 86 percent of forensic science technicians are employed by local or state governments (BLS 2024). They often work for coroner offices, crime laboratories, morgues, and police departments, reports the BLS. The AAFS additionally reports that forensic scientists may be employed for international organizations, private labs, hospitals, and universities, as well as do consulting.

In addition to a strong occupational outlook, Kansas boasts salaries that are higher than the national average. According to the Bureau for Labor Statistics (May 2023), the 17,520 forensic science technicians across the nation earned an average annual salary of $71,540. In comparison, the 220 forensic science technicians working in Kansas earned $69,920 per year. While the KS mean salary is not as high as the nationwide average for forensic science technicians, it still beats the statewide average for all occupations combined.

In more detailed terms, here is a breakdown of the salary percentiles among all forensic science technicians in the country compared with those in KS (BLS May 2023):

	United States	Kansas
Number of Forensic Science Technicians Employed	17,520	220
Annual Mean Wage	$71,540	$69,920
10th percentile	$41,410	$47,760
25th percentile	$50,480	$54,600
50th percentile	$64,940	$64,940
75th percentile	$84,720	$82,870
90th percentile	$107,490	$97,190

The national figures were slightly different according to another source of data, PayScale (August 2024), which relies on self-reported salaries. Among the forensic science techs reporting their annual salaries, Payscale found these percentiles for the US:

10th percentile: $30,000
50th percentile (median): $55,654
90th percentile: $73,000

When reviewing any state or local salary data, it is important to consider the cost of living in that area. For instance, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC 2024), Kansas had the 3rd lowest cost of living, making it more affordable than the majority of states. In other words, a dollar will go much further in Kansas than in virtually any other state.

Featured Forensic Science Schools in Kansas

There are a few different forensic science programs offered in Kansas, but none are specifically accredited through the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), the accrediting branch of the AAFS. Some employers may prefer this accreditation, but the truth is that a vast majority of schools do not have FEPAC-accreditation and that does not indicate that the programs are subpar. Rather, many institutions have yet to pursue FEPAC accreditation status and instead rely on institutional accreditation, as detailed a bit further down in this article. That said, listed below are several different campus-based forensic science programs available in the Sunshine State:

Wichita State University

Wichita State University offers a bachelor of science program in forensic science which is the only degree of its kind in Kansas. The program’s combination of applied learning and classroom instruction will prepare students for high-demand careers as forensic science technicians, where they will be able to assist in criminal investigations. The program offers concentration options in biology or chemistry.

This 120-credit program includes courses such as an introduction to forensic science and crime scene investigation; forensic serology; forensic identification of marijuana; forensic identification of narcotics and other illicit substances; forensic arson analysis; forensic toxicology alcohol; forensic anthropology; criminal law; and fingerprint development and analysis.

Wichita State University also offers a 120-credit bachelor’s degree in criminal justice as well as a 36-credit master of arts program in criminal justice.

Location: Wichita, KS
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years

Washburn University

Washburn University, in Topeka, offers five forensic science degree programs in digital forensics; forensic anthropology; forensic biology; forensic chemistry; and forensic investigation. Washburn’s partnership with the Kansas Bureau of Investigations (KBI) ensures that students will have opportunities for training on specialized techniques and instruments in a state-of-the-industry laboratory.

The bachelor of arts program in computer information science with a concentration in digital forensics comprises 120 credits and includes courses such as digital forensics; introduction to cybersecurity; introduction to forensic sciences; and networked systems.

Notably, Washburn University is one of only two institutions in the US where students can earn a bachelor of science in anthropology with a concentration in forensic science. This 120-credit program includes courses such as forensic archaeology; human skeletal biology and laboratory methods; biological anthropology; cultural anthropology; and case studies in forensic anthropology.

Washburn University’s bachelor of science program in forensic biology includes courses such as introduction to forensic science; criminal procedure & evidence; advanced forensic investigation; applied forensic investigations; statistics for biologists; and general organismal biology.

Washburn University offers a bachelor of science program in forensic chemistry which consists of 124 credits. The curriculum includes courses such as introduction to forensic investigations; advanced forensic chemistry; advanced forensic investigations; applied forensic investigations; and forensic molecular biology, among others.

Finally, the bachelor of criminal justice program in forensic investigations offers a mix of online as well as on-campus courses. Courses in this 120-credit program utilize mock crime scenes and focus on hands-on aspects of crime scene training, like mapping and photography, that get students to use technology and put the tools in their hands. This program includes courses such as crime & justice in America; criminal justice communications; principles of investigation; introduction to bloodstain pattern; fire investigation & prevention; forensic psychology and criminal profiling; and homicide investigations.

Location: Topeka, KS
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Four years

Emporia State University

Emporia State University, in Emporia, provides a master’s of science (MS) degree in forensic science that requires completion of 40 graduate credits as well as research. The program offers concentration options in chemistry, biology, or criminalistics.

The MSFS program in criminalistics includes courses such as forensic microscopy; biological and physical evidence; ethics and professionalism in forensic science; molecular techniques for forensic science; and a forensic science seminar.

The MSFS program in chemistry includes courses such as biological and physical evidence; toxicology; pharmacology; and forensic microscopy laboratory, among others.

The MSFS program in biology includes courses such as molecular techniques for forensic science; communication in the sciences; biological and physical evidence; forensic microscopy laboratory; a graduate research seminar; and a forensic science seminar.

Location: Emporia, KS
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

Northwest Kansas Technical College

Northwest Kansas Technical College offers an associate of applied science degree in crime scene investigation. Utilizing modern methods used in the laboratory and field for forensic identification, this program prepares students with competencies that focus on the fundamentals of law enforcement techniques, interrogation, and proper evidence handling.

Offering a combination of forensic lab theories, practical applications, and criminal investigation, this program will help students develop the necessary skills for employment.

This 66 to 70-credit program’ curriculum includes courses such as introduction to forensic science; rules of evidence; technical crime scene documentation; professional responsibility in criminal justice; criminal law; crime scene photography; criminalistics: physical evidence; criminalistics: biological evidence; and introduction to cyber investigation.

Location: Goodland, KS
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two years

It is important to remember that a bachelor’s degree in forensic science is not the only point of entry into the field. Students who are unable to find a suitable program may instead choose to complete an undergraduate degree in biology or chemistry and follow that with a master’s degree in forensic science, like at Emporia State University, or through an online program.

Hybrid & Online Forensic Science Programs in Kansas

Hybrid and online learning can be another choice when it comes to obtaining a forensic science education. Often, many of the specific forensic science programs available online are at the master’s level just because so much hands-on laboratory work is needed for an undergraduate degree. Still, the options available online are diverse and some of these include:

Southwestern College

Southwestern College offers an online undergraduate certificate in cybercrime investigation providing students with a bridge between the growing business and law enforcement challenges of cybercrime and criminal justice foundational knowledge.

Graduates will learn about the societal impact and investigative challenges of cybercrime, legal and regulatory issues, criminal investigative methods, and how threats manifest themselves across cyberspace. Notably, this program is aligned with academic and industry-wide technical competencies illustrated in the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS’s) Enterprise Security Model.

This 15-credit program includes courses such as principles of information security; criminal investigations; cybercrime; enterprise forensics; and enterprise security.

Southwestern College also offers an online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice that comprises 124 credits. Courses in this major include introduction to criminal justice; careers and perspectives in criminal justice; criminology; criminal law & procedure; juvenile justice systems; correctional theory and practice; criminal investigations; and ethics and diversity in criminal justice.

Location: Winfield, KS
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: Eight months

Purdue Global

Purdue Global offers a crime scene technician certification online that includes 41 credits and covers courses in forensic chemistry and trace evidence analysis; crime scene investigation; forensic fingerprint analysis; criminal investigation; and homeland security. This undergraduate certificate provides students with a foundational understanding of the analytical procedures used by crime scene technicians and the collection, preservation, and documentation processes employed to handle evidence.

In addition, Purdue offers several more programs related to forensic science in an online format. One such program is an online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice offering seven concentration options in law enforcement, juvenile justice, homeland security, forensic psychology, crime scene investigation, business foundations, and socially responsible leadership.

Other programs offered by Purdue Global include a master of science program in criminal justice, a master of science program in homeland security and emergency management, a management and supervision certificate in criminal justice, an associate of applied science degree in criminal justice, and a flexible excel-track bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Location: West Lafayette, IN
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Expected Time to Completion: One to four years

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online bachelor of arts degree in psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology. This program focuses on research, overall psychology knowledge, critical thinking skills, and working within the legal system.

Made up of 120 credits, the program includes courses such as forensic psychology; criminal psychology; sociology of crime and violence; and sociology of deviant behavior.

Southern New Hampshire University also offers an online master of science program in psychology degree with a concentration in forensic psychology that comprises 36 credits. This program includes courses such as psychology in the courtroom; forensic psychology; assessment for forensic psychology; and intersection of law and psychology.

Notably, Southern New Hampshire University also offers online criminal justice degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, associate, as well as certificate levels.

Location: Manchester, NH
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Expected Time to Completion: One to four years

University of Florida

The University of Florida (UF) provides an online master of science degree in forensic science in four tracks: forensic science, forensic toxicology, forensic drug chemistry, and forensic DNA & serology.

This master of science degree comprises 32 credits and includes courses such as biological evidence and serology; principles of forensic science; forensic toxicology; applied statistics for data analysis; biosecurity and microbial forensics; forensic toxicology, and crime scene investigation.

Location: Gainesville, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years

In addition to these, several online colleges are offering forensic science and crime scene investigation programs, in most cases nationally.

Students interested in more online offerings can look to the AAFS website to find additional undergraduate, and graduate degrees and certificate programs. Not all programs AAFS lists are forensic science-specific, with some focusing on criminal justice in general.

Program Accreditation & Certification

While graduating from a FEPAC-accredited program may prove valuable when it comes to employment, it is not always necessary. Accreditation from a regional institution is also an indicator that your school of choice has been accredited by a third-party organization. In Kansas and nearby states, regional accreditation is given through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

However, accreditation through FEPAC may bring more value to your degree since FEPAC has a mission based upon: “enhancing the quality of forensic science education through a formal evaluation and accreditation system for college-level academic programs that lead to a baccalaureate or graduate degree.”

Additionally, many organizations offer forensic science and CSI certification or membership that can attest to an individual’s skills and knowledge. There is an abundance of organizations offering national professional certification. The Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB) has recognized nine agencies.

These include:

American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA)
American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE)
American Board of Forensic Odontology (ABFO)
American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT)
American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI)
Board of Forensic Document Examiners (BFDE)
International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI)
International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS)
International Board of Forensic Engineering Sciences (IBFES)

Those who wish to have detailed information on credentialing within each subfield of forensics can visit our programs or careers page.

Kansas Forensics Programs

School Name	City	Forensic Science	Digital Forensics	Total Forensics Grads (2016-2017)
Northwest Kansas Technical College	Goodland	x		15
Emporia State University	Emporia	x		10
Southwestern College	Winfield		x	3

School "total forensics grads" data provided by IPEDS (2018) for the 2016-2017 school year, and includes all certificates and degrees awarded for the following programs: Criminalistics and Criminal Science, Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Science and Technology, Forensic Psychology, Cyber/Computer Forensics, and Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation.

Nearby States

Writer

Farheen Gani

Farheen Gani writes about forensics schools across the United States, and has covered topics such as forensic chemistry and forensic science and biochemistry since 2018. She writes about healthcare, technology, education, and marketing. Her work has appeared on websites such as Tech in Asia and Foundr, as well as top SaaS blogs such as Zapier and InVision. You can connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter (@FarheenGani).