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Forensics Colleges & Programs in Ohio
For Buckeye State residents interested in forensic science, crime scene investigation (CSI), and related disciplines, there are several quality forensics colleges in Ohio (OH). After graduating from a program, these professionals typically help solve crimes by collecting evidence from crime scenes; performing laboratory analyses; collaborating with various experts in metallurgy; and even testifying in court.
Ohio offers various educational programs, including flexible online options, for those seeking a career in science-based law enforcement. To become a forensic scientist, candidates typically pursue a bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences. Others pursue careers as crime scene investigators and may get their careers started in a police academy, pursuing more education while working in the field.
There are several subfields in this career which may take specialized training, experience, and even professional certification to pursue, including serology, toxicology, DNA analysis, trace analysis, fingerprints, ballistics, document examination, digital evidence, tool marks, latent evidence processing, and footwear impressions.
While many maintain regular business hours, it’s important to note that due to the nature of evidence collection and analysis, these professionals may be called upon to work on weekends, evenings, and even holidays as needed.
To learn about degree programs, certifications, and the job outlook for forensic scientists in Ohio, read below.
| Featured CSI & Forensic Science Programs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Forensic Science (BS) | Visit Site |
| Arizona State University | Forensic Science (PSM) | Visit Site |
| Grand Canyon University | MS - Forensic Science | Visit Site |
| Purdue Global | BSCJ - Crime Scene Investigation | Visit Site |
| Walden University | BSCJ - Crime and Criminal Investigation | Visit Site |
| Stevenson University Online | Forensic Investigation Grad Certificate | Visit Site |
| Stevenson University Online | Online Master of Forensic Science (MFS) | Visit Site |
| Stevenson University Online | Online Master's in Crime Scene Investigation | Visit Site |
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How to Become a Forensic Scientist in Ohio
Becoming a forensic scientist in Ohio can take many educational and experiential paths. A four-year college degree is a typical requirement; however, there are numerous two-year degree and certificate programs to get started. Here is one of the most common pathways to pursuing a career in forensic science:
Step 1: Graduate from high school (four years)
Candidates for forensic science positions typically have strong natural sciences and mathematics backgrounds, including classes in chemistry, physics, biology, and calculus. These classes prepare students for the laboratory work and detail-oriented scientific analyses expected in this position.
Step 2: Pursue a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, or physics (four years)
Forensic scientists in Ohio also typically take courses in statistics, writing, and mathematics. While crime scene investigators and forensic science technicians may work with a high school degree and relevant experience, forensic scientists in Ohio typically need a bachelor’s degree to work in a lab.
According to Career One Stop, which the U.S. Department of Labor sponsors, 35 percent of forensic scientists reported having a bachelor’s degree, 14 percent had associate degrees, and 20 percent had some college. The BLS (2024) notes that there may be exceptions for these basic educational requirements, especially in rural areas where the demand for forensic scientists is high.
Step 3: Seek certification from a national organization (timeline varies)
Although certification is not required to practice forensic science in Ohio, several organizations offer certification, particularly for specific sub-disciplines.
The most common certifying organizations include the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) and the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). In addition, the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB) provides a comprehensive list of accredited professional certification bodies, many of which offer membership or certification benefits, including region-specific chapters and networking.
Step 4: Pursue a master’s degree in forensic science (two years)
Those interested in specializing or enhancing their skills may choose to pursue a post-baccalaureate degree. CareerOneStop reports that 14 percent of forensic scientists have these more advanced degrees (e.g., master’s, professional, or doctoral).
In summary, aspiring forensic scientists in Ohio can expect to complete four to six years of postsecondary work and meet optional certification requirements. While registering as a forensic scientist is not required to work in Ohio, enhancing one’s credentials at various employing organizations may be desirable. By passing aptitude tests or fulfilling membership criteria in organizations such as the ABC, candidates may strengthen their candidacy for multiple jobs.
Also, forensic scientists can hone their skills in specific areas by taking electives such as toxicology, psychology, or physical anthropology. According to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), there are many specialized disciplines within forensic science, including the following:
- Anthropology
- Criminalistics
- Digital & Multimedia Sciences
- Engineering Sciences
- General
- Jurisprudence
- Odontology
- Pathology/Biology
- Psychiatry & Behavioral Science
- Questioned Documents
- Toxicology
- Forensic Nursing Science
Taking electives in any subject listed above may help forensic scientists secure jobs with more specific skill requirements. For more information, check out how to become a forensic scientist.
How to Become a Crime Scene Investigator in Ohio
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Laboratory Division reported over 200,000 pieces of evidence are processed annually in crime scene investigations. To become a crime scene investigator in Ohio, candidates typically do the following:
Step 1: Graduate from high school (four years)
Crime scene investigators in Ohio typically need at least a high school degree to join this field.
Step 2: Complete a program at a police academy (timeline varies)
Crime scene investigators in Ohio complete a program through the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA). This may be sufficient for employment in more rural agencies if combined with years of relevant work experience. Program length varies regionally, but most police academy programs last approximately six to 12 months.
Step 3: Get an associate or bachelor’s degree in a field such as criminal justice, criminology, crime scene investigation, or forensic technology (two to four years)
Many crime scene investigators in Ohio opt to earn a degree to gain specific skills in their field. Some of the classes in these programs may include analytical chemistry, forensic science, and law enforcement. In addition, many educational programs are designed for working police officers to complete while working full-time.
Step 4: Pursue a certification (timeline varies)
Some crime scene investigators in Ohio choose to earn certification to bolster their credentials and earn higher salaries. While many organizations offer certifications, one of the most common in this line of work is the International Association for Identification (IAI).
Requirements for certification as a crime scene investigator include full-time employment, at least one year of experience, 48 hours of crime scene certification board-approved courses, two letters of endorsement, an application fee, and passing a written test with a score of at least 75 percent. This certification is valid for five years. Other certifying agencies include the International Crime Scene Investigators Association (ICSIA).
Therefore, crime scene investigators in Ohio can expect to complete six months to four years of post-secondary work in addition to optional certification requirements. Again, while certification by agencies such as the ICSIA is not a requirement in Ohio, it may be desirable to show a candidate’s aptitude when applying for jobs.
Before seeking a CSI program or a certification, candidates in Ohio should be sure to check the requirements of their intended place of employment. For more information, the www.forensicscolleges.com education blog features a detailed breakdown of how to become a crime scene investigator.
Occupational Demand and Salary Data for Forensics Professionals in Ohio
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) includes forensic scientists and CSIs under its “forensic science technician” categorization. According to the BLS (May 2023), 490 forensic science technicians are working in Ohio. The BLS (2024) projects that openings in this field will grow 13 percent between 2022 and 2032 nationwide, with a number of these openings in Ohio.
The outlook is slightly brighter for residents of Ohio. Projections Central (2024) found that demand for forensic science technicians in Ohio specifically is expected to grow 12.8 percent between 2022 and 2032.
Typically, graduates may find many jobs in forensic science in larger cities due to higher crime rates and a greater need for crime-solving teams.
For example, the Miami Valley Regional Crime Laboratory in Dayton, Ohio, employs forensic scientists to assist local law enforcement agencies. It is also the first crime lab in Ohio to be accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). This national accreditation may indicate the laboratory services’ integrity, consistency, impartiality, and quality. Other employing organizations for forensic science technicians in Ohio may include:
Forensic scientists and crime scene investigators in Ohio typically work in laboratories, police stations, classrooms, medical examiner offices, hospitals, morgues, or at crime scenes. There are also several positions available in federal, state, and local governments.
The Ohio Identification Officers Association may offer an additional sense of community with its annual training conference for those seeking professional support on a regional level.
As far as the salaries are concerned, forensic science is a relatively high-paying career in Ohio. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for forensic science technicians in the US is $71,540 annually (BLS May 2023). This is almost nine percent higher than the average salary for all occupations in the country at $65,470 (BLS May 2023). By comparison, forensic scientists in Ohio earn an average salary of $74,670 (BLS May 2023).
In more detailed terms, here is a breakdown of the salary percentiles among all forensic science technicians in the country compared with those in Ohio (BLS May 2023):
| United States | Ohio | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Forensic Science Technicians Employed | 17,520 | 490 |
| Annual Mean Wage | $71,540 | $74,670 |
| 10th percentile | $41,410 | $49,350 |
| 25th percentile | $50,480 | $60,340 |
| 50th percentile | $64,940 | $65,070 |
| 75th percentile | $84,720 | $98,800 |
| 90th percentile | $107,490 | $104,000 |
The national figures were slightly different according to another source of data, PayScale (July 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 considering earning potential, the cost of living is a key piece of the puzzle. Forensic science technicians in OH fared much better than people in this industry nationwide. What makes this salary point particularly interesting is the fact that Ohio is one of the cheaper states to live in across the country. The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC 2024) found that OH was the 23rd most affordable state.
Forensic Science Programs in Ohio
There are several top undergraduate forensic science programs in Ohio. After graduating from high school and completing typical prerequisites such as chemistry, mathematics, and biology, students in Ohio may be eligible to apply.
It’s worth noting that many educational institutions require that their candidates be of “strong moral character.” In the admissions process, several schools require background checks and reference letters to ensure students’ ethical behavior and suitability for the work required to complete forensic science degree programs.
Ashland University offers a bachelor of science in biology with a concentration in forensic biology. This concentration will give students a solid theoretical and practical biology and law enforcement background.
In the program’s first two years, students take foundational courses in mathematics, biology, and chemistry and focus on specialized courses such as molecular biology and criminal justice in the final two years of the program. This 120-credit program places graduates in positions with the FBI, Ohio Patrol, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and local forensic science laboratories.
- Location: Ashland, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Central Ohio Technical College
Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) offers a two-year degree program on-campus and online for aspiring forensic technicians, forensic technical assistants, crime scene investigators, crime scene examiners, and law enforcement officers. In addition, this 63-credit associate of applied science (AAS) program in criminal justice offers introductions to corrections, drugs in the criminal system, and introduction to sociology. COTC has campuses in Newark, Knox, Coshocton, and Pataskala.
Graduates from this program pursue careers as federal agents and criminal investigators. In addition, COTC has transfer agreements with Ohio University, Tiffin University, and the University of Cincinnati, allowing students to transfer their credits towards a bachelor’s degree at these institutions.
- Location: Newark, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
The College of Arts and Sciences at Ohio University in Athens offers a bachelor of science (BS) in forensic chemistry. It boasts one of the longest-standing programs of its kind in the country. It notes that the rigorous curriculum and quality instruction can prepare its graduates for employment in modern crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and other organizations, including the FDA, OSHA, and the EPA.
OU’s forensic chemistry BS program has earned accreditation from the prestigious Forensic Science Education Program Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) and is one of the very few programs in Ohio with this distinction.
As part of the program, students will delve into topics such as introduction to toxicology; basic biochemistry; forensic chemistry; criminalistics and criminal investigation for forensic chemists; chemistry and the law; criminal justice; foundations in forensic studies; and ethics and legal issues.
- Location: Athens, OH
- Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Program Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Tiffin University of Tiffin, Ohio, offers a 121-credit bachelor’s of criminal justice (BCJ) degree in criminalistics on-campus and online. Students in this program learn the principles of crime reconstruction and analysis of physical evidence. Identification techniques and evidence preservation are emphasized, and students learn through didactic and hands-on practical methodologies.
Made up of 121 credits, the program includes courses such as applied criminal investigation & criminalistics; criminology; forensic investigation of sex crimes; death investigations; introduction to forensic science; evidence processing; technology and crime; survey of computer forensics; and trial evidence. As part of the program, students must complete a supervised internship to get hands-on experience in evidence handling, instrumental analysis, and research design.
A unique feature of this program is police officer training offered through Terra State Community College, which gives students the hands-on experience required to work in law enforcement in Ohio. Passing a state-certified exam is necessary to become a sworn police officer in Ohio.
- Location: Tiffin, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green State University (BGSU) in Bowling Green offers several on-campus forensic science programs out of its Center for the Future of Forensic Science, including a bachelor of science (BS) or master of science (MS) in forensic science. The BS program allows students to choose from three specializations: forensic DNA analysis, forensic drug analysis, or forensic examination (including trace evidence and latent prints). Notably, both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees are accredited by the Forensic Science Educational Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).
The MS program prepares forensic scientists for leadership roles in laboratories and law enforcement settings. The school also offers professional training programs for working professionals in forensic science and crime scene investigation. Finally, the BGSU campus is home to an Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) crime laboratory and investigation facility.
- Location: Bowling Green, OH
- Accreditation: Forensic Science Educational Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two or four years
Defiance College offers a bachelor’s degree in forensic science bringing together the fields of biology, chemistry, medicine, criminal justice, and physics. Students in this program gain several skills including DNA fingerprinting, analyzing evidence from arsons for accelerants, trajectories for ballistics, presumptive tests for narcotics, the legal procedures for taking evidence to the court, and human anatomy for drawing evidence from remains.
Designed to provide students with a solid science background coupled with a foundation in legal concepts and criminal justice, this bachelor’s degree includes courses in biochemistry; molecular biology; genetics; introduction to criminal justice; criminal law; criminal investigation; criminal evidence and procedure; forensic science; and quantitative analysis.
- Location: Defiance, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Youngstown State University’s bachelor of science in applied science program with a forensic science major is housed in the Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences. This multidisciplinary program draws upon forensic science, criminal justice, chemical sciences, biological sciences, anthropology, and sociology. Students in this program will also have the option of choosing either the anthropology, biology, or chemistry track to enhance their degree.
Designed to provide students with theoretical and practical backgrounds in the legal, investigative, and scientific aspects of forensic science, this bachelor’s degree requires a 6-semester hour internship experience providing students with the opportunity to integrate academic studies with the daily operations of a forensic science-related facility.
Comprising 120 to 122 credits, the program includes courses such as the survey of forensic science; introduction to criminal justice; criminal courts; introduction to anthropology; forensic science: crime scene investigation; forensic science evidence analysis; special topics in forensic sciences; practice and ethics in forensic science; and genetics.
- Location: Youngstown, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
University of Northwestern Ohio
University of Northwestern Ohio offers an associate of applied business degree in information technology-digital forensics. Students in this digital forensics program gain real-world experience extracting data from digital media devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. Moreover, through the digital forensics lab, students will be able to test their abilities in realistic investigative scenarios.
Students in this program prepare case files for criminal incidents involving computers and learn proper documentation methods regarding extracted data case files. Graduates will be introduced to digital forensics hardware, including workstations and write-blocking devices in addition to other tools that are found in many digital forensic laboratories.
Sample some of the courses in the curriculum: white collar crime; cybercrime; intrusion detection and prevention; digital forensics & incident response; search & seizure of digital evidence; mobile device forensics; and ethics in information technology.
Notably, the University of Northwestern Ohio also offers a four-year forensic accounting program including courses that focus on fraud prevention and detection of illegal financial activity such as bribery, securities fraud, and embezzlement.
- Location: Lima, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years
Sinclair Community College offers several programs related to forensic science. These include a 60-credit associate of applied science degree in criminal justice with a focus on corrections, a 63-credit associate of applied science degree in criminal justice with a focus on law enforcement, a 62-credit associate of technical studies degree program in criminal justice, and a 61-credit associate of applied science degree in cyber investigation technology, and a 33 to 34-credit one-year technical certificate in cyber investigation.
The cyber investigation technology associate degree prepares students for careers in the areas of IT criminal investigation (which includes evidence procedures and computer forensics), managing networks and operating systems, and computer network protection. The curriculum includes courses such as introduction to computer forensics; constitutional law & evidentiary procedures; ethics & professionalism in criminal justice; computer crime; ethics & professionalism in criminal justice; and constitutional law & evidentiary procedures.
- Location: Dayton, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: One to two years
Washington State College of Ohio
Washington State College of Ohio offers an associate of technical studies degree in cyber security which is a combination of computer support technology and criminal investigation. This program prepares graduates for careers in cyber security, investigations, and computer network infrastructure & security where they will also learn to manage operating systems, IT criminal investigation, and networks.
The curriculum includes courses such as principles of statistics; operating system & computing fundamentals; introduction to cyber security; fundamentals of hacking & IT psychology; criminal evidence & protocol; ethical protocols of cyber security; criminal law; database management; and tactical perimeter defense in cyber security.
The Washington State College of Ohio also offers an associate of applied science degree in criminal justice that prepares students for a variety of careers in state, local, or federal law enforcement agencies. This program includes courses such as introduction to criminal justice; criminal evidence & procedures; criminal law; police operations; corrections in the criminal justice system; criminal investigation; juvenile justice procedures; and crisis and incident response.
- Location: Marietta, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
The University of Findlay offers a bachelor of science program in forensic biology that provides students with an ethical, scientific, and educational background needed to pursue careers such as forensic analysts of blood and body fluids, forensic DNA analysts, crime scene investigators, pattern analysts, death investigators, autopsy technicians, medical lab technician, and research scientists.
Moreover, this program prepares students for graduate studies in fields such as anthropology, medicine, physical therapy & health professions, natural sciences, and public health. The curriculum includes courses such as introduction to criminal justice; professional practices in criminal justice; forensic science; physical methods in forensic investigation; forensic biology; forensic chemistry; forensic evidence; forensic anthropology; immunology; and genetics.
The University of Findlay also offers a bachelor of science program in forensic chemistry, a bachelor of arts program in criminal justice, and a bachelor of arts program in criminal justice with a focus on white-collar crime and fraud investigation.
- Location: Findlay, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Zane State College offers an associate of applied science degree in criminal justice preparing students for careers in law enforcement and corrections, probation and parole, the courts, victim advocacy, criminology, and investigations.
The curriculum includes courses such as criminal law; introduction to criminal justice; defensive tactics; civil liabilities; defensive driving; investigations; corrections; evidence and criminal procedures; police operations; victimology; and criminology.
Zane State College also offers an associate of applied business program in cybersecurity as well as a cybersecurity technician certificate. The curriculum includes courses such as digital forensics; incident response and disaster recovery; cybersecurity foundations; and penetration testing.
- Location: Zanesville, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: One to two years
Ohio Northern University offers a forensic biology major where students will immerse themselves in sciences like physics, biology, math, forensics, and chemistry courses. Emphasizing hands-on learning, this program requires students to spend a lot of time in the lab and in the field.
This 120-credit program’s curriculum includes courses such as forensic biology; introduction to criminal justice; genetics; forensic entomology; forensic microscopy; forensic physical methods; forensic crime scene investigation; forensic computer analysis; criminology; forensic entomology; and forensics DNA analysis.
Ohio Northern University also offers a bachelor of science program in criminal justice with optional concentration options in investigative accounting or forensic science. The forensic science concentration includes courses such as crime scene investigation; introduction to criminal justice; criminal justice systems; criminology; data analysis; forensic biology; and chemistry for health sciences.
- Location: Ada, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Lorain County Community College
Lorain County Community College offers an associate of applied science degree in computer engineering technology with a focus on computer and digital forensics providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter a career in computer technology or digital forensics. The program focuses on topics such as forensic investigative techniques, computer networking, cyber-crime, and data recovery.
This program builds on Lorain County Community College’s one-year computer and digital forensics certificate. The curriculum of this 65-credit associate degree includes courses such as cyber-forensic cybercrime and the law; data collection analysis and forensic tools; network forensics and investigative techniques; cell phone and mobile device forensics; and a computer forensics and project management capstone.
The college also offers a Digital Forensics for Law Enforcement one-year certificate. Students in this program will gain a thorough cybercrime background and be prepared to work in forensic investigations of computers, digital devices, networks, and associated equipment. Graduates will gain hands-on training in data recovery tools, proper investigative practices, and evidence collection.
- Location: Elyria, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: One to two years
Cedarville University offers a bachelor of science program in forensic science preparing students to apply scientific methods to criminal investigations, allowing them to analyze evidence and interpret results with precision. The program’s interdisciplinary approach includes an internship at a crime lab, advanced coursework in the sciences, and substantial laboratory work.
This 128-credit bachelor’s degree includes courses such as introduction to criminal justice; criminal law; criminal evidence; criminal procedure; criminal investigation; advanced forensic chemistry; introduction to forensic science; and a forensic science capstone; and forensic science project.
Cedarville University also offers a bachelor of arts program in criminal justice that includes courses such as introduction to criminal justice; criminology; juvenile delinquency; corrections; criminal law; American judicial system; criminal procedure; homeland security; criminal investigation; and a criminal justice internship.
- Location: Cedarville, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Stark State College offers an associate of applied business program in forensic accounting. Students through this program will gain detailed knowledge about fraud, fraud detection, and fraud prevention while also building a solid foundation in accounting theory and other areas of business. The program focuses on designing internal control systems, monitoring compliance with those systems, and documentation of forensic evidence.
This 62 to 63-credit program includes courses such as computer crime and investigation; forensic accounting and fraud examination; investment and securities; white collar crime; taxation; and financial statement analysis.
Stark State College also offers an associate of science degree in cyber security and computer forensics technology that includes courses such as network forensics; digital media forensics; ethical hacking; cyber forensics and data recovery; forensic accounting and fraud examination; introduction to forensic science; and introduction to computer networking.
Notably, an online associate of arts degree in criminal justice is also offered by the college which prepares students to pursue a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or criminology. The curriculum of this program includes courses such as juvenile delinquency; introduction to criminal justice; policing; corrections; criminology; criminal law in the United States; criminal procedure; and introduction to forensic science.
- Location: North Canton, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
Miami University-Middletown offers a bachelor of science program in criminal justice providing students a comprehensive understanding of justice, crime, policing, the legal system, and punishment and corrections. The curriculum includes courses such as introduction to criminal justice studies; criminal justice field experience; introduction to criminal behavior; criminal procedure; comparative justice systems; applied research methods in criminal justice; policing in America; law and courts in America; and corrections in America.
In addition, the university also offers a 62-credit associate’s degree in criminal justice.
Moreover, Miami University also offers a minor in forensic investigation providing students with an introduction to the forensic field, including science, forensic chemistry, law, investigation, and evidence. Students in this minor will focus on the integration and relationship between forensic analysis, crime, constitutional rights, and, law enforcement investigation, and expert testimony.
- Location: Hamilton, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years
In addition to the various forensic science program offerings in Ohio, students also have some resources at their disposal at the Forensic Science Institute of Ohio, which provides continuing education, upholds educational standards, and promotes professional development in forensic sciences in the state of Ohio.
Hybrid & Online Forensics Programs in Ohio
Some students in Ohio may have full-time jobs or family commitments that prevent them from attending a traditional “brick-and-mortar” school. Online and hybrid programs expand students who must work full-time or live far away from a college or university campus. To serve these students, Ohio colleges and universities offer many high-quality forensic science and criminal justice programs online.
North Central State College (NCSC) offers a 100 percent online associate degree in criminal justice comprising 65 credits. The curriculum includes courses such as introduction to criminal justice; criminal and constitutional law; criminal investigation; criminology; family violence; juvenile delinquency; and forensic psychology.
Students in this program learn core criminal justice concepts in specialization areas such as juvenile justice, criminology, constitutional law, corrections, and private security. Graduates from this program go to work in local, state, or federal law enforcement. NCSC has more than 40 agreements with four-year colleges and universities to transfer credits earned in this two-year degree program to a four-year bachelor’s degree on-campus or online.
- Location: Mansfield, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
Southern State Community College
Southern State Community College, in partnership with the University of Cincinnati, offers a bachelor of science in information technology with a cyber security emphasis. Students in this program complete an associate’s degree in computer technology with a focus on cyber security and networking at Southern State Community College and then transition and complete their bachelor of science on campus or online at the University of Cincinnati.
In the first two years, students take math and computer science courses and learn special topics such as database management; digital design; and cybersecurity topics in the program’s final half. Design practicum courses in the program’s second half give students hands-on practical experience in applying their didactic skills.
- Location: Hillsboro, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years
The University of Akron offers a fully online bachelor of science in criminology and criminal justice. This 120-credit program includes core courses such as government and politics in the US, introduction to police studies, and social inequalities, as well as elective courses.
This program is offered in a cohort model to promote a community environment for online students. Specialized learning plans are available for high school graduates, professionals, or retired military service members. With a full-time course load, this program can be completed in eight semesters.
Sample some courses in the curriculum: introduction to criminal justice; politics of the criminal justice system; introduction to corrections; principles of criminal law; criminology; crime analysis applications; and juvenile delinquency.
- Location: Akron, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Please note that many forensics programs in Ohio require classroom participation since laboratory procedures need sophisticated equipment that can’t be accessed from home.
Students may find additional online options and coursework through campus-based forensics colleges in Ohio or by checking out the national listing of online forensics and CSI programs.
Forensic Program Accreditation & Professional Certification
Several organizations provide accreditation to forensics programs in Ohio. Schools that have received accreditation typically undergo a rigorous process to ensure they meet quality standards in instruction, program content, student outcomes, and other measures.
The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) is the primary organization that accredits forensic science programs and there are only two schools that have received FEPAC accreditation at the programmatic level. However, those programs that do not have FEPAC accreditation can still offer precious training. Further, FEPAC accredits very few programs overall and does not consider programs without a heavily science-focused curriculum, which means most CSI and criminal justice programs are ineligible for accreditation.
At an institutional level, the schools listed above are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the regional organization that’s approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Finally, forensic science professionals do not need any special certification to practice in Ohio, but some employers may prefer certified job candidates. Here is a list of some of the organizations offering certifications for forensic scientists, technicians, and CSIs in Ohio:
- American Board of Criminalistics (ABC)
- American Academy of Forensic Scientists (AAFS)
- International Association for Identification (IAI)
- International Crime Scene Investigators Association (ICSIA)
Those who wish to have detailed information on credentialing within each subfield of forensics can visit our programs or careers page.
| School Name | City | Forensic Science |
Forensic Psychology |
Digital Forensics |
Financial Forensics |
Total Forensics Grads (2016-2017) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tiffin University | Tiffin | x | x | x | 62 | |
| Youngstown State University | Youngstown | x | 12 | |||
| Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | Bowling Green | x | 11 | |||
| University of Northwestern Ohio | Lima | x | x | 11 | ||
| Sinclair Community College | Dayton | x | 8 | |||
| Washington State Community College | Marietta | x | 7 | |||
| The University of Findlay | Findlay | x | 7 | |||
| Zane State College | Zanesville | x | 6 | |||
| Ohio Northern University | Ada | x | 4 | |||
| Defiance College | Defiance | x | x | 4 | ||
| Central Ohio Technical College | Newark | x | 4 | |||
| Southern State Community College | Hillsboro | x | 3 | |||
| Lorain County Community College | Elyria | x | x | 3 | ||
| Cedarville University | Cedarville | x | 3 | |||
| University of Akron Main Campus | Akron | x | x | 2 | ||
| Ashland University | Ashland | x | 2 | |||
| Stark State College | North Canton | x | 1 | |||
| Miami University-Middletown | Middletown | x | 1 |
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.
Jocelyn Blore is the chief content officer of Sechel Ventures and the co-author of the Women Breaking Barriers series. She graduated summa cum laude from UC Berkeley and traveled the world for five years. She also worked as an addiction specialist for two years in San Francisco. She’s interested in how culture shapes individuals and systems within societies—one of the many themes she writes about in her blog, Blore’s Razor (Instagram: @bloresrazor). She has served as managing editor for several healthcare websites since 2015.