A Diverse Selection of Online Forensics Degrees

Forensics is a term used in criminal justice circles, related to investigatory purposes. Online degree options now include forensic jobs in various types of careers, representing a wider application of the skill set.

The University of Florida has three forensics degrees available in its Pharmacy School alone. They include a Master's in Forensic DNA and Serology, a Master's in Forensic Drug Chemistry and a Master's in Forensic Science. Expertise in examining DNA and blood samples is clearly applicable to establishing identity for crimes and at crime scenes, while the degree in drug chemistry has to do with the manufacture and origin of illicit street drugs.

American Intercontinental University (AIU) has a bachelor's degree in computer forensics, a skill in great demand among agencies that track financial data trying to nail down money laundering cases, fraud and extortion crimes. The FBI and the DEA in particular have sophisticated IT systems that are used to "follow the money" in criminal enterprises.

Kaplan University has an interesting combination in its bachelor's criminal justice degree with concentration in forensic psychology. This is one example of the types of police science education programs that are making law enforcement officials trained professionals criminal profiling and in the interrogation process.

Walden University goes a step further with its PhD program in Counselor Education with concentration in forensic mental health. This term refers to the role that professionals with counseling degrees play in juvenile justice settings, in family courts, in drug courts and in correctional institutions. Understanding the motives for aberrant behavior is critical in any attempt to rehabilitate. With a forensic model for behavioral issues, treatment can begin to focus on behavioral modification.

Strayer University offers a bachelor's program through their criminal justice school that is a computer forensics course of study for computer security specialists. The fields of data management, data security and data theft will continue to be top-of-the-line professional positions in both law enforcement and in the corporate world.