Best Online Bachelor's in Crime Scene Investigation Programs of 2023
Updated June 13, 2023
Edited by
TV shows like Law & Order or CSI may show off the dramatic side of police forensics, but crime scene investigation (CSI) is a practical career choice that offers strong employment potential.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that careers for forensic science technicians will grow by 11% from 2021-2031, which is much faster than the national average growth rate for all occupations.
This page offers an overview of crime scene investigation degrees, including typical courses you might take and career options after graduation.
Popular Online Crime Scene Investigation Programs
What Should I Expect in a Bachelor's in Crime Scene Investigation
A bachelor's in crime scene investigation gives you a comprehensive overview of CSI theory and practice. You'll gain the skills to analyze crime scenes, collect evidence, and document forensic findings. You may also be able to choose a professional specialty, such as toxicology or pathology.
It usually takes about four years to complete a bachelor's degree, though some accelerated CSI programs may let you finish faster. An online CSI degree can also give you the flexibility to work while you're in school.
How to Become a Crime Scene Investigator
You can pursue several different pathways to become a crime scene investigator, though most jobs call for some level of higher education. This list outlines three of the most common approaches.
Complete a Certificate or Associate Program
A certificate or associate degree can prepare you for entry-level careers in crime scene investigation. However, you'll likely need a bachelor's degree if you want to pursue more advanced positions.
Earn a 4-Year Bachelor's Degree
A bachelor's degree often serves as the minimum education requirement for more advanced CSI careers, such as forensic science technician. A bachelor's in forensic science, biology, or physical science can prepare you for field and lab positions in crime scene investigation. Earning a master's in crime scene investigation degree can also increase your job opportunities in the field.
Gain Experience in Related Fields
While most CSI jobs require a college degree, you can enter many law enforcement positions with just a high school diploma. You may be able to gain on-the-job experience in crime scene investigation even if you don't have a college degree in a related field.
Popular Online Crime Scene Investigation Programs
Careers in Crime Scene Investigation
While a bachelor's degree meets the minimum standard for entry-level crime scene investigator requirements, it also provides a foundation for other careers in forensic science or law enforcement.
The following careers are popular among graduates of crime scene investigation programs. All salary and job outlook data below is from the BLS.
Criminal Investigator
- Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $59,380
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): +6%
Criminal investigators help solve criminal cases by gathering information and evidence from crime scenes, witnesses, suspects, and related parties. They commonly specialize in a particular type of crime, such as fraud, homicide, or white-collar crime.
Criminal investigators must complete police academy training and be sworn in as law enforcement agents to be eligible for promotion to this position.
Forensic Science Technician
- Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $61,390
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): +11%
Forensic science technicians collect and process physical evidence at crime scenes to support criminal investigations. They may work as criminalists or crime scene investigators — focused on identifying and collecting evidence — or they may work in a lab as forensic chemists or forensic biologists.
Forensic science technicians need at least a bachelor's degree in forensic science or a related field, plus on-the-job experience. They must undergo supervised training in specialized lab procedures before they can operate independently, which often requires passing a proficiency exam for each specialty.
Police and Detective
- Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $66,020
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): +3%
This occupation includes detectives and criminal investigators, sheriffs, and patrol officers charged with protecting people and property.
Most police jobs require only a high school diploma, though detectives often need a bachelor's degree. Federal agencies like the FBI often require a college degree as well. Police officers must complete police academy training to qualify for entry-level jobs, and most detectives start their careers as police officers.
Popular Online Crime Scene Investigation Programs
Best Online Bachelor's in Crime Scene Investigation Programs
Read About Our Methodology Here
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Crime Scene Investigation Programs of 2023
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
As a leader in online education, Florida State University supports 19,802 distance learners across 17 remote degree programs. Learners hoping to advance in the crime scene investigation field can enroll in the college's online bachelor's in criminology program. The flexible criminology program helps learners complete a college degree.
Enrollees complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the criminology field. This curriculum, which consists of foundational and advanced coursework, equips students with relevant skills needed to succeed in relevant careers. While enrolled, learners can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
After earning their degree, graduates often benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after bachelor's degree completion is $39,700, according to the college. The average undergraduate pays $12,568 yearly in tuition and fees after aid. Before applying, prospective students should connect with the department to learn more about admission requirements and application materials.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 19,802
Total Online Programs: 17
Admission Rate: 36%
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Crime Scene Investigation Programs of 2023
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University provides flexible study opportunities to distance learners across 161 degree programs. Online undergraduate students can benefit from studying in one of 30 online bachelor's degree programs. The BS in criminal justice and crime scene investigation prioritizes flexibility, making it an attractive option for working professionals and busy students. The crime scene investigation program provides flexibility through customizable study options and classes.
All students complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies, amounting to 120 credits. Students take classes relevant to the crime scene investigation field, as well as completing general education requirements. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
A bachelor's degree often connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $35,800 for graduates six years after completing their studies. Prospective enrollees can meet with the criminal justice department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 78,511
Total Online Programs: 161
Online Bachelor's Programs: 30
Admission Rate: 51%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Crime Scene Investigation Programs of 2023
National University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
National University, a private, nonprofit, four-year school in La Jolla, California, boasts a robust online learning community. Undergraduate students can choose from 40 online bachelor's programs. The BS in criminal justice administration prioritizes flexibility, making it an attractive option for working professionals and busy students. The criminal justice program supports flexible study for learners at a distance.
During the program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the criminal justice field. The program also incorporates general education requirements that strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students can modify their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $51,900 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. To learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities, prospective students should contact the department.
National University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,769
Total Online Programs: 98
Online Bachelor's Programs: 40
Admission Rate: 89%
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Crime Scene Investigation Programs of 2023
Columbia College
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Columbia College facilitates distance learning across 33 online degree programs. Of these online offerings, 23 provide an undergraduate-level education. Students looking for a criminal justice-adjacent career can pursue the bachelor's in criminal justice administration at their own pace. Students in the program can choose from full- or part-time enrollment.
Learners complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the criminal justice field. Enrollees also complete general education classes, for a well-rounded education. Students can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates possessing a bachelor's degree often access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. According to the institution, enrollees can earn a median salary of $36,300 six years after finishing their degree. Prospective enrollees can meet with the criminal justice department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
Columbia College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,568
Total Online Programs: 33
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Crime Scene Investigation Programs of 2023
Salem University
Salem, WV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Salem University facilitates distance learning across 19 online degree programs. Of its online programs, seven offer an undergraduate-level education. Learners seeking competitive, customizable study relevant to the criminal justice field will find the school's online BA in criminal justice with a concentration in crime scene investigation to be an attractive option. The flexible program helps learners complete a college degree conveniently.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Students complete classes relevant to the crime scene investigation field, as well as general education requirements. With help from their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates often increase their job opportunities and earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $29,500 six years after graduation. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at Salem University, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the criminal justice department.
Salem University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 960
Total Online Programs: 19
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Frequently Asked Questions About CSI Degrees
What is crime scene investigation?
Crime scene investigation focuses on the collection and analysis of evidence from crime scenes. Crime scene investigators may work on crime scenes in the field or analysis in the lab. CSI specialists work closely with other law enforcement professionals to analyze evidence and solve crimes.
How long does it take to complete a bachelor's in crime scene investigation program?
Most bachelor's in crime scene investigation programs take four years to complete. However, some schools offer accelerated completion times and flexible scheduling through online courses.
What can I do with a bachelor's in crime scene investigation?
Graduates with a bachelor's in crime scene investigation qualify for jobs as crime scene investigators or criminal investigators within local, state, and federal law enforcement.
How much do you make as a crime scene investigator?
While your salary can vary widely as a crime scene investigator, you'll likely earn around $60,000. According to the BLS, crime investigators earned a median annual salary of $59,380 in 2021. Forensic science technicians earned a median annual salary of $61,390.
What is the difference between a crime scene investigator and forensic science technician?
Crime scene investigators and forensic science technicians both investigate crime scenes, but forensic science jobs require a more serious science background.
Forensic science technicians use scientific tools to analyze crime scene evidence. They typically need training in hard sciences like chemistry or biology. Crime scene investigators also analyze crime scenes, documenting evidence and taking photographs. Crime scene investigators work more commonly in the field, while forensic scientists work in a lab.
Explore More College Resources
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
