Forensic Science Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Application of scientific methods to criminal and civil investigations.
Starting Salary
$48K
median
Mid-Career
$68K
salary
ROI Payback
4.8 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
3.5%
rate
Forensic Science Overview
Application of scientific methods to criminal and civil investigations.
Category
Social Sciences
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
62%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Limited
Underemployment
18%
Lifetime Premium
$400K
Female Graduates
58%
Forensic Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$16,200
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$16,200
after scholarships
ROI Payback
1 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$383,800
Lifetime earnings premium ($400,000) minus net degree cost ($16,200)
Forensic Science Salary Progression
Common Forensic Science Careers
Forensic Scientist
Crime Lab Analyst
Medical Examiner
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Forensic Science
#1
George Washington
#2
Boston University
#3
Penn State
#4
Virginia Commonwealth
#5
University of Central Florida
Related Majors
Forensic Science Degree FAQ
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