How to select right Forensic Science Schools?

Hello! I'm a high school junior who's really interested in forensics and I'm starting to think about my college career. I want to go to a school that has a strong program for future forensic scientists. Does anyone have any advice on what schools have good programs and what criteria I should use when evaluating them?

It's wonderful to see your passion for forensics and how proactive you are in selecting an institution that supports your career path! Here's some advice to guide you:

1. Accreditation: Make sure to check if the forensics program you're interested in is accredited by either the Forensics Science Education Program Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) or the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS). These are both renowned organizations that ensure the quality and standards of the programs they accredit.

2. Curriculum: Look deeper into the courses offered in the program. Are the subjects in line with your career goals? A good forensics program should include courses like biochemistry, toxicology, and evidence analysis. If you're more interested in cyber forensics, classes on cybercrime, digital forensics, and network security should be in the curriculum.

3. Internship and Job Opportunities: Evaluate if the school has connections to relevant field placements or internships, as real-world experience is crucial in forensics. Check the university's connections with local law enforcement, crime labs, or governmental entities. Furthermore, consider the school's career services and the job placement rate of recent graduates in their chosen field. This will provide you with an idea about the school's reputation in the field of forensic sciences.

4. Faculty: The qualifications and backgrounds of the faculty are an important part of your education. Look for professors who have practical experience in the field and are actively engaged in their profession. This would ensure that you're learning from experts who are up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the field.

5. Laboratory Facilities: Good forensics programs usually have state-of-the-art lab facilities where students can practice and perfect their skills. Availability of equipment like microscopes, spectrometers, or fingerprint kits, for instance, would provide substantial hands-on experience.

As for the schools with strong forensic science programs, you can look into Arcadia University, University of Central Florida, Penn State University, along with others. Make sure to visit their websites to get a detailed understanding of their offerings. Remember, it's important to visit the campuses, if you can, to see the facilities and to meet faculty and students. Best of luck with your college search!