2026 Highest-Paying Jobs You Can Get with a Forensic Degree

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from a career in forensic science?

• Extensive Education Required: The highest-paying jobs often require education beyond a bachelor's degree, such as a medical degree for roles like a forensic pathologist or a doctorate for a forensic psychologist.
• Varying Compensation: Salary can differ significantly based on the specific job, years of experience, and whether you work for a government agency, a private company, or in a consulting role.
• Interdisciplinary Focus: You can expect to apply knowledge from multiple fields. For example, a forensic accountant merges finance with law, while a digital forensic analyst combines computer science with criminology.
• Highly Specialized Work: Many of these roles focus on a single, niche area of investigation, such as analyzing financial fraud, examining human remains, or recovering data from a single type of device.

Where can I work with a forensic degree?

• Federal Government: Agencies like the FBI, DEA, and Secret Service hire forensic experts in both digital and physical disciplines, often offering competitive salaries.
• Private Consulting Firms: Companies specializing in fraud examination, cybersecurity, or litigation support employ forensic accountants and digital experts to assist corporate clients.
• Hospitals and Medical Examiner's Offices: Forensic pathologists and nurses are crucial to medical facilities and government offices where they conduct autopsies and document injuries for legal cases.
• Law Firms: Some large law firms employ their own investigators and digital experts to handle complex cases.

How much can I make with a forensic degree?

• Forensic Pathologist: These medical doctors are the top earners, with an average salary of around $219,000 to over $300,000 annually, depending on experience and location.
• Forensic Psychiatrist: A psychiatrist specializing in legal issues, this role can command an average salary of around $232,000 to $266,000, with top earners making over $300,000.
• Forensic Accountant: The average salary for this financial investigator is about $85,000, with top earners with advanced certifications and experience potentially reaching over $135,000.
• Forensic Nurse: A forensic nurse can expect an average salary of around $65,000 to $86,000, with some earning over $100,000 with advanced training and experience.
• Forensic Scientist: For a typical lab role, salaries can range widely, with the average falling around $71,000, and top earners reaching up to $112,000.

Highest-Paying Jobs You Can Get with a Forensic Degree in 2026

While a forensic degree can lead to many careers, a few specialized roles offer significantly higher salaries. These top-tier forensic degree jobs often require advanced education and a blend of scientific, legal, and business expertise.

• Forensic Pathologist: As medical doctors who specialize in determining the cause of death, they are the top earners in the field. Salaries range widely, but can average $219,325 and reach over $300,000 annually, especially with experience.
• Forensic Psychiatrist: A medical doctor who evaluates the mental state of individuals for legal proceedings, their salaries can be between $232,000 and $266,000.
• Forensic Accountant: These professionals investigate financial crimes like fraud. The average salary is around $80,852, but top earners with advanced certifications and experience can exceed $135,000.
• Forensic Engineer: Investigates the cause of product or structural failures for legal cases. Salaries for this role can be highly lucrative, with an average of $89,671 and top earners making over $104,000.
• Digital Forensics Examiner: Specializing in recovering and analyzing data from digital devices, these experts are in high demand. The average salary is around $70,429, with experienced professionals able to earn over $103,000.
• Forensic Manager: This role involves overseeing forensic teams and operations, typically in a lab or government agency. Average salaries are around $92,979, with a high-end potential of over $102,000.
• Forensic Toxicologist: A scientist who identifies drugs and poisons in bodily fluids; the average salary is around $81,460, with some earning up to $134,000 a year.
• Criminology Professor: With a doctoral degree, a professor specializing in criminology and forensics can earn an average salary of $114,792, with a wide range depending on the institution and experience.
• Forensic Biologist: Specializing in the analysis of biological evidence, such as DNA, their average salary is about $89,403 per year, with top earners reaching up to $138,000.
• Forensic Science Technician: An entry-level position average salary is around $59,140, but in high-demand locations, it can reach as high as $125,490.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians earned a median annual pay of $67,440, or $32.42 per hour, in 2024. The typical entry-level education for this role is a bachelor's degree, with new hires receiving moderate-term on-the-job training.

Additionally, students who pursue laboratory or investigative tracks may find value in exploring forensic chemistry specializations, such as toxicology, trace evidence analysis, or drug composition testing. These focused areas can open doors to higher-paying positions, more advanced laboratory roles, and career pathways within federal agencies, medical examiner offices, and private research labs.

There were a total of 20,700 forensic science technician jobs in 2024, a number that is projected to grow significantly in the coming decade, adding approximately 2,600 new jobs. The job outlook for forensic science technicians is exceptionally strong, with a projected growth of 13% from 2024 to 2034, as shown in the graphic below. 

What are the career opportunities for graduates with a forensic degree?

A forensic science degree online can lead to a diverse range of forensic degree jobs and career opportunities across multiple sectors, moving beyond the traditional crime lab setting into law enforcement, digital security, and even finance. These career pathways often leverage a blend of scientific, analytical, and investigative skills.

• Forensic Scientist: Analyzes physical evidence like DNA, fibers, and fingerprints in a laboratory setting to help solve crimes.
• Crime Scene Investigator (CSI): Works at crime scenes to properly document, collect, and preserve physical evidence for lab analysis.
• Digital Forensics Examiner: Investigates cybercrimes and recovers data from computers, smartphones, and other digital devices for use in legal cases.
• Forensic Accountant: Examines financial records to uncover fraud, embezzlement, and other white-collar crimes for law firms or corporate entities.
• Forensic Toxicologist: Specializes in detecting and identifying the presence of drugs, alcohol, and poisons in biological samples.
• Forensic Anthropologist: Focuses on the analysis of human remains, often in cases involving skeletal decomposition, to help identify victims and determine the cause of death.
• Forensic Psychologist: Applies psychological principles to legal matters, which can include assessing a defendant's mental state or providing expert testimony in court.
• Forensic Engineer: Investigates structural failures, product defects, or accident scenes to determine the cause for legal and insurance purposes.
• DNA Analyst/Technician: Works specifically on DNA evidence, using advanced techniques to create genetic profiles from crime scene samples.
• Forensic Document Examiner: Analyzes handwriting, signatures, and other document-related evidence to determine authenticity or uncover forgery.
• Higher Education Lecturer (Forensics): Teaches the next generation of forensic professionals at the university level, often combining research with instruction.
• Security Consultant (Cyberforensics): Advises organizations on how to protect their data and systems from cyber threats, using forensic skills to respond to security breaches.

Those interested in financial crime investigation may also explore professional certifications that enhance career advancement. For example, individuals entering forensic accounting often encounter questions about what is CFF certification—the Certified in Financial Forensics credential. This certification is offered by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and recognizes specialized expertise in forensic accounting, fraud investigations, and litigation support, making it a valuable asset for those pursuing forensic roles in corporate, legal, or government environments.

The field is expanding with technological advancements, creating new opportunities in both established and emerging sectors. The skills learned are transferable, allowing graduates to pivot into various investigative and analytical roles.

As a successful example, CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) is the FBI’s national database that stores DNA profiles from convicted offenders, arrestees, and forensic evidence to help link crimes and identify suspects. As shown in the graphic below, as of June 2025, CODIS contained over 18.6 million offender profiles, nearly 6 million arrestee profiles, and over 1.4 million forensic profiles from crime scenes. This extensive database has led to a total of 761,872 CODIS hits, aiding in 739,456 investigations across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Army.

The sheer volume of data and successful matches highlights the program's crucial role in modern law enforcement and its continued effectiveness in generating investigative leads.

What are the average salaries for graduates with a forensic degree?

Salaries for graduates with a forensic degree can vary significantly based on the specific role, required education level, and years of experience. While entry-level lab technician roles may start on the lower end, highly specialized positions that require advanced degrees command some of the highest salaries in the field.

Higher education and federal employment generally correlate with a significant increase in earning potential, while location and a graduate's ability to specialize also play a key role in salary. Here are some average salaries from various sources, shown in the graph below. Please note that average salaries may change.

At the top of the pay scale of forensic degree jobs, a forensic pathologist can command an average annual salary of $219,325. This is followed by a forensic odontologist at $153,915 and a forensic accountant at $122,968, with both roles requiring significant additional training beyond a bachelor's degree. A forensic psychologist earns an average of $113,370, while a forensic engineer makes around $104,519.

The mid-range salaries include a clinical laboratory scientist at $86,779 and a computer forensic analyst at $74,085, reflecting the growing demand for digital expertise. Roles with lower average salaries, such as a forensic science technician at $67,440 and a crime scene investigator (CSI) at $59,636, often serve as entry points into the field.

Generally, the data reveals a clear trend: the more specialized and advanced the education required for a role, the higher its earning potential. A career in forensics offers financially rewarding opportunities, but compensation varies dramatically based on the specific career path.

How do the various forensic disciplines differ?

Forensic disciplines differ primarily in the type of evidence they analyze and the scientific methods they apply, each contributing to a different piece of the investigative puzzle. The work can be broadly categorized as either lab-based analysis, field investigation, or a more specialized academic/consulting role.

• Physical Forensics: Focuses on tangible, physical evidence found at a crime scene. A forensic scientist would analyze physical evidence like hair, fibers, or fingerprints in a lab.
• Digital & Cyber Forensics: Deals with digital evidence, such as data from computers, hard drives, and mobile devices. A computer forensics analyst would recover and analyze this digital information.
• Forensic Biology: A sub-discipline of physical forensics, it focuses on biological evidence like blood, saliva, and DNA. A forensic biologist or DNA analyst would be a professional in this area.
• Forensic Anthropology: A specialized field that applies anthropological principles to forensic cases, often by examining skeletal remains. A forensic anthropologist would help identify a victim by analyzing their bones.
• Forensic Toxicology: Focuses on the analysis of bodily fluids and tissues for the presence of drugs, alcohol, or other toxic substances. A toxicologist would perform this lab work.
• Forensic Document Examiner: Involves the scientific analysis of documents. A forensic document examiner would study handwriting, ink, and paper to determine a document's authenticity.
• Firearms & Toolmark Identification: Examines firearms, ammunition, and tool marks left at a crime scene. An evidence technician might collect this evidence, while a specialist analyzes it in the lab.
• Forensic Psychology & Psychiatry: These disciplines apply behavioral and mental health principles to the law. A forensic psychologist might assess a criminal’s state of mind, while a psychiatrist (with an M.D.) can diagnose mental illness in legal contexts.
• Crime Scene Investigation (CSI): This discipline focuses on the collection and preservation of evidence at the scene itself, serving as a critical bridge between the crime and the lab. The CSI is a field-based role, unlike many of the lab-based positions.

Each discipline provides a unique and necessary contribution to the justice system, requiring distinct skill sets and educational paths. While some forensic degree jobs and roles involve direct contact with crime scenes, others are strictly lab-based or serve a consultative function.

In 2024, the most common cyberattack impact was credential harvesting (29%), followed by data theft (18%) and extortion (13%), with nearly half of all attacks involving stolen credentials or data (IBM, 2025); other impacts included reconnaissance (14%), data leaks (11%), brand reputation damage (7%), digital currency mining (4%), and illicit financial gain, espionage, and data destruction (2% each), shown in the graph below.

Attackers are increasingly favoring stealthier, more profitable methods, such as using stolen data for extortion, reflecting a shift from traditional ransomware toward tactics that maximize financial gain while evading detection (IBM, 2025).

What are some specializations within forensics?

The broad field of forensics comprises numerous specializations, each requiring a unique skill set and a deep understanding of a specific area of science or investigation. These specializations in forensic degree jobs allow professionals to become experts in a particular type of evidence or crime.

• Forensic Odontology: The application of dental knowledge to legal matters. An odontologist analyzes bite marks or uses dental records to identify human remains.
• Forensic Entomology: The study of insects to determine time of death and location. An entomologist would analyze insect life cycles on a corpse to assist in a death investigation.
• Digital Vehicle Forensics: A specialized area that focuses on extracting data from a vehicle's infotainment, navigation, or event data recorder systems to reconstruct an accident or crime.
• Forensic Linguistics: The analysis of language-based evidence, such as threatening letters or ransom notes, to determine authorship or intent.
• Forensic Accounting: A blend of accounting and law. A forensic accountant investigates financial records to uncover evidence of fraud, embezzlement, or money laundering. A forensic accounting degree is becoming more popular among CPAs in major companies.
• Forensic Anthropology: The application of the science of physical anthropology to the legal process. An anthropologist studies skeletal remains to help determine age, sex, and ancestry.
• Forensic Geology: Uses geological principles to solve crimes, such as analyzing soil or mineral samples found on a suspect's clothing or vehicle to link them to a specific location.
• Forensic Psychology: Applies psychological principles to legal and criminal cases. A psychologist may work with law enforcement to create a criminal profile or assess a defendant's mental competency.
• Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: A highly specialized area focusing on interpreting the patterns of blood spatter at a crime scene to reconstruct the events that took place.
• Questioned Document Examination: The scientific analysis of documents, including handwriting, signatures, typewriting, and paper.
• Forensic Engineering: Investigates structural failures and product defects to determine the cause of an accident for legal purposes.

By specializing, a forensic professional can develop an expertise that is highly valuable in court and in complex investigations. These focused areas of study are crucial for tackling an increasingly diverse range of crimes and legal challenges.

What internship and research opportunities are available in forensics?

Internship and research opportunities in forensics are crucial for gaining practical experience and applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. These opportunities are available through a variety of organizations and can be a significant advantage when seeking employment after graduation.

• Federal Agencies: Agencies like the FBI, DEA, and Secret Service offer competitive internship programs for students in various forensic disciplines, including digital forensics and chemistry.
• Medical Examiner's Offices: Students can intern with a medical examiner or a pathologist assistant to gain hands-on experience in death investigation, including autopsy observation and evidence collection.
• Police Department Crime Labs: Many local and state police departments have forensic labs that offer internships where students assist with evidence processing and analysis.
• State and Local Forensics Institutes: Organizations like the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences offer internships in diverse areas like drug chemistry, firearms identification, and forensic genetics.
• University-based Research: Students can work as a research analyst or technician under a professor, assisting with studies on new forensic methods or technologies.
• Private Forensics Companies: Consulting firms and private labs that specialize in digital forensics or forensic accounting offer internships for students interested in the private sector.
• Undergraduate Research Projects: Many undergraduate programs require or encourage students to complete an independent research project, often working with a faculty mentor to conduct original research on a forensic topic.
• Crime Scene Internships: Some police departments and local law enforcement agencies offer internships specifically focused on crime scene investigation, where students learn to document and collect evidence.
• Academic Internships: The American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) and other academic organizations offer a directory of internships and job postings.
• Virtual Internships: Some organizations are beginning to offer virtual internships, particularly in digital forensics, allowing students to gain experience remotely.

These opportunities provide invaluable hands-on experience, networking connections, and a chance to specialize in a particular area before entering the workforce. Participating in an internship or research program is often a key step in landing a full-time job after graduation. For students still exploring their path, questions such as how many years to study criminology can also play a role in deciding when to pursue internships and how early to gain field experience.

Which universities offer top-ranked forensic science programs?

Several universities across the country are recognized for their excellent forensic science programs, offering rigorous academic training and valuable research opportunities. Many of these top-tier programs are accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), a gold standard in the field.

• Pennsylvania State University: Known for its FEPAC-accredited programs in forensic science, offering specialized tracks in biology and chemistry.
• University of Central Florida (UCF): Offers a nationally recognized forensic science program with state-of-the-art facilities and a strong focus on hands-on lab work.
• George Mason University: The university’s program provides a comprehensive exploration of various forensic disciplines, including DNA, chemistry, and trace evidence.
• CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice: Located in New York City, this college is a leader in criminal justice and forensics education, offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
• Texas A&M University: Offers both science-focused and pre-law tracks in its forensic and investigative sciences program, with a unique focus on environmental and ecological forensics.
• West Virginia University: WVU's program is FEPAC-accredited and known for its practical, hands-on training and cutting-edge research opportunities.
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Provides a comprehensive program in forensic science with a focus on core scientific principles and practical application.
• Towson University: Offers a Forensic Chemistry major with three unique tracks: General Forensic, Trace Evidence and Drug Analysis, and DNA.
• Loyola University Chicago: The Forensic Science program offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining knowledge of chemistry, biology, and physics with the criminal justice system.
• University of New Haven: The Henry C. Lee Institute of Forensic Science provides a world-renowned curriculum and unique learning experiences.

You may want to consult a separate list of the top 10 forensic science colleges we compiled.

Choosing an accredited program can significantly enhance a graduate's job prospects and ensure the curriculum meets industry standards. These universities often have strong connections to law enforcement agencies and crime labs, providing excellent networking opportunities.

What are the biggest challenges faced by students pursuing a forensic degree?

Students pursuing a forensic degree face a unique set of challenges that extend beyond typical academic rigor. These difficulties are often tied to the specific demands of the field and the expectations of both students and employers.

• Academic Rigor: A forensic degree requires a strong foundation in a variety of hard sciences, including biology, chemistry, and physics, which can be academically demanding.
• Unrealistic Expectations: Many students enter the field with expectations shaped by crime-based television shows, only to find the reality of the job is more meticulous and less glamorous.
• Job Competition: The field can be highly competitive, especially for entry-level positions in government labs, requiring students to seek internships and gain experience to stand out.
• Emotional and Psychological Strain: The subject matter can be emotionally difficult, as students study violent crimes and human remains, requiring a strong constitution.
• Lack of a Standardized Curriculum: The absence of a single, standardized forensic curriculum can leave some students feeling unprepared for the specific needs of a crime lab.
• Limited Public Funding: Job availability can be subject to government budgets and funding for state and local crime labs, which can fluctuate.
• Need for Advanced Degrees: Many of the highest-paying and most sought-after roles, such as forensic pathologist or toxicologist, require extensive graduate-level education.
• Bias in Analysis: A significant challenge is ensuring that forensic analysis remains objective and free from cognitive or external bias that could influence conclusions.

While the field is intellectually stimulating, students must be prepared for the academic and emotional demands. Addressing these challenges head-on can help students build a realistic and successful career path.

What are the biggest opportunities for students pursuing a forensic degree?

Students pursuing a forensic degree have significant opportunities to apply their skills in a rapidly evolving field. The combination of scientific expertise and investigative knowledge makes graduates highly valuable in both the public and private sectors.

• Rapidly Growing Digital Forensics Sector: The rise of cybercrime has created a massive demand for professionals who can analyze digital evidence. This is a burgeoning field with high-paying job opportunities. The cheapest cybersecurity degree programs can help you start quickly in this field.
• Specialized High-Paying Roles: Students with an interest in medicine or finance can pursue lucrative careers as a Forensic Pathologist or Forensic Accountant, roles with high earning potential.
• Transferable Skills: The analytical and problem-solving skills learned in a forensic degree program are highly transferable to other industries, including finance, IT security, and pharmaceutical research.
• Federal Employment: A forensic degree is a strong entry point into federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI and DEA, which offer stable careers and excellent benefits.
• Industry Innovation: New technologies like AI, advanced DNA sequencing, and blockchain are creating opportunities for research and innovation within the field.
• Expert Witness and Consulting Work: Experienced professionals can establish themselves as expert witnesses, offering specialized knowledge to legal teams on a consulting basis.
• Academic and Research Careers: Graduates can pursue a career in academia as a Criminology Professor or Research Analyst, contributing to the body of knowledge and teaching new students.
• Private Sector Demand: Corporations are increasingly hiring forensic experts to investigate fraud, intellectual property theft, and cybersecurity breaches.

The field is continuously expanding, offering a wide array of career paths for students to apply their expertise. Many accelerated cyber security degree online programs can get you there faster, and by focusing on a specific specialization and staying current with industry trends, graduates can secure a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.

What are some current and future trends in the forensics field?

The forensics field is in a constant state of evolution, driven by technological advancements and the changing nature of crime. Current and future trends are focused on improving the speed, accuracy, and scope of investigations.

• AI and Machine Learning: AI is being integrated into forensic analysis to automate repetitive tasks, such as sifting through large datasets in digital forensics or identifying patterns in fingerprint analysis.
• Next-Generation DNA Sequencing (NGS): NGS allows for more detailed DNA analysis from smaller and more degraded samples, significantly expanding the ability to solve cold cases. This is one of the more modern and exciting careers in biology in the genomics age.
• Blockchain Technology: Forensic experts are exploring blockchain's decentralized and immutable ledger to create a secure, tamper-proof chain of custody for digital evidence.
• Cloud Forensics: The increasing reliance on cloud computing means forensic professionals must develop new methods to collect and analyze data from remote servers. As more organizations move their operations online, specialists who understand both cybersecurity and the cloud environment are becoming essential. Individuals interested in this path often begin by learning how to start a cloud computing career, which may include earning cloud provider certifications, gaining experience with virtual systems, and developing skills in digital investigation.
• Forensic Genealogy: The use of public genealogical databases to identify unknown suspects or human remains by comparing DNA profiles is a rapidly growing and controversial trend.
• Digital Vehicle Forensics: As vehicles become more connected, forensics is moving into analyzing data from cars to reconstruct accidents and solve crimes.
• 3D Crime Scene Reconstruction: Advancements in technology like laser scanning and photogrammetry allow investigators to create highly accurate, detailed 3D models of crime scenes for court presentations.
• Portable Lab Equipment: The development of smaller, portable devices is allowing investigators to conduct preliminary analysis of evidence directly at a crime scene.

These trends will reshape the way investigations are conducted, making the field more efficient and accurate. Professionals who stay current with these technological shifts will be at a significant advantage in the job market.

The digital forensics market is growing rapidly, fueled by the expansion of digital infrastructure and rising cybercrime. While forecasts differ, all point to strong double-digit growth: one report projects $12.67 million by 2031 at a CAGR of 11.5%, as shown in the graphic below.

How can a forensic degree pave the way to federal law enforcement roles?

Forensic graduates can leverage their scientific expertise and investigative skills to transition into federal law enforcement careers. Specialized training and targeted professional development, often involving rigorous background checks and inter-agency programs, can distinguish candidates in a competitive federal hiring landscape. For instance, pursuing roles that require advanced evidence analysis and case management can set the stage for those who wish to become a DEA agent. Such pathways underscore the importance of aligning academic credentials with continuous, role-specific training to meet the unique demands of federal investigative agencies.

Growth is being driven by the digitalization of services, remote work, and increasingly interconnected supply chains, all of which broaden the attack surface. In April 2024 alone, Europe recorded over 24.5 million breached data records, highlighting the escalating risks of breaches and ransomware. In response, governments and corporations are making major investments, such as Blue Owl Capital’s $7 billion fund and Brookfield Asset Management’s $10 billion data center initiative.

As digital assets become mission-critical, digital forensics is emerging as a cornerstone of infrastructure security and regulatory compliance.

Here's What Graduates Say About Their Forensic Degrees

References:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2025, June). CODIS-NDIS statistics. U.S. Department of Justice. 
• IBM. (2025). IBM X-Force 2025 Threat Intelligence Index. IBM Institute for Business Value.
• Indeed. (2025, August 24). Clinical laboratory scientist salary in United States. Indeed.
• Indeed. (2025, August 29). Computer forensic analyst salary in United States. Indeed.
• Indeed. (2025, August 30). Criminal investigator salary in United States. Indeed.
• Indeed. (2025, August 3). Examiner salary in United States. Indeed.
• Indeed. (2025, August 23). Forensic accountant salary in United States. Indeed.
• Indeed. (2025, August 24). DNA analyst salary in United States. Indeed.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, August 28). Forensic science technicians: Occupational outlook handbook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Yahoo Finance. (2025, September 2). Digital forensics market projected to reach $25.97 billion by 2032, growing at 11.2% CAGR. Yahoo Finance. 

Other Things You Should Know About the Highest-Paying Jobs You Can Get with Forensic Degrees