RFI

Forensic science degrees focus on applying scientific methods to matters of law. In this program, you’ll explore the investigative and scientific principles behind examining different types of evidence from crime scenes. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with the analytical skills required to pursue jobs related to forensic investigations.

Scientific and technological advances, as well as increasing caseloads, mean there is expected to be an increased demand for skilled forensic technicians over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth for forensic science technicians is projected to increase 13% from 2022-2032, much faster than average for all occupations.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop in this program

In this forensic science program, you’ll learn how to uncover and analyze evidence that can be used in court during criminal and civil cases. You’ll learn the essential science, investigative and communication skills needed to meet this demand and be successful in the field. The beginning of the program focuses on building strong foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry and math. You’ll take various lab courses, including two organic chemistry labs which must be completed in person.

Later in the program, you’ll take advanced forensic science courses covering the common techniques used in crime labs. Key course topics include forensic botany, toxicology, forensic anthropology, molecular genetics and more. These courses will teach you how to analyze crime scenes, fingerprints, DNA, blood patterns and other types of evidence. Graduates will be equipped to pursue careers or a graduate degree in forensics and other science-related fields.

Gain hands-on experience with in-person lab sessions

To gain necessary laboratory skills and hands-on experience, this program requires two separate, in-person lab experiences in Arizona.

The first lab experience includes one week at ASU’s Tempe campus to complete two organic chemistry labs, followed by a four-day in-person biochemistry lab session at the ASU West campus in Glendale. Alternatively, you may complete equivalent organic chemistry lectures and labs at an approved local college or university. The biochemistry lab, a 300-level course, cannot be taken at a community college.

To finish the program, you’ll complete a 5-day in-person session at the ASU West campus during the summer. This experience covers key forensic field skills including photography, fingerprint analysis, blood pattern analysis and DNA analysis.

This concentration provides a deep understanding of constitutional rights in law enforcement interactions, police department operations and effective crime reduction strategies. You’ll explore essential topics that align with careers in policing, including:

• Case law and criminal procedure
• Crime analysis and mapping techniques
• Police accountability and management
• Police-citizen relations
• Policing research

While not always required, earning a degree focused on policing can give you a competitive edge in the hiring process. Employers often look for candidates with advanced knowledge and may offer higher starting salaries. A four-year degree is also a common requirement for leadership roles or careers in federal law enforcement.

Choose the right criminal justice degree for you

If you’re looking to enter a sworn position or civilian roles in areas such as private sector security, intelligence analysis or crime analysis, this program would be best suited for your goals.

If your interests extend beyond law enforcement, ASU’s online Bachelor of Science in criminology and criminal justice provides a broader overview of the U.S. legal system. You'll focus on the consequences of crime and the role criminal justice agencies play in responding to it. Coursework builds skills in research and analysis while offering a deeper understanding of the justice system.

Additionally, both programs are ideal for those looking to continue on to graduate studies. This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:

• Master of Arts in criminal justice
• Master of Science in crime analysis

Preveterinary medicine is an undergraduate degree concentration that prepares students for admission to veterinary school and a career in veterinary medicine or animal science.

Program coursework provides a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, math and animal science. It also offers specialized courses in veterinary medicine and opportunities to gain clinical hours or animal experience through internships and study abroad programs.

The online pre-vet major includes several advanced lab courses. Most are completed online, but the two organic chemistry labs must be taken in person at ASU’s Tempe campus. These are offered in a compressed one-week format over the summer. Learn more about the on-campus sessions and how to prepare.

What can I do with a preveterinary medicine degree concentration?

This concentration focuses on biology with an emphasis on animal behavior, anatomy and nutrition. You’ll have the opportunity to take classes exploring the field of veterinary medicine, ethical issues in biology, infectious diseases, comparative immunology and more. The preveterinary medicine concentration will help you develop the skills needed to effectively work with animals and use science to formulate solutions to various problems. These skills are important for many careers related to veterinary medicine, animal science and biology.

Why earn a pre-vet major?

Earning an applied biological sciences with a concentration in preveterinary medicine degree does not guarantee your admission into veterinary school, but it can help make you a competitive applicant. Our online preveterinary medicine degree concentration is designed to help you meet the common prerequisites required to apply to veterinary school. It also connects you with advisors who can help ensure you’re staying on track to apply to veterinary school or other animal-focused graduate programs.

Even if you’re a pre-vet major, it’s still important to thoroughly research the veterinary schools and graduate programs you’re most interested in applying to as each school has its own specific prerequisites and admission requirements. For more information on ASU’s pre-health education programs, please visit the ASU pre-health website.

Students must understand that completing this program does not guarantee admission to veterinary school. For students who may be interested in applying for veterinary school upon graduation, it is highly recommended they take the ABS 484 Internship course for experiential learning.

In this program, you’ll explore how communication shapes our personal lives, workplaces and communities. Taught by expert faculty in interpersonal, intercultural, organizational, rhetorical and health communication, your coursework helps you become a more confident, adaptable and strategic communicator.

Rooted in social science and liberal arts, this degree prepares you for meaningful work across industries like business, nonprofit, social services, education, human resources, media and advocacy. You’ll graduate with the ability to analyze communication patterns, engage across differences, and create positive professional and personal change.

The skills you’ll develop as a communication major

This degree helps you transform your understanding of human interaction into real-world communication strategies. You’ll learn to solve problems, adapt messages for different audiences, and lead conversations that build trust, clarity and connection.

You’ll also gain hands-on experience with qualitative research methods like interviews and focus groups, giving you the tools to analyze lived experiences and uncover meaning in human behavior. Courses also build skills in group communication, conflict resolution and inclusive leadership, helping you lead with confidence across diverse contexts.

Opportunities like internships and faculty-guided research help you apply your skills in professional settings preparing you for careers or graduate study in communication, public service, advocacy, education and more.

How our BA and BS in communication compare to each other

Our BA and BS in communication foster global awareness while building skills in interpersonal communication, data analysis and critical thinking. However, there are key differences. The BS emphasizes using quantitative research methods such as surveys, data visualization and other tools to tell compelling stories through data. You’ll also complete a science and society elective.

In comparison, this BA takes a humanistic approach, exploring communication in culture and society. You’ll develop expertise in synthesizing qualitative research and engaging with diverse audiences. Additionally, the two-year foreign language requirement will enhance your global communication skills and increase your marketability for roles in the U.S. and abroad.

Both programs offer the opportunity to participate in our Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:

• Master of Arts in communication.