Forensics Investigations at Washburn
Washburn University's Forensic Investigations Program prepares students for the crime scene field by providing classroom and practical-based learning. Students utilize real-world tools and equipment, as well as laboratory and mock scene environments to analyze, document, and collect physical evidence.
Why study Forensic Investigations at Washburn?
In Washburn’s Forensic Investigations program, you’ll complete specialized coursework designed to prepare you to work as a crime scene investigator. Many of these classes take place in the Crime Laboratory of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), located on the Washburn University campus.
Washburn's collaboration with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation means students are working alongside and in conjunction with faculty and staff who currently work and have experience in the criminal investigations field.
Many classes are offered online and prepare you to graduate with career-ready skills in evidence identification, collection, and analysis that will make you a valued part of an investigations team.
Admissions scholarships
Washburn University offers generous scholarships based on your interests, career aspirations, community service and academic success.Criminal Justice scholarships
The Criminal Justice department offers a variety of scholarships based on academic performance and career pursuits. New and transfer students are eligible. Applications are due early in the spring.- Admissions scholarshipsAdmissions scholarships
- Criminal Justice scholarshipsCriminal Justice scholarships
Tuition and fees
Courses in this program are offered at the Traditional Undergraduate and Traditional Online Undergraduate rates.Financial aid
Washburn University offers generous undergraduate financial aid, including scholarships and grants.Tuition waivers
If you don’t currently live in Kansas, learn about our Tuition Waiver programs that may qualify you for in-state tuition.- Tuition and feesTuition and fees
- Financial aidFinancial aid
- Tuition waiversTuition waivers
4-Year plan
The Bachelor of Criminal Justice in Forensic Investigations can be achieved in 4 years with 120 credit hours. Learn with a mix of online courses and on-campus classes. Courses in the program utilize mock crime scenes and focus on hands-on aspects of crime scene training, like photography and mapping, that get students using technology and puts the tools in their hands.
Meet Emma Morrissey
Sophomore Emma Morrissey learned about Washburn from one of her high school teachers in Overland Park. She fell in love with campus and the Criminal Justice program, now her major. Emma is president of the Criminal Justice Association on campus and plans to attend law school after she receives her undergraduate degree.
Jobs & Opportunities
Average salary
$50,460
(Kansas)
Career opportunities
Crime Scene Technician
Forensic Examiners
Job growth
14%
(2019-2029)
Forensic Internships
Opportunities for internship placement are diverse and encompass local, state and federal agencies, including:
- Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI)
- Kansas Highway Patrol
- Topeka Police Department
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF)
- U.S. Secret Service
- Kansas Fire Marshall’s Office
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Forensics at Washburn
Other criminal justice degrees
The criminal justice department also offers degrees that will prepare you for a career in law enforcement, corrections, security administration or legal studies.
Program cost
Courses in this program are offered at the Traditional Undergraduate and Traditional Online Undergraduate rates. Students in this program are eligible for scholarships and financial aid.
GET IN TOUCH WITH Criminal Justice & Legal Studies
Criminal Justice & Legal Studies
Benton Hall, Room 201
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621
Phone & Email
Ph: 785.670.1411
criminal-justice-ls@washburn.edu
