Forensic courses can help you learn crime scene investigation techniques, evidence collection methods, and the fundamentals of forensic biology and chemistry. You can build skills in analyzing fingerprints, interpreting DNA evidence, and understanding ballistics. Many courses introduce tools like crime scene simulation software, forensic analysis kits, and laboratory equipment, that support applying your knowledge in real-world investigations.

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Skills you'll gain: Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Scientific Methods, Chemistry, Blood Collection, Investigation, Case Studies, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Pharmacology, Laboratory Testing, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Deductive Reasoning, Estimation
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Cambridge
Skills you'll gain: Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Investigation, Laboratory Testing, Statistical Analysis, Molecular Biology, Specimen Collection, Scientific Methods, Medical Science and Research, General Science and Research, Data Collection, Case Studies, Biology, Ethical Standards And Conduct
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Starweaver
Skills you'll gain: Digital Forensics, Investigation, Cybersecurity, Data Integrity, Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Data Ethics, Computer Security, Scenario Testing, Data Security, Technical Communication, Incident Response, Writing, Technical Documentation, File Systems, Artifactory, Microsoft Windows, Linux Commands
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Infosec
Skills you'll gain: Digital Forensics, File Systems, Microsoft Windows, Cybersecurity, Network Protocols, Information Systems Security, File Management, Operating Systems, Data Structures, General Networking, Data Validation, Record Keeping, Data Integrity, Data Storage, Data Analysis Software, User Accounts, USB, Encryption, System Configuration, Command-Line Interface
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Lausanne
Skills you'll gain: Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Statistical Reporting, Court Systems, Legal Proceedings, Laboratory Reports, Scientific Methods, Statistical Analysis, Probability & Statistics, Research, Technical Communication, Case Studies
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

West Virginia University
Skills you'll gain: Fraud detection, Internal Controls, Anomaly Detection, Financial Auditing, Cybersecurity, Investigation, Analytics, Big Data, Accounting, Compliance Reporting, Data Analysis Software, Ethical Standards And Conduct
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

EC-Council
Skills you'll gain: Digital Forensics, Malware Protection, Cybersecurity, Cyber Attacks, Threat Detection, Data Integrity, Data Storage, Network Analysis, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Web Applications, File Systems
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Macquarie University
Skills you'll gain: Digital Forensics, Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Investigation, File Systems, Mobile Security, Cybersecurity, Data Security, Data Integrity, Malware Protection, File Management, Computer Security Incident Management, Incident Response, Data Storage, Real Time Data, Disaster Recovery, Linux, Network Analysis, Regulation and Legal Compliance
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Infosec
Skills you'll gain: Digital Forensics, Cybersecurity, Network Protocols, Information Systems Security, General Networking, Record Keeping, Data Integrity, File Management, Encryption, Command-Line Interface, Linux Commands
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Macquarie University
Skills you'll gain: Digital Forensics, Mobile Security, Anomaly Detection, AI Security, Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Cyber Security Strategy, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Threat Detection, Investigation, Cyber Attacks, File Systems, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Fraud detection, Mobile Development, Cybersecurity, Applied Machine Learning, Malware Protection, Cyber Security Policies, Apple iOS, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML)
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

EC-Council
Skills you'll gain: Digital Forensics, Network Security, Incident Response, Computer Security Incident Management, Cryptography, Penetration Testing, Cybersecurity, Application Security, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Cyber Security Policies, Threat Detection, Network Monitoring, Cloud Security, Vulnerability Assessments, Malware Protection, Mobile Security, Identity and Access Management, Internet Of Things, Risk Analysis, Web Applications
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Digital Forensics, Incident Response, Computer Security Incident Management, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Threat Detection, Cyber Threat Hunting, Cybersecurity, Security Management, Endpoint Detection and Response, Event Monitoring, Network Monitoring, Data Integrity, Technical Communication
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Forensic means the use of science or scientific methods to detect and solve crimes. As science continually advances, forensic science approaches become more and more important to understanding and using evidence such as DNA, blood, or ballistics in court. The use of forensic evidence offers the potential to improve outcomes in our criminal justice system, but only if it is properly interpreted.
The biology, chemistry, and physics used to analyze the evidence left by blood and bullets aren’t the only types of science or scientific approaches relevant to forensics. Osteoarchaeology, a branch of anthropology, is used to analyze skeletal evidence from crimes that occurred a long time ago. Computer science is critical for monitoring and combating steadily-growing cybersecurity risks. And forensic accounting has long been important for financial fraud investigations as well as “following the money” used to commit other types of crimes.
Forensics, broadly defined, can apply to any number of career paths that deal with crime. From forensic accountants who trace financial fraud to IT security analysts focused on detecting cyber attacks, today’s criminal justice system as well as businesses are increasingly dependent on all types of forensic science.
Perhaps the most familiar career in this field is that of a forensic science technician, who is responsible for collecting and analyzing evidence from crime scenes in the laboratory. From weapons to fingerprints to bodily fluids, analysis of forensic evidence by these experts can play an invaluable front-line role in criminal investigations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians earned a median annual salary of $59,150 in 2019, and typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in a natural science such as chemistry or biology.
Certainly. Coursera offers courses to build your background in forensic evidence across a range of disciplines, including biology, anthropology, and cybersecurity, as well as in the proper application of this evidence in the criminal justice system. You can learn remotely from top-ranked institutions from around the world, including Princeton University, West Virginia University, McMaster University, University of Lausanne, and Nanyang Technological University. And, if protecting against cyber attacks is your focus, you can get a Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate from IBM by completing a Specialization spanning multiple courses.
A background in biology, chemistry, anatomy, or computer science can be beneficial before you start to learn forensics. Forensic courses typically cover topics like DNA, chemical analysis, and insect behavior. With fundamental knowledge like vocabulary, you may feel better prepared for beginning your studies. You may find that building your computer science or accounting skills before tackling topics like forensic accounting, digital forensics, or cybersecurity is helpful too.
People who are passionate about science and able to handle gory details and unpleasant situations are well suited for roles in forensics. Forensic science usually involves serious crimes that resulted in the death of a person or animal, and the details can be uncomfortable to learn about. People well suited for forensic roles typically have strong analytical skills, are detail-oriented workers who like connecting dots, and are able to keep accurate records that are likely to be used in court. Individuals with a strong sense of ethics and good communication skills also tend to work well in the field of forensics.
Common career paths for someone in forensics include crime scene analysis, crime lab technicians, forensic investigation, forensic accounting, and document examination. Someone with strong problem-solving skills may want to work in the field looking for and analyzing evidence at a crime scene. Others may prefer working in a laboratory where they analyze fingerprints and process blood and DNA found on evidence. Individuals who are willing to earn an advanced degree may choose to study fields like forensic psychology, engineering, and odontology.
If you’re interested in forensics, other topics you may want to study include hard sciences like biology, anatomy, and chemistry. You also may choose to learn more about psychology, criminal justice, or anthropology to build your knowledge of how people behave and interact with others. Courses in law enforcement and law may also interest you if you want to learn practical applications for forensic science.
Online Forensic courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Forensic skills. Choose from a wide range of Forensic courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.
When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Forensic, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.