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Doctorate in Criminal Justice Online Crime Scene Investigation Specialization

Crime Scene Investigation - Doctorate at WUV

Credit Hours54

Total Courses9

Term LengthSelf-Paced

Program Overview Why earn your Doctorate in Crime Scene Investigation at WUV?

WUV's Doctorate in Criminal Justice with a Crime Scene Investigation specialization advances your expertise in forensic science leadership, evidence analysis methodology, and crime laboratory administration at the highest scholarly level. This program prepares doctoral candidates to develop forensic protocols, direct crime investigation programs, and produce original research that shapes the future of forensic science policy.

Research and leadership areas:

  • Advanced forensic evidence analysis and methodology
  • Crime scene protocol development and standardization
  • Digital forensics leadership and governance
  • Forensic science policy research and reform
  • Expert witness credentialing and court testimony
  • Crime laboratory administration and quality assurance
Crime Scene Investigation Doctorate students at WUV

Courses & Curriculum Doctoral courses that prepare you for leadership and research

This 54-credit doctoral curriculum is designed for professionals holding a Master's degree. You will complete thesis preparation, supervised research, and a final dissertation demonstrating original scholarly contribution.

PHD-910Qualitative and Quantitative Research
PHD-911Preparing a Thesis
PHD-912Econometrics
ST-913Preparatory Thesis I
ST-914Preparatory Thesis II
ST-915Preparatory Thesis III
ST-916Preparatory Thesis IV
ST-917Preparatory Thesis V
T-918Dissertation

Ready to lead forensic science and investigation at the doctoral level?

Take the next step toward your Doctorate in Criminal Justice – Crime Scene Investigation Specialization at WUV.

Apply Now Request Information

Admission Requirements How to apply to WUV's Doctorate in Crime Scene Investigation program

A Master's degree in a related discipline is required for admission to this Doctorate program. Follow the steps below to begin your application.

Fill out WUV's online application form. The application is free and takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. You will create an account, select your doctoral program, and provide basic personal and academic information.

Upload official transcripts confirming completion of a Master's degree from a regionally accredited institution. WUV accepts graduate degrees in criminal justice and related disciplines. Your admissions counselor will review your documents and confirm receipt within 3 business days.

Once accepted, review your enrollment agreement, confirm your specialization, and select your start date. WUV offers multiple start dates throughout the year so you can begin when the time is right for you.

Career Outlook What can you do with a Doctorate in Crime Scene Investigation?

Graduates of the Doctorate in Crime Scene Investigation specialization are prepared for executive, research, and academic leadership roles in forensic science and criminal investigation.

Forensic Science Director

Leads a regional or national forensic science division, setting standards and overseeing major investigations.

Median Salary: $118,000/yr

Crime Lab Administrator

Manages laboratory operations, accreditation, staffing, and quality assurance for a forensic crime lab.

Median Salary: $105,000/yr

Forensic Policy Researcher

Conducts and publishes peer-reviewed research on forensic methodology to inform legal and investigative standards.

Median Salary: $96,000/yr

University Professor – Forensic Science

Teaches advanced forensic courses and leads research programs at accredited universities.

Median Salary: $90,000/yr

Senior Forensic Consultant

Provides expert guidance on complex investigations to law enforcement agencies and legal teams.

Median Salary: $108,000/yr

Federal Forensic Program Director

Directs forensic science programs within federal law enforcement agencies such as the FBI or DEA.

Median Salary: $122,000/yr