Forensic Science Scholarship open doors to numerous funding opportunities for aspiring investigators. In this post, we would show you how.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 20 scholarships that recognize and support students passionate about advancing the field of forensic science.

Top 10 forensic science scholarships in 2024/2025

1. Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program

The Larry Jennings and Tracy Ritchie Scholarship program, named in honor of two ACFE members, commemorates their tragic loss in Karachi, Pakistan.

This scholarship is a testament to the ACFE Foundation’s commitment to fostering education in fraud examination for aspiring professionals.

2. The ASCLD Scholarship Program

Incepted in Quantico, Virginia, back in 1973, the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) is a nonprofit organization that brings together directors of crime laboratories and managers in the field of forensic science. Its primary objective is to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals in the industry.

ASCLD’s objectives include advancing professional interests, promoting laboratory management principles, facilitating information exchange, enhancing communication among directors, and upholding exceptional standards of practice.

Annually, the ASCLD Board of Directors approves this scholarship for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing forensic science.

3. Gladys Carol Scholarship Program

Gladys Carol’s exceptional intellect held immense potential for accomplishments like leading a Fortune 500 company or discovering cures for devastating diseases, had she been afforded a university education. Instead, she chose marriage and motherhood.

In honor of her sacrifice, Gladys’ daughter, Cheryl, established this scholarship program to provide financial assistance.

The primary objective is to support high school graduates, seniors, and current undergraduates in the United States who aspire to pursue a STEM degree (science, technology, engineering, or math).

4. Sandy Jeffers Memorial Scholarship

The Sandy Jeffers Memorial Scholarship is a distinguished opportunity offered by the Department of Anthropology within the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Tennessee.

This scholarship commemorates Sandy Jeffers, an accomplished individual who not only completed her undergraduate degree in anthropology at the university in 2003 but was also admitted to its MA program..

In alignment with Sandy’s passions, her family established this award to support undergraduate students pursuing studies in forensic anthropology or historic archaeology specifically at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

5. The Emily R. Murphy Graduate Scholarship

The Emily R. Murphy Graduate Scholarship at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) serves as a poignant tribute to the memory of Emily Murphy, a vibrant young woman brimming with potential. Drawn to Richmond, VA, she pursued her lifelong aspiration of becoming a forensic scientist.

As the first graduate teaching assistant in the Department, she received full tuition and a stipend. Tragically, Emily’s life was cut short in a car accident at the age of 22 in Washington, DC.

This scholarship exclusively supports graduate students within VCU’s Forensic Science Department, carrying forward Emily’s legacy of passion and dedication.

6. The AFTE Scholarship Program

AFTE actively publishes a reputable scientific journal, offers an array of valuable online resources, and organizes an annual training seminar, providing a platform for presentations, workshops, networking, and dialogue.

Annually, AFTE awards this scholarship to aspiring students pursuing a career in forensic science.

7. The Floyd E. McDonald Scholarship

The Southwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (SWAFS) is a nonprofit organization comprising experts specializing in the scientific analysis of physical evidence.

SWAFS aims to foster collaboration among forensic scientists, enhance forensic methodologies, facilitate the exchange of best practices, promote academic research, and keep its members abreast of advancements in the field.

The SWAFS Floyd E. McDonald scholarship is specifically designed to encourage students pursuing education that prepares them for a future in forensic science.

8. Johnson-Whyte Memorial Foundation Fund

To foster research and education in the field of forensic identification, the International Association for Identification (IAI) has created a charitable foundation fund.

In memory of Robert L. Johnson, a pivotal figure in the formation of the IAI Latent Print Certification Board and its inaugural Chairman, this scholarship stands as a testament to his contributions and legacy within the field.

9. Carol De Forest Student Research Grant

Among the awards presented by the Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists, the student research grant holds a significant place.

This grant, established by NEAFS, pays tribute to the remarkable zeal and spirit of Carol De Forest, the late wife of Dr. Peter De Forest, who bravely fought cancer until October 3rd, 2011.

Recognized as “The First Lady of Forensic Science,” Carol’s warm smile and kind words were a constant presence at NEAFS meetings, where her influence extended far beyond the Annual Meeting.

The grant’s purpose is to provide financial support for full-time graduate or non graduates in forensic science conducting research endeavors.

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10. The Mike Byrd Science Scholarship

Established in 1989, the Police Officer Assistance Trust (POAT) serves as a vital support system for the law enforcement community in Miami-Dade, Florida. Committed to its motto, “Serving Those Who Serve,” POAT provides assistance to officers and their families during challenging times.

Crafted with a specific focus on the offspring of law enforcement professionals, this scholarship is designed to support and encourage their pursuit of a career in the fields of forensics and crime scene investigation.

By targeting this unique demographic, the scholarship reflects POAT’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the future generation of professionals in these crucial areas.