Bachelor of Science in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation
Hours: 120 On-Campus Online
About
Fort Hays State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation, an interdisciplinary program designed for students who want to protect organizations, uncover the truth, and combat financial fraud. Blending accounting, business, and criminal justice, the program provides a strong foundation in financial reporting, accounting information systems, legal processes, and investigative techniques. Students gain practical, hands-on experience analyzing financial data, identifying suspicious activity, and understanding how fraud occurs across corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors.
With fraud on the rise globally, graduates are equipped with the analytical skills and ethical foundation needed for careers in fraud investigation, compliance, financial analysis, and related fields, preparing them to address complex financial challenges across industries.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Science in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing a B.S. in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation offers a unique opportunity to study in a field that combines multiple disciplines to address real-world challenges. Fraud investigation stands out for its multidisciplinary approach, drawing from business, criminal justice, and the social sciences to equip students with a well-rounded perspective on detecting and preventing fraud. This approach opens the door for students with a variety of interests and strengths.
FHSU offers the only undergraduate program of its kind in Kansas, and one of only a few in the United States, giving students a distinct advantage in a growing, high-demand field. The program also provides a high level of flexibility, allowing students to customize their experience through certificates, minors, or a complementary second degree, helping them stand out in a competitive job market.
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for students who are interested in combining financial knowledge with investigative work. Those who enjoy solving complex challenges, analyzing data, and understanding how organizations operate often find this field especially engaging. It is ideal for:
- Students interested in forensic accounting and fraud examination
- Individuals pursuing careers in fraud investigation or prevention
- Future Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) candidates
- Students interested in criminal justice and financial crimes
- Professionals aiming to work in government agencies or regulatory roles
- Individuals drawn to investigating financial crimes and corporate fraud
Real-World Applications
This program equips students with practical skills and experience to address financial fraud in real-world settings. By examining historical fraud cases, engaging in simulations, and analyzing real-world incidents, students learn how fraud occurs, how it is detected, and how investigations unfold and are prosecuted. These lessons provide insight into recognizing patterns and red flags in today’s organizations.
Graduates develop the ability to analyze financial information and records in detail, identifying fraud schemes and suspicious transactions. Faculty-guided case studies and applied experiences strengthen critical thinking, professional judgment, and investigative skills, preparing students to uncover, stop, and help prevent financial misconduct across a wide range of industries.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University prepares students to understand and respond to the evolving landscape of financial fraud. Students examine how fraud has expanded into digital environments and develop the skills to track, analyze, and investigate suspicious activity across a variety of contexts. The curriculum explores the causes and consequences of criminal behavior, with attention to the social context of crime, and introduces the key elements and techniques of criminal investigation.
By combining foundational knowledge with investigative principles, students gain the skills needed to adapt to complex financial and organizational environments. Graduates are prepared to apply fraud detection and investigative techniques across industries, equipping them to address the multifaceted challenges of today’s fraud landscape.
Hands-on Activities
Applied learning is a key component of the B.S. in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation program. Students participate in exercises that reflect real-world investigative scenarios, including analyzing financial statements, evaluating transactions, and investigating fraud cases. These activities strengthen analytical and investigative skills essential for professional fraud examiners.
The program also emphasizes professional engagement. Students can join FHSU’s Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), open to on-campus and online learners. The chapter participates annually in the ACFE Global Fraud Conference, providing exposure to industry practices and opportunities to build professional connections. Students may also get involved in the Criminal Justice Club, which offers career-focused opportunities for service, networking, and engagement with peers and professionals in the field.
Additionally, the Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting and the Department of Criminal Justice collaborate to identify key internship opportunities for students in this program, offering hands-on experience in real investigative settings.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fraud examination methods and detection techniques
- Financial statement fraud identification
- Accounting information systems and controls
- Criminal justice investigation procedures
- Financial transactions analysis and documentation
How You’ll Learn:
- Case studies of real fraud schemes
- Applied accounting and criminal justice coursework
- Financial analysis and investigative exercises
- Research on historical financial crimes
The curriculum combines accounting, business, and criminal justice to build a strong foundation in financial statements and accounting systems. Specialized courses focus on fraud examination and forensic investigation, covering topics such as asset misappropriation, corruption, consumer fraud, and financial statement fraud in corporate, public, and securities contexts. This comprehensive program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to detect, analyze, and prevent financial misconduct.
ACCT 310: Fraud Examination
This course introduces methods for detecting, investigating, and preventing fraud. Topics include skimming, cash larceny, check tampering, billing and payroll schemes, non-cash misappropriations, corruption, fraudulent financial statements, and witness interviewing.
CRJ 200: Criminology
This course examines the causes and consequences of criminal behavior, as well as the strategies used to address it. It emphasizes the social context of crime, with particular focus on economic and political influences.
CRJ 355: Criminal Investigation
In this course, students examine the key elements and advanced techniques of criminal investigation, focusing on the duties and responsibilities of investigators throughout the investigative process.
Discover the full Bachelor of Science in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates pursue a wide range of careers focused on detecting, analyzing, and preventing financial fraud. Rising levels of financial fraud and stronger regulatory requirements have increased the demand for professionals skilled in fraud investigation and financial crime prevention. Students can further tailor their career paths by strategically selecting free electives, certificates, and minors to align their education with specific professional interests and goals.
Forensic Accountant
Forensic accountants analyze financial records and accounting data to uncover evidence of financial fraud and misconduct. They examine financial statements and transactions to identify irregularities or suspicious activities. Because this role often requires advanced accounting knowledge, students are encouraged to use free electives to develop their accounting expertise further if they are interested in this career path.
Federal or IRS Criminal Investigator
Federal investigators work with agencies such as the IRS to investigate financial crimes, including tax evasion and fraud schemes. They analyze financial records to identify violations and support prosecutions and enforcement actions that protect financial systems and government revenue. Students who choose to gain exposure to tax-related topics through free electives may be better prepared to pursue this career path.
Financial Regulatory Examiner
Financial regulatory examiners review financial institutions for compliance with regulations and reporting standards. They analyze financial activities and statements to detect fraud or mismanagement and recommend corrective actions to maintain financial stability. Because this role often requires knowledge of financial systems and regulations, students are encouraged to use free electives to build relevant expertise if they are interested in this career path.
Cyberfraud Analyst
Cyberfraud analysts investigate financial crimes occurring through digital systems and online transactions. They inspect digital evidence and electronic payment systems using cybersecurity tools to detect fraud and protect financial systems from emerging digital threats. Students can choose to develop relevant digital and cybersecurity skills through free electives or related coursework.
Corporate Fraud Investigator
Corporate fraud investigators identify internal fraud, including employee theft and corruption, by reviewing financial records, analyzing transactions, and interviewing employees. Findings help organizations strengthen prevention programs and reduce risk.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several programs that complement and enhance the B.S. in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation. For students seeking to expand their knowledge and career opportunities, related programs provide valuable interdisciplinary preparation for fraud detection and prevention roles:
- BBA in Accounting
- B.A./B.S. in Criminal Justice
- BBA in Finance
- B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Cybersecurity)
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Certificate in Criminal Psychology
- Certificate in Criminological Theory
Yes, the program is offered in both online and on-campus formats. Flexible course schedules make it easier for students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments.
Yes, the program provides skills in analyzing financial records, detecting fraud, and supporting investigations. Students who enhance their accounting background through free electives may be especially well-prepared for forensic accounting. At the same time, all graduates are equipped for careers in fraud examination, compliance, and related roles.
Students explore a wide range of fraud, including asset misappropriation, corruption, consumer fraud, financial statement fraud, and digital or cyber-based fraud schemes. The curriculum emphasizes real-world examples and investigative techniques for detecting, analyzing, and preventing financial misconduct.
Yes, the program provides the knowledge and skills aligned with the CFE credential, covering fraud detection, investigation techniques, and financial analysis. Participation in the FHSU Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners also offers additional support and professional development opportunities for students pursuing the CFE designation.
Students can join FHSU’s Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), which is open to on-campus and online learners and provides opportunities to attend conferences, network with industry professionals, and gain insights into current practices in fraud investigation and financial forensics. Students may also get involved in the Criminal Justice Club, which offers career-focused service, networking, and social engagement with peers and professionals in the field.
Information about the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting
The Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at FHSU equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively and ethically across both public and private sectors. The department offers highly sought-after degree programs in accounting, finance, and international business and economics—each designed to prepare students for versatile and in-demand career paths.
Students benefit from career-focused internship opportunities, personalized mentoring from expert faculty, and the flexibility of fully online degree options. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of the business world, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate a competitive job market.
Additionally, the Robbins Banking Institute enhances professional development in the banking sector by offering a practical, real-time curriculum tailored for rewarding careers in finance and banking. With a strong emphasis on student success and growth, the department’s faculty provides dedicated support to help each student reach their full potential.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Accounting Club: This club provides accounting students with valuable opportunities to connect with peers, explore career paths, and prepare for professional success. The club helps members gain insight into the diverse opportunities within the accounting field and facilitates introductions to potential employers. Regular meetings often feature guest speakers, professionals with accounting degrees, who share real-world experiences and career advice.
- Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE): The ACFE organization brings together students from a variety of disciplines to promote awareness, detection, and prevention of fraud in the business world.
- Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is open to all students, regardless of major or prior knowledge of economics. Its mission is to promote interest in and understanding of economic concepts through engaging activities and discussions. A hallmark project of the club is the creation of the “Student Price Index,” a collaborative research initiative that explores FHSU students’ economic expectations. Each year, club members also have an opportunity to travel to a major U.S. city, enhancing their academic and professional development through real-world experiences.
- Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club is dedicated to supporting the professional, educational, and social development of students with an interest in finance. The club fosters meaningful connections among students, faculty, and professionals in the business and finance sectors. Through guest speakers and educational trips across the U.S., members gain valuable insights into the finance industry and explore potential career opportunities.
- International Business Club: This club aims to enhance students’ understanding of global business practices and economic issues from a variety of cultural and international perspectives. Through discussions, activities, and international travel experiences, the club fosters professional, educational, and social development. Its ultimate goal is to cultivate globally minded citizen-leaders prepared to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world.
The Tiger Money Mentors Program, housed within the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at FHSU, is led by a faculty expert in financial planning. This initiative offers free, confidential financial guidance provided by a team of trained, financially knowledgeable student mentors dedicated to helping their peers manage personal finances effectively.
Through one-on-one sessions, Tiger Money Mentors assist students with a wide range of financial topics, including:
- Organizing personal finances and managing expenses
- Creating and maintaining a realistic budget
- Developing plans to achieve both short- and long-term financial goals
- Understanding student loans and exploring repayment options
- Reviewing job offers and employee benefits
- Obtaining and reviewing credit reports
- And more!