The Forensic Science program is built on a strong foundation of science and mathematics courses. Forensic Science students develop a thorough understanding of biology and chemistry, along with essential lab skills, preparing them to work in a variety of fields. Students gain discipline-specific knowledge and experience in criminalistics, forensic biology, forensic chemistry, and crime scene investigation. Lectures and laboratories are taught in small classroom settings in rooms fully equipped with the latest technology and instruments. Students receive individual attention and hands-on experience with state-of-the-art-equipment, data acquisition and analysis tools so vital for success in today’s technological scientific arena. The faculty is comprised of highly credentialed, experienced teachers and active practitioners in their respective fields. The curriculum is structured to prepare students for a variety of career options, including employment in public and private forensic laboratories, police investigation, medical/coroner offices, as well as municipal, state, and federal agencies. Knowledge and skills gained in the program enable graduates to succeed in other scientific fields including research, biotechnology, chemistry and manufacturing labs, or advanced studies in biology or chemistry.

Students must maintain a grade of C or better in the following courses to progress to the sophomore year within the Forensic Science program: BIO 110 Biology I for Science Majors, BIO 112 Biology II for Science Majors, CHE 120 Chemistry I, and CHE 121 Chemistry II. Additional requirements for continuing within the program beyond the sophomore year are indicated within the individual course descriptions.

Student Learning Outcomes

The goal of the Science Department is to provide graduates with the requisite knowledge and skills to engage in technical careers in the biological and forensic sciences, and to proceed to graduate or professional school if desired. Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science program, graduates will be able to:

• Students will effectively communicate through scientific writing activities.
• Students will effectively communicate through scientific speaking activities.
• Students will be able to perform proper collection and analysis of evidence in Forensic Science disciplines.
• Students will be able to assess scientific ethics as they pertain to Forensic Science.
• Students will be able to generate valid interpretation of evidence analysis.

Possible Career Options for B.S. Forensic Science Graduates

• Analyst (DNA, Drug, Trace, Botanist)
• Toxicologist
• Criminalist
• Crime Scene Investigator
• Evidence Technician
• Quality Control Technician
• Forensic Nurse
• Forensic Dentist
• Sketch Artist
• Lab Technician (Research, Manufacturing, Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical, Clinical)
• Graduate Study
• Dental, Medical, Veterinary or PA School