Forensic Science (Bachelor of Science)

Forensic Science is the application of science to the purposes of law. It is a broad, interdisciplinary field that uses a wide range of scientific methods and techniques. It is increasingly a vital component of the United States justice system as well as that of the global community. A forensic scientist applies accepted scientific principles to examine evidence and interpret data in order to solve issues that relate to legal and regulatory systems. In addition, a forensic scientist must be able to perform demanding laboratory work, maintain detailed records, write intelligible reports, and may even be expected to explain and defend their findings in a court of law.

Academic Goals and Objectives

The academic goals of the Forensic Science major are to prepare students for entry-level employment positions in the public and private sectors, and to prepare them for advanced studies in forensic science. In order to achieve these goals students must demonstrate:

• solid knowledge in the natural and biological sciences and its supporting technology
• practical skills in the application of natural and biological knowledge
• ability to integrate knowledge and skill in the examination, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of physical evidence, as well as the ability to give testimonial support of physical evidence
• personal honesty, integrity, and scientific objectivity
• critical thinking in quantitative reasoning and problem solving
• computer proficiency
• strong oral and written communication skills

Curriculum

The bachelor of science major in Forensic Science offers two concentration options, biology or chemistry. This curriculum follows the general guidelines and recommendations of the National Institute of Justice.

• Forensic Science Common Core 12 credit hours
• Biology/Chemistry Common Core 44 credit hours
• Biology or Chemistry Concentration 11 credit hours
• Electives 12 credit hours
• Total Credit Hours 79-84

Opportunities for Employment

Graduates with a bachelor of science degree in Forensic Science are qualified to apply for entry-level positions in a variety of public and private research and applied laboratories that investigate crime, terrorism, warfare (including MIA’s), and mass disasters. Such employment opportunities include state and federal investigative laboratories; public health, drug, and environmental protection agencies; and, the pharmaceutical industry.

Also, because the Forensic Science graduate is well trained in the natural and biological sciences and the scientific methods, with appropriate certification, graduates are eligible to assume positions in public and private education.

The demand for Forensic Science trainees has significantly increased in recent years in the Western World as well as selected regions of Asia, Australia, and Africa. There are a variety of opportunities for employment today, and the need for such expertise is expected to increase in the near and distant future.

Opportunities for Advanced Degrees

The major is well grounded in the natural and biological sciences and scientific methods and techniques which prepare graduates for advanced degrees in Forensic Science and related fields of study.

According to recent data from the American Academy of Forensic Science, fifteen American universities offer master’s degrees in forensic science. The content focus of these programs is often chemistry and biology but includes specialty concentrations such as DNA, crime scene investigation, toxicology, etc.

The bachelor of science graduate may also pursue advanced degrees in chemistry, biology, pharmacy, law, pathology, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, nursing, medical technology, and other biomedical fields.

Therefore, students who earn a degree in the Forensic Science position themselves well for a variety of opportunities, whether in employment or in seeking an advanced degree.

Contact Information

Merritt Helvenston   Natural Sciences  Professor/Department Chair
  Phone: 505-454-3167  Room: HSCI-232

Robert Mishler   Behavioral Sciences  Professor Anthropology
  Phone: 505-454-3542  Room: HH-101

Mary Shaw   Natural Sciences  Associate Professor
  Phone: 505-454-3407  Room: HSCI-323