COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science is a STEM-designated program that combines scientific theory, laboratory analysis, criminal investigation, and forensic technology to prepare students for professional careers in forensic laboratories, crime scene investigation, law enforcement support, and scientific research. Students complete a 40-credit University Core Curriculum that includes academic writing, communication, advanced mathematics, chemistry, criminal justice, humanities, and interdisciplinary studies. The curriculum emphasizes strong foundations in biology, chemistry, physics, and analytical science while integrating practical forensic applications used in modern criminal and civil investigations. Required coursework includes molecular biology, organismal biology, general and organic chemistry with laboratories, instrumental methods, forensic science foundations, forensic biology, forensic chemistry, physical methods, crime scene investigation, and seminar-based professional preparation. Students also complete advanced physics courses covering mechanics, heat, waves, electromagnetism, and optics, strengthening their scientific and analytical abilities. Hands-on laboratory training is a major component of the program, allowing students to develop practical skills in evidence collection, forensic testing, chemical analysis, biological examination, and interpretation of scientific findings. Students may complete either a research project or a forensic science internship to gain professional experience in laboratory or investigative settings. The program offers two emphasis areas, Chemistry and Biology, enabling students to specialize in their preferred scientific discipline. Chemistry-emphasis students complete advanced physical chemistry courses and laboratories, gaining deeper expertise in chemical analysis, instrumentation, and forensic toxicology techniques. Biology-emphasis students complete advanced coursework in genetics and molecular biology, preparing them for forensic DNA analysis, biological evidence examination, and molecular forensic applications. Both emphasis areas include upper-level forensic science electives and advisor-approved restricted electives in biology or chemistry to further customize academic and career goals. Throughout the program, students learn to perform forensic laboratory examinations, evaluate the limitations of forensic techniques, analyze and interpret forensic data, investigate crime scenes, and apply ethical and professional standards in forensic practice. Graduates are prepared for careers as forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, forensic laboratory analysts, DNA analysts, toxicologists, evidence technicians, and forensic consultants, while also building a strong academic foundation for graduate study in forensic science, chemistry, biology, criminalistics, toxicology, medicine, or law.