COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science at Wichita State University requires students to complete a minimum of 120 credit hours and maintain at least a 2.0 overall GPA, WSU GPA, and program GPA for graduation. The program includes 74–76 core credit hours and allows students to specialize in either a Biology Concentration or a Chemistry Concentration, depending on their career interests. Along with completing university general education requirements and the standards of the Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, students study a broad range of scientific and criminal justice subjects. The Biology Concentration emphasizes biological evidence analysis and includes courses such as forensic serology, fingerprint development and analysis, biological anthropology, forensic anthropology, microbiology, genetics, molecular cell biology, human anatomy and physiology, analytical chemistry, criminal law, criminal evidence, and statistics. This pathway is ideal for students interested in DNA analysis, forensic biology, crime scene investigation, and laboratory examination of biological evidence. The Chemistry Concentration focuses on chemical evidence and laboratory-based forensic analysis. Students complete specialized courses in forensic identification of marijuana and narcotics, forensic toxicology, forensic arson analysis, organic chemistry, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, instrumental chemical analysis, criminal justice, and statistics. This concentration prepares students for careers involving drug analysis, toxicology testing, trace evidence examination, and forensic chemistry. Both concentrations include foundational studies in biology, chemistry, anthropology, and criminal justice, ensuring graduates possess a strong understanding of scientific principles and legal procedures. General education courses account for approximately 34–35 credit hours, while additional Liberal Arts and Sciences competency courses and electives are required to reach the 120-credit-hour graduation requirement. Through rigorous coursework, laboratory training, and applied learning experiences, the program develops students’ analytical, investigative, and technical skills. Graduates are well prepared for employment in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, medical examiner offices, government crime labs, and other organizations involved in criminal investigations and forensic evidence analysis.