HELP 2011-2012 University Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG] Forensic Science Print-Friendly Page

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Forensic science refers to the application of scientific principles and techniques to the justice system and legal matters. While this includes local law enforcement, it extends far beyond this arena into many career paths. Forensic science has applications in local, regional, state, and federal law enforcement; environmental regulatory and reclamation efforts; the public health services; and homeland security.

A career in forensic science requires the application of principles of physics, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and social sciences. Still, most career professionals specialize in one specific discipline. The American Academy of Forensic Sciences recommends that students interested in a career in forensic science first get a degree in a science. USciences offers seven distinct majors that are integrated into the forensic science program and offers a minor in forensic science.

The Forensic Science Program

The forensic science program is a multidisciplinary program designed to be integrated with existing major disciplines of study (majors) at USciences. The purpose of the forensic science program is to provide training and education relevant to the pursuit of a career requiring a background in forensic science. This is accomplished by coupling a core program of forensic science to a strong foundation in one of the scientific disciplines offered as a major at USciences.

The goals of the forensic science program are to expose the student to several areas in forensic science, including laboratory analyses and social aspects of crime, and to provide the student a strong background in applicable scientific concepts. The forensic science program of study within each major includes fundamental forensic science courses, major-specific courses relevant to forensic science, and hands-on experiences.

Each major participating in the forensic science program as defined an integrated program of study in forensic science (major curriculum). Such a major curriculum defines the required and elective forensic science courses within that discipline and outlines a four-year course of study. An approved program of study in forensic science culminates a a baccalaureate degree in a major with a certificate verifying completion of the forensic science program.