Forensic Science Certificate

Program Overview

The Interdisciplinary Forensic Science certificate provides undergraduate students with hands-on learning experiences that are designed to prepare them for careers in the forensic sciences. Students will take an introductory course in forensic science (ANTH 1600) and a capstone course in ethics and professionalism (ANTH 3650). In consultation with their adviser, students will take three additional courses within the following thematic areas: anthropology, biology, chemistry, criminal justice, digital forensics, death investigation, and/or evidence recovery. Upon completion of this program, students will be equipped with techniques for critical thinking and problem-solving; technical skills in evidence recovery and/or analysis; and a fundamental understanding of the ethical responsibilities of the forensic practitioner within the justice system.

Admission Requirement and Eligibility

The Interdisciplinary Forensic Science certificate is an undergraduate certificate program. Students must pass all courses in the program with a grade of C or better to be eligible to receive their certificate upon graduation.

Curriculum

Core Courses:

Students are required to complete the following two core courses (6 credits):

• ANTH 1600 – Bodies of Evidence: The Science of CSI (3 credits)

• ANTH 3650 – Ethics in Forensic Science (3 credits)

In consultation with their adviser, students are required to complete three of the following elective courses (9 credits):

• ACC 4521 – Forensic Accounting & Fraud Examination (3 credits)

• ANTH 3250 – Human Osteology (3 credits)

• ANTH 4600 – Forensic Anthropology (3 credits)

• BIOL 2060 – Functional Human Anatomy (4 credits)

• BIOL 4070 – Entomology (4 credits)

• CHEM 1050 and 1050L – Principles of Chemistry (Lecture and Laboratory) (4 credits)

• CPSC 4680 – Computer Crime Investigation (3 credits)

• CRMJ 1100 – Introduction to the Criminal Justice System (3 credits)

• CRMJ 2200 – Criminalistics: Crime Scene Investigation (3 credits)

• CRMJ 2600 – Cyber Crimes (3 credits)

• CRMJ 3600 – Law of Evidence (3 credits)

• CRMJ 3900 – Police Procedure and Criminal Investigation (3 credits)

• NURS 2300 – Introduction to Forensic Nursing (3 credits)

Recommended Progression

Students are strongly encouraged to begin with ANTH1600 (Bodies of Evidence: The Science of CSI) to gain exposure to the many facets of forensic science, then explore their interests through their elective coursework. Finally, students should end the certificate program by taking ANTH 3650 (Ethics in Forensic Science). This progression may vary based on student’s status and course availability.

Important Considerations

• This certificate is intended to strengthen the student’s chosen major while aligning with their additional interests in forensic science. This certificate will likely enhance students’ marketability for a career in forensic science or related fields.

• Students have a variety of potential interests to explore through courses in various areas: accounting, anthropology, biology, chemistry, computer science, criminal justice, geology, and nursing.

• Students should be aware that some of the elective courses in the certificate program have prerequisites that do not count towards the certificate. Students should consult their advisors to determine which electives would best support progression toward their degree.

• Students should work with their advisor to ensure they have the appropriate number of credits to satisfy their degree program and the certificate program.

• Non-degree seeking students may obtain certificates. Please fill out an admissions application as a "Non-Degree" student.