Interdisciplinary Forensic Science Minor and Certificate

Program Overview

The Interdisciplinary Forensic Science Minor and Certificate programs provide undergraduate students with hands-on learning experiences that are designed to prepare them for careers in forensic science. Students will take an introductory course in forensic science (ANTH 1600) and a capstone course in ethics and professionalism (ANTH 3670). In consultation with their advisor, students will take 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.  

Students may only obtain the minor OR the certificate, but not both. Students should consult with their advisor about which option works best for their degree progression.  

The Interdisciplinary Forensic Science Minor requires students to complete a total of 18 credit hours, while the Certificate requires students to complete a total of 15 credit hours.

Admission Requirements and Eligibility

Students must pass all courses in the program with a C or higher to be eligible to receive their Minor/Certificate upon graduation.  

Curriculum 
Core Courses:  

All Minor and Certificate-seeking students are required to complete the following two core courses (6 credits):

  • ANTH 1600- Bodies of Evidence: The Science of CSI (3 credits)
  • ANTH 3670- Ethics in Forensic Science (3 credits)

In consultation with their advisor, Minor-seeking students are required to complete four of the following elective courses (12 credits). Certificate-seeking students are required to complete three (9 credits) of the following elective courses:  

  • ACC 4521- Forensic Accounting & Fraud Examination (3 credits)
  • ANTH 3000- Forensic Anthropology (3 credits)
  • ANTH 3250- Human Osteology (3 credits)
  • ANTH 4700- Methods in Human Identification (3 credits)
  • BIOL 2060- Functional Human Anatomy (4 credits)
  • BIOL 4070- Entomology (4 credits)
  • CHEM 1050 and 1050L- Principles of Chemistry (Lecture and Lab) (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) 


Recommended Progression 


Students are strongly encouraged to begin with ANTH 1600 (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 3670 (Ethics in Forensic Science). This progression may vary based on student’s status and course availability. 

Important Considerations

  • The Minor and Certificate are intended to strengthen the student's chosen major while aligning with their additional interests in forensic science. The Minor and 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 toward the certificate. Students should consult with their advisors to determine which elective courses 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 Minor/Certificate program.  
  • Non-degree seeking students may obtain certificates (but not minors). Please fill out an admission application as a Post-Baccalaureate/Non-Degree seeking student. Information for admission can be found here: https://www.utc.edu/enrollment-management-and-student-affairs/admissions#postbacc 

Social, Cultural, and Justice Studies

Sociology, Anthropology, and Geography