Forensic Biology Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Forensic Biology
This major provides valuable preparation for those interested in pursuing careers in the criminal justice system, the FBI or the SBI, as well as for work with humanitarian agencies investigating human rights abuses. In addition, students interested in law, journalism and creative writing can double-major and thus acquire the knowledge needed to complement their primary field of specialization.
The major requires a minimum of 32 credit hours (eight courses).
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 203 | Intro Biol:Molecules and Cells | 4 |
| BIOL 215 | General Botany | 4 |
| BIOL 245 | Introduction to Forensic Science | 4 |
| BIOL 346 | Forensic Chemistry | 4 |
| BIOL 313 | Molecular Cell Biology | 4 |
| BIOL 341 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I | 4 |
| BIOL 250 | Special Topics (May also be offered as 350 or 450) | 8 |
| BIOL 449 | Forensic Anthropology | 4 |
| Total Credits | 36 | |
Bachelor of Science Degree in Forensic Biology
The forensic biology B.S. degree is recommended for students planning to seek employment in a public or private forensics laboratory. The major also prepares students seeking certification as forensic DNA analysts, forensic drug analysts, or to pursue graduate study in the forensic sciences.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses: | 44 | |
| Intro Biol:Molecules and Cells | ||
| Introduction to Forensic Science | ||
| Molecular Cell Biology | ||
| Human Anatomy and Physiology I | ||
| Forensic Chemistry | ||
| Forensic Anthropology | ||
| Chemical Principles I | ||
| Chemical Principles II | ||
| Introduction to Physics for the Life Sciences I | ||
| Introduction to Physics for the Life Sciences II | ||
| Elementary Statistics | ||
| AND Select Two Courses From the following: | 8 | |
| General Botany | ||
| Biochemistry (CHEM 434) | ||
| Genetics | ||
| AND Select 1 course from the following: | 4 | |
| Elementary Functions | ||
| Calculus I: Differential Calculus | ||
| Calculus II: Integral Calculus | ||
| Total Credits | 56 | |
It is recommended that students pursuing the B.S. degree in forensic biology take CHEM 231 and CHEM 232 and/or CHEM 341. Your academic advisor will assist you in your course planning. Forensic biology B.S. majors are encouraged to pursue independent research projects that can lead to the preparation of a senior thesis (BIOL 470) or departmental honors (BIOL 490). Students should explore the practical aspects of a career in forensics by arranging for an internship with a local law enforcement agency or laboratory during their junior or senior year (BIOL 470).