Laboratory work is integral to forensic science.
Forensic science is an exciting field that combines science and criminology. Forensic science technicians usually work in laboratories investigating evidence and producing reports for law enforcement officials. They also work in the insurance field and medical diagnostic laboratories. The minimum requirement for employment in this field is a bachelor's degree, although a master's degree increases job opportunities.
Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University offers a Master of Science degree in forensic sciences through its Center for Health Sciences in Tulsa, Oklahoma. OSU also offers a related program for nurses who perform examinations of sexual assault victims and a certificate program in the examination of documents. The master's degree program has three tracks. Students can pursue the traditional tract that culminates in a master's degree, or they can pursue concentrations in forensic science administration or forensic document investigation. Courses of study include introduction to forensic science, population genetics, forensic pathology and medicine, criminalistics and investigation analysis and neurochemical toxicology.
Oklahoma State University
1111 W. 17th St.
Tulsa, OK 74107
918-582-1972
healthsciences.okstate.edu
University of New Haven
The University of New Haven offers a bachelor's degree in forensic science for those seeking an undergraduate degree in the field. The university also offers a master's degree program. Both programs are offered through the university's Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences. The bachelor's degree program has two areas of emphasis: biology and chemistry. Areas of study covered by the program include courses in principles of criminal investigation, criminalistics, forensic biology, genetics, organic chemistry, electromagnetism and optics, crime scene investigation and professional practices in forensic science.
University of New Haven
300 Boston Post Rd.
West Haven, CT 06516
800-342-5864
newhaven.edu
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University offers both graduate and undergraduate degrees in the forensic science field. The undergraduate program focuses on both the science of forensics and hands-on training in the field. Students have the opportunity to pursue a variety of internship options. The bachelor's degree program requires 122 or 123 credit hours while the master's degree program requires 36 credit hours for graduation. The master's program is designed to provide students with a stronger technical background in the field and is likely more appropriate for those seeking a career as a forensic technician. Areas of study include analysis of pattern evidence, forensic microscopy, expert testimony in forensic science, advanced forensic DNA analysis, population genetics and instrumentation in forensic chemistry.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Department of Forensic Science
1020 W. Main Street
Room 2015
Richmond, Virginia 23284
804.828.8420
vcu.edu
Tags: degree program, master degree, bachelor degree, Commonwealth University, forensic science, master degree program
