Forensic science trains students to use their knowledge of biology and chemistry in solving crimes.
Forensic science trains students for a variety of careers in crime scene investigation, forensic toxicology and crime laboratory analysis. It is a complex program requiring advanced studies in mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics. Although most programs are similar, some are more preparatory, geared toward students looking to pursue graduate or medical school. Others are designed to train students for immediate careers in the field.
General Forensic Science
If you are planning to attend graduate or medical school, or if you are not sure about your career direction, a more general forensic science program may be best. These programs are multidisciplinary in nature, requiring close to an equal amount of study in biology and chemistry, along with some advanced coursework in mathematics, physics, criminal justice, law and psychology. Schools offering this type of program include Penn State (psu.edu), Baylor University (baylor.edu) and Indiana University (iupui.edu).
Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry
A large number of programs require students to choose a program direction. That is, you will choose a focus of study such as forensic biology or forensic chemistry. The chemistry track curriculum includes coursework in quantitative analysis, organic chemistry, physics, biochemistry and forensic chemistry, and the biology track training in genetics, DNA analysis, biotechnology and forensic biology. Schools offering degrees in forensic biology or forensic chemistry include the University of Mississippi (olemiss.edu), Ohio University (132.235.27.130/forensic) and State University of New York at Albany (albany.edu).
Forensic Psychology and Anthropology
Psychology and anthropology are also important to the field of forensic science. Consequently, some schools have designed programs that provide training and skills in utilizing these social sciences in criminal law and investigation. These schools include Baylor University (baylor.edu), the City University of New York (jjay.cuny.edu) and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (uncw.edu).
Master's Degree Programs
Students who have a bachelor's degree in a science-related field may go on to pursue graduate level training in forensic science. Some master's programs available related to forensic science include forensic toxicology, forensic biology, forensic chemistry, digital forensics and drug chemistry. Schools noted for graduate training in forensic science include Michigan State University (msu.edu), the University of Florida (ufl.edu) and Marshall University (marshall.edu).
Tags: biology chemistry, forensic biology forensic, Baylor University, Baylor University baylor, biology forensic, biology forensic chemistry, chemistry physics
