Forensic Investigation Major (BA)

Students will:

• will learn critical thinking skills and understand forensic investigation professional practice through theory and hands-on experiences in the classroom and field.
• learn to properly recognize, identify, and preserve items of physical evidence encountered through criminal investigations.
• develop an understanding of the principles and techniques utilized by forensic practitioners during criminal investigations and at the crime scene.
• gain a practical understanding of the capabilities and limitations of scientific analyses of physical evidence.
• gain practical instrumental/methodological experience using professional equipment such as the comparison microscope, stereo microscope, latent print and impression evidence development tools, blood stain pattern analysis kits, and alternative light sources.
• learn the importance of the scientific method and its application in crime scene processing and reconstruction.
• gain practical crime scene processing and evidence handling experience using appropriate equipment and technology in mock crime scene scenarios in a dedicated crime scene house.
• learn critical aspects of the criminal justice system, criminal investigation, common law principles, and rules of evidence through criminal justice administration course work and participation in mock court proceedings.
• learn the importance of ethics and quality assurance in the application of forensic investigations and crime scene processing.
• learn to apply research methods, formulate theories, and report information concerning criminal investigations.
• develop communication and leadership skills through the University’s general education requirements, service, and extracurricular opportunities.

Note: In addition to completing the following required courses, students must fulfill the General Education Requirements. Major requirements and/or General Education Requirements may be changed by official action of the faculty.

Under “Recommended Sequence” below, a number indicates the year during which it is recommended that the course be taken (i.e., 1-first year; 2-second year, etc.); a letter indicates that the course should be taken during a particular semester (i.e., F-Fall; S-Spring). This is a recommended sequence which will be individualized based on the course rotation schedule and in consultation with the faculty advisor.

Forensic Investigation Major (BA)

There are 85 credits required for this major. Prerequisite courses may be necessary and the General Education Requirements must be completed.

* Math placement depends upon the results of the University math placement exam. Students with low math scores may be required to take MAT 105.