School of Undergraduate Studies

Forensics Minor

• Program Objectives
• Course Requirements

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Forensics

Students may seek an academic minor in forensics. A related academic major is available in investigative forensics.

Minor in Forensics

The minor in forensics complements the skills the student gains in his or her major discipline by providing interdisciplinary study in selected areas of criminal justice, natural science, social science, investigation and security, information and computer systems, psychology and sociology. It combines laboratory and field skills in the collection and analysis of physical evidence with further study in the various subfields of forensics.

Objectives

The student who graduates with a minor in forensics will be able to

• Collect, manipulate and analyze various pieces of evidence and data from crime scenes.
• Articulate the role of crime scene investigation and evidence in the criminal justice system.
• Explain the role of the social, behavioral, natural and computer sciences in forensics.

Requirements for the Forensics Minor

A minor in forensics requires the completion of 15 credits of coursework in forensics, chosen from those listed in the requirements for the major in investigative forensics. Students are recommended to take CCJS 100, 234 or 320 as the first course for the minor (if they have not already applied the course toward other degree requirements).

Courses may not duplicate those used to satisfy requirements for the major. At least 9 credits must be earned in upper-level courses (numbered 300 or above). Prerequisites apply for all courses.