Pathway to Forensic Science (Death Investigations), BS

Forensic science is the application of science to the law or legal procedures. The medicolegal death investigation system is responsible for conducting investigations that certify the cause and manner of death in unnatural or unexplained circumstances — those associated with forensic investigations.

The Bachelor of Science program in forensic science with a concentration in death investigations is built on a solid foundation of anatomy, biology and chemistry, which develop students’ basic and upper-level laboratory skills. Students complete holistic, rigorous coursework in the natural and mathematical sciences to prepare to enter a competitive workforce. The interdisciplinary nature of the program is distinctly positioned to train students in forensic techniques such as advanced mapping, scene photography, biological evidence analysis and mock courtroom testimony.

Along with completing coursework and gaining the necessary scientific skills to succeed in this field, students have the opportunity to gain practical experience in a laboratory setting by being involved in research or an internship. Students can conduct research under experts of varying forensic fields, including anthropology, biology, entomology, investigations and data science. Students also may seek to apply for and participate in forensic science internships sponsored by crime labs or medicolegal offices around the country. Students seeking a volunteer or internship position within a crime lab or medicolegal office (as well as job applicants) often are required to undergo an extensive background check that includes a polygraph exam, fingerprinting and drug testing. Applicants can be disqualified for recent or past illicit drug use (including marijuana), felony convictions, drunk driving convictions or other reasons.