Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science - Biology

As a forensic science major at the University of New Haven, you will learn to use science and technology to uncover evidence that can "testify" in court and impact criminal or civil cases. You will sharpen your powers of observation and learn how to identify and interpret such evidence in one of the most respected forensic science programs in the country, a program enthusiastically endorsed by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC). And, you will have the opportunity to study in the world-renowned Henry C. Lee Institute for Forensic Science. This state-of-the-art center – named after the legendary investigator – features working crime-scene labs and high-tech visual displays, and serves as a go-to resource for law enforcement agencies around the globe. Mission: To thoroughly prepare forensic science majors for careers in forensic science, natural sciences, and criminal justice professions, as well as post-graduate educational or training opportunities. Overall Goal: The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree offered at the University of New Haven is an academically rigorous program, focusing heavily on the natural sciences and including a curriculum that addresses various aspects of the criminal justice system and professional practices associated with careers in forensic science. Objectives: Students will be able to evaluate basic scientific principles to address problems encountered by forensic scientists. Students will be able to successfully carry out various forensic laboratory examinations and evaluate the range and limitations of these techniques. Students will demonstrate the ability to perform forensic analyses or related research in realistic situations. Students will develop an understanding of legal procedures, rules of evidence, and the ethical and professional duties and responsibilities of the forensic scientist. As a forensic science major, students will learn to use science and technology to uncover evidence that can "testify" in court and impact criminal or civil cases. Students will sharpen their observational skills and learn how to identify and interpret physical evidence. The bachelor of science in forensic science is offered with a choice of three concentrations, chemistry, biology, and scene investigation, to allow the student to major in forensic science and specialize in an area of interest. PROGRAM OUTCOMES: 1. Perform forensic laboratory examinations. 2. Assess the limitations of forensic techniques. 3. Interpret forensic science analytical data. 4. Critically evaluate forensic situations for ethical and professional responsibilities. 5. Perform crime scene investigation. 6A. (Forensic Biology concentration only) This concentration allows students with an interest in biology to learn the theory behind and how to apply specialized biological methods and techniques to forensic evidence of a biological nature. 6B. (Forensic Chemistry concentration only) This concentration allows students with an interest in chemistry to learn the theory behind and how to apply specialized chemical analysis methods and techniques to forensic evidence of a chemical nature. 6C. (Forensic Scene Investigation concentration only) This concentration allows students with an interest in scene investigation to learn the theory behind and how to apply specialized physical analysis methods and techniques to forensic scene related evidence.