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Forensic Science Major

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A student pursuing a Forensic Science degree major mocks up a criminal profile on the computer

Curry College is pleased to offer students a major in Forensic Science, beginning in the fall of 2019. 

Forensic science technicians aid criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing evidence. Many technicians specialize in either crime scene investigation or laboratory analysis. Forensic science technicians need at least a bachelor’s degree in a natural science, such as chemistry or biology, or in forensic science.

Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 17% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics. State and local governments are expected to hire additional forensic science technicians to process their high caseloads. Additionally, scientific and technological advances are expected to increase the availability, reliability, and usefulness of objective forensic information used as evidence in trials. As a result, forensic science technicians will be able to provide even greater value than before, and more forensic science technicians will be needed to provide timely forensics information to law enforcement agencies and courts.

Course Requirements and Information

Forensic Science is an interdisciplinary program that blends the sciences with curriculum from criminal justice and psychology and prepares graduates for positions working as crime science technicians and lab technicians. Courses in the program include:

Forensic Science Courses:

  • Forensic Photography
  • Forensic Science I
  • Forensic Science II
  • Forensic Science Case Investigations
  • Independent Research in Forensic Science I
  • Independent Research in Forensic Science II

 
Science and Math Courses:

  • BIOL 1055: Introduction to Organisms
  • BIOL 1065: Introduction to Molecules and Cells
  • BIOL 2015: Microbiology
  • BIOL 2100: Genetics
  • CHEM 1010/1110: Introduction to Chemistry I & Lab
  • CHEM 1020/1120: Introduction to Chemistry II & Lab
  • CHEM 2030/2130: Analytical Chemistry & Lab
  • CHEM 2510/2610: Organic Chemistry I & Lab
  • CHEM 2520/2620: Organic Chemistry II & Lab
  • MATH 1150: Statistics I
  • MATH 2130: Calculus I
  • PHYS 2010: Physics I: Introduction to Mechanics
  • PHYS 2020: Physics II: Electricity and Geometric Optics

 
Criminal Justice and Psychology Courses:

  • CJ 1000: Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • CJ 2018: Ethics and Law Enforcement
  • CJ 2030: Criminal Procedure
  • PSY 1030: Introduction to Psychology
  • PSY 2310: Psychology of Criminal Behavior

 
Students are also required to complete the Curry College General Education curriculum as a part of this degree program.

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science students will:

  1. Possess the fundamental concepts, theories, and principles in the physical and biological sciences;
  2. Have developed hands-on laboratory and practical research skills, including emphasizing the role of quality assurance and objectivity in scientific data collection and how these relate to the system of professional ethics in science;
  3. Hold a solid, specialized and general science background in chemistry and other sciences appropriate to an applied forensic science degree;
  4. Have developed a strong understanding of the criminal justice system and legal applications of science; and
  5. Demonstrate and develop analytical and critical thinking skills applicable to the physical sciences and criminal justice systems.
Forensic Science Professor Jim Jabbour collaborates with a Curry College student in the lab

Meet Professor Jim Jabbour

Professor James (Jim) Jabbour joined the Department of Science and Mathematics in fall 2018. Professor Jabbour specializes in reconstruction and interpretation of crime scene evidence, blood spatter recognition, and interview and interrogation practices. He is an Education Commissioner with the American College of Forensic Examiners and has participated in television episodes for Discovery Channel, Snapped, and Global Media Comm.

Read More
Students Collaborate in the Curry College Forensic Science Lab

Forensic Science Lab

The Mayflower Annex currently serves as the Forensic Science Lab. In 2019,  Curry College’s new Learning Commons, featuring the Science and Research Center, will offer our Forensic Science students and faculty brand new Microbiology, Organic/Inorganic Chemistry, Introductory Chemistry, Physics, and Research Labs.

Learn More About Our Forensic Science Lab

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We're excited you're considering our outstanding Curry College academic programs and look forward to helping you reach your career goals.

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