University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

Forensic Science Curriculum

Each major participating in the forensic science program has defined a curriculum for a four-year course of study with required and elective forensic science courses. An approved program of study in forensic science culminates with a baccalaureate degree in a major with a certificate verifying completion of the forensic science program.

For students entering University of the Sciences in Fall 2012 the following curricular requirements, based on standards set by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, must be met.  Current students should refer to their advisor for their curricula.

Required Natural Science Core Courses

General Biology I, II or Introductory Biology I, II
General Chemistry I, II or Principles of Chemistry I, II
General Chemistry Lab I, II or Principles of Chemistry Lab I, II
Organic Chemistry I, II or Principles of Organic Chemistry I, II
Organic Chemistry Lab I, II or Principles of Organic Chemistry Lab I, II
Introductory Physics I, II or Physics I, II
Mathematical Analysis I, II 
One course in statistics 

Specialized Science Courses

A minimum of 12 additional semester hours in more advanced coursework in chemistry or biology is required. These classes are consistent with the major degree program and meet the needs of students specializing in subdisciplines of forensic science.  At least two of the classes include laboratory training.  Specialized science courses from any of the following will meet this requirement:

Biochemistry
Molecular biology
Genetics
Population genetics
Inorganic chemistry
Analytical/quantitative chemistry
Physical chemistry
Instrumental analysis
Cell biology
Pharmacology
Calculus II
Microbiology

Forensic Science Courses

A minimum of 15 credits in forensic science coursework is required. Required course include:

Forensic Analysis I
Crime and Society

Major Discipline

Specific courses in forensic sciences required for individual majors are detailed in each major's curriculum for forensic science and vary by major.  Additional courses may be taken as electives:

Forensic Anthropology
Forensic Applied Microbiology
Analytical Chemistry - Forensic Focus
Principles of Analytical Chemistry - Forensic Focus
Instrumental Analysis - Forensic Focus
Principles of Forensic Pathology
Genetics in Forensic Science
Forensic Molecular Biology

Independent Study in Forensic Science

Forensic Science Internship
Directed Research in Forensic Science

Additional general education courses are required as part of this program.

For detailed course descriptions and other information about the forensic science curriculum, see the University Catalog.