Forensic Investigations, Minor
Program Description
The Minor in Forensic Investigations is an interdisciplinary program designed to introduce students to the principles and practices of criminal and scientific investigation. Students will gain foundational knowledge in both criminal investigations and forensic science, and then expand their expertise through elective coursework in criminal justice, biomedical sciences, and psychology. The program also offers students the opportunity to apply their learning through supervised internships in criminal justice or biomedical science settings, allowing them to gain practical insight into real-world investigative processes.
This minor complements a wide range of majors—including Criminal Justice, Psychology, Chemistry, Biology, and Biomedical Sciences—and is well-suited for students interested in careers involving law enforcement, criminal investigation, forensic science, psychology, or related fields. The Forensic Investigations minor is not intended to prepare students for immediate employment as forensic scientists or for admission to advanced degree programs in forensic science. Additional coursework and laboratory experience may be required for those seeking such professional or academic pathways. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with their academic advisor, program faculty, and a career counselor to ensure that their coursework aligns with their individual career and graduate education goals.
Program Modality
The Forensic Investigations Minor is a hybrid program, which means that courses may be offered in face-to-face, hybrid/blended, and fully online formats. The hybrid designation gives students the flexibility to complete 50-85% of their coursework online. Students should be aware that not all courses will be offered in their desired modality in every semester. Students are advised to consult with their Academic Advisor to ensure timely progress to degree completion.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles and procedures of criminal investigations.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles and procedures of forensic science.
- Explain the scientific and legal foundations underlying the collection, analysis, and interpretation of physical evidence.
- Apply interdisciplinary knowledge from criminal justice, biomedical sciences, and psychology to forensic contexts.
- Communicate investigative and scientific findings effectively in written and oral form consistent with professional standards.
Program Requirements
The Minor in Forensic Investigations requires 18 semester credit hours, including two foundational courses and 12 hours of upper-division electives selected from the approved list below.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses (6 hours) | ||
| CRIJ 2314 | Criminal Investigation | 3 |
| BIMS 3320 | Survey of Forensic Science | 3 |
| Elective Courses (12 hours) | ||
| Students in the Forensic Science Minor will select 12 hours of upper-division electives from the following list: | 12 | |
| Professional Practice in Forensic Science | ||
| Medicolegal Death Investigations | ||
| Law and Evidence | ||
| Criminal Procedure | ||
| Forensic Psychology | ||
| Internship | ||
| Forensic Science Internship | ||
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Additional Information
- Internship courses require approval from the respective program coordinator/faculty advisor.
- This interdisciplinary minor is open to students in all majors; however, students should ensure that they meet all listed prerequisites before enrolling in advanced courses.
- Students should consult regularly with their Academic Advisor and the Forensic Investigations Program Coordinator to ensure timely progress toward completion.