Forensic Science, BS
Interested in solving crimes using science? Explore the intersection of biology, chemistry and law while learning to collect and analyze crime scene evidence. Gain hands-on experience that prepares you for careers in forensic investigation or law enforcement, or for advanced study.
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
or MAT 251 Calculus for Life Sciences
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
International students (F1) can extend U.S. work experience by 24 months.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Degree description
Forensic Science degree description
Forensic science is the study and application of scientific methods to matters of law.
The Bachelor of Science program in forensic science is built on a solid foundation in biology and chemistry and develops your basic and upper-level laboratory skills. You 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 designed to train you in forensic techniques as varied as crime scene collection, evidence analysis and mock courtroom testimony.
Along with completing coursework and developing the scientific skills needed to succeed in this field, you can gain practical experience in a laboratory setting through research or an internship. You can conduct research under experts of varying forensic fields, including biology, entomology and anthropology. You also may apply for and participate in forensic science internships sponsored by crime labs around the country. Internships are highly competitive.
When seeking a job, internship, or volunteer position within a crime lab, you will be required to undergo an extensive background check that includes a polygraph exam, fingerprinting and drug testing. You can be disqualified for recent or past illicit drug use (including marijuana), felony convictions, drunk driving convictions or other reasons.
Why study forensic science at ASU?
Build practical experience through immersive learning opportunities that prepare you for success in the field. As part of the program, you complete a required culminating experience that integrates the knowledge and skills developed throughout your coursework. You also have the option to participate in the New College Undergraduate Inquiry and Research Experiences, conducting faculty mentored research, or complete an internship to gain additional professional experience and strengthen your career readiness.
Courses
Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.
| Sample courses |
|---|
| BIO 181 General Biology I |
| BIO 182 General Biology II |
| LSC 347 Fundamentals of Genetics |
| LSC 348 Fundamentals of Genetics Laboratory |
| BCH 371 Modern Concepts in Biochemistry |
| BCH 372 Modern Concepts in Biochemistry Laboratory |
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).
Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.
If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.
See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Summarize the main intellectual trends in biology and chemistry as related to the Forensic Sciences.
- Evaluate the appropriateness of tests to examine various types of evidence including biological and physical evidence.
- Describe the role and preparation of forensic experts to provide expert testimony in the legal system that is ethical and unbiased.
Summarize the main intellectual trends in biology and chemistry as related to the Forensic Sciences.Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.
Explore expanded study opportunities
This program allows you to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. As a high-achieving student, accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for you to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of your master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:
Approval to pursue the accelerated master's is typically granted during the junior year of your bachelor's degree program. If you are interested, you can learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Studying abroad enables students in the forensic science program to learn about science and law enforcement in other countries.
With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, students are able to tailor their experience to their unique interests and skill sets. Students in these programs build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network. Participation in a study abroad program provides students with the heightened cultural competency, and leadership and critical thinking skills that enhance their resumes and help them stand out in a competitive career field. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students in the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences can explore how their varied fields and interests interact in different settings around the world.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimate
Build the career and future you want
Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:
| Career | Growth | Median Salary | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Scientist (General) | 4.7% | $98,920 | Learn more |
| Biological Technician | 7.4% | $57,510 | Learn more |
| Chemical Technician | 4.9% | $60,390 | Learn more |
| Chemist | 6.4% | $91,240 | Learn more |
| Clinical Trial Manager | 8.2% | $167,220 | Learn more |
| Crime Scene Investigator | 13.3% | $72,060 | Learn more |
| Health Sciences Manager | 8.2% | $167,220 | Learn more |
| Life Scientist | 6.3% | $93,750 | Learn more |
| Medical Scientist | 12.6% | $103,410 | Learn more |
| Pathologist | 4.8% | $312,400 | Learn more |
Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
More about careers
Careers this forensic science degree prepares you for
Scientific and technological advances in the field of forensic science and continually increasing caseloads in law enforcement are projected to increase the number of forensic science technicians needed over the next decade. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that between 2024 and 2034, employment of forensic science technicians will increase 13% --- an average increase much greater than for most occupations.
Graduates of the forensic science program are prepared to work in crime labs and private forensic science labs at the local, state and federal levels. Graduates also are prepared for graduate programs in forensic science, law school, medical school and related fields.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
School of Interdisciplinary Forensics
|
FAB N101
SIFadvising@asu.edu
602-543-3000
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
