Biology (Forensics), BS
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
International students (F1), this program is not eligible for the STEM-OPT extension.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
ASU is no longer accepting new students to this program. Students interested in this program should apply to the BS in forensic science.
Degree description
The forensics concentration of the BS program in biology emphasizes the study of scientific techniques used to solve crimes. Students pursuing the forensics concentration take a more forensics-relevant set of courses than those pursuing the Bachelor of Science in biology.
Much of the required coursework is completed in chemistry or biology lab science courses to ensure that graduates of this program are competitive when they apply to graduate degree programs, pursue relevant careers, and enter the workforce.
The concentration also places focus on oral communication skills (e.g., through coursework in argumentation, COM 222 Argumentation or COM 422 Advanced Argumentation) which prepares graduates for the multifaceted aspects of their careers in forensics.
Courses
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
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See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
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Explore expanded study opportunities
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.
With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (programs vary in length, from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain a global perspective and knowledge in preparation for a 21st century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu/
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 estimateCareer opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue careers in forensics laboratories and in the research and development of new technologies in forensics.
Graduates are particularly competitive for positions in forensics laboratories because the concentration focuses heavily on chemistry and biology laboratory coursework, areas that administrators and current employees in crime labs have reported are critically important. For example, demand for forensic scientists trained in the requisite amounts of molecular biology increase as reliance upon DNA fingerprinting technologies increases.
Graduates of this program are also well positioned to enter graduate programs in forensic science.
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 Mathematical and Natural Sciences
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FAB N100
mnsadvising@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.
