MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE
UNIVERSITY
FORENSIC SCIENCE
STUDENT HANDBOOK
1
Dear Student:
Welcome to Middle Tennessee State University and the B.S. in Forensic Science
program. We are delighted to have you as a major in this exciting and dynamic field. Students
majoring in Forensic Science may apply the concepts they learn in careers as laboratory
scientists, or as preparation for additional graduate or professional schools. The curriculum is
challenging, and was developed through consultations with practicing forensic scientists,
laboratory directors, and recommendations of professional organizations.
The program requires one to have an aptitude for the sciences and be a serious student.
The forensic scientist must be able to apply concepts and skills he or she has learned in the
program to real world situations. As with most science disciplines, the degree is just the
beginning of a life journey, as one will continually learn and apply new concepts and skills.
Forensics is not as portrayed on the currently popular TV programs. The forensic scientist
objectively analyzes physical evidence collected at a crime scene and provides a written opinion,
as well as expert court testimony, based on the analysis results. Most forensic scientists do not
typically take evidence at the crime scene and data analysis may take weeks, not minutes. An
excellent resource and summary of what forensic scientists do and available career opportunities
can be found at the American Academy of Forensic Science web site:
http://www.aafs.org/students/student-career/choosing-career.
The purpose of this handbook is to provide Forensic Science majors with a resource that
can help guide them through their degree program. Information has been taken from the MTSU
undergraduate catalog, departmental brochures, and the faculty. This handbook is not intended as
a replacement for the academic advisor and does not contain all the information that is necessary
for successful academic planning. The Blue Raider Planner and Handbook has additional
general information and can be found at: http://www.mtsu.edu/stuaff/PDF/handbook.pdf.
We encourage all students to meet with their advisor to discuss academic and career goals as well
as to plan course sequencing. We will do all we can to help you succeed.
Sincerely,
Frank Bailey, Ph.D.
Professor
Director, B.S. in Forensic Science
Dept. of Biology, Box 60
Office: SCI 2026
(615) 898-5483
frank.bailey@mtsu.edu
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Forensic science
At Middle Tennessee State University
Forensic Science is the application of techniques and principles of the natural and
physical sciences to the analysis of evidence collected during criminal
investigations.
The Forensic Science program shares faculty from the departments of
the Biology, Chemistry, and Criminal Justice and offers a strong
interdisciplinary curriculum within these well-established
departments.
The goals of the B.S. Degree in Forensic Science:
To provide a strong academic foundation that will prepare
graduates for advanced study in forensic science or
professional schools, or employment in public crime
laboratories, specialized private laboratories, and law
enforcement agencies.
To understand the role of the forensic scientist in the
criminal justice system and prepare students to present oral
and written findings to the court.
To provide student interaction with current forensic
practitioners through seminars and internships.
Career options exist with federal, state, and local law
enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, medical examiner
offices, hospitals, military, private firms, and universities.
Please visit the Web site at www.mtsu.edu/forensicscience.
.
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Things to Do List
Freshman:
____


Establish contact with faculty advisor
Complete First-Year General Studies
Sophomore:
____

Junior:
____



Complete remaining courses in freshman and sophomore
years
Register with the Career Development Center in KUC 328
Review GPA in major, and cumulative
File Upper-Division Form and Intent to Graduate Form (three
semesters before graduation including summers). Forms are
available on the Web, and from the Forensic Advisor
Start looking at internship locations and making contacts
Begin job search process (Career Development Center in
KUC 328 and additional sources) or apply to professional
programs or graduate school (fall of senior year)
Complete appropriate exams i.e., ACT Comp, General
Education Test
Exit Interview
____
____
Senior:
____


____

____
Important Dates
Important dates for each semester are listed on the MTSU Bursar’s website
http://www.mtsu.edu/bursar/. The following are typical time periods you should be aware of
each semester (check Pipeline for exact dates; dates differ in the summer):
Time Period to Add a Class ......................................
Time Period to Drop a Class without a grade ...........
Time Period to Drop a Class with a “W” ..................
Receive a 100% Refund ............................................
Receive a 75% Refund ..............................................
Receive a 25% Refund ..............................................
3-4 days after first day of class
2 weeks after first day of class
60% of term, check Pipeline for exact date
1 day before first day of class
2 weeks after first day of class
4 weeks after first day of class
REMEMBER to check the online Registration Guide for specific dates!
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The Forensic Science Major
In addition to the general education requirements, the Forensic Science major requires
CORE COURSES
Rubric/Number
BIOL
BIOL
BIOL
BIOL
BIOL
BIOL/FSBI
BIOL/FSBI
CHEM
CHEM
CHEM
CHEM
CHEM
CHEM/FSCH
CHEM/FSCH
CJA/FSCJ
CJA/FSCJ
CJA/FSCJ
Or
CJA/FSCJ
FRSC
FRSC
FRSC
1110/1111
1120/1121
2230/2231
3250/3251
4110/4111
4300/4301
4550
1110/1111
1120/1121
2230/2231
3010/3011
3020/3021
3530/3531
4230/4231
4330
4340
2400
Course Title
Credits
General Biology I
General Biology II
Microbiology
Genetics
General Physiology
Immunology
Biotechnology
General Chemistry I
General Chemistry II
Quantitative Analysis
Organic Chemistry I
Organic Chemistry II
Principles of Biochemistry
Instrumental Analysis
Criminal Investigations
Criminal Scene Investigations
Judicial Process
4
4
4
4
4
4
3
4
4
5
4
3
4
4
3
3
3
4530
3010
4010
4020
Criminal Evidence and Procedures
Forensic Seminar
Forensic Senior Seminar
Forensic Internship
2
2
4
Physics I and Problems Lab
Physics II and Problems Lab
Calculus I
Biometry
4
4
4
4
SUPPORTING COURSES
PHYS
PHYS
MATH
BIOL
2010/2011
2020/2021
1910
4350/4351
The program requires completion of 120 semester credit hours distributed as follows:
Curriculum Component
General Education
Major Field Core
Electives
Other
TOTAL
Hours Required
30 (without 8 hrs. Natural Science;
3 hrs. Math)
73
1
16 (including 3 hr. Math)
120
5
Traditional Major Course Offerings
Below is a list of required courses and the semester(s) when typically offered:
BIOL
BIOL
BIOL
BIOL
BIOL
BIOL/FSBI
BIOL/FSBI
CHEM
CHEM
CHEM
CHEM
CHEM
CHEM/FSCH
CHEM/FSCH
CJA/FSCJ
CJA/FSCJ
CJA/FSCJ
Or
CJA/FSCJ
FRSC
FRSC
FRSC
1110/1111
1120/1121
2230/2231
3250/3251
4110/4111
4300/4301
4550
1110/1111
1120/1121
2230/2231
3010/3011
3020/3021
3530/3531
4230/4231
4330
4340
2400
4530
3010
4010
4020
Fall
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Spring
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Summer
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
SUPPORTING COURSES
PHYS
PHYS
MATH
BIOL
2010/2011
2020/2021
1910
4350/4351
As a Forensic Science major, you should register for following rubrics: FSBI for the following
Biology courses: Immunology (4300/4301), Biotechnology (4550); FSCH for Chemistry
courses: Biochemistry (3520/3531) and Instrumental Analysis (4230/4231); and FSCJ for all the
required Criminal Justice courses: Criminal Investigations (4330), Crime Scene Investigations
(4340), and select between Judicial Processes (2400) and Criminal Evidence and Procedures
(4530). Forensic Seminars and Internship are all under the FRSC rubric. Remember that these
rubrics apply only to those courses listed above. Please see Virginia McKnight in the Biology
Department Office (SCI 2044), phone 898-2291 if you need assistance in registering for these
courses.
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Academic Policies
Student Status:
Your classification is determined by the number of credit hours completed:
Freshman:
Sophomore:
Junior:
Senior:
0-29
30-59
60-89
90 or more
Grades:
The following is a description of the criteria used in assigning course grades:
A - Work of distinctly superior quality and quantity accompanied by unusual evidence of
achievement
B - Work of good quality and quantity accompanied by evidence of achievement beyond the
essentials of the course
C - Work demonstrating fulfillment of the essentials of the course
D - Passing work, but below the standards of graduation quality
F - Failure
Grade Point Average:
Each grade is assigned a numerical equivalent as follows:
A =
4.00,
A- =
3.67
B+ =
3.33,
B =
3.00,
B- =
2.67
C+ =
2.33,
C =
2.00,
C- =
1.67
D+ =
1.33,
D =
1.00,
D- = 0.67
F
0.00
=
To calculate a GPA, the grade's numerical equivalent is multiplied by the number of credits a course
is worth. The product represents quality points earned by completion of the course.
Grade of A x 3 hour = 12 quality points
Grade of B x 3 hour = 9 quality points
Grade of C x 4 hour = 8 quality points
Grade of D x 2 hour = 2 quality points
Grade of F x 3 hour = 0 quality points
The sum of quality points is divided by the sum of credits attempted and yields the GPA.
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Example:
Course
Credits
Attempted
ENGL 1010
COMM 2200
BIOL 1030
PHED 2100
MATH 1610
Total
3
3
4
2
3
15
Grade
A
B
C
D
F
Quality
Points
12
9
8
2
0
31
31  15 = 2.066 GPA
Pass, incomplete, audit, and withdrawal are not counted in the GPA.
Academic Probation and Suspension:
A student who fails to meet one of the following standards will be placed on academic
probation:
1. Attain a 2.00 GPA for the current term, or
2. Meet one of the following:
00 - 29.99 hours attempted - 1.50 GPA
30 - 49.99 hours attempted - 1.80 GPA
50 or more hours attempted - 2.00 GPA
A student on probation who fails to meet one of the above standards during the next semester
of enrollment will be suspended.
A first suspension requires that the student stay out of school for one semester. Summer
terms do not count for this purpose. A second or subsequent suspension results in dismissal
from the university for one calendar year.
Course Repetition:
You may repeat any course in which you have received a grade of "C" or lower. The last
grade earned will stand, even if that grade is lower than the first attempt. The first attempt is
always removed from calculation of the GPA, but it still appears on your transcripts. Each
subsequent attempt is calculated into the GPA. NOTE: You are not required to repeat a
“D” except when another course requires a “C” or better as a prerequisite. Note: Many
advanced programs (medical schools, graduate schools etc.) will re-calculate your GPA
including the grade from the first attempt before considering your application.
Withdrawals:
University Policies:
1) Students who withdraw from a course at any time during the first two weeks of the semester will
not receive a grade on their transcripts.
2) After 60% of term has been completed (check Pipeline for exact date), students may not withdraw
from a course unless there are extreme extenuating circumstances that necessitate withdrawal from
the University. Permission from the instructor and department chair is required.
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3) Students who are allowed to withdraw from a course after 60% of term has been will receive a
grade of "W" on their transcript if they are passing the course at the time of the withdrawal and an
"F" if they are failing the course at the time of the withdrawal.
Incompletes:
A student may receive an incomplete (“I”) if there are extenuating circumstances occurring after 60%
of the term has been completed (check Pipeline for exact date) that would prevent the student from
completing the course requirements. The instructor determines if the circumstances warrant an
incomplete. An incomplete is only granted if the student is in good academic standing at the time that
the circumstances occur. Students are required to make up an incomplete before the end of the next
regular semester. Incompletes convert to a grade of “F” if they are not completed.
Advising Available and Tips
While the Program Director, Frank Bailey, will play a major role in advising and assisting
students, a College Advisor has been assigned as academic advisor for Forensic Science majors.
Though the forensic program is interdisciplinary and under the Dean of the College of Basic and
Applied Sciences, this advisor will have information on the forensic major and is available to
assist students in course selection and registration. The advisor’s contact information is below.
Suzanne Hicks
Forensic Science Advisor, KUC 322
615-898-2196
Suzanne.Hicks@mtsu.edu
Below are several tips that have been collected from the faculty and students that might help make your
experience in the Biology Department successful.
GENERAL INFORMATION

TAKE RESPONSIBILITY for your own academic career. The most successful students have
consulted various official resources so that they fully understand the requirements, rather than bouncing along
uninformed.

CONTACT YOUR ADVISOR at least twice a year. Discuss with your advisor a strategy for
fulfilling graduation requirements, major and minor requirements, options for electives, career plans, and any
relevant problems or questions you have.

CULTIVATE A GOOD WORKING RELATIONSHIP with your advisor. Your advisor can
then better function in counseling, suggesting, and answering your specific questions. If you do not feel this is
possible, with the advisor you were assigned, go to the Biology Department office (SCI 2044), and request a
different advisor.

FOLLOW YOUR ADVISOR’S ADVICE; it is likely to be more accurate than the advice of your
friends and family.

KEEP YOUR ADVISOR INFORMED if you decide to change your major or minor, and fill out the
appropriate forms.
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
FILL OUT REQUIRED PAPERWORK on time. Particularly important is filing your upper
division form (see Important Forms section of this handbook) as early as possible (before your junior year
begins). An analyst will examine this form carefully, and send you and your advisor a letter detailing which
requirements you have met and which you have not. The sooner any misconceptions are corrected, the more
likely you are to be able to graduate when you expect to. Even your advisor may have mistakenly interpreted
your progress; the analyst will be able to help you get back on track. The intent to graduate form (see Important
Forms section of this handbook) should be completed and filed three semesters before your graduation date.
DO NOT TAKE ADVICE FROM SOMEBODY NOT AUTHORIZED TO GIVE IT!

Your friends and other students will probably be happy to advise you, but if they are wrong and you listen to
them, you will have to suffer the consequences.

READ THE STUDENT HANDBOOK for general information such as student services and
programing, complaints and grievance procedures, health services, and a wealth of other important information.
Available on line at: http://www.mtsu.edu/stuaff/PDF/handbook.pdf
REGISTRATION STRATEGIES

COURSES ARE NUMBERED somewhat according to level of difficulty: 1000-1999 (freshman); 20002999 (sophomore); 3000-3999 (junior); 4000-4999 (senior). It is advised that you take your biology and
chemistry classes in this order.

COURSES WITH LABS require more in-class time. Most science courses include a lecture and a
separate lab class, as is the case with required biology and chemistry courses. Take at least two lab classes
every semester so that you can avoid an otherwise inevitable semester with four lab classes (four concurrent lab
classes are almost impossible to schedule; furthermore, you would spend so much time in labs and lectures for
those four classes that you would not have much time left to study).

BEGIN YOUR SCIENCE COURSES as soon as possible. Many upper division (junior & senior)
biology classes require some organic chemistry as a prerequisite to the class. You can take this in your
sophomore year if you start your freshman chemistry in your first year.

BEGIN YOUR MATH courses as soon as possible. Biology 3250 may be easier if your math
requirements have been completed.

BEGIN YOUR ENGLISH COMPOSITION courses as soon as possible. You will have
writing assignments and essay exam questions in many science and criminal justice classes.

EXCEED THE MINIMUM required hours in the Sciences if possible (hours that will count
toward the 120 required for a bachelor’s degree). More coursework will likely make you more competitive in
the job market or for entrance into graduate programs.

ENROLLMENT IN SUMMER COURSES can speed your progress toward graduation or make
your course load a little lighter during regular semesters.

TO GRADUATE IN FOUR YEARS without attending in summer, you should average 15 credit
hours every semester, and maintain the required GPA. Some courses are not offered every semester, so you
must plan in advance which courses to take. Devise a plan for 8 semesters, and go over your plan with your
advisor (see academic map in this handbook). The plan may change between now and graduation, but by
making an initial strategy, you are less likely to have problems meeting all requirements in a timely manner.

IF YOU ARE EMPLOYED in addition to being a student, you should take fewer semester hours of
credit. It may take longer to graduate, but repeating a course to make up a bad grade takes more money as well
as more time. Students working a 40-hour week usually will not do well with more than one science class a
semester. Because every student is different, it is difficult to generate a guideline on how many hours to spend
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on work and school. If you are not already in debt, consider using student loans to pay for school, rather than
employment. Otherwise, tread very carefully.
OTHER ADVICE

STUDY, STUDY, STUDY! Strive for an understanding of processes. Developing your ability to reason
will save you time in the long run. Most students find it easier and quicker to study for understanding than to
blindly memorize. Remember, the sciences are not merely a body of knowledge, but a process based upon
logical thought processes.

AVAILABLE TUTORING. The departments of Biology and Chemistry offer special tutoring sessions,
generally conducted by graduate or upper division students, in freshman and some higher level courses. The
department of Mathematics has a staffed math lab available for assistance. These services are free and you are
encouraged to use them as needed. See the individual department for scheduled tutoring times and location.

GET TO KNOW YOUR PROFESSORS. They want to see you earn good grades, and most are
willing to spend some time outside of class to discuss the material with you. A question like “I don’t
understand how to distinguish prophase from telophase” will likely stimulate a more helpful response from your
professor than “I don’t understand how I scored so low after studying so much” (if you do not know, your
professor surely does not either).

GET TO KNOW YOUR FELLOW STUDENTS. You will likely find some helpful studybuddies, and even make a few life-long friends while you are at it.

GET INVOLVED with the Biology, Chemistry and Criminal Justice Departments as a
community. Join clubs, honor societies, and volunteer your assistance when the opportunity arises. Students
who participate more generally perform better academically, establish better relationships with faculty and staff,
and enjoy college more.

IF YOU PLAN ON USING THE FORENSIC SCIENCE MAJOR AS PRE-HEALTH
PROFESSION PREPARATION–pick up supplemental materials for your curriculum from
the advising office in KUC 316. These materials will provide additional, specific information about which
classes you should take, when you should apply to the program, extramural requirements such as volunteer
work, etc. Some of this information is also available from the Undergraduate Catalog, in the Chemistry section.

PERFORMANCE IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN TIME. It is more important to do well in
your courses than it is to graduate in four years. Do not take a full load if you are working or have other
obligations in your life that limit your study time. Employers, graduate schools and medical schools are more
concerned about your GPA, internships, and letters of recommendation than whether or not you completed your
degree in four years.
TRANSFER STUDENTS

MEET WITH THE FORENSIC SCIENCE ACADEMIC ADVISOR prior to or during your
first semester. The advisor will help you determine which courses were transferred and what you need to take.
The Forensic Science academic advisor is:
Suzanne Hicks
Forensic Science Advisor, KUC 322
615-898-2196
Suzanne.Hicks@mtsu.edu

YOU MUST TAKE A SPECIFIED PERCENTAGE OF COURSES AT MTSU. Twenty
five percent (typically at least 30 hours) of total credit hours must be earned through MTSU. Twelve of the last
18 hours must be completed at MTSU, and 30 of the 42 upper division hours required for graduation must be
completed at MTSU.
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
COURSES TRANSFERRED FROM A JUNIOR COLLEGE do not count as upper division
hours even if they show up on your transcript as a 3000 or 4000 level course after equivalency determination.
They will not count towards the 42 upper division hours needed to graduate.
Common Questions
Q.
When do I choose or change my major?
A.
Many students choose their majors upon entering MTSU. However, some students are
undecided about a specific major until the junior year. MTSU provides a counseling
service that will help you identify your strengths and select a major. More information
can be obtained from the Academic Support Center, McFarland Building. Majors can be
changed as shown below.
1. Login to PipelineMT
2. Click on RaiderNet
3. Click on Student
4. Click on Registration
5. Click on Change Major/Program
Q. Who is my college advisor?
A. The college advisor functions as an academic resource person for students and faculty. The
advisor assists in the evaluation of transfer credit and the filing of upper-division forms.
The college advisor also answers academic policy questions, tracks the completion of high
school unit deficiencies, and monitors the completion of general education requirements for
Forensic Science majors. The college advisor will work with your faculty mentor to make
sure all your needs are addressed. The College of Basic and Applied Sciences Forensic
Science advisor is located in KUC.
Suzanne Hicks
Forensic Science Advisor, KUC 322
615-898-2196
Suzanne.Hicks@mtsu.edu
Q. Who is my faculty mentor?
A. You will be assigned a faculty mentor in addition to your academic advisor. The role of the
faculty mentor is mainly to help with career planning and choices and not to answer
academic policy questions or to help with selection of particular classes. Currently, Dr.
Frank Bailey, Director the Forensic Science program, will be your primary faculty mentor.
There may be times or situations where you will be directed to one of the other faculty
members for specific questions. Dr. Bailey’s office is in the Science building, room 2026.
His email address is frank.bailey@mtsu.edu, phone number is 615-898-5483, and campus
box 60. Since he is frequently visiting interns or locations of internships, emails are
preferred. The Department of Biology secretaries, Virginia McKnight, 615-898-2291, or
Becky Elrod, 615-494-7672 can assist in contacting or taking messages for Dr. Bailey.
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Q. Required Internship: What should I do and when?
A. An internship of 160 on-site hours is required. Dr. Bailey has a list of locations in the
Nashville area that could be contacted. Please remember that the entity where one might do
an internship generally will have a contact person and will select those interns they feel will
best fit their organization. You need to start the process during your Junior year and do the
internship after you have acquired a number of laboratory skills.
Q.
When should I see my faculty advisor?
A. You should contact your faculty advisor at least one time each semester. After you have
met your advisor and developed a professional relationship, the frequency of meetings will
depend upon your needs.
Q. What is a full-time course load?
A. You are considered a full-time undergraduate student if you are registered for 12 or more
semester hours. To register for more than 18 semester hours during any semester, you must
complete an overload form (available from the departmental office) and get the permission
(and signatures) from your faculty advisor and from the dean’s office.
Q. How do I withdraw from the University?
A. Students finding it necessary to withdraw from the University should initiate the official
withdrawal process by contacting their assigned Enrollment Counselor in the MT One Stop.
Any student who leaves the University without officially withdrawing will receive a grade
of “F” in all courses in which he or she is registered. Simply no longer attending classes
does not withdraw you from the course or university. You must officially drop or
withdraw. If you are just dropping a class and are still registered for others, use
Pipeline/RaiderNet. If you are dropping a class(es) and are not still registered for
others, you must officially withdraw.
NOTE: It would be a good idea to access Pipeline/RaiderNet the next day to verify that you
have been dropped or withdrawn from class(es).
Q. What is academic probation and suspension?
A. A student failing to meet one of the following standards during any term will be placed on
academic probation for the subsequent term:
1.
Attain a 2.0 GPA for the current term, or
2.
Meet one of the following retention standards:
00-29.99 hours attempted must have 1.5 GPA
30-49.99 hours attempted must have 1.8 GPA
50 or more hours attempted must have 2.0 GPA
A student on academic probation who fails to meet one of the above standards during the
next term enrolled will be suspended. Students previously suspended are not eligible for
probationary status.
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Student Organizations/Activities/Services
Organizations:
Activities:
Undergraduate Research – The College of Basic and Applied Sciences sponsors an
Undergraduate Research program that is available to all students in B.A.S. The program
provides some funds to support students involved in an independent research project under
the guidance of a faculty member. Grant applications are distributed within each department
early each fall. Funding is determined on a competitive basis.
Additional Support Services
The MT One Stop provides integrated services in the areas of financial aid, course registration,
tuition and billing, and transcripts. Their office is located on the second floor of the Student
Services and Admissions Center, connected by bridge to the MTSU Student Union. You may use
this site and its links as your One Stop portal to all of the provided services. Please visit the MT
One Stop site often for important announcements and updates.
Every MTSU student has an Enrollment Counselor assigned to him or her. The enrollment
counselor will work with you throughout your years at MTSU to assist you in navigating the
processes necessary to keep you enrolled in classes and on track to graduate.
Phone: 615-898-2111
Fax: 615-904-8423
Email: MTOneStop@mtsu.edu
Admissions Office, Student Services and Admission Center, Room 290, 615-898-2111
The MTSU admissions office provides assistance with admissions problems evaluates credit
from transfer institutions, answers questions concerning military service credit, in-state
residency requirements, and credit awarded via exams or test scores.
Business Office, Student Services and Admission Center, Room 328, 615-898-2500
This office handles all billing and student finances.
Financial Aid, Student Services and Admission Center, 615-898-2111
http://www.mtsu.edu/financialaid/
This office has counselors to provide information on loans, grants, and financial awards for
students.
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Career Development Center, Keathley University Cener, room 328, 615-898-2500
This office helps students and alumni find internships, part-time and full-time employment
prior to and after graduation.
Counseling Services, Keathley University Center, Room 329, 615-898-2670
http://www.mtsu.edu/countest/ Counseling Services offers personal counseling, to assist
students in their emotional, intellectual, and social growth.
Disabled Student Services, Keathley University Center, Room 120, 615-898-2783
http://www.mtsu.edu/dssemail/index.shtml
This office acts as advocate for disabled students by surveying their needs and developing
programs to meet those needs.
Division of Information Technology (ITD), Cope Administration Bldg., Room 3, 615-898-5345
http://www.mtsu.edu/itd/
This office provides and supports effective utilization of computer and telecommunications
technology. ITD assigns the user name and password to MTSU student accounts and also
offers training on the Internet.
Health Services, Health Wellness and Recreation Center, 615-898-2988
http://www.mtsu.edu/healthservices/
Treatment of minor illnesses and injuries is available Monday through Friday. Students are
seen on an outpatient basis and must be enrolled to utilize the services.
Housing and Residential Life Office, Keathley University Center, Room 300, 615-898-2971
http://www.mtsu.edu/housing/
The housing office manages both residence halls and apartments. Space in apartment
housing is limited. The office also provides information on available off-campus housing.
Intercultural and Diversity Affairs, Keathley University Center, Room 124, 615-898-2238
http://www.mtsu.edu/idac/
This office provides registration assistance, financial aid, counseling, academic advising,
tutoring, mentoring, and programming in multi-cultural awareness for minority students.
James E. Walker Library, 615-898-2772
http://library.mtsu.edu/
The state-of-the-art James E. Walker Library houses over 600,000 books and another
400,000 volumes of periodicals, newspapers, and research titles in micro-text formats. The
Library receives subscriptions to over 3,400 periodicals and journals. The Voyager on-line
catalog and circulation system is utilized, and a Library Handbook is available.
Public Safety, 1412 E. Main Street, 615-898-2424
http://police.mtsu.edu/
Student-Athlete Enhancement Center, Gate 1, Football Stadium, 615-904-8492
http://www.mtsu.edu/saec/
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The directors monitor the academic performance of student athletes and provide additional
assistance to all athletes on campus.
University College Advising Center (Academic Advising), College of Basic and Applied
Sciences Keathley University Center 322,
http://www.mtsu.edu/advising/index.shtml
Provides a number of support services including, the University Writing Center, the
Prescribed Course Reading Lab, and the Prescribed Course Mathematics Lab
Women and Non-Traditional Students, June Anderson Women's Center, Keathley University
Center 320, 615-898-5989
http://www.mtsu.edu/jac/
This office provides support groups, peer counseling, lectures, and workshops for female
students. A full-time professional counselor is available for crisis intervention and personal
counseling.
Important Forms:
1. Upper Division:
Complete and file with the Dean, College of Basic and Applied
Sciences
2. Intent to Graduate:
(Web site: http://www.mtsu.edu/records/docs/intentform.pdf)
3. Internship Evaluation Form
4. Courtroom Testimony Evaluation
5. Forensic Science Student Exit Interview
Questionnaire
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College of Basic and Applied Sciences
2014-2015 Upper Division Form
Student name
Major
Student #
Forensic Science
Minor
Concentration XXXXX
Optional
E-mail
Instructions: For students graduating in Fall 2009 or later. One (1) copy signed by major and minor advisors should be filed in the
Graduation Coordinator’s Office (JH 115) three semesters before anticipated graduation. An Intent to Graduate form should
accompany this form.
General Studies Area
COMMUNICATION (9 hours)
ENGL 1010
Credit
Hours
3
ENGL 1020
3
COMM 2200
3
Course
Semester
Grade
Notes
HISTORY (6 hours)
Choose two: HIST 2010, HIST 2020,HIST 2030
3
HUMANITIES AND/OR FINE ARTS (9 hours) Choose one:
ENGL 2020, 2030, or HUM 2610. Choose two with different
prefixes: ANTH 2210, ART 1030,1910,1920, DANC 1000, HIST
1010,1020, 1110,1120, MUS 1030, PHIL 1030, THEA 1030
3
MATHEMATICS (3 hours)*
NATURAL SCIENCES (8 hours)
3
3
3
3 of 4*
MATH 1910
Course is also considered part of the
major, making a minimum of 73
credits.
Course is also considered part of the
Major, making a minimum of 73
credits
BIOL 1110
& 1111
CHEM 1110
& 1111
SOCIAL/BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES (6 hours)
Choose two (different rubrics): AAS 2100, ANTH 2010,
EMC/JOUR/RIM 1020, ECON 2410, GEOG 2000, HLTH
1530/1531, PS 1010, PS 1005, PSY 1410, SOC 1010, 2010,
WGST 2100
4
4
3
3
Hours Required
41
* If a 4 credit Math course is taken, 3 credits count in General Education and the extra credit counts as Supporting and Elective
Courses.
Major Courses
Course
Semester
Grade
Notes
Credit
Hours
General Biology
BIOL
1110/1111
(4)
General Biology
BIOL
1120/1121
4
Microbiology
Genetics
General Physiology
Immunology
Biotechnology
General Chemistry I
General Chemistry II
Quantitative Analysis
Organic Chemistry I
BIOL
2230/2231
BIOL
3250/3251
BIOL
4110/4111
FSBI
4300/4301
4
FSBI 4550
3
CHEM
1110/1111
CHEM
1120/1121
CHEM
2230/2231
CHEM
3010/3011
(4)
19
4
4
4
4
5
4
CHEM
3020/3021
FSCH
3530/3531
FSCH
4230/4231
Organic Chemistry II
Biochemistry
Instrumental Analysis
Major Courses Continued
4
4
4
Course
Semester
Grade
Credit
Hours
Notes
FSCJ 4330
3
Crime Scene Investigations
FSCJ 4340
3
Criminal Evidence & Procedures OR Judicial Process
FSCJ 2400
or 4530
3
Seminar
FRSC 3010
2
Seminar
FRSC 4010
2
Internship
FRSC 4020
4
Criminal Investigations
Hours Required
65 (73)
Supporting Courses
Course
Semester
Grade
Credit
Hours
Notes
PHYS 2010/2011 – Physics I
1 of 4
4
PHYS 2020/2021 – Physics II
4
BIOL 4350 - Biometry
4
Elective
1
MATH 1910
Hours Required
14
Optional Minor
Course
Semester
Grade
Credit
Hours
Notes
Hours Required
Signed:
Minor Advisor
Date
1.
Degrees require a minimum of 120 semester hours (12 of the last 18 at MTSU) with a 2.0 GPA, a minimum
of 42 upper-division hours (30 at MTSU) with a 2.0 GPA, and minimum of 60 senior college hours.
2.
Learning Support courses do not count toward the 120-hour requirement or cumulative degree GPA
Student’s local address:
Signed:
Major Advisor
to which graduation analysis
information should be sent: _______________________________________________
_______________________________________
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Date
Phone: ______________________
See Web site: http://www.mtsu.edu/records/docs/intentform.pdf
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Internships:
Intern applicants should generally hold senior status for consideration, an acceptable
GPA (varies with organization), and have completed the majority of upper division courses for
the major, especially Biotechnology and Instrumental Analysis. A total of 160 clock hours is
required for the internship. See Dr. Frank Bailey, Forensic Advisor, for additional information
and possible internship locations/contact information.
WORKERS AT CRIME LABORATORIES MUST PASS AN EXTENSIVE
BACKGROUND CHECK. Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) criteria as highlighted
below are typical.
Be advised that applicants with the following will not be accepted for internships or
employment: (a) prior convictions for a felony or for misdemeanors of a high and aggravated
nature (b) illegal use of any drug, other than experimental use of cannabis (c) deliberate
misrepresentation of illegal drug history in connection with the application (d) deliberate
association with individuals who participate in criminal activity (e) conduct or activity which
reflects a disregard for state or federal laws or which conflicts with the standards of behavior or
ethical principles of the TBI.
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Evaluation form to be used by Intern Supervisor
MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNSHIP EVALUATION FORM
Intern Name _________________________Work Place____________________________
Intern Supervisor______________________ Date:________________________________
Please provide an objective evaluation of this student’s performance during their internship
experience. Please compare this student with others who have interned with your laboratory
Outstanding Good
Average
Below
Poor
Average
Attitude
Maturity
Initiative
Ability to learn
Quality of work
Dependability
Working with
others
Communication
(written/oral
Overall Rating
(feel free to elaborate on the back of this form or a second page if responding by email)
What were this student’s
strengths:______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Weaknesses?___________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Recommendations?______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Supervisor____________________________
Student _______________________________
Supervisor and Student should both sign a copy to be returned to: Forensics Science
Program, Box 60, MTSU, Murfreesboro, 37132, or email to frank.bailey@mtsu.edu
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COURTROOM TESTIMONY EVALUATION
(Senior Seminar Event)
The presentation of testimony is the culmination of the work performed by the Forensic Scientist
Analyst_____________________________________________
Location/Date of Testimony______________________
Type Case/charge________________________________
Please check (x) each item that is judged to be satisfactory or not applicable (N/A). For items
not checked, please explain in the “Additional Comments” space provided.
PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE
( ) General Courtroom Demeanor
( ) Dress and Grooming
Additional Comments
COURTROOM TESTIMONY
Promptness
Testified in an impartial manner
Ability to communicate results
Testimony was loud enough to be heard easily
Looked at and talked to jury at appropriate times
Answers were responsive to questions
Did not volunteer extraneous information
Overall Performance
Additional Comments or Recommendations
Prepared By:
Date:
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Please Circle One
Excellent
Satisfactory
Excellent
Satisfactory
Excellent
Satisfactory
Excellent
Satisfactory
Excellent
Satisfactory
Excellent
Satisfactory
Excellent
Satisfactory
Excellent
Satisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Unsatisfactory
Forensic Science Student Exit Interview Questionnaire
Name____________________________
Date_________________________
Major Emphasis Area______________________
Minor_______________________
GPA______________
Advisor_______________________________________
Transfer Credits_______________ Transfer From____________________________
Courses Enjoyed Most___________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Courses Enjoyed Least__________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Suggestions for Improvement (space, curriculum, advising, scheduling, etc)
Career Plans/Goals______________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
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