CAREERS IN FORENSICS:
AN OVERVIEW OF EDUCATION AND PROGRAMS
2006
Department of Anthropology
Department of Biology
Department of Chemistry
Department of Criminal Justice
Department of Software and Information Systems
Department of Psychology
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Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 3
Forensic Anthropology – Background Information and Resources ........................................... 4
What is forensic anthropology? .............................................................................................. 4
What kind of jobs are there in forensic anthropology? ........................................................... 4
Education for forensic anthropology ...................................................................................... 5
Some relevant courses at UNC Charlotte ............................................................................... 6
Programs in Forensic Anthropology across the U.S. .............................................................. 6
For more information about forensic anthropology: ............................................................... 7
Computer Forensics – Background Information and Resource .................................................. 9
What is Computer Forensics? ................................................................................................. 9
What kind of jobs are there in Computer Forensics? .............................................................. 9
Education for Computer Forensics ....................................................................................... 10
Some relevant courses at UNC Charlotte ............................................................................. 10
Programs in Computer Forensic across the U.S. .................................................................. 10
For more information about computer forensic: ................................................................... 11
Forensic Psychology-Background Information and Resources ................................................ 12
What is forensic psychology? ............................................................................................... 12
What kind of jobs are there in forensic psychology? ............................................................ 12
Education for forensic psychology ....................................................................................... 13
Some relevant courses at UNC Charlotte ............................................................................. 14
Programs in forensic psychology across the U.S. ................................................................. 14
For more information about forensic psychology................................................................. 14
Forensic Science – Background Information and Resources ................................................... 15
What kinds of jobs are there in forensic science? ................................................................. 15
Education requirements for a career in forensic science ...................................................... 15
Relevant courses at UNC Charlotte ...................................................................................... 15
Some graduate programs in forensic science ........................................................................ 16
For more information about forensic science ....................................................................... 16
Other Related Courses .............................................................................................................. 18
Other Forensic Careers ............................................................................................................. 19
Crime Scene Technician-Background Information and Resources ...................................... 19
Forensic Accounting1 ............................................................................................................ 20
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Introduction
This guidebook has been developed by UNC Charlotte faculty across a number of disciplines to
provide information to the many students who have an interest in the area of forensics, but often
base their interest only on what they have viewed through the media. There are four major areas
covered in the guidebook, describing the area, educational requirements, related courses that
students can take at UNC Charlotte, and links to web pages that provide more information.
There are other forensic areas so students are encouraged to take their exploration further.
Special thanks to those faculty members who contributed a great deal of time and effort. These
members include Bill Chu, Department of Software and Information Systems; Bernadette
Donovan-Merkert, Department of Chemistry; Janet Levy, Department of Anthropology; Vivian
Lord, Department of Criminal Justice; Todd Steck, Department of Biology; and Lori Van
Wallendael, Department of Psychology.
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Forensic Anthropology – Background Information and Resources
What is forensic anthropology?
Forensic anthropology is a specialization within the field of Biological Anthropology (also called
Physical Anthropology); forensic anthropologists apply methods and data from the study of
human anatomy and physiology to the analysis of skeletal remains in a criminal justice context.
Biological (or Physical) Anthropology itself is a subfield within the larger field of Anthropology.
Within the United States, most students who are interested in biological anthropology get
degrees in a Department of Anthropology and focus on biological anthropology. There are a
small number of separate departments of biological anthropology in the United States, for
example at Duke University, but this is not the norm.
Professional forensic anthropologists are usually involved when fully or partly skeletalized
human remains are uncovered in the context of a legal investigation. These investigations may
be local crime scenes or may be focused on evidence of human rights violations, such as at mass
graves in Rwanda, Guatemala, or Bosnia. Forensic anthropologists may also be involved in the
investigation of human remains from natural or cultural disasters, such as when graves are
inadvertently opened during flooding or hurricanes or during construction.
In these investigations, forensic anthropologists may be called upon to direct recovery of human
remains, using basic archaeological techniques of excavation and record-keeping. After
recovery, forensic anthropologists will try to establish the identity(ies) of the remains, including
number of individuals represented, sex, age at death, distinctive anatomical details, any
pathologies, any skeletal evidence of cause of death, etc. In addition to knowledge of human
anatomy, forensic anthropologists use knowledge of cultural variability to help in identification.
They may work in collaboration with forensic biologists, chemists, and others. In addition to
producing a report of their findings in any case, forensic anthropologists may be called upon to
testify at a legal trial or to help with the reburial of destroyed graves. A very small number of
forensic anthropologists work in facial reconstruction, producing 3-D images that may be used in
a courtroom or in a museum.
Those anthropologists who testify regularly in court are usually certified by the American Board
of Forensic Anthropology; certification requires a graduate degree and extensive experience.
See below for more information.
What kind of jobs are there in forensic anthropology?
There are a small number of full-time jobs in forensic anthropology outside of universities. Most
forensic anthropologists are faculty members at the university-level and have the regular
responsibilities of faculty members: teaching undergraduate and graduate students and
conducting research. These forensic anthropologists consult on a case-by-case basis with
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criminal justice agencies, usually in the local region. It is rare for a local criminal justice agency
to employ a forensic anthropologist full-time. For example, neither the Charlotte-Mecklenburg
Police Department nor the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations nor the NC Office of
the Medical Examiner employ a forensic anthropologist, although they do employ other full-time
forensic specialists, such as pathologists and experts in firearms, drug chemistry, and DNAtyping.
Some law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, employ people with a forensic anthropology
background in more general investigatory positions.
There are a few jobs for forensic anthropologists at museums, and the U.S. Army also employs a
small number of forensic anthropologists. International non-governmental agencies occasionally
employ a forensic anthropologist full-time, usually for a limited period contract; these
individuals may focus on recovery and identification in a disaster situation or in an investigation
of human rights abuses.
Education for forensic anthropology
Most forensic anthropology jobs require a graduate degree: at least an M.A. and frequently a
Ph.D. For example, you must hold a Ph.D. in order to be certified by the American Board of
Forensic Anthropology. Graduates with a B.A. or B.S. may be eligible for entry-level jobs in
police departments and crime labs, such as crime scene recovery technician, case manager, or lab
support technician. These positions may require other credentials.
Practicing forensic anthropologists recommend that a student get a B.A. or B.S. in anthropology.
You should take basic courses in all aspects of anthropology and focus on biological
anthropology, especially osteology and human anatomy. It is a good idea, also, to learn some
archaeology and get some field experience in excavation. It would be wise to supplement your
anthropology major with courses in biology (especially human anatomy and physiology and
human genetics), earth science or geology (especially soil science), chemistry, and/or criminal
justice or criminology. Almost all forensic science, including forensic anthropology, will require
good skills in statistics, writing, and oral presentation.
At UNC-Charlotte, the anthropology program offers a B.A. in anthropology. A student must
take courses in cultural anthropology, archaeology, and biological anthropology. One course in
forensic anthropology will be offered, beginning in 2006; several other biological anthropology
courses are also offered. Students should also take human anatomy and physiology in the
Department of Biology.
A student investigating graduate education should choose a university with a strong biological
anthropology component in the anthropology department, and with faculty who work in
osteology, human evolution, and/or bioarchaeology. Internships are advisable at both the
undergraduate and graduate levels.
Some students do best by seeking a M.A. at a university that focuses on the M.A. in
anthropology, and then going to a different institution for a Ph.D. if that is what the goal is.
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Other students do better at a university where they can continue straight through to a Ph.D. in
anthropology. However, this latter kind of anthropology department is often more difficult to get
admitted to. Students will need an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 and excellent GRE scores
for entry into M.A. departments. Higher grades and scores are needed for admission into many
Ph.D. departments; in addition, for all graduate applications, a student will need a well-written
and focused personal statement and good references from faculty members who know him or her
well.
Some relevant courses at UNC Charlotte
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ANTH 1101 Introduction to Anthropology
o Offered Fall, Spring, and Summer; no prerequisites
ANTH 2141 Introduction to Biological Anthropology
o Offered Fall and Spring; no prerequisites
ANTH 2142 Primate Behavior
o Offered about once every three semesters; prerequisite is ANTH 1101.
ANTH 2151 Introduction to Archaeology
o Offered every fall; no prerequisite
Biological Anthropology Courses at the 3000- and 4000-levels, including Forensic
Anthropology, Human Evolution, and Race and Anthropology
o Each offered about once every three semesters; prerequisite is ANTH 2141 or
permission of the instructor.
ANTH 4453 Field Project in Archaeology
o Offered most years in 1st summer session; prerequisite is ANTH 1101, ANTH
2151, or permission of the instructor
Programs in Forensic Anthropology across the U.S.
Here are some institutions with recognized programs (either specific degrees or formal tracks) in
forensic anthropology:
University of Florida, Gainesville, Department of Anthropology and the C.A. Pound Human
Identification Lab:
http://web.anthro.ufl.edu/c.a.poundlab/poundlab.htm
California State University at Chico, Department of Anthropology:
http://www.csuchico.edu/anth/PAHIL/
Mercyhurst College, Pennsylvania, Mercyhurst Archaeological Institute:
http://mai.mercyhurst.edu/Foren%20Anth/Forensic%20homepage.htm
Western Carolina University, Department of Anthropology and Sociology (undergraduate only):
http://paws.wcu.edu/forensic/
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University of Tennessee – Knoxville, Department of Anthropology:
http://web.utk.edu/~anthrop/
Michigan State University, Department of Anthropology and Interdisciplinary Masters Program
in Forensics:
http://www.ssc.msu.edu/%7Eanp/physical/physical.htm and
http://www.forensic.msu.edu/abouttheprogram.htm
Adelphi University, New York, Department of Anthropology (undergraduate only):
http://academics.adelphi.edu/artsci/ant/index.php
University of Wyoming, Department of Anthropology (undergraduate):
http://uwadmnweb.uwyo.edu/anth/
University of Montana, Department of Anthropology:
http://www.anthro.umt.edu/physical.htm
University of New Mexico, Department of Anthropology:
http://www.unm.edu/~anthro/subfields/bio.htm
General listing of programs in all areas of forensic sciences, from the American Academy of
Forensic Sciences:
http://www.aafs.org/ (click on “Resources”)
For more information about forensic anthropology:
Information on Forensic Anthropology from Dr. A. Midori Albert, UNC-Wilmington
http://people.uncw.edu/albertm/
Forensic Anthropology.com – listing of books, interactive web pages, and many other resources;
surprisingly good information for a commercial site:
http://www.forensicanthro.com/
Zeno’s Forensic Site – another source of all sorts of information on the field
http://www.forensic.to/forensic.html
American Academy of Forensic Sciences – the major professional organization for all types of
forensic scientists; resources on meetings, training, employment, etc.
http://aafs.org/
American Board of Forensic Anthropology – the organization which certifies forensic
anthropologists
http://www.csuchico.edu/anth/ABFA/
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Human Rights and Forensic Anthropology
http://garnet.acns.fsu.edu/~sss4407/
Forensic Anthropology from the University of Utah Health Sciences Center – includes links to
media stories about forensic anthropology, updated regularly
http://medstat.med.utah.edu/kw/osteo/forensics/
Mid-Atlantic Association of Forensic Scientists
http://www.maafs.org/
Southern Association of Forensic Scientists
http://www.southernforensic.org/
A History of Smithsonian–FBI Collaboration in Forensic Anthropology, Especially in Regard to
Facial Imagery
http://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/fsc/backissu/oct2000/ubelaker.htm
Kathy Reichs - Forensic Sciences
http://www.kathyreichs.com/forensics.htm
What is Forensic Anthropology?
http://web.utk.edu/~anthrop/FACwhatis.html
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Computer Forensics – Background Information and Resource
What is Computer Forensics?
Computer Forensics is an emerging interdisciplinary area of study that focuses on gathering
evidence stored in computer systems. The act of evidence gathering may involve finding certain
files (e.g. documents, emails) or reconstructing sequence of events (e.g. in the case of how a
computer may be broken into). The purpose of gathering such evidence may range from aiding
an investigation to presenting the evidence in court.
An accomplished Computer Forensics examiner needs to have a broad understanding of both
technical as well as legal and criminal justice issues. From a technical point of view, the
examiner needs to understand the way information is stored on computers in a variety of
operating systems (e.g. desktop computers, laptop computers, hand-held computers, cell phones,
music players), how information is sent and processed over the Internet, as well as how common
applications store and use information (e.g. web browsing, emails, office software). In more
advanced cases, the examiner needs to understand how information may be deliberately hidden
(e.g. encryption, stenography) and how to decode such information.
In addition to technical know how, the examiner must also understand legal and criminal justice
issues so that evidence gathered will be admissible in court. A good understanding of Computer
Forensics is also needed to help companies define appropriate policies and procedures to prevent
crimes that involve computers and communication networks.
What kind of jobs are there in Computer Forensics?
Knowledge of computer forensics can often complement other skills and make a prospective
employee much more attractive to employers. For example, most law enforcement agencies are
looking for investigators with computer forensics knowledge. Corporations are looking for
IT/auditing professionals with understanding of computer forensics as companies are facing
increasing crime / cases of policy infractions involving computers. Many large corporations have
in-house computer forensics labs and examiners.
In addition to the public sector, private sector demand for qualified computer forensics
examiners is also on the rise. Law firms and private investigative agencies are looking for
forensics examiners to help with criminal defense and civil cases as increasingly evidence
involving computers (e.g. email, electronic documents, digital pictures) is involved in litigations.
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Education for Computer Forensics
Computer Forensics is still an emerging area of study in universities. Typically students need to
major in an IT-related discipline with at least a minor in Criminal Justice. In some cases students
may choose to double major. In addition to taking a course in Computer Forensics, students need
to have takes courses in information security, systems and network administration, vulnerability
assessment, as well as criminal justice courses.
At UNC-Charlotte, a student interested in becoming a computer forensics examiner may choose
to be enrolled in the BA Software and Information Systems with a minor (or double major) in
Criminal Justice. Students who are interested in working as investigators with some computer
forensics expertise may choose to major in Criminal Justice with a minor in Software and
Information Systems.
A student investigating graduate education may wish to complete the Graduate Certificate
Program in Information Security and Privacy focusing on Computer Forensics. This graduate
certificate may be obtained in conjunction with a graduate degree in either Criminal Justice or
Information Technology (MSIT). If a student wishes to concentrate on Computer Forensics, but
chooses to enroll in MSIT, he/she should work with an academic advisor to take additional
courses in Criminal Justice.
Some relevant courses at UNC Charlotte
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ITIS 4250 Computer Forensics
o Offered Fall and Spring; prerequisite is ITIS 2300
IT IS 3200 Introduction to Computer Security and Privacy
o Offered Fall and Spring; prerequisite is ITCS 1215
IT IS 4220 Vulnerability and Systems Assurance
o Offered about once a year; prerequisite is ITIS 3200
Network and Systems Administration ( A course currently under development)
o Offered once every year; prerequisite to be determined
ITIS 5250 Computer Forensics
o Offered Fall and Spring; prerequisite is admission to the graduate program.
IT IS 6200 Principles of Computer Security and Privacy
o Offered Fall and Spring; prerequisite is admission to the graduate program.
IT IS 5220 Vulnerability and Systems Assurance
o Offered about once a year; prerequisite is admission to the graduate program
Programs in Computer Forensic across the U.S.
Here are some institutions with recognized programs (either specific degrees or formal tracks) in
Computer Forensics:
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John Jay College of Criminal Justice: Master of Science in Forensics Computing
West Virginia University’s Certificate in Computer Forensics
For more information about computer forensic:
Computer Forensic Education is an excellent survey paper of Computer Forensics.
Career in Forensics lists some possible career paths for people interested in Computer Forensics.
Cyber Crimes Center
http://www.ice.gov/graphics/investigations/services/cybercrimescenter.pdf
Computer Forensics Tool Testing (CFTT) Project Web Site
http://www.cftt.nist.gov/
Inside the DEA, DEA Programs, Computer Forensics Program
http://www.dea.gov/programs/cfp.htm
DCIS Computer Crimes Program
http://www.dodig.mil/INV/DCIS/compcrim.htm
National Institute of Justice - Computer Forensic Tool Testing
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/topics/ecrime/cftt.htm
RCFL: Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory
http://www.rcfl.gov/
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Forensic Psychology-Background Information and Resources
What is forensic psychology?1
Forensic psychology involves the application of different areas of psychology (clinical,
developmental, social, cognitive, and community) to questions and issues related to law and the
justice system. Clinical psychologists who are primarily interested in forensic practice conduct
assessments, research, and treatment relevant to the needs of the courts. Developmental
psychologists deal with legally relevant research and consultation with children and adolescents
in such areas as testimony of children, the knowledge and decision-making of adolescents
involved in the juvenile justice system, and the needs of children and families involved in
divorce and child custody issues. Social psychologists may consult with attorneys, courts, and
agencies in their research areas; such as witness credibility, jury selection, and decision-making
influences. Cognitive psychologists are trained in the areas of human perception and memory,
and may be consulted by the courts in eyewitness identification, the accuracy of memory, the
reliability of confession evidence, and the detection of deception. Community psychologists are
involved in policy and law formulation, implementation, evaluation, and change.
What kind of jobs are there in forensic psychology?
Forensic psychology has steadily grown during the last 30 years. Research, consultation, and
practice in areas of psychology relevant to the law should continue to expand over the next ten
years. With this growth comes an increased effort within psychology to provide guidelines for
those providing services to courts, attorneys, and lawmakers. For example, forensic
psychologists have played a large role in many state and federal changes in lineup procedures in
recent years, in an ongoing effort to reduce the problem of false convictions.
Clinical-forensic psychologists are employed in forensic hospitals, mental health centers, jails,
prisons, and juvenile treatment centers. Clinical-forensic psychologists also work independently
in private practice, although it is rare that their private practice is only forensic work.
Most developmental psychologists interested in forensic psychology are employed in higher
education where they teach and conduct research. Some are employed by governmental agencies,
private foundations, or non-profit organizations and are involved in advocacy and policy
formulation and analysis. Unlike clinical psychologists, developmental psychologists formulate
and test such theories as those concerning the effects of divorce and joint custody on children,
the effects of restrictive environments on adolescent development, or long-term effects of
physical, sexual, or emotional child abuse on adult functioning.
Material from this section is primarily from “Careers in Psychology and the Law: A Guide for Prospective
Students,” Career and Training Committee, American Psychology-Law Society, APA Division 41, September 2004.
1
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Like developmental psychologists, most social and cognitive psychologists with forensic
interests are employed by colleges or universities, where they teach and conduct research. Less
frequently, they are employed by governmental agencies, private foundations, or non-profit
organizations conducting some combination of advocacy and policy formulation and analysis.
Some individuals who offer trial consulting services have been trained in traditional programs in
social or cognitive psychology.
Community psychologists who are interested in forensic psychology teach and conduct research
in higher education settings. Unlike other areas of psychology, however, a number of community
psychologists are employed in governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, foundations, or
other community-based advocacy and service settings.
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Criminal Profiling
Many students express an interest in criminal profiling. In reality, few law enforcement agencies
employ such techniques and there is little call for such professionals. The Behavioral Sciences
Unit of the FBI does have a small number of FBI agents who are engaged in profiling, among
other responsibilities. Because of the small number, the FBI encourages prospective applicants
who are interested in being special agents to do so because they are interested in the range of
opportunities available with the FBI, not because they want to be a profiler. Further information
is available from their office in Washington, D.C. or through their website: http://www.fbi.gov .
Education for forensic psychology
Any forensic psychology jobs require a doctoral degree. For psychologists whose practice is
individual-focused and involves forensic assessment or treatment services, a doctorate in clinical
psychology and licensure as a practicing psychologist is typically required. Students who are
leaning towards clinical practice should consider Psy.D. programs, while those who might like to
conduct research should focus on Ph.D. programs. A masters degree in clinical psychology may
be sufficient to obtain employment in institutions, where work is conducted under the
supervision of a Ph.D or Psy.D. psychologist.
Few Ph.D. or Psy.D. programs offer specialty training in clinical-forensic psychology. Instead
most clinical-forensic psychologists are graduates of general clinical psychology programs who
developed their specialty later in their training, either on internship, by way of completing a
forensic fellowship, or by independent and continuing education study. Students interested in
becoming clinical-forensic psychologists should consider a clinical Ph.D. or Psy.D. program
which offers a forensic specialization.
For psychologists who are primarily researchers, educators, consultants to courts, and policymakers, licensure or certification is usually not necessary. They still need a Ph.D. in their
specific area.
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At UNC Charlotte, a masters program in Clinical/Community psychology is available to
qualified students. A clinical/community masters degree is a good springboard to the Ph.D. in
clinical psychology, and may be sufficient to obtain employment in some institutional settings
such as prisons or juvenile facilities. Students in the clinical masters program complete a
master’s thesis as part of their training, and may elect to do their thesis in a forensic area.
UNC-Charlotte also offers a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Health Psychology. One track of this
program leads to licensure as a clinical psychologist. Students in the program take a variety of
courses in clinical health psychology, and may elect to do research in a forensic area.
Some relevant courses at UNC Charlotte
At the undergraduate level, the psychology department offers a topics course each fall, PSYC
3001, Forensic Psychology, which gives a broad overview of the field. Some senior seminars in
psychology, particularly the Seminar in Social Psychology and the Seminar in Experimental
Psychology, also focus on forensic issues, depending upon the instructor’s expertise.
Programs in forensic psychology across the U.S.
An up-to-date listing of current graduate programs in the United States can be found at:
http://www.ap-ls.org/students/graduateIndex.html
For more information about forensic psychology
American Psychology-Law Society
http://www.ap-ls.org/
Website of the American Board of Forensic Psychology
http://www.ap-ls.org/ http://www.abfp.com/
Careers in Forensic Psychology
http://www.wcupa.edu/_ACADEMICS/sch_cas.psy/Career_Paths/Forensic/Career08.htm
Graduate School Directories - Forensic Psychology
http://www.gradschools.com/programs/forensic_psychology.html
International Journal of Forensic Psychology
http://ijfp.psyc.uow.edu.au/
Psychology: Forensic Psychology: AmoebaWeb
http://www.vanguard.edu/faculty/ddegelman/amoebaweb/index.aspx?doc_id=2418
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Forensic Science – Background Information and Resources
What is Forensic Science?
Forensic science involves the application of scientific processes and methods to legal matters. A
forensic scientist analyzes evidence that is brought in from crime scenes and reaches conclusions
based on laboratory tests run on the evidence. A strong foundation in an area of science, such as
biology or chemistry, is required to pursue a career as a forensic scientist.
What kinds of jobs are there in forensic science?
Forensic scientists typically work in government laboratories where they analyze physical
evidence submitted by local, state and federal law enforcement agencies for investigative and
legal purposes. They draw conclusions based on their analysis and write reports on their findings.
The results of their work are used in police investigations and court trials. Forensic scientists are
summoned to court to testify as expert witnesses and to explain their findings to a jury. On some
occasions, a forensic scientist may be summoned to a crime scene to help reconstruct a crime or
to assist in the recognition and collection of evidence. Working at a crime scene usually
comprises a relatively small component of a forensic scientist’s job responsibilities.
Education requirements for a career in forensic science
You should obtain a bachelors degree (preferably a B.S.) in an area of science, such as biology or
chemistry, if you want to work in a crime laboratory or if you wish to pursue a Master’s degree
in forensic science. Courses in criminal justice can be helpful, but potential employers and
graduate programs in forensic science will be far more interested in your background in science.
You will need a solid knowledge base in science, excellent laboratory skills, and good oral and
written communication skills.
Potential employers will be interested in your personal character as well your academic
background and credentials as a scientist. If you have a criminal record, it will be very difficult
to find employment as a forensic scientist.
Relevant courses at UNC Charlotte
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Courses offered at UNC Charlotte that will help you to prepare for graduate studies in
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forensic chemistry and employment in a crime laboratory as a forensic chemist:
CHEM 1251/1252
CHEM 1251L/1252L
CHEM 2131/2132
CHEM 2131L/2132L
CHEM 3111
CHEM 4165
CHEM 4165L
CHEM 4111
CHEM 4171
CHEM 4900
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Principles of Chemistry
Principles of Chemistry Laboratory
Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry Laboratory
Quantitative Analysis
Principles of Biochemistry I
Principles of Biochemistry I Laboratory
Instrumental Analysis
Biochemical Instrumentation
Directed Undergraduate Research
Courses offered at UNC Charlotte that will help you to prepare for graduate studies in
forensic biology and employment in a crime laboratory as a forensic biologist:
CHEM 1251/1251
CHEM 1251L/1252L
CHEM 2131/2132
CHEM 2131L/2132L
BIOL 3166
BIOL 4121
CHEM 4165
BIOL 4199
BIOL 4260
Principles of Chemistry
Principles of Chemistry Laboratory
Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry Laboratory
General Genetics
Biometry
Principles of Biochemistry I
Molecular Biology
Population Genetics
Some graduate programs in forensic science
Michigan State University (Forensic Science Master’s Program) http://www.forensic.msu.edu/
George Washington University (Master of Forensic Science and Master of Science in Forensic
Science) http://www.gwu.edu/~forensic/
(This web page also contains an extensive listing of web links on forensic science.)
Florida International University (Ph.D. program in Chemistry with Forensic Science Emphasis)
http://www.fiu.edu/orgs/chemistry/programs2.htm#PhDFS
John Jay College (Master of Science in Forensic Science)
http://web.jjay.cuny.edu/%7escience/introGRAD.html
For more information about forensic science
American Academy of Forensic Sciences
http://www.aafs.org/
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Crime Scene Investigation
http://www.crime-scene-investigator.net/index.html
Forensic Science Programs Worldwide
http://www.aafs.org/?section_id=resources&page_id=colleges_and_universities
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Other Related Courses
CJUS 2102 Ethics and the Criminal Justice System
Offered Fall and Spring, prerequisite is CJUS 1100
CJUS 3000-090 Basic Criminalistics
Provides an introduction to various applications implemented in Crime Scene Investigation in the
Criminal Justice System today. The laboratory portion of the course provides hands-on
opportunities to learn specific techniques and procedures discussed in lecture.
Offered about once a year, no prerequisites, recommend CJUS 1100
CJUS 3102. American Criminal Courts
Analysis of the court component of criminal justice with emphasis on social science literature
concerning prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges, juries, and court reform policies.
Offered Fall and Spring, prerequisite: CJUS 1100.
CJUS 3110 Criminal Justice and the Law
Nature and development of criminal law including the concepts of criminal liability,
responsibility, and capacity; comprehensive analysis of the various crimes against persons,
property, and morality.
Offered Fall and Spring, prerequisite is CJUS 1100
CJUS 3111 Criminal Justice Procedures
Examines the rules that govern everyday operation of the criminal justice system from
investigation to appeal
Offered Fall and Spring, prerequisite is CJUS 1100
CJUS 4000/5000-001 Investigative Law
Offered about once a year, prerequisite is CJUS 3111
CJUS 4000/5000-090 Computer Crimes
Critically examines the increasingly important issue of cyber crime, and how crime is facilitated
through technology, the Internet, and the World Wide Web. Students will understand the
complex nature of this emerging crime type, as well as its significance across a variety of
disciplines from the social sciences to business administration and management information
systems.
Offered once a year
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Other Forensic Careers
Crime Scene Technician-Background Information and Resources
What are the duties of a crime scene technician?
Crime scene technicians respond to crime scenes and other significant events as requested for the
purpose of locating, identifying, processing and collecting physical evidence. They must
determine what items, areas and surfaces should be processed, and what evidence should be
collected for laboratory analysis. Technicians must document the scene and the location and
condition of evidence by notes, crime scene sketches, photography, and videotape. They must
assist the Medical Examiner’s and District Attorney’s offices for case preparation, as well as
testify in court.
What kind of jobs are there for crime scene technicians?
State and large local police agencies possess crime scene units and crime lab personnel. These
are non-sworn positions that often have high turn-over rates because of occupational stress, long
working hours, and shift work.
Education for crime scene technicians
The preferred educational background is a bachelor degree in biology, forensic science or
criminal justice, although some agencies will accept associate degrees with a balance of
experience. Many agencies prefer experience in related areas such as police, medical examiner
office, or lab work. Additional on-the-job training to obtain certification by the International
Association for Identification is often required.
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Forensic Accounting1
What is Forensic Accounting?
Forensic accounting is the practice of utilizing accounting, auditing, and investigative skills to
assist in legal matters. It is used for litigation support and investigating specific types of crimes.
Litigation support includes the factual depiction of economic issues related to existing or
pending litigation. In this capacity, the forensic accountant quantifies damages sustained by
parties involved in legal disputes and often assists in resolving disputes before they are taken to
the courts. If a dispute reaches court, the forensic accountant may testify as an expert witness.
The forensic accountant’s responsibility in investigations includes determining whether criminal
matters such as employee theft, securities fraud (including falsification of financial statements),
identity theft, and insurance fraud have occurred. He or she may be required to recommend
actions that can be taken to minimize future risk of loss. Investigation may also occur in civil
matters, such as searching for hidden assets in divorce cases.
What kind of jobs are there in forensic accounting?
Forensic accountants are found in accounting firms and are needed for investigating mergers and
acquisitions, supporting civil litigations, specialized audits, and criminal investigating of tax,
economic crimes, and terrorists. Forensic accountants work in corporations, accounting firms,
and all branches of state and federal governments.
1 http://www.forensic-accounting-information.com/ 2/12/06
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Other related links
Forensic Links
http://www.health.ri.gov/labs/foren_links.php
Occupational Outlook Handbook
http://www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm
Mass Fatality Incidents: A Guide for Human Forensic Identification Technical Working Group
for Mass Fatality Forensic Identification, June 2005
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/pubs-sum/199758.htm
Medical Examiners, Coroners, and Biologic Terrorism A Guidebook ...
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5308a1.htm
Topic - Related Links - National Criminal Justice Reference Service
http://www.ncjrs.gov/app/Topics/MoreLinks.aspx?TopicId=119
Central Identification Laboratory
http://www.jpac.pacom.mil/CIL/Anthropology.htm
DMORT - National Disaster Medical System
http://oep-ndms.dhhs.gov/dmort.html
Crime Scene Investigation Training
http://www.crime-scene-investigator.net/csi-training.html
Crime Scene Technician
http://www.jus.state.nc.us/NCJA/index.htm
North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation
http://sbi.jus.state.nc.us/sbimain/qdocumen.htm
North Carolina Program for Forensic Science
http://sasw.chass.ncsu.edu/forensic/
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