Forensic Science Bachelor’s Degree
Grow Your Analysis Skills With a BS in Forensic Science
With the rapid advances in biology and technology, advancements in solving crimes have reached an almost futuristic level1 and courts are allocating greater weight to forensic evidence.2 This has created a critical need for personnel with specialized training in the field.1
This Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree program at Grand Canyon University (GCU) builds on a solid foundation of biology and chemistry, and provides additional training in crime scene processing, forensic photography, toxicology, serology and forensic DNA analysis. It is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles and techniques necessary for the investigation and analysis of crime scenes and evidence.
Upon graduation, you will have been taught analytical, detail-oriented and problem-solving skills that can prepare you to become a subject matter expert. A forensic science bachelor’s degree teaches the complex nature of forensic science, including the deep understanding of scientific principles, analytical techniques and legal procedures.
I spent a lot of my freshman year in the Mastering Anatomy program doing cadaver dissections — something I never thought I’d do because that’s an opportunity most universities reserve for grad school. By the time I went into my anatomy classes I already had so much experience. I’m so thankful for that.
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Benefits of the Forensic Science Bachelor’s Degree
As a forensic science student, you will receive extensive training in the collection and analysis of forensic evidence in both lab and field settings. In addition, you can learn how to evaluate crime scenes and how to photograph, document, collect and analyze the evidence to establish connections between the victim, suspect and scene. The bachelor’s degree in forensic science at GCU also provides preparation for graduate work in specialized areas of forensic science.
Hands-On Learning for Future Forensic Experts
The BS in Forensic Science degree program includes laboratory work and research projects, which provides a practical experience and allows you to apply the theories and concepts learned in the classroom. Through these experiences, you can develop critical thinking skills, attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively, which are all essential for success in the forensic science field. You can learn how to collect, analyze and interpret physical and biological evidence using innovative scientific instruments and techniques.
BS in Forensic Science Course Topics
A bachelor's degree in forensic science includes a wide range of course topics that cover various areas of forensic investigation. You can also take specialized courses that focus on topics that will help you understand the legal aspects of forensic investigations, including courtroom procedures and evidence presentation.
Topics covered in this bachelor’s in forensic science program include:
- Body fluid and DNA analysis
- Chemistry
- Crime scene processing and reconstruction
- Criminal justice
- Forensic photography
- Genetics
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Instrumental analysis
- Organic chemistry
- Physical evidence analysis
- Physics
- Principals of biochemistry
- Toxicology
These course topics are designed to equip you with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of forensic investigations and can prepare you for specialized roles in the field.
Career Opportunities With a Bachelor Degree in Forensic Science
As a graduate of this BS in Forensic Science program, you may seek employment in various industries, such as private or public forensic science, conventional analytical laboratories, law enforcement, government agencies and private industries. You can apply your knowledge and skills to assist in the following:
- Crime scene investigations
- Laboratory and DNA analysis
- Firearms analysis
- Toxicology
- Drug analysis
- Latent fingerprint development and analysis
- Medicolegal death investigation
- Autopsy analysis
- Research projects
- Legal proceedings
With a strong foundation in scientific principles and analytical thinking, a bachelor's degree in forensic science can provide you with a versatile skillset that can be applied in a variety of settings.
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science FAQs
If you are considering pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree, you may have questions about the degree program and the career opportunities it can lead to. We prepared a list of some frequently asked questions about the BS in Forensic Science programs to help you understand what to expect from a forensic science bachelor’s degree and whether it is the right choice for you.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in a field such as physical science, biology or forensic science.3 Forensic science programs may specialize in a specific area of study, such as toxicology, pathology or DNA, which can prepare you for careers in specialized fields within forensic science. Many who seek to become forensic science technicians will need to have an undergraduate degree in the natural sciences or a master’s degree in forensic science.3
Whether a bachelor's degree in forensic science is worth it depends on your personal goals and interests, as well as the job market in your area. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, state and local governments are expected to hire additional forensic science technicians to process their high caseloads,4 therefore job growth for forensic science technicians is projected to grow by an estimated 11% from 2021 to 2031, faster than average.5 This BS in Forensic Science degree provides the necessary skills and training for your desired career path, making this field worth your time and effort.
This Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree requires a total of 120 credits for completion. Most of the classes are 15 weeks in length. However, most undergraduate degrees are flexible and can be completed at your own pace.
There are many options available to individuals who have earned a BS in Forensic Science. It's important to evaluate your skills and interests and determine which path best aligns with your goals and aspirations. Some graduates go on to pursue a career as a life, physical or social science technician, while others choose to pursue options beyond traditional career paths, such as pursuing additional education with a Master of Science in Forensic Science or a Graduate Certificate of Completion in Forensic Psychology. If you enjoy intersecting psychology, law and criminal justice, the Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology graduate degree can prepare you to apply scientific principles to the legal process.
Ready to unravel the mysteries of crime scenes and perform the duties of a forensic science investigator? Join our BS in Forensic Science degree program today and step into the fascinating world of solving crimes and bringing justice to victims. Fill out the form on this page to speak to a university counselor to better understand how long it takes to earn your BS in Forensic Science degree.
1 Forensics Colleges (n.d.). Modern Forensic Science Technologies (2023). Retrieved on May 21, 2023.
2 National Academy of Science (n.d.). Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward. Retrieved on May 22, 2023.
3 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, Sept. 8). Occupational Outlook Handbook: How to Become a Forensic Science Technician. Retrieved April 12, 2023.
4 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, Sept. 8). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Forensic Science Technicians. Retrieved April 12, 2023.
5 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2022, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Forensic Science Technicians, retrieved on April 12, 2023.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Required General Education Courses
Course Description
This course is designed to prepare learners to integrate fundamental mathematical concepts with the critical and quantitative thinking needed to solve workplace-related problems. The course is founded upon a functional and technological approach to algebra. Topics include functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions; algebraic and exponential equations; and probability. Emphasis is placed on developing students’ understanding of mathematical representation and logical reasoning to solve real-world problems. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-110.
Course Description
This course presents the fundamentals of algebra and trigonometry with some applications; it provides the background and introduction for the study of calculus. Topics include review of linear equations and inequalities in one and multiple variables; functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; systems of equations and matrices; and sequences and series. Slope and rate of change are introduced to set up the concepts of limits and derivatives. There is an emphasis on both an understanding of the mathematical concepts involved as well as their applications to the principles and real-world problems encountered in science and engineering. Technology is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-134 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to criminal liability with an emphasis on the elements of a crime and governmental sanctions of individual conduct as formulated by the legislature and the court system.
Core Courses
Course Description
This course introduces the analysis skills required for scientific problems. Critical thinking in relation to problem solving is practiced from the viewpoint of forensic scientists. Students will study approaches to inquiry, reasoning, and logic as applied to forensic science, the systematic use of data to make critical decisions, and the expectations of graduate schools and forensic science careers.
Course Description
This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function, particularly at the molecular and cellular levels of organization. Cell components and their duties are investigated, as well as the locations of cellular functions within the cell. The importance of the membrane is studied, particularly its roles in controlling movement of ions and molecules and in energy production. The effect of genetic information on the cell is followed through the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. Co-requisite: BIO-181L.
Course Description
This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-181 through experiments and activities which complement and enhance understanding of macromolecules, cell membrane properties, cellular components, and their contribution to cell structure and function. Assignments are designed to relate cellular processes such as metabolism, cell division, and the flow of genetic information to cell structure. Co-requisite: BIO-181.
Course Description
This course is designed to introduce students to the use of digital cameras in crime scene documentation and reconstructing the events of a crime based on the evidence recovered from the scene. In the first half of the course, students will learn how to manually operate digital cameras and how to photograph different types of crime scenes and evidence under various conditions. In the second half, students will reconstruct the events of a crime using the scene evidence, basic evidence processing, and deductive logic.
Course Description
This course examines human anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on function and homeostasis of the following areas: tissues, integument, skeletal system, muscular system, and the nervous system. Case studies are utilized to reinforce physiological processes. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-210L.
Course Description
This course involves study of the gross anatomy and function of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. This experiential lab involves an advanced exploration of concepts utilizing human cadavers and other supplemental materials. Co-Requisite: BIO-210.
Course Description
This course is a study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-154, MAT-250, MAT-261 or College Algebra. Co-Requisite: PHY-111L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-111 lecture course. Learners are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisite: MAT-154, MAT-250, MAT-261 or College Algebra. Co-Requisite: PHY-111.
Course Description
This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-113 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of density, classification of chemical reactions, the gas laws, determination of enthalpy change using calorimetry, and determination of empirical formula. Co-Requisite: CHM-113.
Course Description
This course focuses on the logic and critical analysis of assessing and reconstructing crime scenes. Topics covered include the use of techniques such as photography, rough sketch, refined sketch, CAD programs, evidence-based crime scene reconstruction, and thorough report writing. Topics such as evidence processing, maintaining chain of custody, court testimony, and the ethical considerations in forensic work are also covered. Prerequisite: SCI-220. Co-Requisite: SCI-255L.
Course Description
Students use critical/ logical thinking skills to reconstruct a variety of crime scenes and then record the crime scene using a variety of methods. Accurate presentations of crime scenes are evaluated as a measure of quality assurance and are required for successful completion of the course. Students must refine a crime scene rough sketch to a detailed (refined) sketch and produce a written report of the crime scene processing that occurred. Prerequisite: SCI-220. Co-Requisite: SCI-255.
Course Description
This course is the second in a one-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Course topics include an introduction to electric and magnetic fields, the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave, geometric optics, quantum mechanics, and nuclear reactions. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-112 lecture course. Some of the topics learners understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112.
Course Description
This is the second course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.
Course Description
This course examines the activity within and between cells at the molecular level. The relationship between structure and function is examined within the genome through an analysis of its impact on proteins, gene expression, and gene regulation. The application of polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing, and recombinant DNA techniques are discussed within the context of real-world application. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L.
Course Description
This course is the first of two organic chemistry courses. The first half of this course develops the vocabulary and concepts of chemical bonding, chemical structure, acid-base principles, and nomenclature needed to understand properties and reactions of organic compounds. The second half of this course discusses chemical reactions, including radical reactions, substitution and elimination reactions, and synthesis and reactions of alkenes. Students learn how to predict reaction products and draw reaction mechanisms. Organic synthesis and structural determination are also covered. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-231 reinforces principles learned in the lecture course through various techniques that organic chemists use to synthesize compounds. Students use these techniques throughout the semester. These techniques include determination of melting point, determination of solubility, thin layer chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation. Structural determination using theories discussed in CHM-231 is applied to unknown compounds. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231.
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of elementary calculus and its application to real-world problems. Topics include a brief review of linear, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and inverse functions; understanding and calculating limits, continuity, and derivatives as rates of change; differentiation rules including derivatives of polynomials, exponentials, trigonometric, and logarithmic functions; product and quotient rules, the chain rule, and implicit differentiation; related rates, curve sketching, maximum and minimum problems, mean value theorem, linear approximation, indeterminate forms, and L’Hospital’s rule; and applied optimization problems, antiderivatives, and approximating areas under the curve. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-250 or MAT-261.
Course Description
This course is the second of two organic chemistry courses. The course is organized by common organic functional groups, including alkynes, alcohols, ether, aromatic compounds, ketones and aldehydes, amines, carboxylic acid, and carboxylic acid derivatives. The reactions and properties of each functional group are discussed. Students learn how to predict reaction products, draw reaction mechanisms, and predict physical properties. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-232L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-232 supports and extends principles learned in the lecture course. Students carry out various organic syntheses using techniques taught in CHM-231. The experiments include preparation of an alkene from an alcohol, a Grignard reaction, preparation of cinnamaldehyde, nitration of methyl benzoate, synthesis of N-Methyl Prozac, an Aldol reaction, Benzimidazole synthesis, and a Diazonium coupling reaction. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-requisite: CHM-232.
Course Description
Students explore the fundamentals of evidentiary recovery of materials at crime scenes, methods for analysis of evidence at the scene and in the crime laboratory, maintaining a chain of custody, and quality assurance. Emphasis is placed on analytical and comparative analyses conducted at the crime laboratory. Prerequisite: SCI-255 & SCI-255L. Co-Requisite: SCI-330L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of SCI-330 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. The laboratory focuses on the collection and laboratory analysis of various types of forensic evidence that are commonly encountered at crime scenes. Prerequisite: SCI-255 & SCI-255L. Co-Requisite: SCI-330.
Course Description
This course introduces advanced principles and theory of quantitative analysis, including stoichiometry, equilibria, photometric methods, electrochemistry, separation processes, statistical data analysis, and applications to advanced topics in analytical chemistry. Sampling strategies and sample preparation for analysis will also be discussed. Prerequisite: CHM-235, CHM-235L or CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-315L.
Course Description
This course will discuss the fundamental principles of analytical chemistry. Topics will include sampling strategies, sample preparations and analysis, instrument operation, data collection and statistical analysis, and presentation of results. Prerequisites: CHM-235 and CHM-235L or CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-315.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the quantitative, qualitative, and instrumental analysis of various biological and non-biological sample types. Analytical methods for the qualitative and quantitative analyses of samples by various chromatography and spectroscopy techniques are detailed. The toxicological section of this course is designed to equip learners with general principles of toxicology, forensic toxicology, and drug metabolism. Topics include chemistry and biological activities, as well as types and effects of drugs of forensic interest in biological material. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L.
Course Description
The course objective is to survey basic biochemical principles, including the composition, structure, and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. Important biochemical principles include structure-function correlation, chemical reactivity, kinetics and equilibrium, thermodynamics, membrane structure and function, and metabolic energy pathways. The application of biochemical concepts in the medical field is emphasized. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360L.
Course Description
This laboratory course covers modern biochemical laboratory techniques and their theoretical foundations. Topics include methods for protein, nucleic acid, and lipid isolation and characterization; enzyme assays; chromatography; electrophoresis; and representing and manipulating proteins and nucleic acids. Experiments are designed for hands-on experimentation and students acquire practical techniques currently used in biochemistry laboratories. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360.
Course Description
This writing intensive course provides a comprehensive examination of the principles of heredity and variation, including Mendelian, molecular, and population genetics. Students explore topics such as gene mapping, DNA structure and replication, population genetics, and molecular change. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L.
Course Description
The writing intensive, capstone course provides an opportunity for students to make contact with practitioners, investigate special topics or specific areas of interest in forensic science, and potentially participate in hands-on application through research or internship experiences. Students are expected to address a critical issue in evidence and forensic science. Skills in critical thinking, analysis, and application of learned material are key to success in this course. As part of the final process, students must prepare a written report and orally present their findings in an end-of-course seminar that is open to the public. Prerequisite: Senior status.
Course Description
The content of this lecture/laboratory course is designed to equip learners with a strong background in molecular biology as it applies to serology and forensic DNA analysis. The identification of body fluids pertinent to forensic science, with a focus on saliva, blood, and semen, is introduced. Past and present theories, methods, and techniques used in the analysis of forensic DNA evidence are addressed. DNA profiling of various fluids and tissues of forensic interest is included. Laboratory work practicing various serology and STR analysis techniques provides hands-on experience. Key components of QC/QA are featured with reference to FBI, ASCLD, and ISO guidelines. Prerequisites: CHM-360, CHM-360L, and BIO-457.
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.