BS in Forensic Science

Prepare for the world of criminal investigation with a forensic science degree

Blood splatter analysis. Fingerprinting. Toxicology. Organic chemistry. Forensic science is the application of the sciences to studying evidence in cases related to criminal and civil laws that are enforced by agencies in a criminal justice system. If you are interested in the scientific side of criminal law, this is the major for you! Southern Wesleyan University is currently the only four year college offering this program in South Carolina, and was recognized as having one of the top forensic science programs by Crime Scene Investigator EDU.

Strong Scientific Foundation, Direct Real-world Application

As a forensic science major, choose a concentration in biology, chemistry and computing. You will develop the knowledge base and laboratory skills in biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology, microbiology, human anatomy and physiology and zoology for appropriate forensic analyses, such as those necessary for DNA analysis, fingerprint analysis, analysis of forensic remains, analysis of unknown microbiological specimens, serological analysis, and forensic entomology. You'll use various microscopic techniques to analyze hair, fibers, tissue, fluid, glass, soil, and paint, even delving into techniques for arson investigation, drug analysis, and firearm comparison. You could say that our forensic science program is the intersection of chemistry and criminal justice!

In our Forensic Science degree program, you'll get hands-on experience with many forensic analysis tools, including microscopes (e.g., inverted, fluorescent, electron, polarizing), spectrophotometers (UV-Vis and FTIR), electrophoresis apparatus, high performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, GS-MS, computer-based data acquisition equipment, physiological instruments, and various other equipment and chemical analytical techniques used in a laboratory and research setting. You'll be taught by faculty with Ph.D.s in the biological and chemical sciences, as well as forensic science instructors with years of experience in forensic science laboratories. Our forensic science majors complete real-life research projects and an internship at the local, state, or national level.

Is the Forensic science Degree right for you?

You might love chemistry and want to contribute to public health and safety and the greater good. You might have a genuine interest in the use of technology to solve crimes. You might have great analytical and problem-solving skills, and are comfortable working in a lab setting. This could be your degree program! Forensic science applies to several major careers, including criminalistics, medical examination, pathology/biology, odontology, toxicology, physical anthropology, questioned documents, engineering sciences, computer science, forensic weather, jurisprudence, and others. Start your forensic science journey at SWU!