Imagine using scientific methods, information and technology to determine the facts in a search for truth. A career as a forensic scientist can place you in the forefront of crime scene investigations. As a forensic science major at The University of Findlay, you will learn techniques involving:
Firearms identification
Latent prints
Forensic biology
Crime scene investigation |
|
DNA
Trace evidence
Chemistry
|
|
 |
|
The forensic science major was created following the guidelines established by the United States Department of Justice, Technical Working Group on Education and Training in Forensic Science (TWGED) and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).
“This is not like television," explains Phil Lucas, assistant professor of criminal justice. "The academic rigors are very high, and the ethical standards are even higher: When you get into the courtroom, you hold the keys to someone’s guilt or innocence, and you have to be very careful how you use them.”
Lucas is a no-nonsense assistant professor of criminal justice and forensic science who has helped create and guide the forensic science major since its inception in 2005. He brings 30 years of first-hand law enforcement and crime investigation experience to the classroom and is committed to his students’ success: “I tell the students that once you get out of this program I will stack you up against any forensic student in the country,” he said. “Our goal is for our students to be able to say, ‘I know my role and I can do it better than anyone else.’”
A review of the program’s core curriculum underscores what Lucas says: a major in the program requires a minimum of two mathematics courses, nine biology courses, nine chemistry courses, and four physics courses.
But students must also take courses in speech, communication, argumentation and debate as well because they will likely be required someday to present and defend their work in criminal trial courtrooms.
The demand for internships and career opportunities in forensic science is continuously increasing. The impending retirement of current forensic professionals, along with an increased awareness of the field itself, have led to more jobs and paid learning experiences.
Graduates of our program have found employment in law enforcement, within the criminal justice system and at government agencies including the United States Department of Justice.
Read about one of our alumni:
Brian Grabowski, Forensic Science Major
If you have drive, determination and a strong love of math, this is the right program for you. What are you waiting for? Schedule a campus visit to tour UF’s very own forensics lab!
The forensic science major was created following the guidelines established by the United States Department of Justice, Technical Working Group on Education and Training in Forensic Science (TWGED) and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).
