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Forensic Biology

Gain a comprehensive education through this interdisciplinary course of study that combines the application of the natural sciences and law to criminal investigation, with a specific focus on forensic biological analyses.

Student completing a gel electrophoresis procedure

Expand your knowledge in a growing field of study which includes serology and DNA analysis!

As a Forensic Biology student, you will be prepared to pursue forensic/crime laboratory careers or admission to post-graduate programs. The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Biology program meets the interests of students by providing greater depth of specialization in biology, particularly in the areas of biological fluid testing and the chemical and fundamental nature of DNA. Through this program, you can apply your skills and interests while growing your expertise within the forensic science services industry.

What Sets Us Apart

Learn in state-of-the-art facilities

The Stewart Science building is a five-story complex that houses several science departments, and is home to newly renovated chemistry laboratories. The labs contain suites of advanced equipment that all students have direct access to, where you can learn to troubleshoot and work independently. Our curriculum and laboratory program have been approved by the American Chemical Society for over 50 years. The ACS is the world leader in chemical development.

Make valuable connections

All Chemistry students have many opportunities to get involved in events, camps, labs, and organizations to enhance research, networking, public speaking, and more. Each month, our students can attend the Society of Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh meeting to network with area professionals. Many of our students have made great contacts and found jobs through this experience.

Participate in faculty research

Each of our faculty members runs an active research program that you can join, encompassing topics such as drug identification, arson investigation, and latent print analysis. Our forensics faculty have extensive experience, which means that you’ll see and hear about real, practical connections between your coursework and future practice.

Get involved in ACS

You can also become a member of the Waynesburg University American Chemical Society Student Chapter, which has been ranked as an outstanding student chapter for the past nine years. You can get involved in one of the most active chapters in the country, enabling you to make significant connections to your future professional life.

Goals and Objectives for Forensic Biology

  • Students will develop a sound natural science foundation and obtain a minor in biology.
  • Students will learn critical thinking skills and understand forensic biology professional practice through theory and hands-on experiences in the lab and field.
  • Students will develop an understanding of the principles and techniques utilized by forensic biology practitioners in the laboratory and at the crime scene.
  • Students will gain practical instrumental experience using professional laboratory equipment such as the comparison microscope, scanning electron microscope, microspectrophotometer, polarized light microscope, and stereo microscope.
  • Students will develop an understanding of the fundamental units of cellular structure and function, the processes of cellular analyses, and molecular biological laboratory skills and techniques.
  • Students will gain an understanding regarding the fundamental nature of DNA, inheritance, and integration of genetics in various fields.
  • Students will gain practical experience in assessing the chemical nature of DNA and its regulatory processes, classical Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance, and application of statistics to genetics analyses.
  • Students will learn and practice current forensic biological fluid testing techniques while developing safe work practices as it relates to universal biohazard precautions.
  • Students will develop an understanding of the importance of the scientific method and its application in forensic biological research and analysis. 
  • Students will learn critical aspects of the criminal justice system, criminal investigation, common law principles, and rules of evidence through criminal justice administration course work and participation in mock court proceedings.
  • Students will learn the importance of ethics and quality assurance in the application of scientific examinations of physical evidence.
  • Students will develop communication and leadership skills through the University’s general education requirements, service, and extracurricular opportunities.

Coursework

View the academic catalog to further explore the curriculum.