Undergraduate Programs - Forensic Science

The Forensic Science undergraduate program is a concurrent degree program, which means students are required to declare a second degree in addition to Forensic Science. Due to the highly specialized and diverse nature of Forensic Science, the concurrent degree requirement allows students to choose degree combinations that will best prepare them for employment in their chosen career field.

• Any undergraduate degree can be paired with Forensic Science, with the exception of general studies, interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary studies, and other similar degrees. 
• There is no separate application process for an undergraduate Forensic Science degree. Once a student has applied and been accepted to UCO, they may simply declare Forensic Science as one of their two degrees.
• Students who complete the concurrent Forensic Science program will be awarded two full Bachelor’s diplomas upon graduation.

There are two mechanisms for earning a Forensic Science undergraduate degree:

Concurrent

• Students must declare a primary degree at UCO in addition to Forensic Science. 
• Students must fulfill all degree and GPA requirements for both degrees, and complete a minimum of 139 total credit hours.

Second Bachelor’s

• A student already possessing an eligible undergraduate degree can pursue a second Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science by itself, as their previous degree meets the concurrent degree requirement. 
• Students must fulfill all Forensic Science course and hour requirements (30-36 hours) regardless of previous coursework and where they earned their first degree. 
• It is recommended that students who have already earned an eligible Bachelor’s degree also consider applying to our Forensic Science Graduate program (36 hours). 

Quotes from Graduating Students

• “I think the program is excellent already, as it stands right now. This is why I moved 13 hours away from home to come to UCO. The reputation of the program precedes itself and is truly top tier.”
• “I honestly have no complaints, all the professors were amazing, kind, knowledgeable about their field, and willing to help when reached out to.”
• “Every instructor I have had in this program has been knowledgeable, professional, and helpful beyond what is actually required of them.”

Unique Careers

Forensic Science is an extremely broad field, ranging from Forensic Accounting to Forensic Zoology! Here are just some of the possible degree combinations that students can pair for a unique career in Forensic Science:

• Accounting: Forensic Accountant
• Art: Forensic Artist, Fingerprint Analyst
• Biology: DNA Analyst, Forensic Wildlife Biologist, Medical Examiner/Pathologist
• Chemistry: Forensic Chemist, Forensic Toxicologist
• Criminal Justice: Crime Scene Investigator
• Engineering/Physics: Explosives, Firearms, Forensic Engineer
• Funeral Service: Medicolegal / Death Scene Investigator
• Graphic Design: Crime Scene Reconstruction
• MIS/Computer Science: Digital Forensics Examiner, Cyber Security Specialist
• Nursing: Sexual Assault Nurse
• Psychology: Forensic Psychologist
• Sociology: Victim/Witness Advocate, Social Worker, Domestic Violence or Child Abuse Specialist
• And many more!

Questions? Please email: forensicscienceadvisement@uco.edu

Student Learning Objectives

Students who successfully complete a degree program in Forensic Science will:

• Acquire and retain foundational knowledge from the core discipline areas and apply it to an understanding of the continuum from crime scenes to courtrooms.
• Apply the scientific method to forensic science problems: review and interpret forensic science literature; develop well-reasoned, scientifically sound hypotheses; design experiments to test hypotheses; statistically analyze and interpret data, and communicate results in written and oral formats.
• Communicate forensic science information clearly, concisely, logically, and accurately, to the general public both orally and in writing.
• Function as knowledgeable citizens with an understanding of the role of forensic scientists in society and offer ethical, well-reasoned arguments/solutions to societal concerns related to forensic science.
• Demonstrate global and cultural competencies (avenues for learning might include study tours, guest lectures featuring international experts in forensic science, reading materials, and community engagement activities).
• Comprehend and demonstrate a working knowledge of safe and healthy practices in forensic science through adherence to accepted quality assurance standards and health and safety procedures.

Undergraduate Achievement for the Comprehensive Exam

 *A passing grade is defined as 70% or higher

Statement on drug abuse and background checks related to the Forensic Science Program

Individuals seeking careers in forensic science and related fields are subject to background checks as they will work with sensitive information. These careers demand a high level of trust, unquestioned ethics, and professionalism. Students pursuing a degree in forensic science can also expect a background check as part of the required internship or practicum program. A background investigation typically includes review of arrest or conviction records; drug and alcohol use and abuse screening; review of credit reports; interview of friends, teachers, and supervisors; and possibly a polygraph examination. Issues derived from background investigations often preclude internships and employment in forensic science or related fields. Even though law enforcement agencies may differ in specific policies, tolerance levels, and practices related to the background investigation, it is unlikely that a candidate failing a background check will be accepted for an internship or able to secure employment in the forensic science field.