Forensic Science Minor

The interdisciplinary Forensic Science minor integrates multiple scientific disciplines, preparing students for a career that has clear implications in pursuing social justice within the community.

The Forensic science field combines the natural and behavioral  sciences and applies them in legal settings. A minor in forensic science allows a student to expand his or her knowledge base and practice in critical thinking skills. The forensic science minor, administered out of the Biology Department, is particularly designed for students majoring in biology, chemistry, criminology and criminal justice, and psychology.

• Typically, students in these majors will only need to complete an additional 8-17 credit hours to fulfill the minor.
• Students from any major may pursue the forensic science minor.
• The minor consists of 21 total credit hours, some of which may satisfy major or liberal arts and science requirements. 

Enhance Your Career and Expand Your Interests

Biology and chemistry majors who choose the forensic science minor will better understand the applications of science to the legal system and have a strong foothold in the basics to prepare them for employment or graduate studies in forensic science. 

Criminology and criminal justice students interested in law enforcement or other career areas will enhance their professional potential by having a stronger understanding of the forensic sciences. Other interested students who pursue this major will gain a general understanding of how the natural and behavioral sciences aid the civil and criminal legal systems in the pursuit of justice. 

Forensic Content and Connections

Together, the two forensic science courses in the minor explore the areas of crime scene investigation, evidence collection and analysis, and forensic science in the courtroom. Both courses are laboratory-based and use hands-on activities to enhance student learning.

Specific topics include:

• Trace evidence 
• Questioned documents
• Bloodstain patterns
• Forensic chemistry
• DNA typing
• Accident reconstruction and firearms
• Forensic pathology
• Anthropology
• Dentistry
• Entomology

Contact

Elizabeth A. Murray, Ph.D., D-ABFA
Biology Department
(513) 244-4948
elizabeth.murray@msj.edu

Dr. Murray is certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology, is a fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Science and has over 30 years of experience in forensic science. She has involved students at Mount St. Joseph University in her casework and forensic research whenever possible.

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