Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science
Southern University at New Orleans
Key Information
Campus location
New Orleans, USA
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
4 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
USD 4,450 / per semester
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
Scholarships
Explore scholarship opportunities to help fund your studies
Introduction
Forensic Science is one of the high-need subject areas in STEM fields at the national level and, more specifically, in the state of Louisiana. While nationwide, the number of Forensic Science graduates is high, the number is dismal among people of color. Southern University at New Orleans is the only Historically Black College and University to offer a Forensic Science program.
Located in the Department of Natural Sciences, the Forensic Science program is designed to effectively train students to prepare them for advanced degrees and to join the workforce in areas related to Forensic Science, including DNA analysis, drug chemistry, and firearms.
Gallery
Admissions
Curriculum
The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree requires the completion of 125 credit hours of core and Forensic Science coursework. The program has been developed in order to provide students with the types of skills and information that are necessary for success in Forensic Science.
Freshman year
- College Survival Skills
- Freshman Assembly
- English Composition I
- Pre-calculus
- Gen. Biology I
- FIAR or MUSC 101
- Forensic Science Seminar
Total credit hours: 15
- Introduction to Info Process
- Gen. Biology II
- English Composition II
- Trigonometry
- Introduction to Sociology
Total credit hours: 16
Sophomore year
- Introduction to Forensic Science
- Gen. Chemistry I
- Introduction to Alcohol/ Drug Abuse
- Elementary Statistics
- Introduction to Law
Total credit hours: 16
- Writing About Literature
- Gen. Chemistry II
- Forensic Biology
- Calculus I
Total credit hours: 15
Junior year
- Calculus II
- Organic Chemistry I
- General Physics I
- Forensic DNA Analysis
Total credit hours: 16
- Organic Chemistry II
- General Physics II
- Evidence Collection and Processing
- Witness Testimony
- Elective*
Total credit hours: 19
Senior year
- U.S. History
- Drugs & Toxicology
- Forensic Science Internship
- Forensic Microscopy
- Senior Comprehensive
Total credit hours: 14
- Elective*
- Prof. Practice in Forensic Science
- Special Problems & Seminars
- Introduction of Ethics
Total credit hours: 14
*Electives – Choose any 2 of the following:
- Biochemistry (BIOL 306/306L)
- Molecular biology (BIOL 325/325L)
- Genetics (BIOL 302/302L)
- Inorganic chemistry (CHEM 251)
- Analytical/quantitative chemistry (CHEM 351/351L)
- Instrumental analysis (CHEM 362/362L)
- Cell biology (BIOL 324/324L)
- Pharmacology (BIOL 304/304L)
- Microbiology (BIOL 217/217L)
Program Outcome
As a student, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary for leveling up in your academic life. Our curriculum is designed to prepare you to be an expert in your future career. Your professors are dedicated to helping you grow from a student to an expert. After your successful commencement, your expertise will unlock doors to new opportunities. You can have knowledge and skills for gainful employment or continue your academic career. The choice is yours.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Job Growth Expected
The role played by forensic scientists is critical to our justice system in providing accurate scientific information to investigators and the courts. As technology advances, more focus has been given to Forensic Science. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that job growth in Forensic Science is predicted to be near 20 percent over the next six years. There is a tremendous need for individuals with this specialized training.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forensic Science Technicians
- Average hourly salary: $27.81 per hour
- Average yearly salary: $57,850 per year
- Typical Entry Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Work experience in related occupation: None
- Job Growth Outlook (2016-2026): Much faster than average