51ĀŅĀ×

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Forensics Studies Certificate

Forensics Studies Certificate

This Forensics Studies Certificate provides an interdisciplinary overview of forensic studies, exploring scientific components of criminal investigation and criminal justice processes through a multi-disciplinary lens.

A wide range of readings in criminology, psychology, sociology, biology, business, linguistics, political science, law enforcement technology, accounting, chemistry, and cyber/data security, and other relevant disciplines give students the opportunity to learn about various notions, methods, and approaches behind criminal investigation.

This certificate also provides a space for conversation and support among undergraduates representing different colleges/majors while also providing immediate application for students pursuing forensics at the graduate level. The interdisciplinary nature of this certificate makes it attractive to students from disparate academic backgrounds while also attracting students who have grown up locally and who may plan to remain living and working in the Central Appalachian region.

The content training creates professionals with skills needed in local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, on crisis response teams, in municipal offices, in social support settings and places of business. It also prepares students for graduate work on specific aspects of forensic studies. The high demand for these skill sets could be met by students at 51ĀŅĀ× who have completed an undergraduate degree along with a certificate in Forensic Studies that places them in a position for immediate hire and/or for advanced, graduate-level study.

Careers with a Forensics Studies Certificate

Students earning the forensic studies certificate often pursue graduate studies in forensics, law school or programs aligned with their undergraduate major.

A significant percentage of forensic practitioners have advanced degrees (e.g., masterā€™s, professional, or doctoral), and the certificate in forensic studies places our graduates in the best space possible for these post-baccalaureate opportunities. Again, while graduate work and registering as a forensic professional are not required for practice in the state of Ohio, these steps may be required elsewhere and may be desirable to enhance oneā€™s credentials at various employing organizations.  

There are a number of specialized disciplines in the field of forensics, including the following: Anthropology, Criminalistics, Digital & Multimedia Sciences, Video/Imaging Technology and Analysis, Engineering Sciences, Language and Document Analysis, General Jurisprudence and Behavioral Science.  Each of these specializations is addressed via coursework accepted toward completion of the proposed Certificate in Forensic Studies. Taking electives in any of the subjects listed above may help forensic practitioners secure jobs with more specific skill requirements.

Linguistics Careers & Internships

Samantha Metzger

  • Admission to the Certificate

    Criteria for admission to the program is that a student is an undergraduate student in good standing. Students may be from any college or any major.

    To apply, use the form on this page: Declaring & Changing Majors & Minors in Arts & Sciences

  • Courses & Curriculum

    The Forensics Studies Certificate program requires a minimum of 18 hours, including these core courses:

    • CAS 2000 - Foundations in Forensic Studies
    • LET 1450 - Introduction to Criminalistics and Forensic Science
    • SOC 2600 - Criminal Justice

Contact Us

If you have questions or would like more information about the Forensics Studies Certificate, contact Michelle H. Oā€™Malley.

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