Program Overview
The Forensic Studies minor combines criminal justice, psychology, and chemistry to provide a comprehensive understanding of crime scene investigation and analysis. It complements majors in related fields and is suitable for students interested in law enforcement, forensic science, or the legal system. The minor includes courses in forensic science, policing, criminal investigation, the CSI Effect, forensic psychology, and the psychology of criminal behavior.
Program Outline
Outline:
The Forensic Studies minor is a multi-disciplinary program that draws upon criminal justice, psychology, and chemistry. It provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of crime scene investigation and analysis and is an excellent complement to majors in criminal justice, psychology, chemistry, or legal studies. Geared towards non-science majors and those considering forensic science as a career path.
- CRJU 3220 - Policing (3 credits): Examines the historical development, current trends, education, training, models, and ethical implications of policing. Explores the role of police in society and their relationship with communities, as well as state and federal law enforcement agencies. Prerequisite: CRJU 1100.
- CRJU 3400 - Criminal Investigation (3 credits): Covers the fundamentals of investigation, including crime scene search and recording, evidence collection, documentation, and submission, scientific aids to criminal investigation, interviews and interrogation, follow-up investigation, and case preparation. Emphasis on investigating specific crimes, identifying information sources, and legal elements of crimes. Prerequisite: CRJU 1100.
- CRJU 3700 - The CSI Effect: Media and Criminal Justice (3 credits): Explores how media coverage and television programs influence public perceptions of criminal justice. Examines the "CSI Effect," where fictional depictions of crime scene investigation lead to unrealistic expectations of real-life investigations. Prerequisite: CRJU 1100.
- PSYC 2450 - Forensic Psychology (3 credits): Examines the interactions between psychology and the legal system, including how psychologists assist law enforcement agencies in various aspects and their roles in civil and criminal proceedings. Prerequisite: PSYC 1020 or PSYC 1020H.
- PSYC 3270 - The Psychology of Criminal Behavior (3 credits): Provides an overview of the psychological factors that influence criminal actions, focusing on developmental, biological, neurological, behavioral, cognitive, and social forces. Covers specific criminal subpopulations, including psychopaths, sexual predators, and serial killers. Prerequisite: PSYC 1020 or PSYC 1020H.
Careers:
This minor can serve as a foundation for students interested in careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, forensic science, or related fields.
