The Forensic Science Program at USP

Integrating forensic science into your major

The forensic science program at USP offers a unique, multidisciplinary curriculum that is integrated into existing major disciplines of study. It couples a core program of forensic science to a strong foundation in one of the scientific disciplines USP is known for.

Designed with the help of experts from the EPA, FBI, and law enforcement officials, this program follows the accreditation requirements of the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).

You’ll receive a BS degree in your chosen major and a certificate of completion in forensic science, just the educational background employers are looking for.

How Your Studies Will Be Enhanced

You choose the science major that appeals most to you, and we’ll help you tailor your courses toward forensic science.

Discipline-specific courses
Discipline-specific courses with integrated forensic science focus in:

• Genetics
• Analytical Chemistry
• Advanced Microbiology
• Toxicology (coming soon)
• Instrument Analysis (coming soon)

Courses like these will add an extra credit hour to the standard course, which will be spent with a field expert.

You’ll benefit from instructors who are working in places such as the:

• EPA
• Medical Examiner’s Office
• Philadelphia Crime Scene Unit
• Federal government investigative agencies

Through their real-world knowledge of forensic science, you’ll discover how to apply what you are learning to the area of forensic science.

Meet some of our outstanding forensic science adjunct faculty

Forensic science courses

These fundamental forensic science courses will help you learn principles and procedures you can apply to your classroom research and labwork, as well as in your chosen internship.

• Forensic Analysis
• Crime and Society
• Forensic Anthropology
• Principles of Forensic Pathology

Internship or Research
You’ll spend a summer performing research in your chosen major or in an internship in a forensics laboratory at places such as the:

• EPA
• CIA
• FBI
• Homeland Security
• Philadelphia Crime Scenes Unit
• Forensic Anthropology Consultants

This hands-on experience will allow you to investigate an area of forensic science and discover how well your USP education has prepared you for a challenging career. You’ll apply knowledge gained in USP’s classrooms and labs, assisting law enforcement personnel in pursuing justice.