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Forensic Biochemistry Degree
Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
Program type:
Major
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit Hours:
125
Identify trace evidence and use quantitative analysis to help close the case.
UNT's Forensic Biochemistry degree prepares students for careers in crime laboratories
where they can use deep knowledge of biochemistry to uncover evidence. Students can
also prepare for medical school for careers as medical examiners.
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Request More InfoWhy Earn a Forensic Biochemistry Degree?
The undergraduate program in Forensic Science at the University of North Texas offers a strong curriculum based on the Natural Science Program that have been in place for over 50 years. Overall, the Forensic Science curriculum ensures that each student:
- Obtains a thorough grounding in the natural sciences
- Builds upon this background by taking a series of more advanced science classes
- Develops, through course work and laboratory-based instruction, an appreciation of issues specific to forensic science
The Forensic Science program strives to:
- Assure a complete and rigorous curriculum designed to develop undergraduate students' understanding of the field of forensic science, critical thinking and laboratory experience
- Review and update scientific content and forensic techniques to ensure the incorporation of current forensic practices in the curriculum
- Involve students in active inquiry and scholarship, developing a research mindset and desire for continuation within the field
- Foster learning in a community environment through research and internship opportunities
- Encourage student involvement in professional societies to enhance appreciation of chosen field.
The forensic science course work covers Introduction to Criminalistics, Forensic Microscopy and Instrumental Analysis. You must also successfully complete the Forensic Science Assessment Test.
Our distinguished faculty includes Dr. Harrell Gill-King, a world- renowned forensic anthropologist who helped identify victims of the Oklahoma City bombings, World Trade Center tragedy and Hurricane Katrina.
Marketable Skills
- Oral and written communication
- Application of the scientific method
- Operation of modern analytical instrumentation
- Data organization and interpretation
- In-depth knowledge of biochemistry
Forensic Biochemistry Degree Highlights
Students use the same cutting-edge equipment featured in the nation's top crime labs.
Facilities include a new criminalistics lab focusing on fingerprint, ballistic and
laser analysis.
Our strong curriculum follows the recommendations of the National Institute of Justice
and primes you for the American Board of Criminalistics certification test.
Students learn from nationally certified faculty members who conduct ongoing research
in forensic science and have provided expert testimony in high-profile court cases.
Ours is one of only 35 programs accredited by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.
This distinction means we meet or exceed high standards for excellence in education.
Faculty members work closely with you to help find an internship that fits your interest
area. Internships are available in crime labs, crime scene investigations, forensic
anthropology, forensic chemistry labs and forensic DNA/genetics labs.
Career Outlook
Forensic scientists work in crime laboratories as forensic chemists and biologists. Their jobs may include the following responsibilities:
- Applying principles and techniques of the physical and natural sciences to the analysis of the many types of evidence that may be recovered during a criminal investigation
- Providing expert court testimony. An expert witness is called on to evaluate evidence based on specialized training and experience, then express an opinion as to the significance of the findings
- Participating in training law enforcement personnel in the proper recognition, collection and preservation of physical evidence
Other specialized forensic science careers outside the crime laboratory include:
- Forensic pathology
- Forensic anthropology
- Forensic entomology
- Forensic psychiatry
- Forensic odontology
- Forensic engineering
Forensic Biochemistry Degree Courses You Could Take
Cell Biology (3 hrs)
Structure and function of animal and plant cells with emphasis on cell membranes,
cytoplasmic organelles and the nucleus.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Gene (3 hrs)
Mechanisms and regulation of genetic expression, chromosome replication, mutagenesis
and DNA repair, and gene cloning in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems.
Biomedical Criminalistics (3 hrs)
Survey of the various forensic sciences with emphasis on direct examination of human
remains and directly related biological evidence; e.g. anthropology, pathology, odontology.
Students learn how cases arise, i.e. how remains are located, recovered and processed.
Supporting biological, clinical and physical sciences will also be covered; e.g. toxicology,
entomology, DNA science, forensic geology/palynology and remote sensing.
Forensic Microscopy (3 hrs)
Introduction to microscopic analysis with emphasis on the fundamentals necessary for
identification and characterization of trace evidence materials such as glass, hair,
fibers, explosives, soil, paint and biological samples.
Physical Chemistry (3 hrs)
Thermodynamics, kinetic theory, solutions and phase equilibria, chemical equilibrium,
photochemistry and chemical kinetics.
Principles of Forensic Science (3 hrs)
This course is designed to reinforce knowledge of forensic techniques and skills critical
to evidence preservation and collection. It will also provide students with an understanding
of professional ethics in forensic science and courtroom techniques.
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