Forensic Science
Jonathan Parrott (Forensic Science)
About this opportunity
Forensic science is the study and application of scientific methods to matters of law.
The BS degree program in forensic science at ASU is built on a solid foundation in both biology and chemistry, which develop students' basic and upper-level laboratory skills. Students complete holistic, rigorous coursework in the natural and mathematical sciences to adequately prepare for entering a competitive workforce. The interdisciplinary nature of the program is uniquely positioned to train students in forensic techniques ranging from crime scene collection, evidence analysis and mock courtroom testimony.
Along with completing coursework and gaining the necessary scientific skills to succeed in this field, students have the opportunity to gain practical experience in a laboratory setting by being involved in research or an internship. Students can conduct research under experts of varying forensic fields, including biology, entomology and anthropology. Students also may seek to apply for and participate in forensic science internships sponsored by crime labs around the country. Internships are highly competitive.
Job applicants and students seeking a volunteer or internship position within a crime lab are required to undergo an extensive background check that includes a polygraph exam, fingerprinting and drug testing. Actions that can disqualify an applicant include recent or past illicit drug use (including marijuana), felony convictions and drunk driving convictions.
This major is eligible for the Western Undergraduate Exchange program at the following location: West Valley campus. Students from Western states who select this major and campus may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition at a rate of 150% of Arizona resident tuition plus all applicable fees. Students should click the link for more information and eligibility requirements of the WUE program.
Thesis
The thesis project is the culminating experience for Barrett honors students. It provides students the the opportunity to collaborate with faculty members to produce a novel piece of scholarship. Barrett students will interact with nationally renowned researchers on a project within their expertise through their role as the student’s thesis director or committee member.
The thesis project allows students to apply all that they have learned in their content courses, as well as their courses in methodology and statistics. The scope and form of the thesis project is at the discretion of the thesis director. There are norms within the academic field that result in most thesis projects involving an original empirical research study or analysis of existing empirical data. Barrett students defend their thesis during a presentation and meeting with their committee.
Academic Preparation
Forensic Science Path: Barrett honors students interested in conducting a thesis as part of the forensic science path are encouraged to complete FOR 370 (Fundamentals in Forensic Analysis). One additional course, depending on area of specialization, is recommended for students pursuing a thesis in forensic biology (FOR 402), forensic chemistry (FOR 425), or digital forensics (FOR 350).
Recommended Timeline
Students should begin formulating an idea about their thesis project during their sophomore year, or for transfer students early in their junior year. Typically students write the thesis over two semesters during their senior year.
Students also should explore potential faculty members who might serve as a director of their honors thesis project and as committee members.
The New College also has several opportunities for undergraduate research to include the New College Undergraduate Inquiry and Research Experiences (NCUIRE) program, Individualized Instruction (499) opportunities, and Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences offered each semester. These opportunities will count for honors credit.
Other Honors Opportunities
Barrett students can also take advantage of other research and internship opportunities. For information regarding internship opportunities check the New College Internship page.
Additionally, students are encouraged to explore Study Abroad options available to them. ASU's Global Education Office has a robust set of offerings that student's can explore. You can search those offerings here. If you are interested in short courses, hosted by New College, you can explore those offerings on the IGLE webpage.
College
New CollegeCampus
West Valley, Online