Plymouth State University (PSU) is launching a new bachelor of science in forensic science in fall 2022. The program will be geared toward both science and non-science students with a passion for investigation and problem-solving. The program will be the only bachelor degree program in forensic science offered by a public university in New Hampshire.
Plymouth State’s Integrated Cluster Learning Model prioritizes interdisciplinary hands-on, project-based work. In this program, students will complete courses in criminal justice, chemistry, psychology, computer science, biology and anthropology. While it is a STEM-oriented program, the coursework emphasizes both a solid theoretical foundation and strong laboratory skills in combination with a critical, detail-oriented approach to investigations.
Students will have access to the University’s modern laboratories and will have opportunities to use various laboratory instruments during their undergraduate coursework.
“Almost all high schools in New Hampshire have forensic science courses, but until now, a forensic science bachelor’s degree has never been offered at any of the state’s public universities,” said Anil Waghe, professor of chemistry. “One factor that sets PSU’s forensics program apart from other universities is access to laboratory equipment. Most research universities have modern laboratory instruments like PSU, but they don’t allow undergraduate students to use them. That access is generally restricted to graduate students and post-doctorate students. At PSU, we train our students on these instruments, so they are ready to work in the field as soon as they graduate.”
The bachelor degree program allows students to choose from one of three specialties: forensic laboratory analysis, digital forensics (i.e., cyber-attacks) or forensic psychology. Students enrolled in the program will also have the opportunity to obtain multiple specialties and/or minors in chemistry, psychology, criminal justice and biology with just a few additional courses using their free electives.
Graduates will be equipped with the skills necessary for careers with government agencies or private laboratories, in forensic life science, private investigation and information security.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that between 2019 and 2029, careers in forensic science are projected to grow 14% private investigation at 8% and information security at an astonishing 31% nationally.
Republished courtesy of Plymouth State University.