Bachelor of Science
Forensic BiologyPrepare to recognize, collect, and analyze physical evidence pertaining to legal issues and investigations.
Forensic Biology
The Forensic Biology degree is a multidisciplinary program focusing on the application of natural and physical scientific methods/theories pertaining to legal issues and investigations. Students receive a broad-based education covering biological, chemical, and physical science methods, including extensive laboratory work. This core natural science foundation builds on the fundamentals of forensic science and prepares students in the recognition, collection, and analysis of physical evidence in criminal and civil law.
Coursework
The Forensic Biology degree offers coursework including
- a survey of forensic science
- introduction to law and criminal justice
- courtroom procedure and expert testimony
- quality assurance
- ethics and professional practice
Additionally, this program offers advanced coursework
- forensic biology
- forensic chemistry
- forensic microscopy and trace evidence
- forensics methods validation
Forensic Biology Internships and Real-world Experiences
Forensic science internships, mentoring, and research opportunities are also available to students. In some cases, students may work under the supervision of forensic science faculty to process and analyze case evidence and/or participate in significant research projects.
Our forensic biology students are often invited to attend professional conferences of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists, and other professional training and networking events.
Forensic Science Club
The Forensic Science Club of Keystone College provides student members with the opportunity to participate in activities pertaining to science to help prepare for a career in forensic science.
“Keystone is big enough to meet new people but small enough to be personal.”
“Everyone treats me like I belong here. Even though I transferred from another college I feel like started here from the beginning”.
Natalie Daley
Class of 2019
Major: Forensic Biology
Forensics expert in the field for National Geographic.
Jillian Conte, Assistant Professor of Forensic Biology, recently served as a forensic expert for the National Geographic television program, Explorer.
Careers in Forensic Biology
Upon graduation, students may attend graduate or medical school or pursue careers in crime laboratory analysis, crime scene investigation, and medical examination. The program is also ideal for students preparing to be forensic scientists in private, state and federal crime laboratories. Because this program has a core natural science foundation, it is also an appropriate major for students looking to pursue careers in medicine, dentistry, education, law, and law enforcement.
The exciting careers available in the Forensic Biology field are growing at an unprecedented rate and offer numerous opportunities for advancement.
- Career opportunities and sample salaries an include:
- Crime Lab Analyst: $38,000
- Fingerprint Analyst: $45,000-$60,000
- Crime-Scene Investigation Supervisor: $47,000-$65,000
- Chief Toxicologist: $75,000-$100,000
- Assistant Medical Examiner: $115,000-$170,000
- Forensic Pathologist: $136,000-$173,000
- Chief Medical Examiner: $200,000
Minors
The forensic biology minor gives students an understanding of the basic issues and the applications of those methods within the field of forensic science.
Real World Experience
From internships and research projects to travel and conferences, you’ll have many opportunities to conduct lab experiences, work with your peers and mentors in the biology field, and learn first-hand the breaking science research that's happening in the real world.
Study Abroad
Explore our study abroad programs and discover a world of opportunities that are sure to be the highlight of your college years.
Research
Working with a faculty mentor conducting research enriches the learning process and creates positive lifelong attributes.
Civic Engagement
Engage in civic-based projects and service-learning experiences and make a positive difference in the greater community.
Internships
Internships and field experiences give students the chance to learn through hands-on experiences beyond the classroom.