Bachelor of Forensic Science at Saint Louis University

Forensic science is the scientific method of gathering and analyzing evidence. The forensic science major at Saint Louis University is an interdisciplinary program that employs the methods, tools and perspectives of biology, chemistry, anthropology, sociology, physics, mathematics and medicine to better understand the intersection of law and science.

Forensic science is well known for its application in civil and criminal law, however, the field is quite broad, and has important applications in natural and man-made disasters, accidents, and historical/archaeological evaluations of lifestyles and causes of death as well.

Forensic science is an appropriate major for all students who want to pursue graduate studies or professional work in any scientific or professional field. Completion of the major places students in a position to address the scientific basis of civil and criminal law through further legal studies or research.

1. Graduates will be able to identify and explain major concepts and their categories of evidence, patterns of evidence, trends in forensic science, and the scientific basis of investigative and analytical methods.  
2. Graduates will be able to recognize the limitations of evidence and the ethical responsibilities linked to decision making.
3. Graduates will be able to recognize, explain and apply basic research methods in forensic science, including research design, data analysis and interpretation.
4. Graduates will be able to engage in skeptical inquiry, think critically and creatively, and use a scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes. Students will also be able to recognize the holistic nature of forensic science, law, society and ethics.
5. Graduates will be able to apply the knowledge of ethical issues inherent in the forensic sciences and the skill to be able to contribute to the profession through careful documentation and reporting of evidence, and the recognition and ethical reporting of errors.