To meet the demand for qualified forensic scientists, Suffolk University offers a concentration in forensic science as part of its well-established degree in biochemistry. Students electing the concentration in Forensic Science will receive a degree in biochemistry with a specialization in forensic science. Included in this program is a Capstone Project, FS 511. In order to enroll in FS 511 and complete the forensic science concentration, a minimum of a "B" average is required in a set of core science classes. The capstone course is generally intended for students in the biochemistry/forensic science concentration. However, under certain circumstances, students in disciplines that could be related to forensic applications may be granted permission by the forensic science director to enroll in the course.

Major Requirements

The following courses are suitable to fulfill program or elective requirements in the biochemistry forensic science concentration or as electives for students with an interest in forensic science; see also biochemistry/forensic science concentration.

FS 303 Forensic Science
FS L303 Criminalistics Laboratory
FS 403 Trace Evidence or CHEM 553
FS L403 Microscopy for Trace Analysis
FS 436 Criminalistics Practicum

The following courses are recommended as electives for students in the Forensic Science Concentration of Biochemistry:

EHS 264 Introduction to Law and the Legal System
EHS 367 Criminal Litigation
SOC 231 Victims of Crime
SOC 233 Sociology of Crime
SOC 234 Criminal Justice Systems
SOC 235 Sociology of Law
SOC 237 Drugs and Society

Additionally, Summer Forensic Science Institute offerings are accepted as electives.

Summer Forensic Science Institute

Sponsored by Suffolk University and the Boston Police Department Crime Laboratory, the summer forensic science institute offers week-long courses for continuing education of forensic science professionals. Enrollment in these courses for upper-division credit in forensic science at Suffolk University is an option; approval by a member of the Forensic Science Advisory Committee is a prerequisite.

FS 501 Detection, Recovery, and Examination of Footwear Impression Evidence
FS 502 Forensic Microscopy
FS 503 Advanced Forensic Microscopy (Trace Evidence)
FS 504 Basic Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
FS 505 Advanced Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
FS 506 Forensic Photography
FS 507 Tool Marks and Comparisons
FS 508 Physical Evidence Testimony (formerly Forensic Testimony)
FS 509 Forensic Paint Examinations and Comparisons

Organizational Affiliation: Boston Police Crime Laboratory