The Certificate in Forensic Science fosters student interest in applying scientific knowledge and skills of biological anthropology to legal issues (i.e., in an area of the forensic sciences). This program promotes both the development of important methods such as human skeletal identification and assessment in collaborative involvement with local law enforcement agencies.
Students wishing to pursue a career in one of the forensic sciences should consult advisors in anthropology, biology, or chemistry. Entry-level employment in criminalistics commonly requires a major in one of the physical or natural sciences, including a year of general chemistry and a course in quantitative analysis.
Graduate programs in criminalistics commonly require a major in one of the physical or natural sciences.
Grading Requirement
All courses taken to fulfill program course requirements must be taken for a letter grade except those courses specified by the department as credit/no credit grading only.
An overall GPA of 3.0 is required for the entire program.
Course Requirements for the Certificate
The following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, are required of all candidates for this certificate. Contact the Department of Anthropology for enrollment.
Additional upper-division Biological Sciences (BIOL) courses may be counted for the Methods and Techniques requirement with approval of the Forensic Coordinator.
These courses must be selected from outside the student's major department and chosen with the prior approval of the certificate coordinator. A specific program of courses may be required depending upon the student's major and previous preparation.
Professional Standards
The forensic certificate signifies readiness to begin professional work in an area requiring trust and high ethical standards. Students are expected to meet the ethical and professional standards set by the agencies with which they may serve as an intern. Should it be determined that students do not meet such standards, they may be disqualified from fulfilling the internship component of the certificate and thus prevented from completing the certificate.
Candidates for the certificate must be a California State University, Chico undergraduate currently enrolled in a complementary bachelor's degree program. Contact the Department of Anthropology for enrollment.
