INDS B.S.: Bio Forensic Science
Spring 2025 Capstone
My INDS Degree
This degree is focused on the field of forensic science, specifically forensic biology. Forensic biology, as described by The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE), is defined as involving “…the analysis of biological fluids and tissues collected at crime scenes and from articles of physical evidence for the purpose of identification and individualization,” (CFSRE, 2023). As a forensic biologist, I would conduct experiments involving bloodstain pattern analysis, latent fingerprint examination (through the use of superglue fuming), general bodily fluid and tissue analysis, and DNA amplification, with the goal of identifying the origins of human evidence.
I will incorporate select legal and national security-based courses from Political Science into my degree plan. These courses will help me understand some of the domestic and foreign policy laws/practices that describe the legalities surrounding forensic science analysis and interpretation in court. Additionally, I will include select courses from the Sociology and Anthropology departments that focus on the origins of ethical theories, their applications to the generation of ethical standards that forensic scientists must adhere to, and ethical issues that may arise in general practice. These courses will also cover concerns that are important in issues surrounding gendered sexual violence.
Degree Mentors
- Steven McAlpine, Individualized Study
- Aubrey Jackson-Soller, Department of Sociology
- Kelly Talebian, U.S. Government
Post Graduation Plans
I was offered a job with the federal government in December of 2024, so after graduation I am planning to work as a forensic scientist or generally in the STEM field with the government. Different from other Forensic Science degrees offered at various universities, my Bio-Forensic Science degree strongly incorporates specific Biology, Sociology and Political Science courses. I believe that the courses that I selected to make my degree (ex. human genetics, international relations, ethics in scientific research, etc.) will all prepare me to be a well-rounded, ethical scientist that works on analyzing evidence from cases across the U.S. or around the world.
Courses In My INDS Degree
✅ Biology:Establish a proficient background in how to collect, analyze, and interpret human DNA and other biological markers from crime scenes.
(BIOL 300L, 302, 303, 307, 375, STAT 350)
✅ Sociology and Anthropology: Explore the fields of sociology, anthropology and philosophy to understand the origins and applications of ethical regulations and practices in bio forensic science.
(ANTH 318, CJS 225, GWST 210, PHIL 359, SOCY 201)
✅Political Science: Equip myself with an understanding of the presentation and use of forensic evidence in public policy settings, or a court of law.
(CJS 225, POLI 280, 439)
✅ Individualized Study: Understand how best to incorporate my varying interdisciplinary academic interests into a cohesive major.
(INDS 330, 335, 399, 480, 490, PRAC 098A)