University of Tampa

What you'll study

Coursework blends core sciences, forensic-specific classes and a capstone/research or internship experience. Early recommended science courses include General Chemistry (CHE 152/153L) and General Biology (BIO 198/198L). FSC 130 (Survey of Forensic Sciences) is the introductory forensic course and is suggested in the first-year spring semester. For students targeting forensic DNA work, the programme recommends Molecular Biology (BIO 370/370L) and Biochemistry (CHE 320/320L) to meet laboratory coursework expectations such as those in the FBI Quality Assurance Standard for DNA testing laboratories.

• Introductory forensic science: FSC 130 (Survey of Forensic Sciences)
• General Chemistry and lab: CHE 152/153L
• General Biology and lab: BIO 198/198L
• Molecular Biology and lab: BIO 370/370L (recommended for forensic DNA)
• Biochemistry and lab: CHE 320/320L (recommended for forensic DNA)
• Capstone, research or internship projects covering topics such as drug detection in bone, trace DNA transfer and persistence, firearm/toolmark analysis, ambient ionization mass spectrometry for organic gunshot residues, and other applied forensic investigations

Entry requirements

The programme materials stress early enrollment in foundational science courses but do not list formal admission scores on the public page. Students are advised to take General Chemistry and General Biology as soon as possible because they serve as prerequisites for upper-level courses. The department strongly cautions students that most forensic internships and jobs require background investigations; behaviors such as marijuana use can disqualify applicants for many forensic positions even if legal in a given jurisdiction.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for positions in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, analytical laboratories, or for further training in graduate programmes, medical or pharmacy schools. Reported survey results for recent cohorts indicate 93% of respondents were employed in forensic or analytical laboratory science, pursuing doctoral programmes related to their training, or enrolled in medical or pharmacy school. About 50% of graduates work directly in forensic science disciplines including crime-scene investigation, forensic toxicology, forensic chemistry, friction ridge analysis, DNA/biology, and firearm/toolmark examination. Other alumni apply their analytical skills in industrial or medical labs or enter law enforcement roles.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

While the programme page does not list specific scholarships, prospective students should explore university-wide financial aid, departmental scholarships, and funding tied to laboratory science or criminal justice. Internship placements with agencies and forensic centres listed by the programme can also provide professional experience that supports employability and competitive applications for external scholarships or graduate funding.