Forensic Science ,Minor
Biology, Crime Scene Investigator, DNA, Forensic Anthropologist, Forensic Science, Forensic Scientist, Forensics, chemistry, entomology, law
Forensic science encompasses the application of a wide variety of specialties to the legal system.
A minor program in forensic science equips students with a fundamental understanding of the basic principles of forensic science, modern laboratory practices, evidence-based critical thinking, and comprehensive knowledge of the ethical and practical considerations involved in case reports and testimony in this field. Additionally, electives within the minor offer students the opportunity to explore the specific forensic applications associated with any particular major or chosen career path. As such, this program prepares students for many potential applications of their degree in a suite of diverse employment opportunities that are in high demand.
- College/school:
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- Location: West Valley or Online
2025-2026 Catalog Year
| Requirement | Minimum Grade | Credit Hours |
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| Requirement | Minimum Grade | Credit Hours |
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The minor in forensic science consists of 15 credit hours of coursework, of which a minimum of 11 hours must be upper division. A minimum of six upper-division credit hours must be earned through courses offered by the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences. Credit hours may not be shared between major and minor requirements. All courses used to satisfy requirements for the minor must be completed with a grade of "C" (2.00 on a 4.00 scale) or better.
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FOR 286: Principles of Forensic Science
4 Credit
Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
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C | 4 |
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FOR 370: Fundamentals of Forensic Analysis
4 Credit
Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 4 |
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FOR 410: Testimony and Ethics in the Forensic Sciences
3 Credit
Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 3 |
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4 Credit
Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 4 |
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Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this minor.
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GPA Requirement: None
Incompatible Majors: BS in forensic science; BS in forensic science (death investigations)
Other Enrollment Requirements: None
Current ASU undergraduate students may pursue a minor and have it recognized on their ASU transcript at graduation. Minor requirements appear on the degree audit once the minor is added. Certain major and minor combinations may be deemed inappropriate by the college or department of either the major or the minor program. Courses taken for the minor may not count toward both the major and the minor.
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.
Students can learn about science and law enforcement in other countries through study abroad. Being immersed in another culture broadens horizons and develops professional skills such as cross-cultural communication and critical thinking.
Minor programs allow students to develop additional competencies that complement the marketable knowledge and skills they acquire in their majors.
Scientific and technological advances in the field of forensic science as well as continually increasing caseloads in law enforcement are projected to increase the number of forensic science technicians needed over the next decade. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that between 2023 and 2033, employment of forensic science technicians will increase 14%, an average increase much greater than in most occupations.
School of Interdisciplinary Forensics
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FAB N101
sifadvising@asu.edu
602-543-3000
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
