Ball State adds forensic science degree program
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Ball State University has announced it will now offer a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science, which it says is the only comprehensive forensic science program in the state.
The new degree program will provide students with a comprehensive education in the scientific knowledge and methods that will prepare them for a career investigating crimes, solving civil disputes, and enforcing laws and regulations, the university said.
“The College of Sciences and Humanities is excited to offer this robust program for our students. We are already seeing significant student interest in our Fall enrollments,” said Dr. Benjamin Gibbs, chair of the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology and director of the forensic science program.
The degree program will offer four concentrations: behavioral forensics, digital forensics, forensic biology, and forensic chemistry. In addition to specialized forensic science courses, required courses will draw from biology, chemistry, computer science, criminal justice and criminology, and psychological science.
The university hopes to see the degree program address a growing need for forensic science professionals in the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job positions for forensic science technicians across the country will grow 13% from 2022 to 2032, with an average of 2,600 estimated job openings per year.
Students will be able to pursue the degree starting this fall.