Contact: David B. Rivers, Professor of Biology
Office: Donnelly Science Center, Room 258
Telephone: 410‑617‑2057
Website: www.loyola.edu/academics/forensic-studies

Forensic science and studies are growing fields that continue to gain relevance in all criminal and civil investigations. According to the American Academy of Forensic Science, there is an increasing demand for individuals trained in forensic science, who specifically can apply advances in science and technology to criminal investigation with the purpose of solving crimes. While an undergraduate minor in forensic studies is not sufficient to practice in the field, it does serve to allow students to explore this expanding field out of intellectual curiosity; to develop and nurture their interests in forensic studies in an applied curriculum; and to obtain the necessary background to pursue professional or graduate training in this or related fields.

The Minor in Forensic Studies is an interdisciplinary program with involvement from the Departments of Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Classics, Computer Science, Engineering, Visual and Performing Arts, History, Information Systems, Law and Operations, Mathematics and Statistics, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and Writing. Students are encouraged to take a range of courses from departments in the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and School of Business. Typically, during the junior or senior year, students enroll in the Forensic Studies Experience or equivalent, a specialized course of study emphasizing research, independent study, or internship focused on forensic studies/science.