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Forensic & Investigative Sciences, Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Forensic & Investigative Sciences, Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Use science to uncover the truth

Forensic science applies scientific methods to questions that involve crime, public safety, and the legal system. In the Bachelor of Science in Forensic & Investigative Sciences program, you’ll learn how to analyze evidence, interpret scientific findings, and contribute to investigations that impact communities.

Our FEPAC-accredited, interdisciplinary program combines biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and criminal justice to prepare you for a career in forensic science or related scientific fields. You’ll develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills while gaining hands-on laboratory experience and an understanding of how science works within the legal system.

You'll be prepared to work in crime laboratories, law enforcement settings, and scientific industries, or to continue your education in graduate, medical, or law school.

This degree is a great fit if you're interested in:

Solving complex problems using scientific methods and critical thinking
Understanding how scientific evidence is used in the justice system
Analyzing physical evidence such as fingerprints, trace materials, or biological samples
Applying science to real-world investigations and criminal cases
Developing strong laboratory and analytical skills

Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.S.), FEPAC-accredited
Credit hours: 120
Typical time to complete: 4 years
Delivery: On campus
Location: Indianapolis
Academic unit: Forensic & Investigative Sciences

Degree highlights »
Your learning experience »
After graduation »

Degree requirements

Search pathways.iu.edu to find:

Requirements and courses for this degree
How to complete this degree on time (academic pathway)

Find admission requirements and learn how to apply »

Our innovative faculty solve real-world problems

New admissible evidence introduced to Indiana courtrooms by IU Indianapolis forensic scientist »

Research conducted by professor John Goodpaster helped nail a murder conviction and introduced a new evidence to Indiana courtrooms.

Degree highlights

Accredited curriculum aligned with professional forensic science standards
Hands-on laboratory courses in forensic chemistry, biology, microscopy, and evidence analysis
Real-world experience through internships in crime labs, coroner offices, law enforcement agencies, and private laboratories
Research opportunities working alongside faculty on forensic science projects
Interdisciplinary training combining science, law, and criminal justice

At IU Indianapolis, you’ll study in Indiana’s only FEPAC-accredited forensic science program, meaning your education meets rigorous national standards for forensic science training.

You’ll learn from experienced faculty and gain access to modern instrumentation and laboratory facilities while studying in downtown Indianapolis. Our research-active environment is close to crime labs, courts, and law enforcement agencies.

These experiences help you build both the technical expertise and professional skills needed to succeed in forensic science.

Your learning experience

Gain the scientific knowledge, practical experience, and professional preparation needed to make an impact in forensic science and beyond.

This program builds a strong foundation in science while helping you understand how forensic evidence is collected, analyzed, and presented in court.

During the program, you’ll learn to:

Apply scientific methods to analyze forensic evidence
Identify and examine physical and biological evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, fibers, and trace materials
Use chemical and instrumental techniques to analyze substances like drugs, explosives, or fire residue
Understand crime scene investigation processes and the structure of forensic laboratories
Evaluate legal and ethical considerations, including expert testimony and rules of evidence
Communicate scientific findings clearly in written reports and presentations

These skills prepare you to work effectively in laboratories, investigative environments, and scientific research settings.

Choose your concentration

You’ll choose one of two specialized tracks that align with your scientific interests and career goals.

Forensic Biology

Focus on the biological evidence used in investigations.

Coursework includes molecular biology, population genetics, statistics, biochemistry, and forensic biology which include techniques used to analyze DNA and biological samples. These courses are required for a career in DNA analysis.

Forensic Chemistry

Study the chemical analysis of evidence, including drugs, explosives, fire debris, and trace materials.

You’ll gain experience with analytical chemistry, instrumentation, and laboratory methods used in forensic labs.

Hands-on experience

Practical learning is a central part of the forensic and investigative sciences program.

You'll have the opportunity to:

Complete internships at approved crime laboratories or investigative agencies
Participate in faculty-guided research projects
Work with microscopy and advanced laboratory instrumentation
Apply scientific techniques to real-world forensic questions

These experiences allow you to apply classroom knowledge to real investigations and develop professional skills valued by employers.

IU Indianapolis has multiple research opportunities for undergraduate students, including:

1st Year Research Immersion Program
Life-Health Sciences Internship Program
IU Police Department Digital Forensics Unit internship program
Research opportunities with faculty in both the School of Science and the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering.

There are forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and other forensic science agencies right here in Indianapolis and the surrounding area.

You don't have to look far for internships and research opportunities.

Research impact

Genetics researcher predicts facial characteristics from Copernicus to cold cases »

Susan Walsh is a forensic geneticist and associate professor of biology and forensic and investigative sciences.

After graduation

With a B.S. in Forensic & Investigative Sciences, you’ll be prepared for careers that apply science to public safety, law, and research.

Common career paths include:

Forensic scientist or criminalist
Crime laboratory analyst
Crime scene investigator
DNA or trace evidence analyst
Toxicology or drug chemistry specialist
Scientific researcher or laboratory technician

13%

Expected job growth rate for Forensic Science Technicians from 2024–34
(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

You can also pursue graduate school, medical school, or law school, and expand your opportunities in science, medicine, and the legal system.

Program website

Visit the Forensic & Investigative Sciences website.

Academic programs in forensic science

See all of the academic programs we offer.

Take the next step

Learn how to apply