Program Overview
Bridge the gap between science and justice with a bachelor’s degree in forensic science from Youngstown State University. Our multidisciplinary program prepares you for entry-level careers or advanced study in this fascinating and fast-growing field. From reconstructing crime scenes to analyzing evidence, YSU’s forensic science degree immerses you in the essential science behind criminal investigations.
Through a combination of biology, chemistry, criminal justice, and forensic science courses, you’ll learn how to apply scientific principles to real-world investigations and legal cases. Beyond the classroom, you’ll build sought-after technical skills with hands-on opportunities in forensic labs and crime scene simulations.
As a forensic science major, you’ll enhance your critical thinking abilities and learn to analyze complex evidence and present your findings in legal contexts. Whether you’re passionate about solving crimes, advancing science, or seeking a career in law enforcement, our forensic science bachelor’s degree program provides the foundation you need to make a meaningful impact.
In addition to our bachelor’s degree in forensic science, YSU offers a Forensic Sciences Certificate. This 18-hour certificate program emphasizes crime scene investigation and basic information regarding the use of forensic work within multiple career fields. You can also tailor your certificate studies by choosing the advanced forensic science courses that align with your career goals.
YSU’s forensic science bachelor’s degree program provides a unique multidisciplinary approach that prepares you for graduate programs or immediate employment. One of the key components of our forensic science program is the required internship experience, which allows you to apply your classroom knowledge to hands-on work in a forensic-science-related facility.
As a YSU forensic science major, you’ll benefit from:
Speak to a Faculty Member
Robert E. Wardle III
Associate Professor and Program Coordinator, Forensic Science
rewardle@ysu.edu
Students wishing to transfer into the forensic science program must have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. Note: individuals with a felony, drug, and/or domestic violence conviction will experience difficulty gaining employment in the fields of forensic science and/or criminal justice. Students with misdemeanor convictions or juvenile sex offense convictions should seek advice from an advisor.
YSU’s Forensic Science program requires a six-semester hour internship experience which will provide students with the opportunity to integrate academic studies with the daily operations of a forensic science related facility. Each semester hour requires approximately 45 on-site hours. Internships also foster the development of networking relationships with practitioners who can assist in procuring future employment. Certain criminal convictions may prohibit students from being eligible for an internship experience.
YSU’s undergraduate forensic science degree program positions you for a variety of career paths or advanced study in forensic science and criminal justice. Whether working in forensic laboratories, crime scene investigation units, or law enforcement agencies, our forensic science graduates apply scientific methods to analyze evidence and help solve crimes.
Popular career paths for forensic science majors include forensic lab technicians, crime scene investigators, and forensic consultants. Many graduates continue their education in advanced fields such as forensic biology, forensic chemistry, or forensic anthropology, which can further enhance their expertise and career prospects.
With a growing demand for forensic science professionals, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of forensic science technicians will increase by 14% over the next decade — much faster than the average for all occupations. YSU’s bachelor’s degree in forensic science equips you with the expertise to meet this demand and make a lasting impact in the field.
YSU’s forensic science courses offer a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice. You’ll explore key areas such as crime scene investigation, evidence analysis, forensic chemistry, and biological science, all essential for a career in forensic science. This broad curriculum equips you with the skills to apply scientific principles in criminal investigations and legal contexts, preparing you for a wide range of roles in the field.
Unlock exciting career opportunities and gain in-demand skills with YSU’s bachelor’s degree in forensic science. Apply today to start your journey toward a rewarding career at the intersection of science and law.
YSU awards thousands of dollars in scholarships annually to students in our College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM scholarships, which come from a variety of sources and vary in amount, are available to both incoming and current forensic science majors.
The STEM community has a variety of student professional organizations that allow you to grow and foster your learning in an environment with those who share the same interests.
Student professional organizations provide opportunities for you to meet experienced professionals, collaborate with students at other universities, or form relationships with colleagues outside the classroom. They provide social, academic, entrepreneurial, and professional networking opportunities.
Nearly 11,000 students
Over $8 Million in Scholarships Given Annually
21 Average Class Size
5 University Residence Halls with plenty of nearby apartments
14:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Tuition and fees may vary by major, college, area of study or based on your location. The university reserves the right to assess fees for special services and programs applicable to students. First-time International undergraduate students’ tuition rate is established based on first enrollment and remains unchanged for four consecutive years. Graduate students should plan for a yearly tuition increase of approximately 5%.
For a complete list of additional fees and detailed tuition information please visit the University Bursar website here.
Cost of the most popular room and meal plan combination; Your cost will depend on the plans you select. Costs in the box cover the most popular room and meal plan combination (on-campus); If you choose to live off-campus, the estimated cost of room and meals will be around $12,000 based on 12 months.
Based on average books & supply costs
Health insurance is required for international students.
Estimate based on one academic year of study
9 Months – based on 12 – 18 credit hours
*Estimate
+1 330-941-2336
www.ysu.edu/ifs
intadm@ysu.edu
Applicants must have graduated from high school or have successfully completed the General Education Development (GED) test to be considered for admission. Freshman applicants applying for admission to Youngstown State University must submit a high school transcript or GED transcript. Submission of American College Test (ACT) or Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) scores is optional. Please note: some majors require test scores to be admitted into the program.
Applicants must have a cumulative weighted high school grade point average of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher, a core unweighted grade point average* of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher and have an ACT composite score of 17 or higher or a SAT composite score of 920 or higher (evidence-based writing and reading and math) to be admitted unconditionally. (*Core gpa is calculated based on grades earned in the following courses – English, mathematics, science, social science and foreign language, if applicable, from 9th through 12th grade).
Fall Application Deadline is
August 1
