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Undergraduate Program - On Campus

Forensics Track

Use science, investigation, and critical thinking to solve real-world cases.


BVU’s Criminology/Criminal Justice with Forensic Science track prepares students for careers in criminal investigation and forensic science through hands-on learning in evidence collection, lab analysis, and investigative techniques. Students combine criminal justice coursework with scientific processes used in real forensic settings.

Degree
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Format
On Campus
Internships
Yes
Why BVU

Why study Criminology: Forensics Track at BVU

A BVU Forensic Science degree combines science and criminal justice to prepare you for careers investigating crime through laboratory analysis and field experience.

Science Meets Criminal Justice

Build expertise at the intersection of forensic science and the justice system.

Hands-On Experience

Develop investigative skills through simulations, laboratory work, and case analysis.

Career Preparation

Access funding for certifications, internships, and professional development opportunities.

Faculty Mentorship

Learn from faculty with professional experience in criminal justice and forensic science.

Build real-world experience through investigative coursework, lab experiences, internships, and simulation-based training. BVU’s Value Added Funding initiative can help support internships, certifications, travel, and professional experiences that prepare you for careers in forensics and investigation.

Hands-On

Learn by doing, from day one

Students build investigative and analytical skills through hands-on coursework in criminal justice, science, and forensic investigation.l business case analysis.

Year 1–2

Explore criminal justice systems, criminology, psychology, sociology, and scientific foundations

Year 2–3

Develop skills in criminal law, criminal investigation, evidence collection, and forensic analysis

Year 3-4

Apply advanced investigative techniques through internships, simulations, specialized coursework, and capstone experiences

Watch See criminology: forensics track at BVU in action
Where Graduates Work

BVU criminology: forensics track graduates go far.

Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation City of Des Moines Polk County Medical Examiner’s Office
Sam Sexe headshot photo
BVU Stories

Sam Sexe '23, Medicolegal Death Investigator, Polk County Medical Examiner's Office

At BVU, Sam took full advantage of opportunities like Value Added Funding to attend an advanced death investigation course at St. Louis University. He served as a resident assistant, joined the Criminal Justice Club, and now works as a Medicolegal Death Investigator in Polk County and as an Advanced EMT in Webster City. 

Career Outcomes

Where this degree can take you

Crime Scene Investigator
Forensic Technician
Criminal Investigator
Laboratory Analyst
Two people in a simulation room working through a criminal investigation

MILO Training Simulator

Students benefit from access to innovative tools such as the MILO Training Simulator, a high-fidelity training system offering immersive, scenario-based law enforcement exercises. This simulator enhances decision-making, use-of-force judgment, and de-escalation strategies in a safe, controlled environment that replicates real-world law enforcement encounters.

student working with lab equipment
Estelle Siebens Science Center

Lab Facilities

Gain hands-on experience in lab spaces where you'll apply forensic techniques, analyze evidence, and build practical skills used in today's criminal justice field. 

Your Career. Your Way.

Solve Cases. Analyze Evidence. Make an Impact.

Turn your interest in science and investigation into hands-on experience and career-ready skills at BVU.