Forensic Biology

Fall 2020 Forensic Biology Checksheet

The BGSU forensic biology specialization of the biology major is a career path into a rapidly growing sub-discipline of biological sciences dealing with the analyses of biological and genetic properties of evidence in legal matters. 

BGSU has an Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation Crime Lab on campus, one of the few colleges with a forensics lab on site. Having access to personnel from a state-of-the-art crime lab provides students opportunities for learning through internships and guest lectures.

The specialization in forensic biology is for biology majors interested in gaining laboratory and analytical skills that will help prepare them for careers in public safety and the growing field of forensic sciences. 

The specialization in forensic biology is a gateway specialization for undergraduates interested in pursuing careers requiring strong biological/problem-solving skills in this area of forensic science. While foundation-level courses are needed by all biologists (chemistry, physics, mathematics, as well as biology), advanced training in molecular biology (genetics, molecular techniques, biochemistry, environmental/medical forensics, statistics, and criminal justice procedures) will focus a student’s skill-set to give them the background and training needed to enter the field of forensic biology.

In addition to conceptual/theoretical lecture courses, students will get hands-on training in molecular biology techniques through our new course facilitated by Dr. Scott Rogers. This course is specifically designed to train undergraduates in molecular techniques that are used in forensic crime labs. Courses such as those listed below provide students with additional skills used in crime labs.

• Biol 4060, Medical Entomology: Spring. Biology and identification of disease-carrying, toxic and parasitic arthropods.
• Biol 3310, Human Anatomy and Physiology I: Fall, Spring, Summer. Anatomical and physiological aspects of cells and tissues and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems.
• Biol 3320, Human Anatomy and Physiology II: Fall, Spring, Summer. Anatomical and physiological aspects of circulation, respiration, digestion, excretion, endocrinology and reproduction.
• Biol 4730, Mammalogy: Fall (alternate years). Identification, natural history, evolution, zoogeography, ecology, physiology, behavior, with emphasis on Ohio mammals.
• Biol 4140, Plant Taxonomy and Evolution: Fall (alternate odd years). Principles of plant classification, evolutionary relationships and processes of plant evolution. Construction and use of keys, identification of local flora, use of classical and molecular techniques in plant evolutionary studies.