The Minor in Forensic Science is ideal for students who want to learn the techniques that can be used to identify suspects, help solve criminal investigations, and support the science behind these processes. This minor focuses on the application of forensic science techniques in the legal system such as evidence handling in an active investigation and expert testimony in the courtroom. Students will be trained for career opportunities such as forensic scientists or crime scene investigation positions with law enforcement agencies and crime laboratories.
Course work for this minor is predominantly delivered at the Edwards Campus in Overland Park, KS. Some courses are delivered at the Lawrence Campus or online.
This minor is available to all degree seeking students and is also one of 3 minors in the Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology. To declare a Minor in Forensic Science a student must have a minimum 2.0 cumulative KU GPA (or be in their first semester) and be degree seeking.
Course List | Code | Title | Hours |
| BTEC 430 | Evidence Handling and Testimony in the Courts | 3 |
| BTEC 520 | Forensic Techniques I | 3 |
| BTEC 530 | Forensic Techniques II | 3 |
| CRIM 300 | Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
| CRIM 355 | Crime Scene Investigation | 3 |
| |
| Genetics Laboratory | |
| Microbiology | |
| Microbiology Laboratory | |
| Total Hours | 21 |
Minor Hours & Minor GPA
While completing all required courses, minors must also meet each of the following hour and GPA minimum standards:
Minor Hours
Satisfied by a minimum of 15 hours of minor courses.
Minor Hours in Residence
Satisfied by a minimum of 9 hours of KU resident credit in the minor.
Minor Junior/Senior (300+) Hours
Satisfied by a minimum of 9 hours from junior/senior courses (300+) in the minor.
Minor Graduation GPA
Satisfied by a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA in all courses in the minor. GPA calculations include courses in the minor taken at KU or transferred from another regionally accredited institution and follow KU Grade Replacement Policy – see KU Policy library (2.3.9 Grade Replacement Policy in Repeat Courses) for details. All minor courses must be taken for a grade, credit/no credit is not permitted.
