What is forensics?
The forensics minor provides an introduction to both science and criminal justice. You’ll explore forensic science, anthropology and psychology, as well as the scientific study of crime, criminal behavior, homicide and crime control. You’ll also have a chance to learn about the field of high-tech and digital crime. The forensics minor can be combined with the justice studies dual major, justice studies minor,or other majors such as biology, chemistry, psychology or English, preparing you for your future career or graduate studies.
Why study forensics at UNH?
As a student at UNH, you’ll have exceptional opportunities to explore the field of forensics while pursuing your major in the sciences, business or liberal arts. A major public research university, UNH encourages students to engage in research projects with faculty through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program.
Potential career areas
- CIA
- Criminal investigation
- District attorney offices
- FBI
- Journalism
- Law enforcement
- Private investigation
- Security
Curriculum & Requirements
The forensics minor provides students with the opportunity to explore the different components of forensics through the interdisciplinary study of biology, psychology, sociology and justice studies. This well-rounded curriculum will enable students to build upon their interests in justice studies by specializing in an area of increasing importance. Once students have decided to pursue the minor, they are required to meet with the coordinator, academic counselor or appropriate affiliated faculty adviser at least once per semester for regular review and assessment of their program, learning outcomes and progress toward the degree.
The forensic minor requires five courses (20 credits) drawn from a list of approved courses. Students must receive a grade of a C- or better for a course to count toward the minor requirements. The five courses include:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| JUST 401 | Introduction to Justice Studies | 4 |
| BIOL 420 | Introduction to Forensic Sciences | 4 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Select three courses from the following: | 12 | |
ANTH 550 | Introduction to Forensic Anthropology | |
ANTH 697 | Special Topics (The only special topic allowed is Cold Cases) | |
JUST 405 | Technology, Crime, and Society: A Forensic Exploration of High-Tech and Digital Crime | |
JUST 591 | Forensic Psychology | |
SOC 515 | Introductory Criminology | |
SOC/JUST 535 | Homicide | |
| Total Credits | 20 | |
Two courses can double count toward your justice studies dual major. These courses are most commonly JUST 401 Introduction to Justice Studies, and SOC 515 Introductory Criminology.
In order to officially declare the forensic minor, students will need to submit an intent to minor form to Deb Briand in the Justice Studies Office. This form can be found on our website.
